Top 10 HRIS Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a HRIS specialist in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when searching for qualified candidates. Certified HRIS specialists have proven their ability to effectively use HR systems, analyze data, and make informed decisions about how to best optimize the company’s human resources. They are seen as reliable and trustworthy professionals who can help organizations improve efficiency and effectiveness through their understanding of the latest technology and trends in HR management. Certifications also provide evidence of an individual's commitment to staying up-to-date with industry practices, which is essential in a rapidly changing business world.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for HRIS Specialists and how they can help advance a hris specialist's career.

What are HRIS Specialist Certifications?

HRIS (Human Resource Information Systems) Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the area of HRIS systems and technology. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of individuals working with HRIS systems, which are used to store, manage, and analyze employee data. This certification also serves as a mark of distinction for those who demonstrate aptitude in this specialized field.

By obtaining an HRIS specialist certification, individuals gain recognition as experts in their field, as well as credibility among their peers and employers. With this certification, professionals can prove their technical ability to design, implement, maintain and support HRIS systems. Additionally, they can attain a better understanding of the role of technology in human resource management processes and operations.

Having an HRIS specialist certification can help individuals stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions related to Human Resources or Information Systems. Furthermore, it can provide them with more employment opportunities due to their unique skill set and knowledge base. Those who possess this certification may be eligible for higher salaries than non-certified professionals since they have already demonstrated their expertise in the field. Finally, having this designation can provide individuals with access to professional networks where they can learn about industry trends and connect with peers.

Pro Tip: When considering a HRIS Specialist certification, look for programs that provide hands-on training and experience with the specific software you'll be working with. This will ensure you are well-versed in the system and able to hit the ground running when you enter the workforce.

Related: What does an HRIS Specialist do?

Top 10 HRIS Specialist Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR)

Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) is an internationally recognized professional designation for human resources practitioners. It is awarded by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of competence and proficiency in the field of human resources management.

It typically takes two to three years to obtain the CPHR designation, depending on the individual’s experience and knowledge. To qualify for the CPHR designation, individuals must meet certain educational requirements and complete a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of HR principles and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as recruitment, selection, compensation, benefits, training and development, employee relations, labour relations, organizational development and change management.

To get the CPHR designation, individuals must first become a member of HRPA. This requires completing an application form and paying an annual membership fee. Once accepted as a member, individuals can then apply for the CPHR program through HRPA's website or by mail. The application process includes submitting proof of education qualifications and passing a background check. After being accepted into the program, individuals must pay an examination fee before taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CPHR designation varies depending on where you live and which package you choose (e.g., online study materials or instructor-led courses). Generally speaking, it costs between $1,000 - $2,500 CAD to get your CPHR designation in Canada.

2. 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 demonstrated mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including areas such as strategic planning, recruitment, selection, training and development, compensation and benefits administration.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the PHR exam. The preparation process includes studying the HRCI Body of Knowledge, taking practice exams, attending review courses or workshops and/or participating in self-study programs.

To become certified as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR), you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Have at least one year of professional-level HR experience in a role with decision-making authority;

2. Be a member of HRCI; and

3. Pass the PHR exam.

The cost for taking the PHR exam varies depending on your membership status with HRCI. For non-members, it costs $395 to take the exam. For members, it costs $300 to take the exam.

3. Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP)

Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) is a professional designation awarded by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) of Ontario, Canada. It is the highest level of certification for human resources professionals in Canada and is recognized across North America.

The CHRP designation requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in the field of human resources, as well as successful completion of a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of five parts: general HR knowledge, labor relations, recruitment and selection, total rewards, and workplace health and safety.

In order to qualify for the CHRP designation, applicants must have either a post-secondary degree or diploma in human resources or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Applicants must also be members in good standing with HRPA.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the requirements for the CHRP designation. The costs associated with obtaining the CHRP include membership fees to HRPA ($100-$500 depending on your membership type), exam fees ($400-$500), study materials ($50-$200), and any other applicable fees or costs associated with completing the application process.

4. 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 demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and competency to effectively manage people, processes, and projects in a human resource management role.

It typically takes between six months to a year to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam. To become certified, you must meet the eligibility requirements set forth by SHRM and pass the SHRM-CP exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as: HR strategy, HR operations, employee relations, recruitment and selection, total rewards, learning and development, risk management, and data analytics.

To get started on your journey towards becoming a SHRM-CP certified professional, you will need to register with SHRM and purchase their study materials. Once you have completed your studies and are ready to take the exam, you can register through SHRM’s website or through a third-party testing center. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $300-$400 USD.

5. WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification

WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, and evaluate total rewards programs. It is designed to help professionals develop the expertise needed to create effective total rewards strategies for their organizations.

The WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification consists of two exams: the Total Rewards Management Exam and the Strategic Total Rewards Exam. The exams are administered by WorldatWork, an international association of human resource professionals.

The Total Rewards Management Exam covers topics such as compensation, benefits, recognition, performance management, communication, legal compliance, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

The Strategic Total Rewards Exam focuses on topics such as strategy development, implementation planning, evaluation techniques, and more. This exam also consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

In order to obtain the WorldatWork Total Rewards Certification, individuals must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. Candidates have up to one year from the date they register for their first exam to pass both tests in order to receive their certification.

The cost for taking each exam is $395 USD for members of WorldatWork and $495 USD for non-members.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) Certified Professional (CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the field of human resources. The IPMA-HR CP is an internationally recognized credential that can be used to demonstrate expertise and commitment to the profession.

The IPMA-HR CP certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as personnel management, labor relations, employee benefits, compensation, organization development and training, and legal issues. Applicants must also meet experience requirements and demonstrate knowledge of the IPMA-HR Code of Ethics.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the application process and sit for the exam. To get started with the process, applicants must first submit an online application form on the IPMA-HR website. After submitting an application form, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for their chosen exam date.

The cost of obtaining the IPMA-HR CP certification varies depending on where you live and how many exams you take. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$600 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

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

The Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to excel in the field of human resource management. It is one of two certifications offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The SHRM-SCP certification is designed for experienced HR professionals who are looking to advance their career and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field.

In order to become certified as a SHRM-SCP, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. To be eligible, applicants must have at least three years of experience in a senior-level HR role or five years of experience in any HR role. They must also have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university, or equivalent work experience.

The SHRM-SCP exam consists of 170 multiple choice questions and covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, total rewards, employee engagement and development, risk management, and workplace law. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $300 USD for members of SHRM and $400 USD for non-members.

Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their official SHRM-SCP certification from SHRM. This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed.

8. Oracle HCM Cloud Certified Implementation Specialist

Oracle HCM Cloud Certified Implementation Specialist is a certification program designed to help implementation specialists gain the knowledge and skills needed to successfully implement Oracle Human Capital Management (HCM) Cloud solutions. The program covers topics such as setting up the basic configuration of Oracle HCM Cloud, configuring user access, creating and managing jobs and positions, setting up payrolls, and more.

The certification consists of two exams: 1Z0-1059-20 Oracle HCM Cloud Core HR 2020 Implementation Essentials and 1Z0-1060-20 Oracle HCM Cloud Payroll 2020 Implementation Essentials. Both exams must be passed in order to become an Oracle HCM Cloud Certified Implementation Specialist.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the exams. Preparation involves studying the material covered in the exam objectives, attending training courses or webinars offered by Oracle University, taking practice tests, and reading relevant books or articles on the subject matter.

The cost of the certification depends on where you take the exam. The cost of each exam is $245 USD if taken at a Pearson VUE testing center or $195 USD if taken online through Oracle University. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with attending training courses or purchasing study materials such as books or practice tests.

9. SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Certification

SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved expertise in the use of SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively configure and use the software for their organization’s HR needs.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as employee data, org charts, job information, compensation, benefits, payroll and reporting. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and requires a passing score of 70%.

To become certified in SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central, you must first register with the SAP Learning Hub. Once registered, you can purchase access to the course material and take the certification exam. The cost of the course materials varies depending on your region and whether or not you are eligible for discounts. The cost of taking the exam is $200 USD.

In order to prepare for the certification exam, it is recommended that you review all course materials provided by SAP Learning Hub as well as any additional resources available online or through other sources. Additionally, it is advised that you have at least six months of experience working with SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central prior to taking the exam.

10. Workday Core HCM Certification

Workday Core HCM Certification is a certification program developed by Workday, Inc. that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of Human Capital Management (HCM). The certification is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals who have the knowledge and experience necessary to successfully implement and manage Workday HCM solutions.

The certification consists of two exams: the Core HCM Exam and the Advanced HCM Exam. The Core HCM Exam covers topics such as core configuration, security, reporting, analytics, and integration. The Advanced HCM Exam covers topics such as recruiting, onboarding, compensation management, performance management, learning management, and more. Both exams must be passed in order to receive the certification.

It typically takes about three months to complete both exams. To get started on your Workday Core HCM Certification journey you will need to register with Workday University and purchase the exam vouchers for each exam ($200 per exam). Once you have purchased your exam vouchers you can schedule your exams with Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. After passing both exams you will receive a digital badge which serves as proof of your certification status.

The cost of the Workday Core HCM Certification is $400 for both exams ($200 per exam).

Do You Really Need a HRIS Specialist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need an HRIS specialist certificate to be successful in Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) management. However, having one can be beneficial and may open doors for advancement and career opportunities.

Having a certification in HRIS can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field and can help distinguish you from other job candidates. It also shows that you are committed to staying current with industry trends and best practices. Additionally, it can provide access to professional networks, resources, and mentorship opportunities that could help further your career.

That said, certifications are not the only way to gain knowledge of HRIS systems or even demonstrate competence in this field. There are many online courses available that cover the same topics as those included in a certification program but without the requirement for taking an exam or completing additional requirements for obtaining the certificate. These courses typically include practical advice on how to use different HRIS systems, troubleshooting tips, case studies, etc., which can be just as valuable as having a formal certification if you are looking to move into an HRIS role.

At the end of the day, whether or not you should pursue an HRIS specialist certificate depends on your individual goals and career trajectory. If you think having a certification will give you an edge over other candidates or if it is required by your employer then it might be worth considering pursuing one; however, if not then there are other ways to build up your skill set in this area without needing a formal certification.

Related: HRIS Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About HRIS Specialist Certifications

1. What is an HRIS Specialist Certification?

Answer: An HRIS (Human Resources Information System) Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise and knowledge in the use of Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS). It is designed for individuals who are responsible for the maintenance, administration, and support of HRIS systems.

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

Answer: To become certified as an HRIS specialist you must complete a comprehensive program of study and pass the certification exam administered by either the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

3. What are the benefits of becoming an HRIS Specialist?

Answer: Becoming an HRIS specialist provides many benefits including increasing your value to employers, expanding your knowledge base, gaining recognition in your field, and potentially increasing your earning potential.

4. Are there any prerequisites for taking the certification exam?

Answer: Yes, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with HRIS systems prior to taking the certification examination.

5. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: The HRCI requires recertification every three years while SHRM requires recertification every two years in order to maintain active status.