Top 10 HR Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for HR managers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of education, knowledge and expertise that can set them apart from other candidates. Certifications provide employers with the assurance that the HR manager has the appropriate skills and qualifications to perform the duties required of them. Additionally, certifications can give HR managers an edge in salary negotiations, as employers may be willing to pay more for someone who is certified in certain areas. Lastly, certifications may also provide HR managers with access to additional professional development opportunities that can help them stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for HR Managers, providing an overview of how they can contribute to a hr manager's career.

What are HR Manager Certifications?

HR Manager Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes and validates the knowledge and skills of HR Managers. It is designed to help HR Managers demonstrate their expertise in areas such as recruitment, employee relations, training and development, compensation and benefits, performance management, organizational development, and labor law compliance. By obtaining HR Manager Certification, HR Managers can demonstrate their commitment to the profession by enhancing their credentials with specialized skills that are essential to managing human resources effectively and efficiently.

Having HR Manager Certification helps employers differentiate between qualified applicants for an open position in the field of human resources management. It also serves as evidence of a manager’s dedication to staying current on best practices in the field. Additionally, having this certification can provide an advantage when it comes to career advancement opportunities within or outside of an organization.

Finally, having this certification may help managers develop relationships with other professionals in the field who have similar credentials. This can be beneficial for networking purposes or simply for gaining insight into how other professionals approach certain challenges related to human resource management.

Pro Tip: When considering becoming an HR Manager, it is important to research and understand the various certifications available. Many organizations require a specific certification for HR Managers, so make sure you know what is required for your desired role before committing to any certification program.

Related: What does an HR Manager do?

Top 10 HR Manager Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a professional certification program offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of the strategic and tactical elements of HR management. The PHR certification validates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of HR law, employee relations, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, training and development, organizational development, risk management, and total rewards.

It typically takes six to twelve months to prepare for the PHR exam. During this time you should review all relevant material related to the topics covered on the exam. You can find study materials online or purchase them from HRCI or other providers. Additionally, there are many test-prep courses available that can help you prepare for the exam.

To get the PHR certification you must pass a written examination administered by HRCI. This exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions covering all areas of HR management. Candidates must also meet certain educational requirements such as having a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university or having at least three years of experience in human resources management with a master's degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The cost for taking the PHR exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $300-$400 USD.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed for experienced human resources professionals who want to demonstrate their mastery of the strategic and policy-making aspects of HR management.

To qualify for the SPHR, individuals must have at least four years of experience in a senior-level HR position and must pass an exam administered by HRCI. The exam covers topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits, employee development, labor relations, and organizational planning.

The cost to take the SPHR exam varies depending on when you register for it. Generally, the cost is between $300 and $400.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the SPHR exam. During this time, individuals should review relevant materials such as textbooks, online courses, webinars, and practice exams. Additionally, individuals should consider taking an HRCI-approved preparation course or attending a study group to help them get ready for the exam.

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 HR professionals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage people in organizations.

To become certified as a SHRM-CP, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of human resources management. The exam covers topics such as talent acquisition, employee and labor relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, performance management, and more.

The exam takes about four hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. It costs $300 USD for SHRM members or $400 USD for non-members. You can register for the exam online or by phone.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive a certificate from SHRM that recognizes your achievement as a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification for those in the human resources field. It is awarded by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This certification demonstrates that an individual has a comprehensive knowledge of HR practices and principles, as well as the ability to apply them in the workplace.

In order to obtain the SHRM-SCP certification, individuals must pass a three-hour exam. The exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as: strategic management, workforce planning and employment, total rewards, employee engagement and development, risk management, and technology and information systems.

In order to be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in HR management or related fields. They must also have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to continuing education by completing 60 hours of professional development activities within three years prior to applying for the exam.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs about $300 USD for domestic exams and $450 USD for international exams.

Overall, obtaining the SHRM-SCP certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in HR management or related fields. It demonstrates that they are knowledgeable about current HR practices and principles and have the ability to apply them in real-world situations.

5. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification offered by the WorldatWork Society of Certified Professionals. It is designed for compensation and total rewards professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the body of knowledge in the field of compensation and total rewards. The CCP certification validates an individual’s expertise in designing, developing, implementing, administering, and evaluating all aspects of compensation programs.

To become certified as a CCP, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as job evaluation methods, pay structure design, executive and incentive compensation, benefits administration and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

In order to take the exam, individuals must first apply to WorldatWork and complete their online application form. Applicants must also submit proof that they meet certain educational requirements or have at least five years of professional experience in the field of compensation management. Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive access to study materials and can register for an exam date at one of WorldatWork’s testing centers.

The cost to take the CCP exam is $695 USD for members or $895 USD for non-members. Exam fees are subject to change without notice so it’s important to check with WorldatWork prior to registering for an exam date.

6. Global Remuneration Professional (GRP)

Global Remuneration Professional (GRP) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become experts in global remuneration. This certification is offered by WorldatWork, a global leader in human resources, compensation, and benefits.

The GRP program consists of four courses that cover topics such as international compensation principles, job evaluation methodology, total rewards strategy, and global mobility. The courses are offered online or in-person and range from two days to five days in length. Upon successful completion of all four courses and exams, participants will receive their Global Remuneration Professional (GRP) certification.

The cost of the GRP program varies depending on the number of courses taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,500 for all four courses and exams. However, discounts may be available if you purchase multiple courses at once or if you are a WorldatWork member.

To get your GRP certification you must complete all four required courses within two years of starting the program. After completing all four courses and passing the exams, you will be awarded your GRP certification from WorldatWork.

7. Society for Human Resource Management - Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

The Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and competencies of HR professionals. It is designed to demonstrate mastery of the core principles and practices of HR, as well as the ability to apply them in real-world situations. The SHRM-CP is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the world’s largest association dedicated to advancing human resource management.

Getting the SHRM-CP certification typically takes about six months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first pass an exam administered by SHRM. The exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and an essay section. After passing the exam, applicants must complete a series of activities such as attending webinars, completing online courses, participating in discussion groups, and more. Once all requirements are met, applicants can submit their application for certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on whether you are an SHRM member or not. For non-members, the cost is $300 USD plus applicable taxes. For members, it is $200 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam or completing any required activities prior to submitting your application for certification.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is a professional association dedicated to advancing the practice of human resources in public sector organizations. The IPMA-HR Certified Professional (IPMA-CP) certification program is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of HR professionals working in the public sector.

To become an IPMA-CP certified professional, applicants must have a minimum of three years of professional experience in human resources management or a related field, as well as a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. They must also successfully complete a series of five exams covering topics such as strategic planning, labor relations, employee development, and compensation and benefits.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete all five exams and receive certification. To get started on the process, applicants must first register with IPMA-HR by submitting an application form along with the required fees. After registering, applicants will be given access to study materials and exam information that they can use to prepare for their exams.

The cost of becoming an IPMA-CP certified professional varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $400-$600 USD for registration fees plus exam fees that range from $100-$200 per exam.

9. WorldatWork - Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

WorldatWork's Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the field of compensation and rewards. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of compensation, benefits, and total rewards.

To become a CCP, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having at least three years of full-time professional experience in the field of compensation, benefits, or total rewards. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, pay structure design and administration, incentive plans, executive compensation programs, employee benefits programs, and global compensation issues.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost for taking the exam is $595 for WorldatWork members and $795 for non-members.

Once an individual has passed the exam they will receive their CCP designation from WorldatWork. This designation is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking additional courses or passing another exam.

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

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) designation is a professional credentialing program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the employee benefits field. The CEBS program is offered through an alliance between IFEBP and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

To obtain the CEBS designation, individuals must complete five courses, pass a comprehensive exam, and meet continuing education requirements. The five courses cover core topics such as retirement plans, health and welfare plans, executive compensation, investments, and global benefits. Each course includes both classroom instruction and self-study materials.

The entire program typically takes two to three years to complete depending on how quickly you move through the courses. It is possible to take all five courses at once or spread them out over multiple semesters.

In order to get started in the CEBS program, you must first register with IFEBP. This involves submitting an application form along with payment for registration fees and tuition costs. Registration fees are $100 per year while tuition costs vary depending on which course you are taking but typically range from $800-$1,200 per course.

Once registered for the CEBS program, you will receive access to online study materials as well as access to instructors who can answer questions about course material. After completing all five courses and passing the comprehensive exam, you will be awarded your CEBS designation.

Do You Really Need a HR Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need an HR Manager Certificate depends on the type of career path you are looking to pursue. If your goal is to become a Human Resources Manager, then obtaining a certificate in this field is likely beneficial.

Having a certificate can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession, as well as provide evidence of your knowledge of the most current trends and practices. It can also open doors to new opportunities that may not have been available otherwise. For example, some employers view certification favorably when considering potential candidates for HR management roles.

On the other hand, if you already have experience working in Human Resources and want to stay in the same role, such as an HR Generalist or Recruiter, then a certificate may not be necessary. Depending on the size of the organization, having a certificate might not even be required for certain HR positions. In this case, it may still be beneficial to obtain one if you want to advance within the industry or gain additional knowledge about HR topics.

In conclusion, while having an HR Manager Certificate may not be necessary for all positions within Human Resources, it can be beneficial in helping you reach your professional goals and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

Related: HR Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About HR Manager Certifications

1. What is an HR Manager Certification?

Answer: An HR Manager Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to manage people in a business setting. It usually involves completing an accredited program and passing an exam.

2. How long does it take to get certified as an HR Manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as an HR Manager depends on several factors, including the type of certification you are pursuing, your level of experience, and the requirements of the certifying body. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to earn certification.

3. What are some common prerequisites for obtaining an HR Manager Certification?

Answer: Most certifying bodies require applicants to have at least three years of experience in Human Resources or related fields, although this may vary depending on the specific certification program. Additionally, applicants may be required to complete certain courses or attend workshops in order to qualify for certification.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements associated with maintaining an HR Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying bodies require that holders maintain their credentials by keeping up-to-date with new developments in the field through continuing education activities such as attending conferences or taking additional courses.

5. Is there any advantage to having an HR Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, having a certification demonstrates expertise in the field and can make you more competitive when applying for jobs or promotions within Human Resources departments. Additionally, earning a certification can open up more job opportunities and help you stay current on best practices within the industry.