Ivy League Online for HR Professionals
Cornell University’s wholly owned distance learning subsidiary, eCornell, has launched a new online course for human resources professionals, ‘Fundamentals of Employee Benefits.’ This follows ‘Human Resources and the Law,’ launched in November. Both are part of a six-part series of courses that leads to a Human Resources Studies Certificate from the prestigious Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR).
“This is a great opportunity for Human Resources professionals to participate in an Ivy League education from Cornell University, without the expense and disruption of travel,” says Ann W. Martin, Associate Dean and Director of Extension at Cornell University’s School of ILR. “eCornell has taken the ILR School’s highly successful HR Certificate courses, which have been offered for years by the ILR Extension Division at several locations throughout New York State, and brought them online. The online courses are developed by Cornell instructors for people who can join the classes from wherever they take their laptops.”
An expert eCornell instructor participates with the online class throughout each four-week course. The instructor brings his or her own expertise and experience to the class and leads discussions, challenges students to stretch their skills, gives individual and group feedback, and provides a rich learning experience for each student. Each section is limited to 20 students, and students spend approximately three to four hours of online class time each week. Extensive technical support is provided.
Like all eCornell School of ILR courses, ‘Fundamentals of Employee Benefits’ uses a problem-centered approach that demonstrates key principles in action. Simulations and case studies are provided online via video and other multimedia technologies. Assignments are based on putting key principles into action, and provide opportunities for an interactive exchange of ideas and information with instructors and colleagues with similar work experiences. The course includes many resources that may be downloaded or printed out for later use on the job.
‘Fundamentals of Employee Benefits’ provides an overview of the benefits function. Students learn how to understand benefits plans, and to develop skills in communicating them to employees. Specifically, the course examines welfare, retirement and flexible benefits concepts. Participants also take a close look at the latest benefits initiatives and emerging trends, and consider whether or not they are appropriate for their own company’s use. They hone skills that enable them to establish ongoing relationships with benefits experts and service providers, and to communicate features of the benefits plan to employees, help them understand their options, and make the best choices.
Professionals already certified by the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) may receive 12 recertification credits for successfully completing the School of ILR’s six-course Human Resources Studies Certificate Program, in addition to receiving the Certificate from Cornell University.
eCornell courses offer executives, managers and professionals the highest quality educational experience using the latest Internet collaborative technology. Class sections start the first week of every month. For more information or to register, visit at http://www.ecornell.com or call 1-866-ECORNELL.
