Career and School Info for Training Specialists

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Degrees and Schools

For many training positions, a degree in human resources, education, adult education or organizational development may be required. At the graduate level, master's of education degrees in training and development are available. In some industries such as health care and information technology, a degree in the relevant field may be more important. All of these types of degree programs can be found at various universities and colleges throughout the country although the more specialized programs are harder to find.

Coursework

Coursework that is most relevant to a career as a Training Specialist includes:

• training needs assessment
• organizational development
• instructional design
• psychology of the adult learner
• training methods in business and industry
• learning technologies
• evaluation of training programs

Online Classes and Programs

Online programs in human resources, education and training and development are available through a few reputable online schools. Students should make sure these schools and programs are properly accredited by a regional accreditation agency.

Employment Requirements

Job requirements vary depending upon the industry, position and job responsibilities. Jobs in some industries such as healthcare require candidates have a degree and/or experience working in that field. Other positions may require a bachelor's or a master's degree in human resources, training and development, adult education or similar field. Other qualifications typically include excellent communications skills and strong computer skills. Certification from the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) may be required or preferred for some positions.

How to Evaluate Schools and Programs

The following questions should be considered when choosing a program in preparation for a career as a Training Specialist:

• Focus - Does the program allow students to focus on training and development topics? What courses in the program are specifically related to training and development?
• Internships - Can students participate in an internship for credit? What kind of internships has the school helped students find in the past?
• Convenience - For working students, is the program designed for students who want to attend part-time? Are classes available in the evening or on weekends? Are classes available online?
• Accreditation - Is the school accredited by a regional accreditation agency? Is an education degree program accredited by NCATE or TEAC?
• Job Placement - Does the program offer job placement services? What types of positions have past graduates found?

Training Specialists Job Description

Developing employees through company-sponsored training is an important way for companies to improve productivity, increase loyalty and morale and improve the skills of their employees. Training Specialists, also referred to as Training and Development Specialists, are involved in creating, procuring and conducting training for a company. These specialists may be involved in various types of training efforts including new employee orientation, re-training programs, executive development and skills development, among many other types. They are employed by public and private organizations in all industries and sometimes work as consultants.

Training Specialists may have some or many of the following responsibilities:

• assess training needs
• create training plans
• determine source of external training programs
• develop training courses
• coordinate on-the-job training
• conduct training classes
• evaluate training effectiveness

Resources

American Society for Training and Development - ASTD is a membership organization of workplace learning and performance professionals that offers certification, education, research, online information, a job bank and advocacy.

Society for Human Resource Management - The SHRM provides certifications, education, publications, advocacy and conferences for human resource professionals.