Top 10 HR Assistant Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for HR assistants as they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications can help HR assistants stand out from other applicants and show potential employers that they have taken the initiative to develop their skills and stay up-to-date on current trends and best practices in Human Resources. Having certifications can also give HR assistants access to exclusive job opportunities, higher salaries, and more responsibility. Additionally, certifications provide HR assistants with access to a network of professionals which can be invaluable when looking for career advice or job leads.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for HR Assistants and explain how they can help further an HR Assistant's career.

What are HR Assistant Certifications?

HR Assistant Certification is a professional certification program designed to help HR professionals enhance their skills and knowledge in the areas of recruitment, selection, onboarding, employee relations, and compliance. The program provides an overview of the legal requirements for human resources management and best practices for managing personnel. It also covers topics such as interviewing techniques, job descriptions, performance appraisals and records management.

The certification is beneficial to those who are interested in pursuing a career in Human Resources or those who currently work within Human Resources departments. It helps individuals gain the knowledge and skills they need to become successful in their chosen field. It also serves as a way to demonstrate professional competency in order to qualify for promotions or new positions within the organization. By obtaining HR Assistant Certification, individuals can show that they have the necessary qualifications to manage other personnel effectively and efficiently.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different HR Assistant certifications available and understand the requirements for each. Different certifications may require specific work experience, education, or other criteria, so it is important to be aware of these before making a decision.

Related: What does an HR Assistant do?

Top 10 HR Assistant Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR)

Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) is a professional certification program offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA). It is designed to recognize the expertise of HR professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency and knowledge in their field. The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in areas such as organizational structure, recruitment, compensation, employee relations, workplace safety, labor law, and more.

The CPHR designation typically takes between two and four years to obtain. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in an HR role. Additionally, they must pass an online exam that covers topics such as business management, human resources management systems and practices, employment law, and organizational behavior.

The cost of obtaining the CPHR designation varies depending on the region where you are applying from. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $1,500 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

2. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The SHRM-CP is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate competency in the principles and practices of human resources management. It is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of human resources.

It typically takes about six months to complete the SHRM-CP certification process. To become certified, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements, which include having at least one year of professional experience in a human resources role or a related field. Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for the exam online.

The cost of taking the SHRM-CP exam varies depending on where you are located and when you take it. In general, the exam fee ranges from $300 to $400 USD. After you pass the exam, there is an additional fee for maintaining your certification status each year. This fee is usually around $100 USD per year.

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

The Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s advanced knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of human resource management. It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have achieved mastery in their field and are committed to continued professional development.

To obtain the SHRM-SCP credential, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. The eligibility requirements include having at least three years of professional experience in HR management or related fields, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The exam consists of two parts: a knowledge-based portion and a scenario-based portion. The knowledge-based portion tests the candidate’s understanding of key HR topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and employee relations. The scenario-based portion tests the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-SCP credential varies depending on whether you are an SHRM member or nonmember. For members, the cost is $300; for nonmembers, it is $400. Additionally, there are study materials available for purchase that can help prepare candidates for the exam.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete all of the necessary steps to obtain the SHRM-SCP credential. This includes studying for and passing the exam as well as completing any additional requirements such as submitting proof of education or work experience.

4. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification is a professional certification program offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the technical and operational aspects of human resource management.

The PHR certification process involves passing an exam that covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee development, and risk management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and typically takes two to three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the PHR certification, applicants must have at least one year of professional experience in a human resources role or two years of experience in a non-HR role with significant HR responsibilities. Applicants must also have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The cost of the PHR certification exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, the cost ranges from $395 to $495 for HRCI members and $595 to $695 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and proctoring fees.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your PHR certification within four to six weeks after completing all requirements. This includes submitting proof of your educational background and professional experience as well as any required documentation such as transcripts or letters of recommendation.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is a professional organization that provides education and resources to public sector human resource professionals. It was founded in 1906 and is the leading association for public sector HR professionals, representing over 3,000 members in the United States and Canada.

IPMA-HR offers a series of certifications that are designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of public sector human resources professionals. The certifications are based on a body of knowledge that covers topics such as labor relations, employee benefits, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, organizational development, compensation management, safety and health administration.

It typically takes between two to three years to obtain an IPMA-HR certification. The process involves taking classes or workshops related to the certification you are pursuing; completing an online assessment; passing an exam; submitting documentation such as transcripts or work experience; and paying applicable fees.

The cost of obtaining an IPMA-HR certification varies depending on the specific certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $500-$1,000 USD to apply for a certification and take the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking classes or workshops related to your chosen certification.

6. WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification

WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of total rewards. It is designed to measure and validate an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the various components of total rewards, including compensation, benefits, recognition, work-life and performance management.

The certification process takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete. To become certified, candidates must first pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as job analysis, compensation design and administration, benefit plan design and administration, employee recognition programs, work-life balance programs, performance management systems and more. Once the exam is passed successfully, candidates will receive their certification from WorldatWork.

The cost of the WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of WorldatWork. For members it costs $1125 USD while for non-members it costs $1750 USD. The fee includes access to online study materials as well as the exam itself.

7. American Payroll Association (APA) Certified Payroll Professional

The American Payroll Association (APA) Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the field of payroll. It is the highest credential available for payroll professionals and is recognized by employers, government agencies, and payroll organizations around the world.

To become a CPP, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of payroll administration, including federal and state laws, regulations, tax withholding calculations, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete.

In order to take the CPP exam, applicants must have at least two years of full-time payroll experience or one year of full-time experience plus 30 semester hours of college coursework in accounting or business courses related to payroll. Applicants must also be members of the APA and submit an application form along with proof of their work experience or college credits.

The cost for the CPP exam varies depending on whether you are an APA member or nonmember. For APA members, it costs $195 for the first attempt at the exam; subsequent attempts are $95 each. For nonmembers, it costs $295 for the first attempt at the exam; subsequent attempts are $145 each.

8. International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) Program is a professional designation program for employee benefits professionals. It is designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and experience necessary to design, implement, and administer employee benefit plans.

The CEBS Program consists of eight courses that cover topics such as group insurance, retirement plans, health care reform, and compliance. In addition to the coursework, candidates must also pass an exam in order to earn their CEBS designation.

The program typically takes two years to complete, although it can be completed in as little as one year if candidates are able to dedicate more time and effort towards studying. Candidates must also complete a minimum of 50 hours of continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their CEBS designation.

To get the IFEBP CEBS designation, candidates must first apply online or by mail with the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP). Once accepted into the program, candidates will need to register for each course individually and pay for all associated fees. The cost for the entire program varies depending on how many courses are taken at once and whether or not a candidate chooses to take advantage of any discounts offered by IFEBP. Generally speaking though, the cost for completing all eight courses is around $4,000 USD.

9. National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS) Certified Background Screening Specialist

The National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS) Certified Background Screening Specialist (CBSS) is a certification program for background screening professionals. The CBSS certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of background screening and are committed to upholding the highest standards of professional practice.

The CBSS certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in the background screening industry, as well as successfully pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as legal and regulatory compliance, best practices, and industry trends. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

To obtain the CBSS certification, applicants must first submit an application to NAPBS that includes their work history and educational background. Once approved, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CBSS certificate from NAPBS.

10. The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Certified Internal Auditor

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a professional certification offered by the IIA. It is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to perform internal auditing at the highest level. The CIA is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the field of internal auditing.

To become a CIA, you must have a minimum of two years of professional experience in internal auditing or related fields such as accounting, finance, information systems, or management consulting. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as risk assessment, control evaluation, and audit methodology.

The exam consists of three parts: Part 1 – Essentials of Internal Auditing; Part 2 – Practice of Internal Auditing; and Part 3 – Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing. Each part has its own set of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to take the CIA exam varies depending on when you register and how many parts you are taking. Generally speaking, it costs around $800-$1,000 per part for members of the IIA and $1,200-$1,400 per part for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam such as application fees or late registration fees.

Once you have successfully passed all three parts of the exam, you will receive your CIA certification from the IIA. This certification is valid for three years from the date that it was issued and can be renewed by completing continuing education requirements every year during your certification period.

Do You Really Need a HR Assistant Certificate?

The short answer is no, you don't necessarily need an HR assistant certificate to get a job in the field of human resources. However, having one certainly doesn't hurt. Human Resources (HR) is a highly competitive and ever-changing field that requires specialized knowledge and skills. Having an HR assistant certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary background and qualifications for the position.

An HR assistant certificate can also provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of the industry. You will learn about topics such as employment law, employee relations, recruitment, performance management, and compensation. These are all important areas of expertise for any HR professional. With this knowledge base, you will be better able to assist in hiring decisions, implement effective policies and procedures, and ensure compliance with applicable laws.

In addition to providing you with a deeper understanding of the industry, an HR assistant certificate may also make it easier for you to find a job in the field. Employers often look for applicants who possess specific credentials when hiring new employees. Having an HR assistant certificate can make your resume stand out from other applicants and could increase your chances of getting hired by demonstrating your commitment to the profession and your dedication to learning more about it.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue an HR assistant certificate depends on what kind of career path you want to take in human resources. If you are just starting out in the field or looking for entry-level positions, then having one might not be necessary; however if you're interested in taking on higher-level roles then having one could give you a competitive edge over other applicants who do not have similar credentials.

Related: HR Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About HR Assistant Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a HR Assistant?

Answer: To become a HR Assistant, you typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as knowledge of basic computer programs and office procedures. Depending on the employer’s requirements, some positions may require additional certifications or college courses in human resources management.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a HR Assistant?

Answer: The length of time it takes to get certified as a HR Assistant depends on the certification program you choose and your prior experience in the field. Generally, most certification programs can be completed in six months to one year.

3. What type of job can I expect after completing my HR Assistant Certification?

Answer: After completing your HR Assistant Certification, you can expect to find entry-level positions such as Human Resources Administrator, Human Resources Clerk, Human Resources Coordinator, or Payroll Clerk. With experience and further education, you may qualify for higher level positions such as Human Resources Manager or Director of Human Resources.

4. Is there an exam required for HR Assistant Certification?

Answer:Yes, most certification programs require applicants to pass an exam in order to obtain their certification. The exams usually cover topics such as payroll administration, employee relations, recruitment and selection processes, benefits administration and more.

5. Are there any online HR Assistant Certification programs available?

Answer: Yes! There are several online certification programs available that will allow you to earn your certification from the comfort of your own home at your own pace. Be sure to research each program carefully before enrolling to make sure it meets your needs and will provide the credentials necessary for employment opportunities in the field of human resources management.