To work as a human resources assistant, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have an associate degree.

Education after high school

Most human resources assistants have an associate degree. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer business education programs. In these programs you study word processing, business communications, records management, and office procedures. Courses in social sciences, as well as word processing and spreadsheet applications, are particularly helpful.

On-the-job training

Once on the job, human resources assistants learn about office practices and the use of computer applications. Training usually lasts a few weeks. 

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be personnel specialists. Training lasts for seven to nine weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.