HR Management Subjects

Enrol in online Human Resource management courses and study from home with Skills Academy. Learn more about our HR Management Subjects here.

HR Management Subjects cover key topics needed to succeed in human resources, such as communication, management skills, and knowledge of workplace laws. 

These subjects prepare students to handle tasks like hiring, training, and supporting employees in a professional environment.

HR Management Subject Requirements

To study HR Management Subjects, certain high school subjects and skills are beneficial. Subjects like Business Studies, Communication, and Computer Applications can help. 

These provide a solid foundation for understanding HR tasks like record-keeping, employee support, and communication.

High School Subjects Needed To Study Human Resources

To study HR, useful high school subjects include:

  • Business Studies: Teaches business basics, which is important in understanding company operations.
  • English: Strong English skills are important for communication tasks in HR.
  • Computer Applications: Familiarity with computers is helpful for managing employee records and using HR software.

While these subjects aren’t always required, they can make HR studies easier.

What Subjects Do You Need For HR Management?

In HR management courses, subjects often include:

  • Management Communication
  • Labour Relations
  • Personnel Training
  • Organisational Skills

These subjects teach students how to interact with employees, handle workplace rules, and ensure tasks are done efficiently.

Can I Study HR Without Maths?

Yes, you can study HR without advanced maths skills. While basic maths might be helpful, most HR work focuses on communication, record-keeping, and understanding workplace policies.

Can I Study HR With Maths Literacy?

Yes, Maths Literacy is usually enough for studying HR. It covers the basics needed for payroll tasks or calculating employee work hours, which is useful but not highly advanced.

What Is The APS Score For HR?

The APS (Admission Point Score) for HR courses can range from 20 to 24 points. This score is based on high school results, with points given for each subject. Specific APS requirements vary depending on the institution offering the course.

N4 – N6 Human Resources Management Courses

HR Management Subjects in the N4 to N6 courses provide the foundation for a career in Human Resources. These courses cover essential skills for managing people and supporting a company’s goals. Here are the NATED certificate course in HR:

  • N4 Human Resource Management Course
  • N5 Human Resource Management Course
  • N6 Human Resource Management Course

N4 Human Resource Management Course

The N4 HR Management Course is the first level, aimed at students new to HR. It covers fundamental skills like communication and organising employee records. This course is a great way to start if you’re interested in HR but don’t yet have experience.

By the end, students have a solid base in handling basic HR tasks and can move on to more complex skills in the next level.

Course Details:

The N4 course offers hands-on knowledge that is practical for entry-level HR roles. Completing this level allows students to understand key aspects of HR, such as employee support and general office tasks.

N4 Curriculum

The N4 course provides an introduction to the main topics needed in HR management, helping students become familiar with everyday HR responsibilities.

Subjects

In the N4 level, students learn about essential HR tasks. Here is a breakdown of the subjects and what they cover:

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
Management CommunicationExplore the critical aspects of business communication, including document creation, advertising principles, and strategic communication within an organisation.
Personnel ManagementThis course introduces key personnel management topics, such as hiring, evaluating employee performance, motivation, and effective workplace communication.
Entrepreneurship and Business ManagementLearn how to develop a successful business plan, and explore the core aspects of entrepreneurship and management.
Computer PracticeMaster the basics of computer operation, including Microsoft applications, internet navigation, and effective email use.

N5 Human Resource Management Course

The N5 HR Management Course is the next level and expands on the basics covered in N4. This course teaches students to handle more detailed HR tasks, such as managing employee issues and creating training programmes.

It’s perfect for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of HR and prepare for roles with more responsibility.

Course Details:

The N5 course covers intermediate skills that support company operations. By the end of this course, students will be ready to assist in more challenging areas, like workplace policies and labour relations.

N5 Curriculum

The N5 curriculum goes further into HR, giving students the skills needed to deal with employee development and workplace fairness.

Subjects

The N5 course includes subjects that build on what students learned in N4, with more focus on developing employees and creating a positive work culture.

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
Management Communication N5Offers advanced communication skills for workplace settings, focusing on professional writing and effective speaking.
Labour Relations N5Build a foundation in labour relations by exploring methods to resolve workplace conflicts and promote a positive work environment.
Personnel TrainingGain the knowledge needed to train employees, understand workplace learning needs, and assess training outcomes effectively.
Computer Practice N5Continue building your computer proficiency, focusing on Microsoft Word, Excel, and advanced internet usage.

N6 Human Resource Management Course

The N6 HR Management Course is the final level and prepares students for advanced HR roles. This course covers strategic HR skills, such as planning workplace policies and managing team performance.

Completing this level gives students the qualifications needed to take on senior roles in HR departments.

Course Details:

The N6 course is designed for students who aim to take on leadership roles in HR. This level provides the knowledge needed to create policies, support team leaders, and develop comprehensive HR strategies.

N6 Curriculum

In N6, students learn how to oversee HR operations, support company goals, and lead an HR team effectively.

Subjects

The N6 course includes subjects that teach advanced skills for handling employee relations, improving workplace processes, and leading an HR department.

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
Personnel Management N6Covers advanced HR tasks, including hiring, supporting staff, and setting policies to ensure smooth operations.
Labour Relations N6Teaches deeper understanding of labour laws, helping students handle employee concerns fairly and legally.
Personnel Training N6Focuses on managing training and development programmes, allowing employees to gain new skills and improve.
Computer Practice N6Builds strong skills in using HR software and databases for organising, tracking, and analysing employee data.

Assessment Structure

Each level in the NATED HR Management series includes a mix of assessments to check student understanding. This may include:

  • Assignments: Written tasks that help apply course knowledge.
  • Projects: Practical work to test HR skills, such as creating training plans.
  • Exams: Written exams that evaluate the student’s grasp of course content.

Assessments help prepare students for real HR tasks and ensure they are confident in applying what they’ve learned.

Duration

The NATED HR courses can take approximately three years in total if progressing through all three levels, including practical work.

Course LevelEstimated Duration
N4 HR ManagementAbout 6 months – 12 months
N5 HR ManagementAbout 6 months – 12 months
N6 HR ManagementAbout 6 months – 12 months

Admission Requirements

  • For N4: Matric certificate or equivalent.
  • For N5 and N6: Completion of the previous level.

Provider Courses

Provider courses in HR Management Subjects are shorter, flexible courses ideal for beginners. These courses cover essential HR skills in a short period and are accessible to those without prior HR experience.

Human Resource Management: Short Course

The HR Management Short Course introduces the basics of HR, such as handling employee records and supporting day-to-day HR tasks. It’s perfect for anyone interested in HR who wants a quick overview of the field.

Course Details:

This course provides essential knowledge without diving too deep. It’s ideal if you want a broad understanding of HR in a shorter time frame.

Curriculum

The Short Course includes introductory topics that help students understand what HR involves.

Subjects

Here’s a look at the course subjects and what you’ll learn in them:

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
Business EnglishBuild confidence in business communication, focusing on both speaking and writing skills relevant to professional environments.
Organisational CommunicationExplore communication strategies in the workplace, covering leadership, motivation, and collaborative approaches.
Organisational SkillsMaster techniques for managing team productivity and organising information for better results.

Human Resource Management: Certificate Course

The HR Management Certificate Course goes beyond the basics and covers additional topics like employee relations and diversity. This course suits those looking for a more detailed understanding of HR.

Course Details:

Completing this course prepares students to handle a broader range of HR tasks and is a great step for entry-level HR roles.

Curriculum

The curriculum covers intermediate HR topics, allowing students to support employees effectively and understand HR’s role in the workplace.

Subjects

Here’s a look at the course subjects and what you’ll learn in them:

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
Organisational CommunicationLearn advanced communication techniques for professional interactions in HR.
Business EnglishDevelop professional writing and speaking skills needed for workplace communication.
DiversityUnderstand diversity in the workplace, focusing on inclusivity and strategies for overcoming differences.
CoachingLearn the essentials of coaching, including guiding team members and fostering effective communication.
Organisational SkillsMaster techniques for managing team productivity and organising information for better results.

Human Resource Management: Comprehensive Certificate Course

The Comprehensive Certificate Course in HR provides a complete look at the role of HR within a company. This course covers everything from employee wellness to managing workplace changes.

Course Details:

This course is ideal for those who want to fully understand HR and its impact on employee and business success.

Curriculum

The Comprehensive Course provides a thorough look at HR, preparing students for all basic and advanced HR responsibilities.

Subjects

Here’s a look at the course subjects and what you’ll learn in them:

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
DiversityUnderstand how to create a respectful and inclusive workplace.
CoachingLearn the essentials of coaching, including guiding team members and fostering effective communication.
Performance ManagementStudy the basics of performance assessment and discover ways to foster improvement within teams.
Change ManagementGain an understanding of managing organisational change, from identifying challenges to implementing new methods.
Business EnglishFurther develop professional language skills for better communication in HR tasks.
Organisational CommunicationLearn how to communicate effectively across all levels within the company.
Organisational SkillsLearn advanced ways to manage tasks, time, and office duties in an HR role.

Assessment Structure

All provider courses include assessments to test students’ understanding of HR concepts. This includes:

  • Assignments for practical applications
  • Short exams to review knowledge of each

Duration

Each course has a different length. The Short Course typically takes 4 months, the Certificate Course 8 months, and the Comprehensive Certificate Course 12 months.

Admission Requirements

Our provider courses in HR don’t have strict requirements and are designed to give you foundational HR skills even if you have no matric. You just need to be at least 16 years old and have a good grasp of the English language.

Career Opportunities For Human Resource Management

HR management skills open doors to various career paths in South Africa. HR professionals are valuable in almost any industry. Companies need trained staff to handle employee relations, training, and other workplace tasks.

Is HR A Good Career In SA?

Yes, HR is a solid career choice in South Africa. HR professionals are in demand because every company needs someone to manage employees, handle hiring, and ensure a positive workplace. It also provides chances to grow into higher positions.

Career Opportunities

HR training prepares you for multiple roles in the workplace. Here are some popular HR-related positions:

  • Human Resources Assistant
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Entrepreneur
  • HR Generalist / Manager / Specialist
  • HR Administrator / Personnel Administrator

Human Resources Assistant

An HR assistant supports the HR department by handling basic tasks like keeping records, scheduling meetings, and helping with new hires. They may also assist with employee requests, making sure everyone has the information they need. Duties can include:

  • Organising employee files
  • Assisting with payroll questions
  • Supporting training sessions

Administrative Assistant

An administrative assistant works alongside different departments, handling tasks such as answering calls, scheduling appointments, and helping with daily office duties.

In an HR department, they help organise paperwork, assist with communication between departments, and support the HR team as needed. Key responsibilities include:

  • Managing office schedules and files
  • Assisting HR with organising records
  • Communicating information to employees

Entrepreneur

HR knowledge is valuable for entrepreneurs who manage teams in their own businesses. Knowing how to hire, train, and support employees helps create a productive work environment.

HR skills are especially useful for business owners who need to set up workplace policies and handle payroll. Important tasks may include:

  • Setting up employee roles and tasks
  • Managing payroll and benefits
  • Creating a positive work culture

HR Generalist / Manager / Specialist

An HR Generalist, Manager, or Specialist focuses on various areas of HR. They may manage employee records, oversee training, or handle specific functions like recruitment or payroll.

These roles require strong organisational and people skills to support employees and the company’s goals. Responsibilities include:

  • Managing recruitment and onboarding
  • Overseeing training programmes
  • Addressing workplace issues and questions

HR Administrator / Personnel Administrator

An HR or Personnel Administrator supports the HR department by keeping accurate employee records, managing benefits, and ensuring workplace policies are followed.

They handle the details that keep the HR team organised, such as updating files, assisting with payroll, and answering employee queries. Key duties include:

  • Keeping records up to date
  • Assisting with payroll and benefits processing
  • Supporting employee requests and complaints

How Much Is HR Paid In South Africa?

Salaries in HR vary based on the job role, experience, and company size. Here’s an average salary table for these HR roles in South Africa.

Job TitleAverage Monthly Salary
Human Resources AssistantR10,000 – R15,000
Administrative AssistantR8,000 – R12,000
Entrepreneur (Varies)Depends on business size
HR Generalist / ManagerR25,000 – R40,000
HR AdministratorR12,000 – R18,000

Is HR A Happy Career?

HR can be a fulfilling career, especially for people who enjoy working with others and helping create positive workplaces. It involves challenges like managing conflicts, but the variety of tasks and the chance to make a difference in employees’ lives contribute to job satisfaction.

What Are HR Requirements?

HR requirements vary by role but usually include strong communication skills, basic computer skills, and some knowledge of workplace laws. For advanced roles, a diploma or degree in HR is often required, along with skills in organisation and problem-solving.

Is HR A Hard Course?

HR courses can be challenging but are manageable with interest and effort. While they don’t usually require advanced math, they do cover important topics, like labour laws, communication, and handling workplace issues.

These topics require critical thinking, good communication, and the ability to solve problems. Courses in HR include real-life scenarios that help students practice decision-making and handling employee matters. These are essential skills for a career in human resources.

What Skills Do You Need For HR?

People working in HR need a mix of technical and interpersonal skills. Here are key skills that help HR professionals succeed:

SkillExplanation
CommunicationHR staff must communicate clearly with employees and managers. They explain policies, listen to issues, and help resolve conflicts.
OrganisationHR requires managing records, planning events, and keeping track of tasks. Strong organisational skills are essential.
EmpathyUnderstanding and relating to others’ feelings help HR staff support employees and create a positive work environment.
Problem-SolvingHR professionals often deal with workplace issues. They need to find solutions that satisfy both employees and the company.
Decision-MakingMaking fair decisions, especially in hiring or resolving conflicts, is a major part of HR work.
TeamworkHR works with various departments, so cooperation and the ability to work with different people are essential.

What Do HR Managers Do?

HR Managers are responsible for overseeing employee needs, from hiring to training and resolving conflicts. They create and enforce company policies that keep the workplace fair and safe. 

HR managers also manage recruitment processes, develop training programmes, and handle sensitive employee issues. HR Managers ensure that both employees and the company’s goals align, making the workplace a better and more productive environment.

What Qualities Should An HR Have?

HR professionals need specific qualities to perform their duties well. These include:

  • Patience: HR professionals handle different employee issues and need to stay calm and listen carefully.
  • Good Communication: Clear communication helps HR explain policies, mediate conflicts, and provide support to employees.
  • Problem-Solving: Finding solutions to issues, such as workplace conflicts, is a regular part of HR.
  • Fairness: Treating all employees equally and without bias is essential in HR.
  • Attention to Detail: HR must accurately manage employee records and follow labour laws.
  • Approachability: Employees should feel comfortable going to HR with their questions or concerns.

Which Course Is Best For HR?

The NATED HR Management Courses (N4 to N6) are highly regarded for HR studies. These courses provide accredited qualifications, covering skills from basic HR tasks to advanced employee management. 

The NATED series prepares students for both entry-level and advanced roles, making it ideal for those wanting a solid HR career foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Subjects in HR Management include Management Communication, Labour Relations, Personnel Training, and Organisational Skills. These subjects teach skills for managing employees, handling policies, and communicating effectively.

Business Studies is a helpful subject for HRM as it covers business operations, which aligns well with HR roles. Other beneficial subjects include English for communication and Computer Skills for managing records.

HRM generally doesn’t require advanced math, but basic math skills are useful for tasks like payroll management and budget tracking.

Yes, HR professionals can become CEOs. HR work develops people-management skills, decision-making abilities, and a good understanding of company needs—all valuable for a CEO role.

HR isn’t necessarily higher than a manager but serves a different role. HR often supports managers by handling employee relations, recruitment, and training.

HR isn’t math-heavy, though basic math is needed for tasks like calculating work hours, payroll, and benefits.

Qualifications for HR include a diploma or degree in HR Management, as well as skills in communication, organisation, and problem-solving.

An HR Professional handles specific tasks like recruitment or training, while an HR Manager oversees the HR department and manages overall HR policies and practices.

Business Studies, Communication, and Computer Applications are good subjects for those interested in HR, as they provide skills relevant to managing people and handling workplace data.

Entry-level HR roles, such as HR Assistant, usually earn around R8,000 to R12,000 per month, depending on experience and location.

HR stands for Human Resources, referring to the people within an organisation and the department responsible for managing employee-related functions.

Last Updated: 7 November 2024

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