Program Comparison: Online BS in Leadership & HR Development vs Online BS in General Business with HR Focus

When considering a career in human resources, selecting the right degree program is a crucial first step. LSU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development (BS LHRD), a program distinct from the online Bachelor of Science in General Business with a concentration in Human Resource Management (HRM). Both paths prepare students for dynamic roles in human resources and management, but they differ in focus, curriculum, and career preparation. One important consideration is that in the Baton Rouge area, employers typically don’t distinguish between Human Resource Management (HRM) and Human Resource Development (HRD) programs when hiring for entry-level HR roles, offering students flexibility in their choice.  

Focus and Philosophy

HRD programs like the online BS in Leadership and Human Resource Development are typically standalone degrees with a specialized focus on the developmental and strategic aspects of human resources. The BS LHRD program emphasizes building leadership skills, fostering organizational learning, and driving workplace improvement. Rooted in the idea that employees are an organization’s most valuable asset, this program prepares students to lead training initiatives, develop employees, and create meaningful organizational change.  

On the other hand, HRM programs, such as LSU’s online General Business degree with an HRM concentration, are often part of broader management degrees rather than standalone programs. These HRM tracks focus on the operational and administrative aspects of HR, including compliance, employee relations, and workforce systems. While valuable, HRM tracks are usually an emphasis or minor within a larger business management degree rather than a specialized degree.  

Curriculum and Career Preparation

The online BS in Leadership and Human Resource Development offers students a comprehensive, interdisciplinary education with courses in Organizational Leadership, Strategic Change in HRD, and Training and Development. Graduates are equipped to design workforce training programs, lead organizational change, and foster team and individual performance. These skills make LHRD graduates especially well-suited for roles like corporate trainers, organizational development consultants, and leadership coaches.

In contrast, the online General Business degree with an HRM concentration combines core business fundamentals with specialized HR topics like Employment Law, Talent Acquisition, and Compensation and Benefits. This curriculum prepares graduates for roles in HR operations, compliance, and employee relations, but the degree remains broad in scope, reflecting its foundation in general business studies.

Despite these differences, online LSU LHRD graduates regularly secure roles traditionally associated with HRM, such as recruiters, HR generalists, and compensation analysts. This crossover demonstrates the versatility of an HRD degree, particularly in areas where employers value both strategic and operational HR skills.  

The HRD Advantage 

One of the key differences between HRD and HRM programs lies in their structure. HRD programs, like the online BS LHRD from LSU, are full, standalone degrees dedicated entirely to studying workforce development, organizational improvement, and leadership. In contrast, HRM programs are typically concentrations or minors within a broader management degree. This distinction underscores the more in-depth and specialized nature of HRD programs, which prepare students for a wider range of developmental and strategic roles in HR.  

Career Opportunities  

Employers hiring for entry-level HR roles rarely differentiate between HRD and HRM graduates in the Baton Rouge area and beyond. This allows students in both programs to compete for similar positions, like HR coordinators, talent acquisition specialists, and employee relations associates. However, the specialized training offered by the online BS LHRD program also opens doors to additional career paths, including organizational development consulting, workplace training, and leadership coaching—areas that may not be as heavily emphasized in HRM tracks.  

For students seeking a comprehensive education focused on developing people and organizations, HRD programs provide an excellent foundation. Meanwhile, those interested in operational and compliance-focused HR roles may find the HRM concentration within a business management degree more aligned with their goals. 

Succeed in HR with LSU Online & Continuing Education 

Both HRD and HRM programs offer valuable pathways to HR careers, but their differences in focus and structure make them distinct. HRD programs like the online Bachelor of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development provide a full degree centered on strategic workforce development and leadership. HRM tracks are often concentrations within broader business programs, like the online Bachelor of Science in General Business with a concentration in Human Resource Management. Both online programs from LSU empower students with the skills and versatility needed to excel in various HR roles, making them an ideal choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers. 

Ready to take the next step? Explore these programs, and apply today!