Working in human resources in France: what studies?

Human resources have evolved significantly in recent years. Originally a simple administrative function based on data and figures, HR is now fully integrated into corporate strategies. It is now focused on the human aspect, especially since the health crisis inherent to Covid-19. By choosing a career in human resources, you will have access to numerous professional opportunities. This sector is indeed characterized by a plurality of professions, accessible thanks to a wide range of training courses, from Bac+2 to Bac+5.

Human resources, a dynamic sector in France

By opting for a course dedicated to human resources, you will be working in a dynamic sector. In fact, 1 in 10 young graduates is recruited in this sector (9%), two months after graduation. The Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Recovery defines HR as « the Human Resources function’s mission is to ensure that the organization has the personnel it needs to function and that these personnel do their best to improve the organization’s performance, while at the same time fulfilling themselves ».

Human resources thus has three main objectives:

  • recruiting new employees to ensure the company’s development;
  • retaining employees, by ensuring their motivation and well-being;
  • the development of employee skills.

To achieve this, professionals have different missions that cover recruitment, training, payroll, personnel administration, information systems and internal communication as well as forward-looking employment and skills management (GPEC).

The number and diversity of assignments have increased in recent years, creating a strong need for qualified profiles. According to Pôle Emploi forecasts, 5,897 human resources executives will be recruited in France in 2021. In addition, 33% of companies have stated that they wish to increase the salaries of HR professionals in 2021 according to Walters People.

From Bac+2 to Bac+5 for a career in HR in France

Human resources are characterized by a wide variety of professions. It should be noted that some of them have a constant need for recruitment (such as payroll manager or recruitment officer) while others are emerging as a result of numerous changes (such as chief happiness officer, social relations director or Comp & Ben).

Depending on your professional project, you will be able to opt for different training courses, starting with a short course at Bac+2 level, such as the BTS in SME management, the BTS SAM or the DUT GEA in human resources management.

However, it is important to note that these courses allow you to enter technical professions. If you wish to make a career in a position with greater responsibilities, it is then recommended that you go for a minimum of three years of higher education, or even five years.

You can choose from a wide range of courses, such as

  • the Licence pro ressources humaines ;
  • the Bachelor’s degree in human resources
  • Master’s degree in human resources management
  • the professional Master’s degree in human resources management;
  • the Master of Science (MSc) International Human Resource Management;
  • etc.

It is important for you to find out about the content of the program, the possibility of doing internships or work-study programs as well as experiences abroad, the labels or certifications of the institution, the support provided… These elements will all contribute to your learning, your well-being and your fulfillment, and therefore, to your success!