Since 1965, the Centre for Industrial Relations and Human Resources (CIRHR) has brought together professors from many different disciplines to teach and conduct research on all aspects of work, the workplace, labour markets and labour relations. CIRHR offers two areas of study: Industrial Relations and Human Resources (IRHR) and Work and Organizations (WO).
The overarching goal of the undergraduate program in IRHR is to offer an interdisciplinary learning opportunity in which to study the ‘world of work and employment’ in a Canadian and global context from the perspectives of economics, history, law, management, political science, psychology, and sociology. The program provides students with a theoretical background and knowledge of current developments in the field that will serve as a basis for careers areas such as:
- Human Resources Generalist
- Recruitment Specialist
- HR Consultant
- Employment Equity Officer
- Training and Development Consultant
- Corporate Trainer
- Policy Advisor in the Ministry of Labour
- Union Representative
- Labour Relations Specialist
The undergraduate program in IRHR is also a perfect platform from which to enter post-graduate programs in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, Law with a specialisation in labour and employment, as well as policy and labour studies programs.
People with backgrounds in IRHR are found working in the following settings:
- Consulting
- Government departments (all levels)
- Ministry of Economic Development & Trade
- Ontario Ministry of Finance
- Telecommunication
- Toronto District School Boards
- University of Toronto
- Financial Insurance
- Real Estate
- Ontario Ministry of Health
Students are encouraged to use the resources available in both the IRHR Library and Career Exploration and Education Centre in order to investigate current labour market trends and career options in Industrial Relations and Human Resources.
In Ontario, Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) regulates the HR profession and issues the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, the national standard for excellence in human resources management. IRHR students are also encouraged to explore the services offered by HRPA.
The Program Office is located in Woodsworth College and IRHR students benefit from the rich academic support services and facilities available at the College.
How to get experience & help
Start early by seeking relevant summer, part-time and volunteer opportunities that will help you gain experience and develop the skills that employers want.
Networking at job fairs and doing volunteer work are an invaluable asset.
To access summer, part-time, temporary and volunteer postings, register with the Career Centre. Among its many services, the Career Centre maintains a Career Resource Library, operates the Graduating Students Employment Service and organizes the volunteer Extern Program which offers students a chance to explore a career in the actual workplace. The Centre offers workshops on Discovering Your Skills and Options, Successful Strategies for Finding Work, Interview Techniques and Resume and Cover Letter Writing.
Make sure to visit other job boards as well such as HRPA, Eluta and Talent Egg.
Industrial Relations and Human Resources is an interdisciplinary program and complements programs in the following areas:
- Commerce
- History
- Economics
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Policy
- Public Policy
The Faculty of Arts and Science Calendar should be consulted for details about all of these programs.
The undergraduate program in IRHR is also a perfect platform from which to enter post-graduate programs in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, Law with a specialisation in labour and employment, as well as policy and labour studies programs.