Top 10 HR Director Certifications

Certifications are important for HR directors in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a mastery of the skills necessary to excel in the field. Certifications provide HR directors with an edge over other job applicants by showcasing their knowledge, experience, and dedication to their profession. Certification also serves as a signal to employers that the HR director is up-to-date on current trends and technologies in human resources management, which can be critical for success in today’s ever-evolving workplace. Finally, certifications provide assurance to employers that their investment in hiring a qualified HR director will pay off.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for HR Directors and explains how they can help advance an HR Director's career.

What are HR Director Certifications?

HR Director Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of experienced HR professionals. It is designed to assess the strategic, operational, and technical competencies required to be an effective HR director. The certification is issued by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI).

The certification helps employers identify highly qualified individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in their field. It allows HR directors to demonstrate their commitment to excellence and their dedication to staying up-to-date with best practices in human resources management. The certification also provides employers with a measure of assurance that their employees are knowledgeable about current trends and techniques in the industry.

By obtaining this certification, HR directors can demonstrate their proficiency in areas such as talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, labor relations, compliance, performance management, organizational development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and more. This certification can be used as a stepping stone for career advancement or as a credential for job seekers looking to gain a competitive edge in the job market. Additionally, it can help those already in the field stay up-to-date on new regulations or trends that may affect their organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a certification for HR Directors, make sure to research the certifying organization thoroughly to ensure it is recognized and accredited. Additionally, look into what type of continuing education requirements are associated with the certification and how often they must be completed in order to maintain the certification.

Related: What does an HR Director do?

Top 10 HR Director Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification is a certification program offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). This certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have mastered the technical and operational aspects of HR management. It demonstrates a mastery of the body of knowledge in the field, as well as an understanding of how to apply that knowledge in a practical setting.

It typically takes about six months to one year to prepare for and complete the PHR exam. During this time, candidates should take advantage of online courses, study materials, and practice tests available through HRCI or other providers. Additionally, many professional organizations offer review sessions and seminars to help prepare for the exam.

To qualify for PHR certification, applicants must have at least one year of professional-level HR experience within the past three years. They must also pass an examination administered by HRCI. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits administration, employee relations and development, risk management, and strategic planning.

The cost for PHR certification varies depending on whether you are an HRCI member or non-member. For members it costs $395 USD while non-members pay $495 USD. In addition to these fees there may be additional costs associated with taking courses or purchasing study materials.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification

The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification is a professional credential for human resource professionals who have extensive knowledge and experience in the field. It is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) and is recognized as the highest standard of excellence for HR professionals.

To obtain the SPHR certification, applicants must have at least four years of professional-level HR experience, with a minimum of three years in a senior-level HR role. Candidates are also required to pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of human resources management. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to prepare for the exam, applicants can take advantage of HRCI’s study materials, which include practice tests, sample questions, and webinars. Additionally, there are several third-party training providers that offer courses and workshops specifically designed to help candidates pass the SPHR exam.

The cost of obtaining the SPHR certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. The HRCI study materials cost $425, while some third-party training providers may charge an additional fee for their services. Additionally, there is an application fee of $100 when registering for the exam itself.

Overall, obtaining the SPHR certification requires dedication and commitment from applicants; however, it can be beneficial in terms of career advancement and increased salary potentials.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification is a professional credential issued by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of HR professionals who have successfully demonstrated their mastery of the competencies necessary to effectively perform in an HR role.

The SHRM-CP certification takes approximately 6 months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements and then pass a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of four sections: People, Organization, Workplace and Strategy.

Applicants must also demonstrate that they have at least one year of professional experience in a human resources position or two years of experience in a non-HR role with significant HR responsibilities.

The cost for the SHRM-CP certification exam varies depending on whether you are a SHRM member or not. For non-members, it costs $300 USD; for members, it costs $200 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with applying for the certification such as application processing fees and study materials fees.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) Certification

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) Certification is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the knowledge and competencies necessary to effectively lead and manage people in today’s complex business environment. The SHRM-SCP certification is the highest level of professional certification offered by SHRM, and it demonstrates an individual’s expertise in all areas of HR management.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the SHRM-SCP certification. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least four years of experience in a human resources role or a related field, as well as a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also complete 60 hours of professional development activities within three years prior to applying for the exam.

In order to receive the SHRM-SCP certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as strategic HR management, workforce planning and employment, total rewards, employee and labor relations, risk management, talent acquisition and development, organizational effectiveness and development. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that are divided into four sections: People Strategies & Solutions; Organization Effectiveness & Development; Workforce Management; and Strategic Business Management.

The cost of taking the SHRM-SCP exam varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of SHRM. For members, the cost is $300 USD while nonmembers pay $400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with studying materials or preparation courses.

5. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of global HR professionals. The GPHR certification is valid for three years and requires recertification every three years.

To obtain the GPHR certification, applicants must have at least four years of professional-level work experience in human resources management and/or global HR management. This experience must be within the last 10 years. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as global HR strategy, international labor relations, compensation and benefits, and expatriate management.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on whether you are a SHRM member or non-member. For members, the cost is $400 for each part of the exam; for non-members it is $600 per part. Additionally, there are other fees associated with taking the exam such as application fees ($50 for members/$75 for non-members), late registration fees ($50), and rescheduling fees ($50).

In total, it can take up to several months to obtain your GPHR certification depending on when you register for the exam and how quickly you study for it.

6. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) Certification

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) Certification is a professional certification program offered by WorldatWork, a global human resources association. The CCP is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to design and administer total compensation programs. This certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of compensation management, including job analysis, job evaluation, salary surveys, performance management systems, incentive plans, and benefit programs.

It takes approximately six months to complete the certification process. To become certified as a CCP, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by WorldatWork. These include having at least five years of professional experience in compensation or related fields such as human resources or finance. You must also pass an examination that covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, salary surveys, performance management systems, incentive plans, and benefit programs.

The cost for the CCP Certification program varies depending on whether you are a member of WorldatWork or not. For non-members it costs $1,295 USD while members pay $995 USD. The cost includes registration fees for both the exam and study materials needed to prepare for it. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with recertification every three years after initial certification is obtained.

7. Society for Human Resource Management – Certified HR Executive (SHRM-CPE) Certification

The Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the HR profession. It is designed to recognize the competencies needed by today's HR professionals to effectively manage people and organizations.

The SHRM-CP program consists of a two-part exam, which must be completed within two years of starting the program. The first part is a multiple-choice exam that covers all aspects of human resource management, from recruitment and selection to compensation and benefits. The second part is a written assessment that tests your ability to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios.

To become certified as a SHRM-CP, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: you must have at least one year of professional experience in an HR role, or you can substitute three years of non-HR related work experience; you must have earned at least a bachelor’s degree; and you must pass both parts of the exam.

The cost for the SHRM-CP certification program varies depending on how long it takes you to complete it. The fees include the application fee, exam fees, and any applicable taxes. Generally, it will cost around $400-$500 USD for the entire program.

8. 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 designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and expertise in human resources management. The CPHR credential is recognized by employers and organizations around the world as a benchmark of excellence in HR management.

To obtain the CPHR, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an examination. The CPHR exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and an essay section. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time professional experience in human resources or related fields, or a combination of education and experience totaling at least seven years.

The cost to register for the exam varies by country but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. The exam itself takes approximately four hours to complete, with additional time needed for registration and preparation.

Once an individual has passed the CPHR exam, they will receive their certification from IPMA-HR. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed through additional continuing education credits or reexamination.

9. World at Work – Total Rewards Management Professional (TRMP)

WorldatWork’s Total Rewards Management Professional (TRMP) certification is a professional credential designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate expertise in the field of total rewards. It is considered the gold standard for total rewards professionals and demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of compensation, benefits, work-life, performance management, recognition, and career development.

The TRMP certification is obtained by passing a three-hour exam that consists of multiple-choice questions based on WorldatWork’s Total Rewards Body of Knowledge. The exam covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation; base pay administration; incentive plans; employee benefits; retirement plans; health and welfare programs; executive compensation; international compensation; and total rewards strategy.

To be eligible to take the TRMP exam, you must have at least five years of experience in a total rewards role or related field. You must also have at least one year of experience with WorldatWork’s Total Rewards Body of Knowledge or have completed one of WorldatWork’s courses on the topic.

The cost for the TRMP exam is $395 USD for members and $595 USD for non-members. The fee includes access to online study resources such as practice exams and webinars. The exam can be taken at any testing center worldwide or online via remote proctoring.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official TRMP certificate from WorldatWork within four weeks. You will also gain access to exclusive networking opportunities with other certified professionals through WorldatWork's online community platform.

10. World at Work – Global Remuneration Professional (GRP)

WorldatWork’s Global Remuneration Professional (GRP) is a certification program designed to provide practitioners with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop, implement, and manage global compensation programs. The GRP program is intended for professionals who have experience in global compensation management or are looking to gain expertise in this area.

The GRP program consists of two parts: a comprehensive online course and an online exam. The online course covers topics such as international labor law, expatriate compensation, currency issues, taxation considerations, and more. It typically takes about 8-10 weeks to complete the course.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 3 hours. To pass the exam, you must score at least 70%. After passing the exam, you will receive your GRP certification from WorldatWork.

The cost of the GRP program depends on whether you are a member of WorldatWork or not. For members, the cost is $2,295; for non-members it is $2,595 (which includes a one-year membership).

Do You Really Need a HR Director Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an HR Director Certificate to become an HR professional. While certification in the field of human resources can certainly be beneficial and may even be required for certain positions, it is not a requirement for all roles within the profession.

That being said, there are many advantages to obtaining a certificate in human resources management or related area. For starters, having a certificate shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the field and have acquired specific skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the role. Additionally, certification can help demonstrate that you stay current on industry trends and that you are knowledgeable about best practices when it comes to managing people and processes. It can also give you access to additional networking opportunities with other professionals who hold similar credentials.

In addition to showing potential employers that you have specialized knowledge, obtaining a certificate could also lead to career advancement opportunities. Having a solid understanding of principles such as organizational behavior and employment law can be invaluable in many different contexts, allowing you to move up within your organization or transition into different roles in different sectors.

Finally, pursuing certification can help provide motivation for continuing your education beyond what is required by most jobs. By taking courses related to human resources, business management or other topics relevant to your industry, you will always be learning new skills and keeping up with changes in the job market. This ongoing learning process can help ensure that your resume remains competitive over time, leading to more job opportunities down the road.

Ultimately, whether or not one should pursue an HR Director Certificate depends on their individual circumstances and goals. However, for those looking for ways to set themselves apart from their peers and add value to their resumes, obtaining such a credential can certainly prove beneficial in the long run.

Related: HR Director Resume Examples

FAQs About HR Director Certifications

1. What is an HR Director Certification?

Answer: An HR Director Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the areas of human resources management, including recruitment, talent management, and employee relations.

2. How do I become certified as an HR Director?

Answer: To become certified as an HR Director, you must pass the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) exam, which covers topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits administration, labor relations, and organizational development.

3. Are there any prerequisites for taking the HRCI exam?

Answer: Yes, to take the HRCI exam you must have at least five years of experience in human resource management or a related field, or a master's degree in a related field. You must also be currently employed in a professional role in human resources or a related field.

4. How long does it take to get certified as an HR Director?

Answer: It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the certification process and receive your certification from HRCI.

5. Is there any continuing education required to maintain my certification?

Answer: Yes, all certified HR Directors must complete 60 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain their certification status with HRCI.