Top 10 HR Analyst Certifications

Certifications for HR analysts are important in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a strong knowledge base in the field. Certifications provide employers with assurance that the analyst has achieved a certain level of expertise, which can be beneficial when it comes to making hiring decisions. They also help HR analysts stand out from other job candidates and demonstrate their qualifications and capabilities. Additionally, certifications are often required by employers, so having them can help open up doors to more job opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for HR Analysts and explains how they can contribute to a hr analyst's career growth and success.

What are HR Analyst Certifications?

HR Analyst Certification is a program designed to help human resources professionals develop the skills necessary to effectively analyze and interpret data related to employee performance and labor costs. This certification provides HR professionals with the knowledge they need to utilize data-driven strategies in order to optimize organizational performance, reduce costs, and increase the effectiveness of their teams.

The certification focuses on teaching HR analysts how to collect, analyze, and interpret various forms of data related to employee performance. It also covers topics such as how to identify trends in employee engagement, how to create effective reports that make sense of complex datasets, and how to use analytics tools like spreadsheets or online software programs. Additionally, the certification teaches HR analysts how to use data-driven insights when creating recruitment strategies or making decisions about salary increases or promotions.

Having an HR Analyst Certification can help HR professionals better understand the needs of their organizations and ensure that their employees are properly compensated for their work. It can also help them make more informed decisions regarding recruitment efforts and employee development initiatives. In addition, having an HR Analyst Certification can benefit employers by improving organizational efficiency and helping them find cost savings through more strategic decision-making.

Pro Tip: When considering an HR Analyst Certification, make sure to research the best programs available and read reviews from past participants. Also, look for a program that offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the specific area of HR you are interested in. This will ensure you get the most out of your certification and increase your chances of success.

Related: What does an HR Analyst do?

Top 10 HR Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to HR Analysts today.

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources. It demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their career, as well as their ability to effectively manage HR practices.

The PHR certification requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in the HR field, along with successful completion of an exam. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as recruitment and selection, employee relations, compensation and benefits, labor relations, training and development, and more.

To get the PHR certification, you must first complete an application with HRCI. After your application has been approved, you will be able to register for the exam. You can take the exam at any one of the many testing centers located throughout the United States.

The cost for taking the PHR certification exam varies depending on where you take it and whether or not you are eligible for discounts or other incentives. Generally speaking, it costs between $300-$400 to take the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for and taking the test.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official PHR certification from HRCI. This certificate is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. To renew your PHR certification, you must complete continuing education credits every year or retake the examination every three years.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification granted by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is one of the most respected and sought-after certifications for human resource professionals, and it is recognized worldwide. The SPHR certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills to effectively manage the HR function of an organization.

In order to obtain the SPHR certification, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least four years of experience in a professional-level HR position. They must also pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment law.

The exam fee for the SPHR certification is $400 if you are a member of HRCI or $500 if you are not a member. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the SPHR exam, depending on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying. To prepare for the exam, individuals should review materials provided by HRCI or purchase study guides from third-party providers. Additionally, some organizations offer online courses or workshops that can help individuals prepare for the exam.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification for human resource professionals. It is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This certification demonstrates that an individual has a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the principles of HR management, as well as the ability to apply them in real-world situations.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam, depending on your background and experience. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have at least one year of professional experience in HR or a related field. You will also need to complete at least 60 hours of classroom instruction or equivalent self-study courses in order to qualify.

To get your SHRM-CP certification, you will need to register with SHRM and pay an application fee. Once you are approved, you will be able to schedule your exam date and location. The cost of the exam varies depending on which country you are taking it from, but generally ranges from $300 - $400 USD.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is an advanced certification designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced human resources professionals. It is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This certification demonstrates that a professional has the competencies necessary to effectively lead a human resources department or organization.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the SHRM-SCP exam, depending on an individual’s experience level and preparation methods. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of professional HR experience within the last five years and a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.

In order to obtain the SHRM-SCP certification, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, total rewards, employee engagement and development, risk management, technology and data analytics, global HR management and labor relations. The exam consists of multiple choice questions as well as case studies.

The cost of taking the SHRM-SCP exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $300-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with study materials or prep courses.

5. Society for Human Resource Management Global Certification (GPHR)

The Society for Human Resource Management Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification is an internationally recognized credential that validates a professional’s knowledge and experience in global human resources management. The GPHR is designed to recognize the expertise of HR professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the global aspects of human resource management. This certification is administered by the HR Certification Institute, which is part of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

To earn the GPHR certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. To be eligible, applicants must have at least three years of professional-level global human resources experience or four years of general HR experience within the past five years. Applicants must also possess a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The GPHR exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as global business strategies, international employment law, global compensation practices, and global talent management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $495 USD for SHRM members and $595 USD for non-members.

Once you have passed the GPHR exam, you will receive your official certificate in 6-8 weeks. You will also receive access to exclusive online resources such as webinars, articles, and other materials related to global HR topics. Additionally, you will be listed on SHRM's online directory of certified professionals so employers can easily find you when searching for qualified candidates with GPHR credentials.

6. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification program offered by the WorldatWork Society of Certified Professionals. The CCP credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of compensation and total rewards.

To become a CCP, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, pay structure design, incentive plans, benefit programs, and communication strategies. Candidates must also meet eligibility requirements which include having at least three years of full-time experience in the field of compensation or total rewards.

The exam typically takes four hours to complete and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Candidates can prepare for the exam by taking online courses or attending workshops offered by WorldatWork.

The cost for the CCP certification program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of WorldatWork. For members, the cost is $795; for non-members, it is $995.

7. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional certification program offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP). The CEBS designation is held by professionals working in the employee benefits field who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise through a rigorous examination process.

The CEBS program consists of five courses, each focusing on a different aspect of employee benefits: Group Benefits, Retirement Plans, Compensation Practices, Health Care Reform and Global Benefits. Each course requires approximately 100 hours of study time to complete. Upon successful completion of all five courses, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam in order to earn the CEBS designation.

In order to qualify for the CEBS program, applicants must have at least three years of experience in employee benefits or related fields such as human resources or finance. Candidates must also be members of IFEBP and pay an annual membership fee.

The cost to participate in the CEBS program varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether or not you are an IFEBP member. The cost for non-members ranges from $1,095 to $2,495 per course; members pay between $895 and $1,995 per course. In addition, there is an exam fee of $395 for both members and non-members.

8. Certified Human Resources Executive (CHRE)

Certified Human Resources Executive (CHRE) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to the profession and their ability to effectively lead and manage people.

To become a CHRE, an individual must meet certain educational requirements and pass an examination administered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). The HRCI offers two levels of certification: Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). To qualify for either certification, applicants must have at least one year of professional experience in human resources management or related fields.

The CHRE exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as labor relations, employee benefits, recruitment and selection, training and development, compensation, organizational development, employment law, and ethics. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CHRE exam varies based on your country of residence. In the United States, it typically costs around $400 USD for both parts of the exam. Additional fees may also apply depending on where you take the exam.

9. International Public Management Association for Human Resources Certification (IPMA-HR)

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is a professional organization that provides certification to individuals in the field of public sector human resources management. The IPMA-HR certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of human resources professionals working in the public sector.

It takes approximately three months to complete the IPMA-HR certification process. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application and fee to IPMA-HR. Once accepted, applicants must then take an online assessment that tests their knowledge of public sector HR principles and practices. After passing the assessment, applicants must complete a series of four courses related to public sector HR management. Upon successful completion of these courses, applicants will receive their official IPMA-HR certification.

The cost for the IPMA-HR certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of IPMA-HR. For non-members, the cost is $395 plus any applicable taxes; for members, it is $295 plus any applicable taxes.

10. WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification (TWC/TWRP).

WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification (TWC/TWRP) is a professional certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, manage, and evaluate total rewards programs. The TWC/TWRP certification is offered in two levels: Total Rewards Certified (TWC) and Total Rewards Professional (TWRP).

The TWC certification is ideal for those who are new to the field of total rewards or those who need a refresher on the basics. It focuses on building knowledge of total rewards concepts and principles, as well as how to apply them in practice. The TWRP certification is more advanced and requires a deeper understanding of total rewards strategies and their application.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the TWC/TWRP certification program depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must first become a WorldatWork member by signing up for an annual membership fee. Once they have become members, they can then register for the certification exam which costs $495 for members or $595 for non-members. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their TWC/TWRP certificate from WorldatWork.

Do You Really Need a HR Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors. First, one must consider the type of job they are looking for and the qualifications required. For example, if you are looking for an HR Analyst position, then having a certificate in HR Analytics may be beneficial as it could provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job successfully.

In addition, having a certificate in HR Analytics may also help you stand out from other candidates who do not have such credentials. This can be particularly important if there is a lot of competition for the position. Having an HR Analyst Certificate can show potential employers that you have taken the initiative to gain additional knowledge and experience related to the field.

Finally, having an HR Analyst Certificate may provide you with additional career opportunities down the road. As technology continues to evolve, companies may require their employees to have specific certifications in order to remain competitive in their industry. Therefore, having an HR Analyst Certificate could give you an advantage when applying for future positions or promotions within your organization.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an HR Analyst Certificate will depend on your individual situation and goals. However, it is worth considering if it could benefit your career prospects in any way.

Related: HR Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About HR Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is an HR Analyst Certification?

A1. An HR Analyst Certification is a professional certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of an individual in the area of human resources management and analysis. The certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the processes, tools, and techniques used to analyze data related to employee engagement, performance, retention, and other key HR metrics.

Q2. How do I become certified as an HR Analyst?

A2. To become certified as an HR Analyst, you must complete a program offered by a professional organization such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). These programs include courses on topics such as data analytics, workforce planning, recruitment strategies, and organizational development. Upon completion of the program requirements, individuals can earn their certification from SHRM or another recognized organization.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming an HR Analyst?

A3. Becoming an HR Analyst can provide numerous benefits including increased job security, higher salary potential, and better career opportunities due to specialized knowledge in this field. Additionally, having an HR Analyst Certification can demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and development in your field and may help you stand out amongst other applicants when applying for positions within human resources departments or organizations seeking these types of professionals.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for earning an HR Analyst Certification?

A4: Generally speaking, most organizations require applicants to have a minimum level of education or experience before they can apply for certification programs in this field. For example, SHRM requires applicants to have at least 3 years of experience working in human resources prior to applying for its certification program.

Q5. How long does it take to obtain my certification as an HR Analyst?

A5: The amount of time required to obtain your certification will depend on which organization’s program you choose and how quickly you are able to complete all required coursework and assessments associated with it. Generally speaking however, most organizations offer programs that take between 6 months - 1 year depending on your individual situation and commitment level