Top 10 Chief Human Resources Officer Certifications

Certifications for a Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) are important for several reasons. First, certifications help to demonstrate the professional knowledge and skills that a CHRO has acquired in their field. This can be extremely beneficial when competing for jobs or promotions in the job market, as employers tend to prefer candidates who have proof of their qualifications and experience. Additionally, certifications can also help a CHRO stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in human resources management. This is essential for those responsible for overseeing HR operations within an organization, as they need to ensure that all policies and procedures align with current regulations and laws. Finally, certifications provide access to valuable networking opportunities with other professionals in the field, which can lead to new career opportunities or collaborations.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Chief Human Resources Officers and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Chief Human Resources Officer Certifications?

Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) certification is a professional credential awarded to senior-level human resources professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the management and leadership of HR teams. This certification is considered the highest level of recognition for individuals in the field of HR, and it signifies that they have achieved a high level of knowledge and understanding in all aspects of human resources management.

Having CHRO certification can be beneficial to both employers and employees alike. For employers, having their HR team led by a certified CHRO can help them ensure they are compliant with all relevant laws, regulations, and best practices related to HR operations. It also helps ensure that their HR staff has the necessary skills to effectively manage employee relations, recruitment, training, and compensation. Additionally, employers who employ a certified CHRO may benefit from improved morale among their employees due to being led by someone who is highly knowledgeable in the field of human resources.

For employees, having a CHRO with this certification can provide assurance that their employer is committed to providing fair treatment and opportunities for advancement within the organization. It also serves as an indication that their employer values investing in its workforce by providing access to experienced professionals who understand how to create an equitable workplace environment. Finally, having a CHRO with this certification may increase job satisfaction among employees since they know their employer respects them enough to invest in qualified leaders who can offer guidance on best practices related to employee relations and legal compliance.

Pro Tip: It is important to obtain a chief human resources officer certification in order to stay up-to-date on the latest HR trends and best practices. Certification also demonstrates a commitment to professional development and can help demonstrate your expertise to employers.

Related: What does a Chief Human Resources Officer do?

Top 10 Chief Human Resources Officer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Chief Human Resources Officers today.

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification for human resources professionals. It is administered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). The PHR certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including areas such as recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, and risk management.

To earn the PHR designation, individuals must have at least one year of professional-level HR experience and pass an exam. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits administration, recruitment and selection, training and development, employee relations, organizational planning, risk management, and strategic management.

The exam typically takes four hours to complete. To prepare for the exam, HRCI recommends studying from its official PHR Study Guide or taking an approved study course.

The cost of the PHR certification varies depending on whether you are an HRCI member or not. For non-members it costs $395 to register for the exam plus $100 for each additional retake if necessary. For HRCI members it costs $295 to register for the exam plus $50 for each additional retake if necessary.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification for experienced human resources professionals. It is the highest level of certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). The SPHR certification demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the strategic and policy-making aspects of HR management, as well as their knowledge and understanding of applicable laws, regulations, and best practices.

It typically takes three to six months to prepare for the SPHR exam. Preparation usually involves taking a review course, studying independently using HRCI-approved study materials, and taking practice exams.

To get your SPHR certification you must pass the SPHR exam administered by HRCI. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as business management, workforce planning and employment, total rewards, employee and labor relations, risk management, and HR development.

The cost to take the SPHR exam is $400 for HRCI members or $500 for non-members. This fee does not include any preparation materials or courses.

3. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to excel as a global HR professional.

The GPHR certification is designed for experienced HR professionals who have significant international experience, either through working abroad or managing a global workforce. It requires a comprehensive understanding of global HR practices, including topics such as international labor laws, compensation and benefits, recruitment and selection, training and development, employee relations, and more.

The GPHR exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. The exam covers topics such as global HR strategy, organizational design and culture, talent management, performance management and development, reward systems, labor relations and compliance with international law.

To become certified as a GPHR, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include at least five years of experience in human resources management with at least two years in an international role; or at least seven years of experience in human resources management with at least two years in an international role; or a master’s degree in human resources or related field plus three years of experience in human resources management with at least two years in an international role.

The cost to take the GPHR exam is $495 for SHRM members and $695 for non-members. The fee includes the application fee ($50) plus the exam fee ($445/$645). Candidates should also budget for study materials such as books or online courses which can range from $100-$500 depending on the format chosen.

4. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification program offered by WorldatWork, a human resources association. The CCP credential is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of compensation-related topics and the ability to apply that knowledge in the workplace.

It takes approximately two years for an individual to complete the requirements for the CCP credential. To become certified, candidates must pass three exams: Foundations of Total Rewards, Strategic Compensation, and Global Remuneration Strategies. Candidates must also have at least three years of relevant work experience in compensation or related fields.

The cost of obtaining the CCP credential depends on whether or not you are a WorldatWork member. Non-members pay $1,250 per exam plus an application fee of $50; members pay $900 per exam plus an application fee of $50.

5. 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 that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and competency in the field of human resources. It is designed to demonstrate mastery of the competencies and knowledge necessary to effectively perform as an HR professional at a senior level.

The SHRM-SCP exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, covering topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, employee development, total rewards, employee and labor relations, risk management, and workplace safety. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become certified as an SHRM-SCP, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of experience in an HR role and having earned a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university. You must also be a current member of SHRM or agree to become one upon successful completion of the exam.

Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can register for the SHRM-SCP exam through the SHRM website. The cost for taking the exam is $300 for members and $400 for nonmembers. Once you have registered for the exam, you will receive instructions on how to access study materials and information about test centers where you can take your exam.

You will also be able to schedule your examination date with Prometric Testing Centers once you have registered for your exam. After passing your examination successfully, you will be awarded your SHRM-SCP certification.

6. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (WCCP)

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (WCCP) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive knowledge of compensation best practices. The WCCP certification is the most widely recognized credential in the field of compensation and rewards management.

To become a WCCP, candidates must pass a rigorous exam that tests their knowledge of compensation principles, practices, and strategies. The exam covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, base pay structures, variable pay programs, executive compensation, and international compensation. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in areas such as communication skills, problem solving, and decision making.

The WCCP exam typically takes 3-4 hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass.

In order to apply for the WCCP exam, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of professional experience in the field of compensation or rewards management. Candidates must also be members of WorldatWork or have completed a minimum number of credits from approved courses offered by WorldatWork or its affiliates.

The cost for taking the WCCP exam varies depending on whether you are a member of WorldatWork or not. For non-members, the cost is $595 USD; for members it is $395 USD.

7. International Public Management Association for Human Resources – Certified Professional (IPMA-CP)

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is a professional organization that provides certification programs and resources to help public sector human resource professionals advance in their careers. The IPMA-CP is the highest level of certification offered by IPMA-HR and stands for Certified Professional. It is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize the expertise of HR professionals in the public sector.

To become an IPMA-CP, individuals must demonstrate mastery of a wide range of topics related to public sector HR, including labor relations, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee development, performance management, and organizational development. To be eligible for the IPMA-CP certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in public sector HR or a related field.

The process of becoming an IPMA-CP involves passing both a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam consists of multiple choice questions on topics such as labor relations, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee development, performance management, and organizational development. The oral exam requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge through case studies or role plays.

It typically takes between three months to one year to complete all requirements necessary to become an IPMA-CP. This includes studying for the exams as well as completing any required coursework or other activities necessary for certification.

The cost of becoming an IPMA-CP varies depending on several factors such as location and membership status with IPMA-HR. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on these factors.

8. Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development – Chartered Fellow (CIPD-CF)

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is a professional body for HR and people development. The CIPD-CF is the highest level of professional qualification awarded by the CIPD. It is designed to recognise individuals who have achieved an outstanding level of knowledge, skills, experience and professional practice in their field.

It typically takes three years to gain the CIPD-CF qualification. During this time, applicants must complete a range of modules and assessments, as well as demonstrate their ability to apply their learning in practical situations. The modules cover topics such as employee relations, organisational design, performance management, reward systems and more.

To be eligible for the CIPD-CF qualification, applicants must have at least five years’ relevant work experience and hold either an approved degree or postgraduate diploma in HR or people development. They must also be members of the CIPD with an active subscription to its Professional Standards Scheme.

The cost of gaining the CIPD-CF qualification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges from £1,000 to £3,000 per year (including course fees). This does not include any additional costs associated with travel or accommodation if required for attending training courses or assessments.

9. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional designation awarded by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. The CEBS program is designed to provide individuals with an in-depth understanding of employee benefit plans, including health care, retirement, disability, life insurance and other voluntary benefits.

The CEBS program consists of five courses and a comprehensive exam. The courses are: Group Benefits; Retirement Plans; Compensation Strategies & Design; Health Care Reform & Consumerism; and Investment Fundamentals. Each course must be completed within two years in order to receive the CEBS designation.

In order to become a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist, individuals must first complete all five courses and then pass the comprehensive exam administered by IFEBP. The cost for each course varies depending on whether you take it online or in person, but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,500 per course. Additionally, there is an application fee of $250 for the CEBS program that must be paid before taking the exam.

Once all requirements have been met, individuals will receive their CEBS designation from IFEBP and may use it to demonstrate their expertise in employee benefit plans to employers or clients.

10. International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans – Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (IFEB-CEBS).

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) designation is an educational program designed to increase knowledge and understanding of employee benefits. It is a professional certification that recognizes expertise in the field of employee benefits.

The CEBS program consists of eight courses, each focusing on a different aspect of employee benefits. The courses cover topics such as retirement plans, health and welfare plans, executive compensation, and financial planning. Upon completion of all eight courses, students are eligible to take the CEBS exam and earn their certification.

The CEBS program can be completed in as little as two years depending on the student’s schedule and availability. However, it is recommended that students complete the program within three years in order to maintain their certification status.

To get started with the CEBS program, students must first register with IFEBP and pay an initial registration fee. After registering, students will have access to all course materials and can begin taking classes at their own pace. Each course costs $395 USD for members or $495 USD for non-members. There is also a one-time exam fee of $500 USD that must be paid prior to taking the exam.

In total, it will cost between $2,400-$2,900 USD to complete the CEBS program depending on whether you are a member or non-member of IFEBP.

Do You Really Need a Chief Human Resources Officer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their goals. For some, a Chief Human Resources Officer Certificate may be beneficial in order to move up the corporate ladder, while for others it may not be necessary.

If you are looking to pursue a career in human resources management, then having a Chief Human Resources Officer Certificate can help you demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field. Furthermore, it can also provide you with an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Additionally, having such a certificate can also open doors to networking opportunities that could lead to additional career opportunities.

On the other hand, if you have already gained experience in human resources management and have already established yourself in the field, then obtaining a Chief Human Resources Officer Certificate may not be necessary. However, even if you do not need one for professional advancement, having such a certificate could still prove useful as it can help solidify your knowledge and give you more confidence when dealing with HR-related matters.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Chief Human Resources Officer Certificate will depend on your individual situation and goals. It is important that you consider all of the pros and cons before making any decisions as to whether or not this type of certification is right for you.

Related: Chief Human Resources Officer Resume Examples

FAQs About Chief Human Resources Officer Certifications

1. What is a Chief Human Resources Officer Certification?

Answer: A Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) Certification is a professional certification for senior-level human resources executives. It is designed to recognize and validate the expertise of those who are responsible for the strategic direction of their organization’s human resources function.

2. How do I become certified as a Chief Human Resources Officer?

Answer: To become certified as a CHRO, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam administered by HRCI or SHRM, and agree to abide by the code of ethics established by either organization.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Chief Human Resources Officer?

Answer: Becoming certified as a CHRO provides recognition that you have achieved the highest level of professional excellence in the field of human resources management. It also demonstrates your commitment to your profession, enhances your career prospects, and provides access to exclusive networking opportunities with other CHROs.

4. How often do I need to renew my CHRO Certification?

Answer: Your CHRO Certification must be renewed every three years in order to remain valid. In order to renew, you must complete at least 60 hours of continuing education credits related to human resources management during that three-year period.

5. Is there an age limit for obtaining a CHRO Certification?

Answer: No, there is no age limit for obtaining a CHRO Certification; however, it is recommended that applicants have at least five years of experience in human resources management before applying for certification.