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Can a university degree related to culture and people work in HR?
Hi, I really need some advice. I am studying Asian Studies and this major is about people, culture and society. I want to work in HR department but the jobs I see usually require HR Management degree and related degrees. So is my major considered related major?
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6 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Helen !
Majoring in Asian Studies is not going to be the accurate Major to work in the Human Resources field. You wouldn't be able to apply this subject to the job duties you'll need to know in order to be a Human Resources Director. Asian Studies is more like a subject but Human Resources is a career, so a degree in Human Resources or Business with a concentration on Human Resources would be appropriate. A degree in Asian Studies would not fit any specific career because it is a subject and not preparation for a career.
Although taking a class or two in Asian Studies is wonderful, there are things that you will need to know for Human Resources that a targeted degree will prepare you for. You will need to have a clear understanding of business, corporation and non-profit, hiring practices, employee benefits, legal aspects of business, employee relations, budgeting, doing presentations, employment and labor law, managing volunteers, creating internships and you will work with a wide variety of people that have many different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, not just one.
Figure out what your goal is and what drew you to majoring in Asian Studies. Visit your academic counselor to confirm this information because college is expensive and you may want to change majors as soon as possible so you'll be prepared for the employment when you graduate. When you read what is required for working in HR, that was indeed the correct major, so it's good that you came here for feedback. Going forward, you should never register for anything if you have a question about it before consulting the academic counselor at your college. Ask the academic counselor if one or two of your Asian Studies courses would fulfill a general education requirement so that you can apply a course or two to that if you've already taken some. Every college has different General Education requirements.
My advice is to switch your major if you really want to work in Human Resources and always consult your academic counselor before registering for classes. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Majoring in Asian Studies is not going to be the accurate Major to work in the Human Resources field. You wouldn't be able to apply this subject to the job duties you'll need to know in order to be a Human Resources Director. Asian Studies is more like a subject but Human Resources is a career, so a degree in Human Resources or Business with a concentration on Human Resources would be appropriate. A degree in Asian Studies would not fit any specific career because it is a subject and not preparation for a career.
Although taking a class or two in Asian Studies is wonderful, there are things that you will need to know for Human Resources that a targeted degree will prepare you for. You will need to have a clear understanding of business, corporation and non-profit, hiring practices, employee benefits, legal aspects of business, employee relations, budgeting, doing presentations, employment and labor law, managing volunteers, creating internships and you will work with a wide variety of people that have many different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, not just one.
Figure out what your goal is and what drew you to majoring in Asian Studies. Visit your academic counselor to confirm this information because college is expensive and you may want to change majors as soon as possible so you'll be prepared for the employment when you graduate. When you read what is required for working in HR, that was indeed the correct major, so it's good that you came here for feedback. Going forward, you should never register for anything if you have a question about it before consulting the academic counselor at your college. Ask the academic counselor if one or two of your Asian Studies courses would fulfill a general education requirement so that you can apply a course or two to that if you've already taken some. Every college has different General Education requirements.
My advice is to switch your major if you really want to work in Human Resources and always consult your academic counselor before registering for classes. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Updated
Steven’s Answer
Hello Helen!
It's fantastic to hear about your passion for people and culture through your Asian Studies major. Choosing a career in Human Resources (HR) is a brilliant move because HR is all about connecting with and managing people, which matches perfectly with your skills. Here’s some advice to help you on this exciting path:
1. **Transferable Skills**: Your Asian Studies degree gives you important skills for HR, like cultural awareness, communication, and interpersonal skills. These are highly valued in HR as they help in understanding diverse workplaces.
2. **Highlight Your Unique Perspective**: When applying for HR roles, show how your cultural insights can create a more inclusive workplace. Your ability to understand cultural differences is a huge strength.
3. **Consider Additional Qualifications**: Boost your HR credentials by considering:
- **HR Certifications**: Explore certifications like PHR or SHRM-CP to show your dedication and expertise.
- **Online Courses**: Many online platforms offer courses in HR management and recruitment that can add to your skill set.
4. **Gain Experience**: Practical experience is crucial. Look for internships or volunteer roles in HR to get hands-on experience and enhance your resume.
5. **Network in the Field**: Connect with HR professionals and attend industry events. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights. LinkedIn is a great start for building your professional network.
6. **Tailor Your Applications**: Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experiences. Emphasize how your cultural understanding can improve HR practices like employee engagement and diversity initiatives.
7. **Explore Entry-Level Positions**: Seek entry-level HR roles or related areas like recruitment. These positions can be stepping stones to more specialized HR roles.
8. **Long-Term Strategy**: Think about your long-term HR career goals and how your Asian Studies background can help you achieve them. Your unique perspective is a valuable asset in roles focusing on diversity and global HR strategies.
Remember, HR values diverse experiences and perspectives, and your background in Asian Studies gives you a special edge. With the right mix of skills, experience, and networking, you can successfully transition into HR. Best of luck on your career journey, and keep following your passion for making a positive impact through people-focused work!
It's fantastic to hear about your passion for people and culture through your Asian Studies major. Choosing a career in Human Resources (HR) is a brilliant move because HR is all about connecting with and managing people, which matches perfectly with your skills. Here’s some advice to help you on this exciting path:
1. **Transferable Skills**: Your Asian Studies degree gives you important skills for HR, like cultural awareness, communication, and interpersonal skills. These are highly valued in HR as they help in understanding diverse workplaces.
2. **Highlight Your Unique Perspective**: When applying for HR roles, show how your cultural insights can create a more inclusive workplace. Your ability to understand cultural differences is a huge strength.
3. **Consider Additional Qualifications**: Boost your HR credentials by considering:
- **HR Certifications**: Explore certifications like PHR or SHRM-CP to show your dedication and expertise.
- **Online Courses**: Many online platforms offer courses in HR management and recruitment that can add to your skill set.
4. **Gain Experience**: Practical experience is crucial. Look for internships or volunteer roles in HR to get hands-on experience and enhance your resume.
5. **Network in the Field**: Connect with HR professionals and attend industry events. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights. LinkedIn is a great start for building your professional network.
6. **Tailor Your Applications**: Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experiences. Emphasize how your cultural understanding can improve HR practices like employee engagement and diversity initiatives.
7. **Explore Entry-Level Positions**: Seek entry-level HR roles or related areas like recruitment. These positions can be stepping stones to more specialized HR roles.
8. **Long-Term Strategy**: Think about your long-term HR career goals and how your Asian Studies background can help you achieve them. Your unique perspective is a valuable asset in roles focusing on diversity and global HR strategies.
Remember, HR values diverse experiences and perspectives, and your background in Asian Studies gives you a special edge. With the right mix of skills, experience, and networking, you can successfully transition into HR. Best of luck on your career journey, and keep following your passion for making a positive impact through people-focused work!
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Companies are beginning to put less emphasis on the specific degree/degree area so I wouldn't let your Asian Studies degree deter you from a career in HR. What is important is:
Transferrable skills you will pick up in your current studies
Getting actual HR experience
Network and do informational interviews with HR
Get general business experience that might lend itself into project work in HR
Additionally Asian studies can help you in terms of a global role, a role within region, a role understanding cultural differences (DEI) or general understanding of human experience and behaviors.
think about how to market your skills and studies for the job you want and sell yourself!
Transferrable skills you will pick up in your current studies
Getting actual HR experience
Network and do informational interviews with HR
Get general business experience that might lend itself into project work in HR
Additionally Asian studies can help you in terms of a global role, a role within region, a role understanding cultural differences (DEI) or general understanding of human experience and behaviors.
think about how to market your skills and studies for the job you want and sell yourself!
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Helen, yes, your degree in Asian Studies, which focuses on people, culture, and society, can absolutely be valuable in a Human Resources (HR) career, even though traditional HR roles typically require an HR Management degree. The core of HR revolves around understanding human behavior, managing relationships, and fostering an inclusive, productive workplace—skills that are inherently tied to the insights you've gained in Asian Studies. Your background equips you with a nuanced understanding of diverse cultures, social dynamics, and communication styles, all of which are essential when working with a diverse workforce. These competencies are particularly advantageous for HR roles in multinational companies, global talent management, diversity and inclusion, or any position that requires cross-cultural understanding and adaptability.
While HR Management degrees are often preferred, many organizations value a diverse skill set and different perspectives in HR departments. Your expertise in cultural awareness, societal structures, and human behavior can provide a fresh, valuable approach to recruitment, employee relations, and organizational development. To enhance your qualifications, you might consider pursuing additional HR certifications that will provide you with the specific knowledge needed for HR roles. For example, certifications like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification or the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) certifications can help you build HR-specific competencies and increase your employability. Websites like SHRM - https://www.shrm.org/ and CIPD - https://www.cipd.co.uk/ offer resources and courses that could complement your existing academic background and boost your HR expertise.
In addition, consider gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in HR to build a practical understanding of HR operations. This hands-on experience, combined with your cultural expertise, will make you an appealing candidate for many HR positions. Therefore, while your major may not be a conventional path into HR, it can provide a unique and strategic advantage, especially if you can demonstrate how your cultural insights align with the goals and needs of HR departments.
While HR Management degrees are often preferred, many organizations value a diverse skill set and different perspectives in HR departments. Your expertise in cultural awareness, societal structures, and human behavior can provide a fresh, valuable approach to recruitment, employee relations, and organizational development. To enhance your qualifications, you might consider pursuing additional HR certifications that will provide you with the specific knowledge needed for HR roles. For example, certifications like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification or the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) certifications can help you build HR-specific competencies and increase your employability. Websites like SHRM - https://www.shrm.org/ and CIPD - https://www.cipd.co.uk/ offer resources and courses that could complement your existing academic background and boost your HR expertise.
In addition, consider gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in HR to build a practical understanding of HR operations. This hands-on experience, combined with your cultural expertise, will make you an appealing candidate for many HR positions. Therefore, while your major may not be a conventional path into HR, it can provide a unique and strategic advantage, especially if you can demonstrate how your cultural insights align with the goals and needs of HR departments.
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Helen,
Since human resources (HR) involves employee relations, communication, conflict resolution, and diversity management, your degree in Asian Studies can definitely be relevant for a career in HR! HR is essentially about understanding people, cultures, and workplace dynamics—areas that your studies already cover. Your understanding of culture and society can be a strong asset, especially in international companies or roles that involve diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Although degrees in business or HR management are preferred for many HR positions, they are not usually a prerequisite. Transferable abilities like problem-solving, communication, and cultural sensitivity are highly valued by many businesses and are probably developed during your degree.
How to Strengthen Your HR Career Prospects:
1. Gain HR Experience: Search for entry-level HR positions, such as coordinator, recruiter, or HR assistant, or internships Additionally, think about doing volunteer work in HR-related positions for NGOs or student organisations.
2. Take HR-Related Courses or Certifications: Obtaining certifications in HR can greatly improve your credentials and increase your marketability as a candidate. A well-known certification in the United States that shows proficiency in HR procedures is the SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional). Because it does not require any prior experience and helps build core HR knowledge, the HRCI aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources) is a wonderful place for beginners to start. Additionally, completing LinkedIn Learning HR courses can increase your abilities, provide useful insights into HR operations, and strengthen your resume, making you stand out to potential employers.
3. Highlight Your Transferable Skills: Showcase your understanding of diverse cultures, communication, and human behavior on your CV. Emphasize abilities in problem-solving, negotiation, and adaptability, which are vital for HR.
4. Network & Connect with HR Professionals: Attend industry events and join LinkedIn HR groups. Get guidance from experts on how to enter the HR field and about their career routes.
Don’t be discouraged by job advertisements; many people enter HR from non-traditional backgrounds. You will be an excellent candidate if you have a strong interest in human resources and want to add applicable skills to your degree.
I hope this helps!
Best wishes!
Since human resources (HR) involves employee relations, communication, conflict resolution, and diversity management, your degree in Asian Studies can definitely be relevant for a career in HR! HR is essentially about understanding people, cultures, and workplace dynamics—areas that your studies already cover. Your understanding of culture and society can be a strong asset, especially in international companies or roles that involve diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Although degrees in business or HR management are preferred for many HR positions, they are not usually a prerequisite. Transferable abilities like problem-solving, communication, and cultural sensitivity are highly valued by many businesses and are probably developed during your degree.
How to Strengthen Your HR Career Prospects:
1. Gain HR Experience: Search for entry-level HR positions, such as coordinator, recruiter, or HR assistant, or internships Additionally, think about doing volunteer work in HR-related positions for NGOs or student organisations.
2. Take HR-Related Courses or Certifications: Obtaining certifications in HR can greatly improve your credentials and increase your marketability as a candidate. A well-known certification in the United States that shows proficiency in HR procedures is the SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional). Because it does not require any prior experience and helps build core HR knowledge, the HRCI aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources) is a wonderful place for beginners to start. Additionally, completing LinkedIn Learning HR courses can increase your abilities, provide useful insights into HR operations, and strengthen your resume, making you stand out to potential employers.
3. Highlight Your Transferable Skills: Showcase your understanding of diverse cultures, communication, and human behavior on your CV. Emphasize abilities in problem-solving, negotiation, and adaptability, which are vital for HR.
4. Network & Connect with HR Professionals: Attend industry events and join LinkedIn HR groups. Get guidance from experts on how to enter the HR field and about their career routes.
Don’t be discouraged by job advertisements; many people enter HR from non-traditional backgrounds. You will be an excellent candidate if you have a strong interest in human resources and want to add applicable skills to your degree.
I hope this helps!
Best wishes!
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Helen,
First of all, let me say how much I admire your curiosity and ambition—you’re already thinking about how your degree can align with your career goals, and that’s such a proactive mindset. It’s clear that you’re passionate about people, culture, and society (which is amazing!), and I love that you’re exploring how those interests can translate into a role in HR. Let’s dive into this together because—spoiler alert—your Asian Studies major could absolutely be an asset in HR, even if it’s not the “traditional” path. Here’s how to think about it and position yourself for success.
1. Your Major Is Relevant—Here’s Why
HR isn’t just about knowing HR policies or management theories—it’s fundamentally about understanding people . And guess what? Your Asian Studies degree gives you a deep understanding of cultures, societies, and interpersonal dynamics. These are incredibly valuable skills in HR roles like:
Recruitment & Talent Acquisition: Understanding cultural nuances helps you attract diverse candidates and assess their fit within an organization.
Employee Relations: Navigating workplace conflicts or fostering inclusivity often requires cultural awareness—something you’ve been studying extensively.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI): Companies are increasingly prioritizing DEI initiatives, and your background in culture and society makes you uniquely qualified to contribute.
So yes, your major is related—it’s just a matter of framing it the right way.
2. Highlight Transferable Skills
When applying for HR roles, focus on the skills you’ve developed through your studies, internships, or extracurriculars. For example:
Communication: Courses in Asian Studies likely honed your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly—a must-have in HR.
Research & Analysis: Whether you’re analyzing societal trends or employee engagement surveys, critical thinking is key.
Cultural Competency: Your knowledge of diverse perspectives will help you navigate global teams or multicultural work environments.
Pro Tip: On your resume and in interviews, tie these skills directly to HR responsibilities. For instance:
“Through my studies in Asian culture and society, I’ve developed strong cross-cultural communication skills, which I believe will help me support diverse teams as an HR professional.”
3. Gain Practical HR Experience
If you’re worried about competing with candidates who have HR-specific degrees, don’t stress—you can bridge the gap with practical experience. Here’s how:
A. Take HR-Focused Courses or Certifications
Even if your degree isn’t in HR, certifications can boost your credibility:
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP): Entry-level certification for HR professionals.
HRCI Certifications: Offer programs like aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources).
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning offer affordable HR courses (e.g., “Human Resource Management Fundamentals”).
B. Pursue Internships or Volunteer Roles
Look for internships in HR departments or volunteer opportunities where you can practice HR-related tasks. Even small experiences—like helping with recruitment events or organizing training sessions—will strengthen your resume.
C. Join Student Organizations or Networking Groups
Consider joining groups like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) student chapter or local HR networking events. These connections can open doors to mentorship and job opportunities.
4. Leverage Your Unique Perspective
One thing you bring to the table that many traditional HR candidates might not is your unique perspective on culture and people. In today’s globalized world, companies value employees who understand diversity and inclusion deeply—not just as buzzwords but as lived experiences. Use this to stand out! For example:
If you studied labor practices in Asia, talk about how that insight could inform workforce strategies in multinational companies.
If you’ve explored social structures, highlight how that understanding helps you foster better team dynamics.
Employers love candidates who bring fresh perspectives, so don’t shy away from emphasizing what makes you different.
5. Address Potential Concerns Proactively
It’s true that some job postings may list “HR Management degree required,” but remember: requirements aren’t always set in stone. Many employers care more about your potential, skills, and passion than the exact title of your degree. When applying, address this proactively:
In cover letters, explain how your background equips you for HR.
During interviews, share examples of how you’ve applied cultural insights or people skills in real-world situations.
For instance:
“While my degree is in Asian Studies, my coursework and experiences have given me a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, fostering collaboration, and navigating diverse perspectives—all of which are central to success in HR.”
Helen, you’re already building a skill set that’s incredibly relevant to HR. Your Asian Studies degree gives you a unique edge in understanding people and cultures, which is exactly what HR is all about. With some strategic steps—like gaining practical experience, earning certifications, and highlighting your transferable skills—you’ll be well-positioned to break into the field.
And here’s the beautiful part: HR isn’t just about hiring or paperwork—it’s about creating workplaces where people thrive. If that excites you, then you’re already on the right path. Trust your instincts, stay curious, and take it one step at a time. You’ve got this, and I know you’ll shine in whatever role you pursue.
First of all, let me say how much I admire your curiosity and ambition—you’re already thinking about how your degree can align with your career goals, and that’s such a proactive mindset. It’s clear that you’re passionate about people, culture, and society (which is amazing!), and I love that you’re exploring how those interests can translate into a role in HR. Let’s dive into this together because—spoiler alert—your Asian Studies major could absolutely be an asset in HR, even if it’s not the “traditional” path. Here’s how to think about it and position yourself for success.
1. Your Major Is Relevant—Here’s Why
HR isn’t just about knowing HR policies or management theories—it’s fundamentally about understanding people . And guess what? Your Asian Studies degree gives you a deep understanding of cultures, societies, and interpersonal dynamics. These are incredibly valuable skills in HR roles like:
Recruitment & Talent Acquisition: Understanding cultural nuances helps you attract diverse candidates and assess their fit within an organization.
Employee Relations: Navigating workplace conflicts or fostering inclusivity often requires cultural awareness—something you’ve been studying extensively.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI): Companies are increasingly prioritizing DEI initiatives, and your background in culture and society makes you uniquely qualified to contribute.
So yes, your major is related—it’s just a matter of framing it the right way.
2. Highlight Transferable Skills
When applying for HR roles, focus on the skills you’ve developed through your studies, internships, or extracurriculars. For example:
Communication: Courses in Asian Studies likely honed your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly—a must-have in HR.
Research & Analysis: Whether you’re analyzing societal trends or employee engagement surveys, critical thinking is key.
Cultural Competency: Your knowledge of diverse perspectives will help you navigate global teams or multicultural work environments.
Pro Tip: On your resume and in interviews, tie these skills directly to HR responsibilities. For instance:
“Through my studies in Asian culture and society, I’ve developed strong cross-cultural communication skills, which I believe will help me support diverse teams as an HR professional.”
3. Gain Practical HR Experience
If you’re worried about competing with candidates who have HR-specific degrees, don’t stress—you can bridge the gap with practical experience. Here’s how:
A. Take HR-Focused Courses or Certifications
Even if your degree isn’t in HR, certifications can boost your credibility:
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP): Entry-level certification for HR professionals.
HRCI Certifications: Offer programs like aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources).
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning offer affordable HR courses (e.g., “Human Resource Management Fundamentals”).
B. Pursue Internships or Volunteer Roles
Look for internships in HR departments or volunteer opportunities where you can practice HR-related tasks. Even small experiences—like helping with recruitment events or organizing training sessions—will strengthen your resume.
C. Join Student Organizations or Networking Groups
Consider joining groups like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) student chapter or local HR networking events. These connections can open doors to mentorship and job opportunities.
4. Leverage Your Unique Perspective
One thing you bring to the table that many traditional HR candidates might not is your unique perspective on culture and people. In today’s globalized world, companies value employees who understand diversity and inclusion deeply—not just as buzzwords but as lived experiences. Use this to stand out! For example:
If you studied labor practices in Asia, talk about how that insight could inform workforce strategies in multinational companies.
If you’ve explored social structures, highlight how that understanding helps you foster better team dynamics.
Employers love candidates who bring fresh perspectives, so don’t shy away from emphasizing what makes you different.
5. Address Potential Concerns Proactively
It’s true that some job postings may list “HR Management degree required,” but remember: requirements aren’t always set in stone. Many employers care more about your potential, skills, and passion than the exact title of your degree. When applying, address this proactively:
In cover letters, explain how your background equips you for HR.
During interviews, share examples of how you’ve applied cultural insights or people skills in real-world situations.
For instance:
“While my degree is in Asian Studies, my coursework and experiences have given me a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, fostering collaboration, and navigating diverse perspectives—all of which are central to success in HR.”
Helen, you’re already building a skill set that’s incredibly relevant to HR. Your Asian Studies degree gives you a unique edge in understanding people and cultures, which is exactly what HR is all about. With some strategic steps—like gaining practical experience, earning certifications, and highlighting your transferable skills—you’ll be well-positioned to break into the field.
And here’s the beautiful part: HR isn’t just about hiring or paperwork—it’s about creating workplaces where people thrive. If that excites you, then you’re already on the right path. Trust your instincts, stay curious, and take it one step at a time. You’ve got this, and I know you’ll shine in whatever role you pursue.