Explore Total Rewards Manager Schools (2024)

Looking to start your journey as a Total Rewards Manager? Finding the right education is key. Here's a curated list of schools offering quality Total Rewards Manager programs:

  • We've identified top institutions known for excellent Total Rewards Manager education.
  • Options include both local schools and nationally recognized programs.
  • Each listing highlights relevant degree programs for aspiring Total Rewards Manager professionals.
  • You'll also find information on related career paths in the field.

Browse through these options to find a program that aligns with your career goals in the Total Rewards Manager industry.

Top Total Rewards Manager Schools (2024)

View our ranking methodology here
#1Maricopa County

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891
#2Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#3Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#4El Paso County

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

In-State Tuition:$12,036
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,036
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:24,808
#5Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#6Lynchburg City

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

Total Rewards Manager Required Education (2024)

To pursue a career as a Total Rewards Manager, you need to meet certain educational qualifications. Here are the minimum and advanced education options to consider:

  • Minimum Education:

    • A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is typically required. This foundational degree will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for a role in total rewards management.

  • Advanced Education:

    • A master’s degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Human Resources or a Master’s in Human Resources Management (MHRM), can enhance your qualifications and provide you with a competitive edge in the job market.
    • Additional advanced degrees like a Master’s in Organizational Psychology or a Master’s in Labor Relations can also be beneficial, as they offer insights into employee behavior and organizational structure.

Pursuing these educational options can significantly impact your understanding of compensation structures, benefits administration, and employee engagement strategies, all of which are crucial for your success as a Total Rewards Manager.

Total Rewards Manager Professional Certifications & Licenses (2024)

To advance in the field of Total Rewards Management, obtaining relevant professional certifications and licenses can enhance your qualifications and demonstrate your expertise. Here are some of the key certifications typically pursued by Total Rewards Managers:

  • Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)
    Offered by the WorldatWork, the CCP certification focuses on the principles and practices of compensation management. This certification validates your knowledge of compensation strategy, plan design, and implementation.

  • Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)
    Also provided by WorldatWork, the CBP certification emphasizes your ability to develop and manage employee benefit programs. This includes health, retirement, and welfare benefits.

  • Global Remuneration Professional (GRP)
    This certification, also from WorldatWork, is designed for those who manage global compensation and employee benefit programs. It covers international compensation principles and practices.

  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
    Administered by the American Payroll Association, the CPP designation is ideal for professionals involved in payroll functions, ensuring that you understand payroll laws and management.

  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certification
    SHRM offers SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) and SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) credentials, which validate your ability to apply HR management principles, including Total Rewards strategies.

  • Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) Certification
    The HRCI offers various certifications, including Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), focusing on the fundamentals of human resources and advanced HR proficiency.

  • Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)
    Offered through the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the Wharton School, CEBS certification concentrates on employee benefits management and design.

Considering these certifications can enhance your professional credibility and better prepare you for the responsibilities associated with a Total Rewards Manager role. You should review the eligibility requirements and select certifications that align with your career goals.

Job Duties for Total Rewards Managers

  • Design, evaluate, and modify benefits policies to ensure that programs are current, competitive, and in compliance with legal requirements.

  • Direct preparation and distribution of written and verbal information to inform employees of benefits, compensation, and personnel policies.

  • Fulfill all reporting requirements of all relevant government rules and regulations, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

Technologies and Skills Used by Total Rewards Managers

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  • Oracle PeopleSoft
  • Workday software

Human resources software

  • Human resource management software HRMS
  • Vantage Point Software HRA

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Total Rewards Manager Internships, Apprenticeships & Practical Training

As a Total Rewards Manager, gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, and practical training is essential to developing your skills and building a professional network. Here are some opportunities you may consider:

  • Human Resources Internships
    Many companies offer HR internships that allow you to work on total rewards projects, such as benefits administration, compensation analysis, or employee engagement surveys. Look for internships at large corporations with well-established HR departments.

  • Compensation Analyst Internship
    Some organizations provide internships focused specifically on compensation analysis. In this role, you would help gather and analyze salary data, assist in market pricing jobs, and support the development of pay structures.

  • Benefits Administration Internship
    Internships with a focus on benefits administration allow you to work alongside experienced professionals in managing employee benefits programs, understanding compliance issues, and assisting in open enrollment processes.

  • Talent Management Internships
    These internships may cover various aspects of total rewards, including performance management and learning and development initiatives. You’ll gain insights into how total rewards aligns with talent management strategies.

  • HR Consulting Apprenticeships
    Consider an apprenticeship with an HR consulting firm, where you may work with various clients on compensation and benefits strategies. This experience will provide you with exposure to real-world applications and diverse organizational cultures.

  • University Programs
    Many universities offer cooperative education programs or internships integrated into HR degrees. Participating in these programs can provide valuable experience while earning credit towards your degree.

  • Local Government or Nonprofit Opportunities
    Internships with local government agencies or nonprofit organizations can provide a unique perspective on total rewards in a different sector. These roles might involve developing benefits programs with budget constraints and serving diverse employee populations.

  • Networking and Professional Organizations
    Joining organizations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) can provide internship leads and networking opportunities where you can connect with professionals in the total rewards field.

By pursuing these types of internships or apprenticeships, you will not only expand your skill set but also enhance your understanding of total rewards management in various organizational contexts.

Total Rewards Manager Continuing Education & Professional Development (2024)

To advance in your career as a Total Rewards Manager, engaging in continuing education and professional development is essential. Here are some valuable opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in this field:

  • Certifications:

    • Pursue professional certifications such as:
      • Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) from WorldatWork.
      • Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans.
      • Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) from the HR Certification Institute.

  • Advanced Degrees:

    • Consider earning an advanced degree such as a Master’s in Human Resources Management, Business Administration (MBA), or Organizational Development. These programs often include coursework in compensation strategies, benefits administration, and organizational behavior.

  • Workshops and Seminars:

    • Attend workshops and seminars focusing on the latest trends and legal changes in employee compensation and benefits. Organizations such as WorldatWork and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) regularly host events that provide professional development opportunities.

  • Online Courses:

    • Enroll in online courses related to total rewards management, compensation analytics, or benefits design. Websites like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and edX offer courses from esteemed universities that can enhance your understanding of current industry practices.

  • Networking Opportunities:

    • Join professional associations such as WorldatWork or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Engaging with peers through forums, conferences, and local chapters can lead to valuable insights and potential career advancement.

  • Industry Conferences:

    • Attend industry-specific conferences where you can learn about the latest research, tools, and technologies impacting total rewards. Conferences also offer networking prospects that can connect you with industry leaders.

  • Continuous Learning Programs:

    • Participate in continuous learning programs provided by your employer or through industry organizations. These programs often cover emerging trends, regulatory updates, and innovative practices in employee rewards.

  • Mentorship:

    • Seek a mentor in the HR or total rewards space. A mentor can provide guidance, share experiences, and help you navigate your career path effectively.

Engaging in these continuing education and professional development opportunities will enhance your capabilities and keep you informed of industry best practices, positioning you for advancement within the Total Rewards Manager career.

What To Look For When Deciding On Campus vs Online Degree Programs for Total Rewards Managers (2024)

When considering a career as a Total Rewards Manager, you will find various educational pathways available, each with its distinct advantages and challenges. Below is a comparison of online and campus-based education programs tailored for aspiring professionals in this field.

Online Education Programs

  • Flexibility: Online programs often allow you to complete coursework at your own pace, fitting studies around your work and personal life. This is especially beneficial if you are currently employed.
  • Access to Resources: Many online programs provide a wealth of digital resources including e-books, lectures, and forums for discussion, allowing you to learn from a broad range of materials.
  • Geographical Freedom: You can enroll in programs offered by institutions from across the country without the need to relocate, which expands your options significantly.
  • Networking Opportunities: Online programs often include virtual networking opportunities where you can connect with peers, industry professionals, and alumni through online forums and social media.
  • Varied Learning Styles: Online courses typically incorporate different learning formats, such as videos, podcasts, and interactive discussions, catering to different preferences.

Campus-Based Education Programs

  • Structured Environment: Attending classes on-campus provides a structured environment that can enhance focus and discipline, which may lead to better learning outcomes.
  • In-Person Networking: You will have direct access to professors, other students, and industry professionals, fostering relationships that can assist in job placements and future career opportunities.
  • Hands-on Learning: Campus programs often offer practical experiences such as internships and workshops, providing real-world applications that are invaluable in a field like Total Rewards Management.
  • Access to Campus Resources: You will benefit from physical resources such as libraries, writing centers, and specialized labs that can enrich your educational experience.
  • Immediate Feedback: Engaging with instructors in person allows for immediate clarification of complex topics, and real-time feedback on assignments and projects.

Conclusion

Both online and campus-based education programs offer valuable pathways towards becoming a Total Rewards Manager. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and professional goals. Consider the structure, accessibility, and networking opportunities each option provides as you plan your educational journey in this dynamic field.

Total Rewards Manager Typical Career Path (2024)

As you consider a career as a Total Rewards Manager, it's important to understand the typical progression through various levels within this field. Here’s a breakdown of common roles you may encounter at different stages of your career.

Entry-Level Positions

  • HR Assistant: This role lays the groundwork for a career in human resources, providing exposure to various HR functions, including benefits administration and payroll processes.
  • Compensation Analyst: In this position, you will collect and analyze salary data, assist in the development of compensation structures, and help with job evaluations. This role helps you familiarize yourself with compensation principles and market trends.
  • Benefits Coordinator: Here, you support the administration of employee benefits programs, manage enrollments, and assist employees with benefits-related inquiries, making it a good entry point into the benefits aspect of total rewards.

Mid-Level Positions

  • Compensation Manager: In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing compensation strategies, conducting salary surveys, and ensuring compliance with employment laws. You may also mentor junior analysts.
  • Benefits Manager: This position entails managing employee benefits programs, enhancing benefit offerings, and analyzing their effectiveness to improve employee engagement and satisfaction.
  • Total Rewards Analyst: As a Total Rewards Analyst, you will take a holistic approach to employee rewards and analyze total compensation packages, conduct benchmarking, and provide insights on trends related to both compensation and benefits.

Advanced Roles

  • Total Rewards Manager: Taking on this role means overseeing the entire total rewards program, including compensation, benefits, and recognition strategies. You will work closely with senior management to align these strategies with organizational goals.
  • Director of Total Rewards: This position involves developing high-level reward strategies and policies, leading teams, and serving as a key advisor to executives regarding reward programs and employee engagement initiatives.
  • Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO): Though a broader HR role, the CHRO often integrates total rewards management within their responsibilities. In this capacity, you will shape the overall HR strategy, including compensation and benefits, for the entire organization.

Understanding these levels allows you to set clear career goals and develop the necessary skills and experiences required to advance in the field of total rewards management.

Related Fields and Alternative Career Paths to Total Rewards Managers (2024)

As a Total Rewards Manager, your expertise in compensation, benefits, and employee engagement positions you well for several related fields and alternative career paths. The skills and knowledge you acquire in this role are applicable in various sectors within human resources and beyond. Here are some fields and potential career options that you might consider:

  • Human Resources Manager

    • Transitioning into a general HR management role is a natural progression. Your understanding of rewards, employee relations, and compliance can enhance your effectiveness in managing overall HR functions.

  • Compensation Analyst

    • If you enjoy focusing on the specifics of compensation structures and methodologies, becoming a compensation analyst can be a suitable choice. This role emphasizes market analysis and pay structure design, directly utilizing your current skills.

  • Benefits Consultant

    • Specializing in benefits administration, a benefits consultant advises organizations on health plans, retirement systems, and other benefits. Your existing knowledge of benefits management would provide a strong foundation for this role.

  • Organizational Development Specialist

    • If you’re passionate about improving organizational effectiveness, consider a position in organizational development. This role focuses on employee training programs, culture enhancement, and change management, leveraging your experiences in employee engagement and retention strategies.

  • Learning and Development Manager

    • In this capacity, you would design employee training initiatives that align with company goals, using your insight into what motivates employees—an essential aspect of total rewards.

  • Talent Acquisition Specialist

    • With an eye on recruitment strategies and employer branding, your understanding of how total rewards attract talent can aid you as a talent acquisition specialist, helping organizations to identify and onboard the right candidates.

  • Employee Experience Manager

    • This role emphasizes creating positive employee experiences throughout the employment lifecycle. You can draw on your total rewards background to develop strategies that enhance job satisfaction and retention.

  • HR Policy Analyst

    • Should you have an interest in compliance and policies, transitioning to an HR policy analyst position allows you to influence policy creation that governs workforce management and practices across organizations.

  • Data Analyst in HR

    • In an increasingly data-driven world, your skills can transfer well into HR analytics, where you would analyze employee data to inform strategic decisions related to compensation, benefits, and employee performance.

  • Workplace Culture Consultant

    • With insights gained as a Total Rewards Manager, you can transition to advising organizations on developing a positive workplace culture that aligns with organizational values and employee expectations.

  • Corporate Trainer

    • If you have a passion for teaching and sharing knowledge, consider becoming a corporate trainer. This role enables you to create and deliver training programs on various HR topics, including benefits and compensation.

By identifying the aspects of your role as a Total Rewards Manager that you enjoy most, you can pivot into these related fields, leveraging your existing knowledge and skills while expanding your career opportunities. Each of these paths can benefit from your understanding of rewards, employee engagement, and organizational dynamics, allowing you to contribute meaningfully in a new role.

Total Rewards Manager Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (2024)

  • What educational background is needed to become a Total Rewards Manager?
    Typically, a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, finance, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees, such as a master’s in human resources or business administration (MBA), can enhance your qualifications.

  • Are there specific certifications that would benefit a Total Rewards Manager?
    Yes, obtaining relevant certifications can significantly bolster your credentials. Consider certifications such as Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), Certified Benefits Professional (CBP), or professional designations from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

  • Is prior experience necessary before becoming a Total Rewards Manager?
    While some entry-level positions may not require prior experience, most Total Rewards Manager roles typically require several years of experience in human resources or compensation and benefits administration.

  • What skills are essential for a Total Rewards Manager?
    Key skills include analytical thinking, strong communication abilities, negotiation skills, a solid understanding of employment law, and proficiency in compensation and benefits software.

  • Can I become a Total Rewards Manager without a degree?
    Although a degree is highly recommended and often required, extensive experience in human resources or related fields may allow some individuals to qualify for managerial roles without formal educational credentials.

  • How important is ongoing education for a Total Rewards Manager?
    Ongoing education is vital due to the ever-evolving nature of compensation, benefits regulations, and human resource practices. Engaging in continuous learning through workshops, seminars, and courses can keep you informed on the latest trends and legal requirements.

  • Are there specific areas of study that are advantageous for a Total Rewards Manager?
    Areas such as labor economics, human resource management, statistics, and business analytics are particularly beneficial as they provide a strong foundation for understanding compensation strategies and workforce planning.

  • What type of companies typically hire Total Rewards Managers?
    Total Rewards Managers can be found in a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, government, and manufacturing. Companies of various sizes, from startups to large multinational firms, require these professionals to manage their compensation and benefits programs.

  • Is it common for Total Rewards Managers to work in teams?
    Yes, Total Rewards Managers often collaborate with other HR professionals, finance teams, and upper management to develop and implement effective total rewards strategies. Teamwork is essential for aligning compensation and benefits with organizational goals.

  • Can a Total Rewards Manager transition to other HR roles?
    Yes, the skills and experience gained as a Total Rewards Manager can be transferable to various HR positions, such as HR Director, HR Business Partner, or Talent Acquisition Manager, offering potential pathways for career advancement.

Additional Resources for Total Rewards Managers (2024)

  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
    SHRM Website
    SHRM provides a wealth of resources for HR professionals, including articles on total rewards, certification programs, and standards for HR practices.

  • WorldatWork
    WorldatWork Website
    This organization focuses on compensation and total rewards, offering research papers, webinars, and certification programs specifically for Total Rewards Managers.

  • Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI)
    HRCI Website
    HRCI offers professional credentials for HR practitioners, including the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certifications that can enhance your qualifications.

  • LinkedIn Learning
    LinkedIn Learning
    Access a range of courses on HR strategy, compensation analysis, and employee benefits. These courses can help you develop specialized knowledge and skills relevant to total rewards management.

  • Institute for Compensation Studies (ICS)
    ICS Website
    Located at Cornell University, ICS offers research and resources dedicated to compensation practices, including recent trends and studies in total rewards.

  • Compensation and Benefits Review
    SAGE Journals
    A scholarly journal that explores the latest research and developments in compensation and benefits, providing insights that can be valuable in your practice.

  • PayScale
    PayScale Website
    An online salary database that provides compensation data, benchmarking tools, and resources for understanding pay equity, allowing you to make informed decisions.

  • American Compensation Association (ACA)
    ACA Website
    This organization offers professional development, networking, and resources on compensation practices that Total Rewards Managers will find beneficial.

  • HR.com
    HR.com Website
    This online community offers a variety of HR resources, including articles, webinars, and networking opportunities, specifically tailored for HR professionals including Total Rewards Managers.

  • Compensation Strategies
    CompensationStrategies.com
    This site offers tools, resources, and consulting services tailored to compensation management, helping you stay current with industry practices and strategies.

Utilizing these resources will enhance your understanding of the Total Rewards Manager's role and provide tools for professional development in the field.