Top 11 Campus Recruiter Certifications

Certifications are important for campus recruiters in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and training that can be beneficial to employers. They help potential employers determine whether or not a candidate is qualified for the job. Certifications also provide evidence of the knowledge and skills an individual has acquired through their education and experience. Additionally, certifications can give recruiters an edge over other applicants who do not have certifications. Lastly, certifications can add credibility to a recruiter's profile, making them more attractive to employers and increasing the chance of landing a job.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Campus Recruiters and explain how they can help to further a career in Campus Recruiting.

What are Campus Recruiter Certifications?

Campus recruiter certification is a professional development program designed to provide recruiters with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively source and recruit top talent from college campuses. This certification focuses on building relationships with campus career services, faculty, and student organizations, as well as understanding the complexities of diversity recruiting and developing strong interviewing techniques. Through this certification, recruiters gain expertise in areas such as creating effective job postings, developing targeted recruiting strategies, utilizing campus networks to identify qualified candidates, hosting successful on-campus events, and managing employer branding activities.

Having a campus recruiter certification can help employers ensure that their recruitment efforts are effective and efficient. By having certified professionals on staff who understand how to navigate the complexities of campus recruiting, employers can more easily access the best talent available. Additionally, certified recruiters are better able to develop relationships with key individuals at colleges and universities that can lead to long-term partnerships between organizations and academic institutions. Finally, having certified recruiters on staff can help companies create more consistent messaging when interacting with students about job opportunities which helps ensure an effective employer brand experience for potential hires.

Pro Tip: Consider taking an online certification course in campus recruiting. This will provide you with valuable skills and knowledge to help you better understand the needs of the college and university recruiters, as well as how to best approach them and make a successful pitch for your business.

Related: What does a Campus Recruiter do?

Top 11 Campus Recruiter Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Campus Recruiters today.

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification is a professional certification for individuals who specialize in the human resources field. It is administered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) and recognizes an individual’s mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR management.

In order to obtain the PHR certification, applicants must have at least one year of experience as a professional in a human resources-related position or two years of experience in a non-HR related position with significant HR responsibilities. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits administration, employee and labor relations, risk management, and workplace safety.

The PHR exam typically takes three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost to take the exam varies depending on the location but generally ranges from $395-$495 USD. After passing the exam, individuals must then submit an application to HRCI for review and approval before they can be officially certified as a Professional in Human Resources.

2. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the core principles of human resource management. It is the only HR certification accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The SHRM-CP credential is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR practice, as well as knowledge of the strategic perspective necessary for success in today’s complex business environment.

It typically takes about six months to complete the SHRM-CP certification process. To become certified, individuals must first pass an online assessment that tests their knowledge in areas such as employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, and labor law compliance. After passing this assessment, applicants must then submit a portfolio demonstrating their proficiency in these areas. Finally, they must pass a comprehensive exam administered by SHRM.

The cost to become certified varies depending on whether you are already a member of SHRM or not. For non-members, it costs $395 USD to take the assessment and $300 USD for the exam fee. For members of SHRM, it costs $295 USD for the assessment and $200 USD for the exam fee.

3. Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP) Certification

Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP) Certification is a professional certification program designed by the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS). It is the highest level of recognition for recruiting professionals, and it is awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in the field.

The CRP certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in recruiting, as well as completion of a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of three parts: a written test, an oral interview, and a practical demonstration. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in recruitment or related fields.

To get the CRP certification, applicants must first submit an application to NAPS. Once approved, applicants will receive a study guide and access to online practice tests. After studying for the exam and passing all three parts, applicants will be awarded their CRP certification.

The cost of getting the CRP certification varies depending on whether you are already a member of NAPS or not. For non-members, the cost is $450 USD; for members, it is $350 USD.

4. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification is an internationally-recognized certification designed to demonstrate a professional’s knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources. It is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The GPHR certification is intended for experienced HR professionals who have at least five years of experience in the field, including three years of international HR experience.

The GPHR certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as global HR strategy, global workforce planning, global compensation and benefits, and international labor relations. Once they have passed the exam, they must submit an application to SHRM that includes their resume, references from current or former employers, and proof of their international HR experience.

The cost of the GPHR certification depends on whether you are an SHRM member or not. For non-members, it costs $400 to take the exam plus a $50 processing fee. For SHRM members, it costs $300 plus a $50 processing fee. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting your application materials if you are not already a SHRM member.

5. Association of Talent Acquisition Professionals (ATAP) Certification

The Association of Talent Acquisition Professionals (ATAP) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of talent acquisition professionals. The ATAP Certification validates an individual’s expertise in all aspects of talent acquisition, from sourcing and recruiting to onboarding and retention.

It takes approximately three months to complete the ATAP Certification program. The program consists of an online assessment, a comprehensive study guide, and a final exam. There are also optional live workshops available for those who wish to gain additional knowledge or review material prior to taking the exam.

To get the ATAP Certification, individuals must first pass the online assessment with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the assessment, they will receive access to the comprehensive study guide which covers topics such as recruitment strategy, sourcing techniques, interviewing best practices, and more. Once they have completed their studies, they can take the final exam which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. To pass this exam they must achieve a score of 80% or higher.

The cost for the ATAP Certification program is $395 USD for members and $495 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to all materials as well as one attempt at taking the final exam.

6. Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) Certification

Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of employment services. The CESP certification is offered by the National Association of Workforce Professionals (NAWP).

To become certified, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. Eligibility requirements include having a minimum of three years of experience in the field of employment services, or having completed at least 30 hours of approved training related to employment services within the past five years.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as job search strategies, interviewing techniques, career counseling, resume writing, and more. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken online or at a testing center.

The cost for the CESP certification is $295 USD. This fee covers the cost of the application fee, exam fee, and one year’s membership in NAWP. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their CESP certificate within four weeks.

7. Certified College Recruiter (CCR) Certification

The Certified College Recruiter (CCR) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of college recruitment. This certification is designed to help employers identify and hire qualified college recruiters who can effectively source, assess, and select top talent for their organization.

The CCR certification program consists of three levels: Level 1 – Basic College Recruiting Skills; Level 2 – Advanced College Recruiting Techniques; and Level 3 – Professional College Recruiting Strategies. Each level requires successful completion of a comprehensive online course and a final exam. The entire program takes approximately 8-12 weeks to complete depending on the individual’s learning pace.

To get certified, you must first register with the National Association of College Recruiters (NACR). Once registered, you will be able to access the CCR certification program materials. The cost for registration is $295 USD and includes access to all three levels of the program as well as a one-year membership with NACR.

Once you have completed all three levels of the CCR certification program, you will need to submit your final exam results along with an application fee ($50 USD) in order to receive your official CCR certificate from NACR. Upon successful completion of the program, you will become a Certified College Recruiter and be eligible for exclusive job opportunities through NACR's network.

8. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Certificate

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Certificate is a professional credential that recognizes the achievement of individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the essential knowledge and skills required for successful college recruiting. It is designed to provide employers with an objective measure of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully recruit college graduates.

The NACE Certificate program consists of three core courses: Introduction to College Recruiting, Advanced College Recruiting Strategies, and Professional Development in College Recruiting. The program also includes two electives: Internship Management and Graduate School Recruiting. To receive the certificate, individuals must complete all five courses within a 12-month period.

To get the NACE Certificate, you must first register for the program online at naceweb.org/certificate. Once registered, you will be able to access the course materials and take the exams online at your own pace. You must pass each exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive credit for that course. After completing all five courses, you will be eligible to receive your NACE Certificate from NACE headquarters in Washington D.C.

The cost for the NACE Certificate program is $1,295 USD for members ($1,595 USD for non-members). This fee covers all five courses as well as an official certificate from NACE upon completion of the program.

9. Society for Human Resource Management – Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The Society for Human Resource Management-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification awarded by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The SHRM-SCP certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills required of senior HR professionals. It is one of two certifications offered by SHRM, along with the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP).

To qualify for the SHRM-SCP certification, applicants must have a minimum of four years of experience in an HR role, including at least three years in a senior leadership position. In addition, they must complete a set number of hours of continuing education related to HR topics within the last three years. Once these criteria are met, applicants can register for and take the exam.

The exam consists of 160 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost to take the exam is $300 for members and $400 for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from SHRM and become certified as a Senior Certified Professional.

10. Certified Staffing Professional (CSP)

Certified Staffing Professional (CSP) is a certification program offered by the American Staffing Association (ASA). It is designed to recognize staffing professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in their profession. The CSP certification is meant to demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively manage staffing operations.

The CSP program consists of three components: an online assessment, an in-person examination, and a professional development course. To qualify for the CSP certification, applicants must pass all three components with a score of 70% or higher. The online assessment consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as staffing fundamentals, recruiting strategies, legal compliance, and customer service. The in-person exam includes both written and oral components that test the applicant’s knowledge of staffing regulations, policies, procedures, and best practices. Finally, the professional development course covers topics related to staff supervision and management.

It typically takes about six months to complete all requirements for the CSP certification. Applicants should plan on dedicating at least 10 hours per week to studying for the assessments and exams.

The cost of obtaining the CSP certification varies depending on whether you are an ASA member or non-member. For ASA members, it costs $495; for non-members it costs $595. This fee includes access to study materials as well as registration fees for both the online assessment and in-person examination.

11. American Staffing Association – Certified Staffing Professional (ASA-CSP).

The American Staffing Association – Certified Staffing Professional (ASA-CSP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize staffing professionals who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and the highest standards of ethical conduct. The ASA-CSP is awarded by the American Staffing Association, which is the national trade association representing the staffing industry in the United States.

To earn the ASA-CSP designation, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as legal compliance, recruitment and selection, customer service, financial management, and technology. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates must also have at least two years of experience in the staffing industry or related field in order to be eligible for certification.

In order to take the exam, candidates must first register with the American Staffing Association (ASA). Registration costs $295 for members of ASA and $395 for non-members. After registering, candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule their exam. Once they have completed their exam, they will receive their results within two weeks via email.

The cost of taking the ASA-CSP exam is separate from any fees associated with becoming a member of ASA or renewing one’s membership each year. However, members do receive discounts on registration fees for certain events hosted by ASA throughout the year.

Do You Really Need a Campus Recruiter Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a campus recruiter certificate to be successful in your career. While having a campus recruiter certificate may be helpful in some cases, it is by no means essential. The main advantage of having such a certificate is that it allows recruiters to access resources and contacts that may not be available to other job seekers. Additionally, the certificate can serve as an indication of knowledge and expertise when it comes to recruiting on college campuses.

However, these advantages are often outweighed by the costs associated with obtaining a campus recruiter certificate. These costs include time spent studying for the certification exam and money spent on the actual certification fee. Furthermore, there are many other ways in which recruiters can gain the same knowledge and skills without having to complete the certification process. For example, recruiters can attend seminars or workshops related to campus recruiting or take courses offered at universities or colleges that focus on recruitment strategies and techniques.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a campus recruiter certificate depends on your individual goals and situation. If you feel like you will benefit from having one, then it might be worth pursuing; however, if you don’t think it will make much of a difference in your career prospects, then it’s probably best to save your time and money for something else.

Related: Campus Recruiter Resume Examples

FAQs About Campus Recruiter Certifications

1. What are the benefits of becoming a certified campus recruiter?

Answer: Becoming a certified campus recruiter can help you gain credibility and increase your job prospects in the competitive field of recruitment. It also gives you access to exclusive resources, knowledge, and industry contacts that can help you become more effective in your role.

2. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to have at least two years of experience in recruitment or related fields before they can apply for certification. Some may also require additional training or coursework prior to certification.

3. How long does it take to complete a certification program?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain certification varies depending on the program and organization offering it. Generally speaking, most programs take between six months and one year to complete all requirements.

4. How much does it cost to get certified?

Answer: The cost of certification programs vary from organization to organization, but typically range from $500 - $2,500 USD depending on the scope of the program and materials provided.

5. Is there an exam I need to pass in order to be certified?

Answer: Most certifying organizations require applicants to pass an exam prior to being issued their certificate. Exams usually consist of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as recruiting techniques, labor laws, interviewing skills, and other related topics