Business - Human Resources
Overview
Flexible, future-focused, and CHRP-ready—your HR career starts here.
Build your HR career on your terms with Lambton College’s Business – Human Resources (Flexible) diploma—a fully online, four-term program designed for learners who need both quality and convenience. This adaptable program blends core business fundamentals with specialized HR training in talent acquisition, compensation, health and safety, organizational behaviour, workplace inclusion, and leadership. Engaging case studies and interactive simulations let you apply what you learn in real time, from wherever you learn best.
Graduates meet all nine required courses for the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, giving you a clear, confidence-building pathway to becoming a certified HR professional.
Grounded in responsible management and sustainable business practices, this program equips you with the big picture understanding and practical skills needed to support organizational success. With strong career readiness in areas like employee relations, training and development, and HR coordination, you’ll graduate prepared for diverse HR roles—while benefiting from the flexibility to balance your studies with work and life commitments.
Admission Requirements
O.S.S.D. or equivalent with:
- Grade 12 English C or U
Mature Student Assessment for this program is available in the subject of English for the purpose of demonstrating proficiency in this required admission subject. For all other admission requirements, applicants must complete the required course(s) as listed above. For more information, please contact counselling@lambtoncollege.ca. Review the Mature Student Admission process.
Academic admission requirements can be obtained through Academic Upgrading and the Pre-Programs at Lambton College.
Costs
- Fees will be determined in Spring 2026.
Technology Requirements
In order to keep pace with the requirements of each and every course in your program, Lambton College requires that each student have access to a laptop while studying at our college.
Courses
Business Mathematics I
This is a course in the mathematical concepts needed for success in the modern business world. We will study percentages, ratios and proportions, exponents; algebraic manipulation and solution of equations and equation systems; plotting, graphing and reading descriptive charts; deriving and presenting descriptive statistics.
Critical Thinking & Writing
This writing course challenges students to explore diverse opinions and articulate their own perspectives clearly and persuasively. Through critical reading, students will develop skills in synthesis, analysis, comparison, and response, striving for clarity and diplomatic expression of their opinions based on factual evidence. Students will practice various rhetorical strategies of persuasion and hone their writing to ensure precision and accuracy in their messages. This course lays the foundation for a subsequent research-writing course, equipping students with essential skills for academic success.
Strategic Human Resources Management
Specific focus is on the factors that affect the overall atmosphere in the workplace and that which contributes to an environment conducive to maximum productivity. Students will be introduced to effective strategies for hiring, motivating, managing, training, and retaining staff. Students will study the following topics: the strategic importance of Human Resources and the role of the HR Manager; competitive challenges facing Human Resources; job analysis and design; Human Resources planning; recruitment and selection; orientation and training; employee relations; performance management; compensation; employee benefits and services; labour relations; health and safety; equity and diversity; and international human resources management. Significant emphasis will be placed on the team approach to creative problem-solving techniques and heir application to selected case studies and a project that replicates actual on-the-job activities. Successful completion of this course, with a minimum final grade of 65%, will qualify as an approved credit towards the academic component of either the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or the Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designations granted by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA).
Marketing I
Marketing 1 is the first course of a two course Introduction to Marketing designed to provide students with a sound grounding in the field of marketing. Emphasis is placed on the formulation of integrated marketing strategies that play a role in achieving organizational objectives. The course is divided into four segments: marketing process and marketing environments; marketing planning and information collection processes; buyer behaviour and targeting strategies; and marketing mix (two components of the mix are discussed: product and price).
Microeconomics
Accounting Theory and Practice I
This course is an introduction to the theory of accounting and the standard methods of record-keeping. Accounting principles and concepts are emphasized in the preparation of financial statements for both service and merchandising organizations. Topics include preparing and posting journal entries, adjusting and closing accounts, introductory financial statements, bank reconciliation and basic payroll transactions.
Introduction to Computers
This course will familiarize students with the digital world by exploring the hardware and software of their computer system. Graduates will be able to use the most common functions of the Windows operating system including File Explorer for file management, utility programs, various web browsers for social media while observing and identifying security and privacy concerns and issues. Graduates will be able to build properly formatted documents using Microsoft Word and spreadsheets including correctly functioning formulas using Microsoft Excel and create commanding presentations with Microsoft PowerPoint while using the cloud to store and access their files.
Job Search & Workplace Skills
Communications for Business
This course provides students with the skills required for professional, written, and oral communications essential to business success and subsequent courses. Students will develop database and internet research skills; prepare professional written business communication; and create, practice and deliver professional oral presentations. Students will research and document borrowed information in a business report and will demonstrate critical reading and thinking skills.
Macroeconomics
This course provides an understanding of how society chooses what goods and services to produce through an examination of the laws of supply and demand as well as how and for whom they are produced, by examining the behaviour of firms, market structures and the distribution of income.
Introduction to Sustainable Development
This course introduces the concept of sustainable development to a broad audience. Students are presented with the factors that affect the environmental, economic and social sustainability of our communities. The course investigates the development of human populations and how their need for resources (e.g. energy, food, water) has compromised the natural ecosystems. Social and economic factors are explored in the context of social equality and sustainability in the local and global economy. The effects of individual lifestyle changes on the sustainability of communities are also examined.
Operations Management
Operations and supply chain management have evolved into one of today's most important business disciplines. In the dynamic world of manufacturing and service delivery, designing systems more effectively and efficiently is a key source of competitive advantage. This course introduces business students to foundational concepts and practical methods used in the design and operations of manufacturing and service firms. Students explore strategic decisions related to how firms compete including operations strategy, supply chain design, process and facility design, and capacity planning. Students also learn tactical and day-to-day strategies for inventory management, forecasting, resource scheduling, quality control, project management, and lean operating systems.
Recruitment & Selection
A basic study is undertaken of the principles, issues, trends, and legislative requirements affecting recruitment and selection. Human Resources professionals need an understanding of how recruitment and selection fits into the broader organizational structure, processes, and goals of an organization and how this function is related to the other functions of Human Resources management. Students will acquire the knowledge and skills needed to successfully identify human resource requirements and attract and retain an effective workforce for an organization. The changing legal environment and the impact of laws on recruitment and selection are an important component of this course.
HR Research & Information Systems
This subject involves the study of research techniques as they pertain to the measurement and conditioning of workforce behaviour. The subject provides knowledge related to the introduction of electronic human resources information systems (HRIS) into an organization by discovering project management, planning and implementation models. The value of HRIS to effective human resources (HR) research activities will be explored by looking at actual practices of HR professionals.
General Education Elective
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Conflict is inevitable, but how we respond makes all the difference. This interactive course explores practical methods for resolving workplace disputes through effective communication, negotiation and mediation. Students gain hands-on experience with proven ADR techniques, build confidence in managing difficult conversations, and learn how to foster collaboration in diverse professional settings.
Occupational Health & Safety
This introductory course provides students with a foundational understanding of the diverse and evolving field of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), with a focus on the Ontario context. Students will explore the key technical, legal, political, and personal factors that influence workplace health and safety. Core topics include the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) processes, WHMIS, Transportation of Dangerous Goods, accident prevention and investigation, physical and biological hazards, and the principles of managing OHS programs. This course equips students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to support safe work environments and prepare for further study or entry-level roles in the field.
Organizational Behaviour
This subject is an examination of the contemporary Canadian business environment including the organization, leadership and management decision process which influences the behaviour of individuals and groups. Increased global competition, technological change and the rising expectations of both employees and employers have underlined the need for improved and more effective leadership. This subject provides a better understanding of this process.
Compensation
This course provides the student with an introduction to the design, administration and significance of an organization's compensation and rewards system. An effective system enables an organization to attract, retain and motivate the workforce required in order to achieve strategic goals. Students will gain an understanding of the components of a total rewards system, environmental influences, various models and approaches, regulatory requirements and emerging trends and issues.
Employment Law
This scenario/case-based course will provide students with insight into the legal aspects of human resources management through the entire employment relationship. The focus of this course will be on current federal and provincial employment related legislation. Students will become familiar with specific areas of law and will apply learned concepts and terminology to address issues related to effective human resource management. Students will be introduced to content specific to workplace complaints and workplace investigations as this is an expanding area of responsibility for human resource professionals.
General Education Elective (Select 2)
Labour Relations
The subject will explore the nature of the industrial relations process. Considerable emphasis will be placed on negotiating and administering the collective agreement through to grievance arbitration.
Training & Development
The purpose of the Training and Development course is to provide students with an understanding of both the role of training and development in human resources management, and the procedures associated with the training and development function. The course will include the four key elements of the training and development function: needs analysis procedures, program design and development, facilitation and program administration, and evaluation. Students will be introduced to the psychology of the learning process on which training and development is based and will gain an understanding of the design, implementation, and evaluation of training programs within organizations. Topics to be covered include adult learning theory, establishing learning objectives, the role of the training and development practitioner, needs analysis procedures, training and non-training solution strategies, effective facilitation, strategies for transferring the learning back to the work environment, and evaluation methods. 11/
Human Resources Planning & Development
Successful organizations maintain a strong link between their organizational strategy and structure. Human Resources (HR) Planning uses tools and data to inform choices related to organizational structure, job design, HR forecasting and succession planning. In this case-based course, students will examine and evaluate the effectiveness of selected models and approaches to HR Planning. Successful completion of this course, with a minimum final grade of 65%, will qualify as an approved credit towards the academic component of either the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or the Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designations granted by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA).
Introduction to Financial Management Accounting
This course introduces the use of financial management and managerial accounting principles for planning, decision making, control, and cost management for a business enterprise. Topics covered in this course include the following: financial analysis for decision making, cost-volume-profit analysis, organizational costing techniques, and budgetary planning and control. Successful completion of this course, with a minimum final grade of 65%, will qualify as an approved credit towards the academic component of either the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or the Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designations granted by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA).
Critical & Ethical Decision Making
Students are introduced to business ethics, applied ethics, and social psychology. They will assess today's most important ethical dilemmas and the human behaviours that drive them. Students will recommend how to best navigate corporate landscapes, political influencers, and social contexts to ensure ethical decision-making.
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion: A Canadian Perspective
Empowering a variety of ideas, perspectives and talents are paramount in the continued evolution of a more inclusive Canada. It is essential for individuals, communities, businesses, industries and government to advocate for inclusion and to reduce barriers for the greater good of our society. As we live and work in an increasingly global world, this overview course is designed to provide learners with the tools to develop cultural competencies and inclusive practices so that they can recognize the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (EDI) as in integral part of a more socially inclusive Canada. Through activities and self-reflection, learners may explore a variety of relevant topics including intercultural awareness, gender identity, sexual orientation, unconscious bias, ageism, disabilities, mental health and indigenous ways of knowing.
Integrated Business Solutions: Capstone
This interdisciplinary capstone course brings together students from marketing and human resources to collaborate on a real-world business challenge. Working in cross-functional teams, students will partner with a local organization to develop and implement strategic solutions that address key operational, financial, and sustainability goals. Through hands-on engagement, students will analyze market trends, create HR strategies, integrate sustainable business practices, and ensure financial viability while refining their problem-solving and leadership skills. Throughout the course, students will apply their specialized knowledge to develop a comprehensive business proposal, culminating in a final presentation to stakeholders. Emphasizing experiential learning, this course prepares students for the complexities of modern business environments by fostering collaboration, adaptability, and strategic thinking. By the end of the capstone experience, students will have gained practical insights into cross-disciplinary decision-making within the business world.
CHRP Designation
Further information regarding Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) designation is available at www.hrpa.ca
Contact
Online Education
Room B2-280
Program Information
After Graduation
Employment Opportunities

Graduates step into the workforce with the critical thinking, analytical insight, and evaluative skills needed to make meaningful, socially responsible contributions in organizations across the private, public, and non-profit sectors. With a strong business foundation, they’re also well positioned to continue their academic journey through further studies in a variety of business-related fields.
Accreditations & Certifications
Certified Human Resources Professional Designation
Students in this program will complete all the required courses to be eligible for the Comprehensive Knowledge Exam (CKE), necessary for the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation. Note that there is a fee to write this exam. For more information about the CHRP designation, visit the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) website.
Separate registration, eligibility criteria, and fees determined by the HRPA will apply. These are not included in the Human Resources Management program fees.
To qualify, students must achieve an overall average of 70% or higher in nine subject areas, with no single course grade below 65%. Successful students will then be eligible to write the CKE offered by the HRPA.
Pathways
Transfer to Programs within Ontario
- Honours Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies - minimum GPA of 65%. Eligible to enter into Semester 5
Want to see more Ontario transfers? Visit ONTransfer.ca.
More Information
Technology Requirements
It is recommended that you use a Windows laptop for your coursework. While other devices like MacBooks or Chromebooks might work for some tasks, they may not support all the software required for your program. If you're unsure, check with your professors before buying.
Internet Speed Requirements
To get the best experience while learning online, we recommend having an internet connection with at least 40 Mbps download speed and 10 Mbps upload speed. This will help you use video calls, attend online lectures, and access other learning tools smoothly.
Because students live in many different areas, we can't suggest a specific internet provider. You'll need to check with local companies to find one that works best for you.
Laptop Requirements
In order to access the internet and virtually-delivered software and courseware, student laptops should include the following at a minimum. By meeting the following specifications, students will be equipped to access software and courseware on their laptop through the internet:
- Intel i5 8th Gen Processor or equivalent
- 8GB of RAM
- 100 GB HDD or more
- Webcam with a microphone
- Wi-Fi capable (802.11n/ac 5GHz)
- Windows 11 operating system
Mobile Device
Students will require a mobile device (smartphone) for:
- Accessing your digital student ID
- Using campus applications and services
Software
To ensure students are getting the most our of their classroom experience, some software will be required.
Lambton College has made this software easily accessible online. Students can leverage our Microsoft Office 365 software packages and services. In addition, much of the software you require for your courses will be available on demand for use on any device - on or off campus.