Top 10 HRIS Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for HRIS Managers. Certification verifies a professional’s knowledge and experience in a specific area, and demonstrates that they have the skills to effectively manage Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS). This helps employers verify the competency of prospective HRIS Managers and gives them confidence that they are hiring a qualified individual. In addition, certifications can give HRIS Managers an edge in the job market by making them more attractive candidates. This can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries. Certifications also provide a way for HRIS Managers to stay up-to-date on new technologies, trends, and best practices in their field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for HRIS Managers and explains how they can help to enhance a hris manager's career.

What are HRIS Manager Certifications?

HRIS Manager certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage an HR information system (HRIS). This certification is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), which is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to setting standards for excellence in human resource management.

The HRIS Manager certification demonstrates expertise in areas such as implementing and managing new systems, data integrity, security and privacy, user access control, analytics and reporting, and system integration. As such, it can help professionals demonstrate their abilities to employers or clients who are looking for individuals with expertise in this field. Additionally, it can help professionals stay ahead of current trends in their field and ensure they have the latest knowledge to better serve their organizations.

Having a HRIS Manager certification may also give professionals an advantage when competing for jobs within the HR field. It shows employers that they possess the necessary skillset to successfully manage an HRIS system, making them more attractive candidates than those without this type of certification. Furthermore, having a HRIS Manager certification can open up opportunities for career advancement as companies look for qualified individuals who are familiar with the latest technologies available in the industry.

Pro Tip: When considering HRIS Manager Certification, look for a program that offers hands-on experience and instruction in the most current HRIS systems. This will allow you to gain the necessary skills to effectively manage and maintain an HRIS system. Additionally, look for programs that offer a certification exam at the completion of the program, which will demonstrate to employers your knowledge and mastery of the material.

Related: What does an HRIS Manager do?

Top 10 HRIS Manager Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification is a credential offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and competency in the field of human resources. The certification is widely recognized as a mark of excellence in the HR profession, and it can help individuals advance their careers and become more marketable to employers.

To obtain PHR certification, candidates must have at least one year of professional experience in a human resources role. In addition, they must pass an exam that covers topics such as recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee relations, labor laws, organizational development, training and development, and strategic management.

The exam typically takes three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. Candidates are given two attempts to pass the exam; if they fail both times, they must wait six months before retaking it.

The cost of obtaining PHR certification varies depending on whether or not you are an HRCI member. For non-members, the cost is $395 for the application fee plus $100 for each attempt at the exam; for members, it is $300 for the application fee plus $75 for each attempt at the exam.

In addition to these fees, candidates should also budget for study materials such as books or online courses that will help them prepare for the exam.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification

The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification is a professional designation offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the strategic and policy-making aspects of human resource management. The SPHR is the highest level of professional certification available for HR professionals, and it requires a significant amount of knowledge and experience in order to obtain.

To become certified as an SPHR, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. To be eligible, you must have at least four years of professional-level HR experience within the past eight years, or a master's degree in HR or related field with three years of experience. You must also demonstrate proficiency in all six areas of expertise outlined by HRCI: business management; workforce planning and employment; human resource development; compensation and benefits; employee relations; and risk management.

The SPHR exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as legal compliance, organizational effectiveness, workforce planning, employee relations, performance management, compensation & benefits, and risk management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $395 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will need to pay an annual maintenance fee of $100 USD to maintain your certification status. This fee covers access to HRCI's online resources including webinars and study materials for recertification every three years.

Overall, obtaining your SPHR certification can take anywhere from three months up to one year depending on how quickly you are able to prepare for the exam.

3. Human Resource Management Professional (HRMP) Certification

Human Resource Management Professional (HRMP) certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of human resources. It is offered by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI), which is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of human resource management.

The HRMP certification requires that applicants have a minimum of five years of experience in human resources and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of human resource management. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as employee relations, compensation and benefits, recruitment and selection, performance management, labor law compliance, organizational development, and strategic planning.

The exam typically takes two to three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether it is taken online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 USD for online exams and around $750 USD for in-person exams.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your HRMP certification from HRCI. This certification will be valid for three years before it needs to be renewed. To maintain your certification status, you must complete at least 60 hours of continuing education credits every three years or retake the exam if you do not meet this requirement.

4. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification

The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification is a professional credential offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s comprehensive knowledge and competency in the field of human resource management. The SHRM-CP certification is highly sought after by employers, as it demonstrates that an individual has obtained a mastery of the core principles and practices of human resource management.

In order to obtain the SHRM-CP certification, individuals must first pass an exam administered by SHRM. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as employee relations, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, and organizational development. The exam typically takes four hours to complete, and costs $300.

Once an individual has successfully passed the exam, they must then complete 60 hours of professional development activities within three years in order to maintain their certification status. These activities can include attending conferences or workshops related to HR management, participating in webinars or online courses, or reading relevant books or articles.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-CP certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. For example, if you choose to take a prep course from a third party provider such as SHRM Learning System or Exam Edge, you may pay anywhere from $500-$1000 for materials and instruction. If you prefer to self-study using online resources such as practice tests or study guides, you may be able to do so at no additional cost beyond the $300 fee for taking the exam itself.

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

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification is a professional credential offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skills in the field of human resources. The SHRM-SCP certification is intended for experienced HR professionals who have mastered the principles and practices of HR management, including employee relations, talent management, organizational development, compensation and benefits, and workplace safety.

It typically takes approximately six months to one year to prepare for the SHRM-SCP exam. To get certified, applicants must first become a member of SHRM and then register for the exam. Once registered, applicants can access study materials such as practice tests, e-learning modules, webinars and more through the SHRM website.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether or not an applicant is already a member of SHRM. For non-members, the cost includes both membership fees and exam fees; members only need to pay for their exam fees. The total cost ranges from $300-$400 USD for non-members to $200-$250 USD for members.

Once an applicant has passed their exam they will receive their official certificate from SHRM within 8 weeks after passing their exam.

6. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification is a certification program offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of competency and expertise in the field of human resources management. The GPHR certification is geared towards those who are already working in HR roles, and it provides them with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities to employers.

The GPHR certification process typically takes six months or more to complete, depending on the individual's experience and preparation. To obtain the certification, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as employment law, employee relations, compensation and benefits, organizational development, recruitment and selection, labor relations, training and development, health and safety issues, international HR management, performance management systems, and technology-based HR solutions.

In order to be eligible for the GPHR certification exam, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in human resources management or an equivalent combination of education and experience. They must also complete an application form that includes details about their work history as well as references from employers or colleagues.

The cost of obtaining the GPHR certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD.

7. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) Certification

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) certification is a professional designation for those who specialize in the field of compensation and total rewards. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the area of compensation and total rewards.

The CCP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of professional experience in the field, as well as an understanding of the principles and practices associated with compensation and total rewards. In order to obtain the certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as job analysis, job evaluation, pay structures, incentive plans, performance management, equity analysis, and executive compensation.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the exam. During this time, applicants should review course materials and practice exams provided by WorldatWork or through other resources. Applicants should also consider taking courses offered by WorldatWork or other organizations that focus on compensation and total rewards topics.

The cost for the CCP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of WorldatWork. For members, the cost is $795; for non-members it is $1125. The fee includes access to study materials and practice exams, as well as registration for the exam itself.

8. WorldatWork Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) Certification

The WorldatWork Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of employee benefits. The CBP credential is designed to help employers ensure their benefits program is managed effectively and efficiently.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of employee benefits and complete an approved training course. After completing the training course, applicants must pass an exam administered by WorldatWork.

The training courses typically take between six and eight weeks to complete, depending on the provider. Once the course is completed, applicants must pass the exam within six months. The exam fee is $495 for members and $595 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with the training course itself, depending on the provider.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by earning continuing education credits every two years and paying an annual maintenance fee of $150 for members or $200 for non-members.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) Certified Professional is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of human resource professionals in the public sector. The certification program is based on IPMA-HR's Body of Knowledge, which covers topics such as recruitment and selection, labor relations, organizational development, compensation and benefits, and employee development.

To become an IPMA-HR Certified Professional, applicants must have a minimum of five years of full-time professional experience in human resources management or related fields. They must also pass a comprehensive written examination that tests their knowledge of the IPMA-HR Body of Knowledge. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that are divided into six sections: Human Resource Administration; Labor Relations; Recruitment & Selection; Compensation & Benefits; Employee Development & Training; and Organizational Development & Change.

It typically takes about three months to complete the certification process from start to finish. During this time, applicants must submit their application materials, take the written exam, and receive their results from IPMA-HR. Once certified, professionals must renew their certification every three years by completing 30 hours of continuing education credits related to human resources management.

The cost for the IPMA-HR Certified Professional Program varies depending on whether you are an individual applicant or part of an organization. For individual applicants, the cost is $450 plus applicable taxes. For organizations with more than one applicant, there are discounted rates available.

10. Society for Human Resource Management – Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of entry-level human resources professionals. This certification is designed to provide a baseline of competency and understanding of the HR profession, and it is intended for those who are just starting out in their HR career.

The aPHR certification exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover six key areas: Strategic Management, Workforce Planning & Employment, Human Resource Development, Total Rewards, Employee & Labor Relations, and Risk Management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the aPHR exam, you must have at least six months of professional experience in the HR field or have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with at least 12 semester hours in human resource management courses. You must also be a SHRM member in good standing.

The cost of the aPHR exam varies depending on your membership status with SHRM. For non-members, the fee is $400; for members, the fee is $300; and for student members, the fee is $200. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with scheduling your exam appointment and rescheduling or canceling your appointment if necessary.

Once you have successfully passed your exam, you will receive an official certificate from SHRM along with other recognition items such as lapel pins and digital badges that can be used on social media platforms like LinkedIn.

Do You Really Need a HRIS Manager Certificate?

The decision to pursue an HRIS Manager Certificate is a personal one, based on your individual career goals and objectives. The certificate will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the Human Resources Information System (HRIS), including its purpose, components, implementation, and management. It may also help you gain the skills necessary to manage and operate a successful HRIS system within your organization.

Although not required in most cases, obtaining an HRIS Manager Certificate can be beneficial for those who are interested in pursuing a career in this field. This type of certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge and expertise necessary to make informed decisions about how to use a HRIS system effectively within your organization. Additionally, it can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions related to human resources information systems.

In conclusion, pursuing an HRIS Manager Certificate may be beneficial if you plan on working in this field or if you want to demonstrate your knowledge and skills related to the operation of a successful HRIS system. However, it is ultimately up to you whether or not obtaining this certification is right for your particular career goals and objectives.

Related: HRIS Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About HRIS Manager Certifications

1. What is an HRIS Manager Certification?

Answer: An HRIS Manager Certification is a credential recognizing the professional expertise and knowledge of Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) Management. The certification validates an individual's ability to effectively manage, maintain, and analyze data within an organization's HRIS system.

2. How do I become certified as an HRIS Manager?

Answer: To become certified as an HRIS Manager, you must typically complete a training program in HRIS management and pass a certification exam. Many universities and organizations offer programs that provide the necessary education and experience necessary to obtain certification.

3. How long does it take to get certified as an HRIS Manager?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain certification depends on the type of program chosen for training. Generally speaking, most programs will require between 6-12 months of study before taking the certification exam.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an HRIS Manager?

Answer: Becoming certified as an HRIS Manager provides numerous benefits such as increased job opportunities, higher salary potential, recognition from employers and peers, and improved career prospects within the field of Human Resources Management.

5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining certification?

Answer: Most programs will require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field prior to enrolling in their program. Additionally, some programs may also require applicants to have several years of related work experience in order to qualify for enrollment into their program.