Best Schools for Employee Development Specialists in 2024

Essential Education to Become an Employee Development Specialist

Embarking on a career as an Employee Development Specialist is a rewarding path that combines the art of teaching with the science of organizational development. This role requires a solid educational foundation, often beginning with a bachelor's degree and potentially advancing through to master's level studies, depending on your career goals and the requirements of specific employers. Here's what you need to know about the essential education for entering this field.

Bachelor's Degree: Your Starting Point

• Human Resources Management: A degree in HR management provides a broad understanding of how businesses operate and how employees fit into the bigger picture. Courses cover topics like recruitment, training, compensation, and employment law, all critical for an Employee Development Specialist.

• Psychology: Studying psychology, especially industrial-organizational psychology, offers insights into human behavior in the workplace. Understanding what motivates employees and how they learn can significantly enhance your effectiveness in developing training programs.

• Education: A degree in education, particularly with a focus on adult learning or educational technology, equips you with the skills to design and implement effective training and development programs.

• Business Administration: A business administration degree can be valuable, especially with concentrations in leadership or management. This education gives you a well-rounded understanding of business operations, strategic planning, and how employee development aligns with organizational goals.

Master's Degree: Taking It to the Next Level

While not always required, a master's degree can set you apart in the field of employee development. Specializations relevant for Employee Development Specialists include:

• Master of Science in Human Resource Development: This specialized degree focuses on developing the skills needed to design, conduct, and evaluate employee development programs. Coursework often includes advanced topics in organizational change, adult learning theories, and strategic human resources management.

• MBA with a Concentration in Human Resources: An MBA offers a strong foundation in business principles while allowing you to specialize in human resources. This combination is powerful for those looking to take on leadership roles within HR or employee development.

Certifications: Demonstrating Your Expertise

In addition to formal education, certifications can enhance your qualifications:

• Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP): Offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), this certification demonstrates expertise in instructional design, training delivery, and improving individual and organizational performance.

• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP): These certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) indicate proficiency in strategic and people management competencies.

Continuous Learning: Staying Ahead

The field of employee development is constantly evolving. To stay relevant and effective, it's crucial to engage in continuous learning through:

• Professional Workshops and Seminars: These can keep you updated on the latest trends and best practices in training and development.

• Industry Conferences: Attending conferences allows you to network with peers and learn from leaders in the field.

• Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses on everything from instructional design to learning technologies.

Becoming an Employee Development Specialist requires a mix of formal education, practical experience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Whether you're just starting out with a bachelor's degree or enhancing your qualifications with advanced degrees and certifications, each step you take is an investment in your career and the success of the employees you'll help develop.

Employee Development Specialist Education Resources

Professional Associations

Joining a professional association can be a game-changer for your career as an Employee Development Specialist. These organizations offer networking opportunities, professional development resources, and industry insights that can help you stay ahead in your field. Here are some you might consider:

• Association for Talent Development (ATD): ATD
• Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM): SHRM
• International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI): ISPI

Industry Publications

Staying informed about the latest trends, research, and best practices in employee development is crucial. These publications can be a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the field:

• TD Magazine
  • ATD's monthly magazine offers articles on industry trends, case studies, and best practices. Visit TD Magazine.
• HR Magazine
  • SHRM's publication provides insights on human resource management, including employee development. Access it at HR Magazine.
• Performance Improvement Journal
  • ISPI's journal focuses on performance improvement strategies and case studies. Find it here: Performance Improvement Journal.

Other Resources

In addition to professional associations and industry publications, there are other resources available that can support your growth and development in this field:

• LinkedIn Learning
  • Offers courses on a wide range of topics including employee development, training techniques, and instructional design. Start learning at LinkedIn Learning.
• Coursera
  • Provides access to courses and specializations from universities and colleges on topics relevant to employee development. Explore courses at Coursera.
• Career.Guide
  • Your go-to resource for comprehensive articles, guides, and tips on navigating your career as an Employee Development Specialist. Dive deeper into your career exploration by visiting Career.Guide.

Leveraging these resources can significantly enhance your knowledge base, skills, and network within the employee development field. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your expertise, these resources offer valuable support for your professional journey.

Employee Development Specialist Education FAQs

What degree do I need to become an Employee Development Specialist?

To carve out a career as an Employee Development Specialist, a bachelor's degree is generally the baseline educational requirement. Most professionals in this field hold degrees in areas such as:

• Human Resources Management
• Business Administration
• Education
• Psychology
• Organizational Development

While a bachelor’s degree can get your foot in the door, some employers might prefer or even require candidates to possess a master’s degree, especially for senior-level positions.

Are there specific courses I should take?

Yes, while the degree program you choose will provide a broad foundation, focusing on certain courses can help tailor your education towards a career in employee development. Consider enrolling in:

• Adult Learning and Education Principles
• Organizational Behavior
• Leadership and Management
• Training and Development
• Performance Assessment
• Instructional Design

These courses will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to design effective training programs, improve employee performance, and contribute to organizational development.

Do I need any certifications?

While not always mandatory, obtaining professional certifications can significantly enhance your job prospects and credibility in the field. Some popular certifications for Employee Development Specialists include:

• Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD)
• Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD)
• Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
• Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM)

Certifications demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your expertise in the field, making you a more attractive candidate to employers.

Is continuing education important in this field?

Absolutely. The field of employee development is continuously evolving with new theories, technologies, and methodologies. To stay effective and relevant, it's crucial to engage in lifelong learning. This can be through:

• Attending workshops and conferences
• Participating in webinars
• Subscribing to relevant professional journals
• Engaging with professional networks and communities

Continuing education not only keeps your skills sharp but also expands your professional network and exposes you to the latest trends and best practices in the field.

How can I gain experience while studying?

Gaining practical experience is invaluable and can significantly enhance your employability upon graduation. Consider seeking opportunities such as:

• Internships with HR departments or training organizations
• Part-time jobs in roles related to training or HR
• Volunteer positions that allow you to design or deliver training sessions
• Campus leadership roles that involve organizing workshops or seminars

Hands-on experience will not only reinforce your theoretical knowledge but also provide real-world insights into the challenges and rewards of being an Employee Development Specialist.