Graduate Certificate

Human Resources Law

Pitt Law's Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Law equips HR professionals, business grads, attorneys, and career changers with legal tools needed to manage today's workplace challenges.

Career Ready

Prepares you with the skills, credentials or connections to step directly into your field after graduation.

Fast Track

Accelerated pace

Fully Online Program

All coursework will be completed online, virtually, with no on-campus requirements.

Next Application Date

Apply by August 6 to Start by August 17

Credits

15

Pacing

Part-Time

Format

Online

Type of Program

Graduate Certificate

Advance Your Expertise in Human Resources Law

In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, HR professionals and organizational leaders must navigate an increasingly complex web of laws, regulations and ethical considerations. Pitt Law’s Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resources (HR) Law equips you with the legal and practical tools to address challenges related to hiring, compensation, workplace conditions, discrimination and employee relations. This 15-credit program, taught by experienced Pitt Law faculty and industry experts, blends legal theory with practical skills that you can apply directly to your professional role. Over the course of five accelerated, 8-week classes, you will gain a deeper understanding of the U.S. legal system as it applies to HR, including wages and benefits, workplace safety, anti-discrimination law, and emerging HR legal issues. The certificate is ideal for HR professionals seeking to enhance their expertise, business graduates who want to deepen their knowledge of HR law, attorneys and paralegals exploring HR-related practice areas, or career changers looking to enter the HR field. With the flexibility of online learning, you can engage with weekly modules on your own schedule while networking with peers across industries and locations.

Eligibility

Requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

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On-Campus

Experience

No on-campus attendance required.

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Licensure

Pathways

Pitt Law's Human Resources Law program prepares students to take the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) certification examinations. The University of Pittsburgh School of Law's Master of Legal Studies (with a specialization in HR Law) is aligned with the SHRM HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

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Accreditation

Pitt's Human Resources Law program prepares students to take the SHRM and HRCI certification examinations.

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Important Application Dates 

The Human Resources Law has two start terms per year.  You can start the program spring (January) or fall (August) term.

Application deadline

August 6 for fall term

Class start

Multiple

What to Expect in Your Classes 

This program offers 5 total courses, totaling 15 credits. All coursework is delivered in 100% online format, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere. Classes run for 8 weeks, allowing you to complete the program in as little as 10 months. Students will study part-time.

  • Total Courses 5
  • Credit Hours 15 Credits
  • Format Online
  • Class Lengths 8 weeks
  • Time to Completion As little as 10 months of coursework
  • Pace Options Part-Time

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Plan Your Education With Confidence in Cost 

The Human Resources Law current tuition rates are listed for in-state and out-of-state students. To support students in financing their education, the University of Pittsburgh offers a range of financial aid options and payment plans, making it easier to manage tuition costs while completing your studies.

2026-27 tuition rates are pending approval by the Board of Trustees, expected in July 2026.

View additional fees and estimated expenses