Top 11 Director of Human Resources Certifications

Certifications for a director of human resources are important in the job market because they provide employers with an objective measure of a candidate's knowledge and competence. They demonstrate that the candidate has a thorough understanding of HR principles, processes, and best practices. Additionally, certifications can be used to validate a person's technical skills, such as their ability to use certain software programs or their experience in data analysis. Finally, having certifications can signal to employers that the candidate is passionate about learning and staying up-to-date on the latest trends in HR.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Directors of Human Resources and explains how they can help further a director's career.

What are Director of Human Resources Certifications?

Director of Human Resources Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those working in the field of human resources. It provides a comprehensive understanding of key human resource concepts and principles, as well as an in-depth knowledge and expertise in areas such as recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, labor relations, organizational development, workplace safety, and employee relations.

This certification can help HR professionals stay current on best practices in their field by honing their skills and providing them with the tools they need to effectively manage their organization’s human resources. Having this certification also demonstrates that HR professionals have the necessary knowledge to develop sound policies and procedures within their organization. By having this certification, HR professionals can demonstrate their commitment to excellence within the profession while helping employers ensure they have the right personnel for their organization’s success. Additionally, it can provide employers with assurance that individuals holding this certification are knowledgeable about industry standards and regulations related to managing people. Finally, obtaining Director of Human Resources Certification may open up opportunities for advancement or higher salaries within an organization since it demonstrates expertise in multiple areas related to human resources management.

Pro tip: Before signing up for a Director of Human Resources Certification program, research the certification provider's reputation and accreditation to ensure it is recognized in your industry. Also, read reviews from past students to get an idea of what you can expect from the course.

Related: What does a Director of Human Resources do?

Top 11 Director of Human Resources Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Director of Human Resourcess today.

1. Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR)

Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) is a professional certification offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA). It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise and knowledge in the field of human resources. The CPHR designation shows employers that you have the necessary skills to effectively manage their HR department.

The CPHR certification process typically takes between 6-12 months, depending on your experience and background. To become certified, you must meet certain educational and work experience requirements, as well as pass an exam. You must also complete a series of courses or workshops related to HR topics such as recruitment, performance management, compensation, labour relations, and more.

To get started with the CPHR process, you must first become a member of the HRPA. Membership fees vary depending on your location; however, the cost is usually around $200-$400 CAD per year. After becoming a member, you can then apply for the CPHR program. The application fee is approximately $500 CAD plus any applicable taxes. Once your application has been approved, you will be required to pay an additional fee for the exam which ranges from $450-$550 CAD plus taxes.

In total, it costs approximately $1000 - $1500 CAD to obtain your CPHR certification. This cost includes membership fees, application fees and exam fees.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification for human resources professionals. It is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). The SPHR certification recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of human resources.

To obtain the SPHR certification, an individual must have at least four years of professional-level HR experience and pass an exam. The exam covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, risk management, and total rewards.

It typically takes six to twelve months to prepare for the SPHR exam. Preparation materials can be found through HRCI or through third-party providers. In addition to studying for the exam, it is important to stay up-to-date on current HR trends and best practices.

The cost of obtaining the SPHR certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. The cost of taking the exam itself is $495 USD for HRCI members ($595 USD for nonmembers). In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing preparation materials or enrolling in a review course.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize human resource professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and competency in the field of HR. The SHRM-CP is awarded after passing an exam that covers topics such as employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, and workplace safety.

It typically takes about four to six months to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam. During this time, candidates should review the SHRM Learning System materials, attend study groups or workshops, and practice with sample questions.

To get the SHRM-CP certification, candidates must pass the SHRM-CP exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and is administered at testing centers throughout the United States and internationally. Candidates must register for the exam online through Prometric or Pearson VUE.

The cost of taking the SHRM-CP exam varies depending on where you take it. In general, it costs between $300-$400 USD to take the exam in North America or Europe. There may be additional fees associated with registering for international exams outside of North America or Europe.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification for human resource professionals who demonstrate mastery of the strategic and policy-making aspects of HR management. It is the highest level of certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

To qualify for this certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in HR management, including two years as a senior-level practitioner. They must also complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as HR strategy, workforce planning and employment law.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the SHRM-SCP exam. To get started, applicants should review the SHRM Learning System materials, which provide an overview of the topics covered on the exam. They should also familiarize themselves with relevant state and federal laws related to employment issues. Additionally, they can take practice exams to assess their knowledge and identify areas where they need more study or review.

The cost for taking the SHRM-SCP exam is $300 for members of SHRM and $400 for nonmembers. The fee includes access to online study materials, practice exams and other resources to help applicants prepare for the exam.

Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their official SHRM-SCP certification from SHRM. This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed by retaking the exam or completing continuing education credits.

5. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) is a certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have achieved a high level of professional knowledge and expertise in global human resource management. The GPHR certification is intended to demonstrate mastery of the concepts, principles, and practices of global human resource management.

The GPHR certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in global HR management, with at least one year of experience outside their home country. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as global business strategy, international labor relations, and global compensation and benefits.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the GPHR exam. The preparation process includes studying for the exam, attending study sessions or courses, and completing practice exams.

To get the GPHR certification, applicants must submit an application to SHRM along with their resume and transcripts demonstrating their educational background and professional experience in global HR management. Once approved, applicants must then take and pass the GPHR exam.

The cost of obtaining the GPHR certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. The cost of taking the exam itself is $400 USD for SHRM members or $600 USD for non-members. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as course fees or materials fees if you choose to attend a study session or course.

6. Society for Human Resource Management - Certified HR Executive (SHRM-CHRE)

The Society for Human Resource Management Certified HR Executive (SHRM-CHRE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate advanced knowledge and competency in the field of human resource management. It is the highest level of certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

The SHRM-CHRE certification requires applicants to have at least five years of professional experience in the HR field, as well as a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education credits. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic planning, organizational development, employee relations, and compensation and benefits.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the SHRM-CHRE exam. During this time, applicants should review their existing knowledge base and study materials related to the topics covered on the exam. Additionally, they should consider taking practice exams or enrolling in a preparatory course offered by SHRM or another provider.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-CHRE certification varies depending on whether you are an existing SHRM member or not. For non-members, it costs $400 USD to register for the exam; while members pay $300 USD. There may also be additional fees associated with taking preparatory courses or purchasing study materials.

Overall, obtaining the SHRM-CHRE certification can be a worthwhile investment for those looking to advance their career in human resources management. It demonstrates expertise in key areas related to HR and can help open up new career opportunities for those who are certified.

7. International Public Management Association for Human Resources - Certified Professional in Human Resources (IPMA-CPHR)

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of human resources professionals. It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's mastery of the core competencies necessary to effectively manage human resources in today's complex business environment.

To qualify for the CPHR, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in human resources management or related fields, as well as a bachelor’s degree or equivalent education. Applicants must also pass an examination that covers topics such as labor relations, employment law, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and strategic HR management.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete from start to finish. The first step is to submit an application with all required documents and fees. Once approved, applicants will be assigned a mentor who will guide them through the study process. After completing the required coursework and passing the exam, individuals will receive their CPHR designation.

The cost of obtaining the CPHR designation varies depending on which country you reside in and which IPMA-HR chapter you join. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$3,000 USD depending on what fees are associated with your local chapter membership.

8. WorldatWork - Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of compensation. It is designed for those who are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing compensation programs.

To become a CCP, you must pass three exams: Base Pay Administration & Programs, Variable Pay – Design & Administration, and Total Rewards Management. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. The exams can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online from the comfort of your own home.

The cost for the CCP certification program varies depending on the type of exam you choose to take. The cost for taking all three exams at once is $1,495 USD or $595 USD per individual exam.

Once you have passed all three exams, you will receive your official CCP designation from WorldatWork and be eligible to use the CCP credential after your name.

9. WorldatWork - Global Remuneration Professional (GRP)

WorldatWork's Global Remuneration Professional (GRP) certification is a professional designation for those who specialize in the design, implementation, and evaluation of compensation and reward systems. The GRP certification program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of global compensation and rewards. It is intended for those who are responsible for developing, implementing, or managing global compensation programs.

To become a GRP certified professional, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as job analysis, job evaluation, salary surveys, international pay structures, employee benefits and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

The cost to take the GRP exam is $750 USD for WorldatWork members or $950 USD for non-members. In addition to the exam fee, there is also an application fee of $50 USD which must be paid prior to taking the exam.

In order to apply for the GRP certification program, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least five years of professional experience in compensation and rewards or related fields; completion of either a college degree or equivalent work experience; and successful completion of two online courses offered by WorldatWork: Introduction to Total Rewards and Principles & Practices of Global Compensation Management.

10. WorldatWork - Total Rewards Management Professional (TRMP)

WorldatWork’s Total Rewards Management Professional (TRMP) certification is designed to help professionals develop their skills in the area of total rewards management. This certification provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of total rewards management, including compensation, benefits, performance management, recognition, and work-life balance.

The TRMP program consists of two parts: a self-study component and an exam component. The self-study component includes reading materials and other resources that cover topics such as job analysis, pay structures, job evaluation systems, incentive plans, retirement plans, health care benefit plans, employee engagement strategies and more.

To earn the TRMP certification, individuals must complete both components within two years. The exam component consists of a multiple-choice test with 150 questions that must be completed in three hours or less. To pass the exam, individuals must score at least 70%.

The cost for the TRMP certification varies depending on whether you are already a WorldatWork member or not. For non-members it costs $1125 USD to register for both components; members pay $925 USD for both components.

11. International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans - Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS).

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional designation program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in employee benefits. The CEBS program was developed by the IFEBP and is offered through The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. It is recognized as one of the most prestigious certifications in the field of employee benefits.

The CEBS program consists of five courses, each focusing on a different aspect of employee benefits. The courses are:

• Group Benefits
• Retirement Plans
• Investment Fundamentals
• Health Care Benefits
• Executive Compensation.

Each course must be completed with a passing grade in order to receive the CEBS designation. The courses can be taken online or in-person at various locations throughout the United States and Canada. In addition, some employers may offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing their CEBS designation.

The cost for completing all five courses and receiving the CEBS designation varies depending on how you choose to take them. Taking all five courses online costs approximately $2,000, while taking them in-person could cost up to $3,000 or more depending on your location and other factors. Additionally, there is an annual membership fee associated with maintaining your certification which ranges from $75-$150 depending on your membership type.

In total, it typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all five courses and receive your CEBS certification depending on how quickly you are able to complete each course.

Do You Really Need a Director of Human Resources Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors. The most important factor is the type of job that you wish to pursue in human resources management. A director of human resources certificate can be beneficial if you are looking for a position in a larger, more established organization. This type of certification typically requires specialized knowledge and skills that are valuable in the workplace.

However, if you are looking for a job in human resources management in a smaller or start-up organization, then it may not be necessary to obtain a director of human resources certificate. In such cases, it is often better to focus on acquiring valuable experience and developing your skills through internships and other practical learning experiences. This will give you an edge over those with only theoretical qualifications when it comes to competing for jobs in this field.

Overall, while having a director of human resources certificate may open up certain opportunities and provide some additional credibility when applying for jobs, it is not always essential depending on the particular job you are seeking.

Related: Director of Human Resources Resume Examples

FAQs About Director of Human Resources Certifications

Q1: What certifications are available for Directors of Human Resources?

A1: Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification, Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification, and SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certifications are all available for Directors of Human Resources.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Director of Human Resources?

A2: To become certified as a Director of Human Resources, you must pass an exam administered by the HR Certification Institute or the Society for Human Resource Management. You must also meet other requirements such as having relevant work experience and/or educational qualifications.

Q3: Is there a fee to take the certification exams?

A3: Yes, there is a fee to take the certification exams. The cost depends on which organization you are taking the exam through and which type of exam you are taking. For example, the cost for the PHR exam is $395 USD while the cost for the SPHR exam is $495 USD.

Q4: How long does it take to complete a Director of Human Resources certification?

A4: It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete a Director of Human Resources certification program depending on how quickly you can study and take the exams. However, some programs may require more time if additional courses or training are needed.

Q5: How long is a Director of Human Resources certification valid?

A5: Most Director of Human Resource certifications are valid for three years from when they were earned. After three years, you will need to renew your credentials by passing another exam or completing additional coursework in order to maintain your credential.