Top 10 Human Resource Assistant Certifications

Certifications for human resource assistants are important for a number of reasons. Firstly, they demonstrate an individual’s commitment to their profession and provide evidence of their knowledge and understanding of the field. This can help to set them apart from other job applicants and make them more attractive to potential employers. Secondly, certifications provide an opportunity for an individual to learn new skills and gain experience that may not be available through traditional education or on-the-job training. Finally, certifications can help an individual stay up-to-date with changes in the industry as well as any new regulations or laws that may affect their job responsibilities. In short, certifications are essential for demonstrating competency in the field, staying competitive in the job market, and keeping up with relevant developments in the industry.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Human Resource Assistants and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are Human Resource Assistant Certifications?

Human resource assistant certification is a professional designation that recognizes a person’s knowledge and skills in the field of human resources. It is designed to help individuals develop their expertise in areas such as recruitment, interviewing, employee relations, payroll, benefits administration and labor law. By obtaining this certification, an individual can demonstrate their commitment to the profession and demonstrate their understanding of current best practices in the field.

The certification can be beneficial for those already working in human resources or those looking to enter the profession. It serves as proof of an individual’s commitment to their career and allows them to stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, it provides valuable insight into current trends in the industry and may provide access to new job opportunities or promotions. Finally, having a certification can help individuals increase their earning potential by allowing them to negotiate better salaries or bonuses when changing jobs or positions within a company.

Pro Tip: When considering human resource assistant certification, make sure to research the specific requirements for the program you are interested in. Many certifications require a certain amount of work experience and/or education. Additionally, make sure to check if there are any ongoing continuing education requirements associated with the certification. This will help ensure that your certification remains current and valid.

Related: What does a Human Resource Assistant do?

Top 10 Human Resource Assistant Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification is a certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and mastery of the practical and technical aspects of human resource management. The PHR designation is the highest level of professional recognition for HR professionals, and it demonstrates that an individual has achieved a high level of proficiency in the field.

The PHR exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as staffing, employee relations, compensation and benefits administration, training and development, labor relations, risk management, organizational development, and strategic planning. The exam is divided into two sections: one focusing on general HR knowledge and skills; and another focusing on specific areas within each topic.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the PHR exam. During this time, you should review study materials provided by HRCI or other sources such as textbooks or online courses. You may also want to take practice exams to help you become familiar with the types of questions asked on the actual exam.

In order to obtain your PHR certification, you must first register with HRCI. Once registered, you can then schedule your exam date at a testing center near you. After taking the exam, you will receive your score report within four weeks. If you pass the exam, your certificate will be mailed to you within six weeks after passing the test.

The cost of obtaining a PHR certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an HRCI member. For non-members, it costs $395 USD for registration fees plus $100 USD for each section of the exam taken (there are two sections). For current HRCI members, it costs $295 USD for registration fees plus $100 USD for each section taken (again there are two sections).

2. Certified Professional in Human Resources Management (CPHRM) Certification

Certified Professional in Human Resources Management (CPHRM) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of human resources management. The CPHRM certification is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), and it is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to excellence in the HR profession.

The CPHRM certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as HR laws, regulations, policies and procedures, organizational development, compensation and benefits, recruitment and selection, employee relations, safety and health, training and development, labor relations, and other related areas. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

To become certified as a CPHRM, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of experience in a human resource-related role or having earned an appropriate degree from an accredited college or university. You must also submit proof of your work experience or educational qualifications when applying for the certification.

The cost of the CPHRM certification varies depending on which type of exam you take: either the traditional paper-and-pencil version or the computer-based version. The traditional paper-and-pencil version costs $395 USD; whereas the computer-based version costs $495 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for either type of exam.

Once you have successfully passed the CPHRM exam and met all eligibility requirements, you will receive your official CPHRM certificate from HRCI within 6–8 weeks after passing the exam. Your certificate will remain valid for three years before needing to be renewed through continuing education credits or reexamination.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and competency in the field of human resource management. The SHRM-CP certification is one of two certifications offered by SHRM, the other being the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification.

In order to become certified as a SHRM-CP, individuals must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, which vary depending on their prior HR experience. Generally speaking, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree and 1 year of professional HR experience or a master’s degree and 2 years of professional HR experience.

The process of obtaining the SHRM-CP certification can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year depending on how quickly you are able to complete all the necessary steps. First, you must apply for the exam and pay the registration fee ($300 USD). Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to study materials and preparation tools provided by SHRM. You will then need to study for and pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as employee relations, compensation & benefits, recruitment & selection, training & development, organizational design & development, labor relations & laws, risk management & safety, and more.

Once you have passed the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded your SHRM-CP certification. This certification is valid for 3 years after which time it must be renewed by taking additional courses or exams in order to maintain your status as a certified professional.

The cost of becoming certified as a SHRM-CP varies depending on what type of resources are used during preparation for the exam. In addition to paying the $300 USD registration fee mentioned earlier, individuals may also need to purchase textbooks or online courses in order to properly prepare for the exam.

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

The Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective HR leader. It is designed for experienced HR professionals who have demonstrated their mastery of the competencies required to lead organizations through complex challenges. The SHRM-SCP certification is valid for three years and requires recertification every three years to maintain the credential.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in an HR role, a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution, and pass the SHRM-SCP exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that assess knowledge on topics such as organizational effectiveness, workforce planning and employment, human resource development, employee and labor relations, risk management, total rewards, and global and international HR management.

The cost of the SHRM-SCP certification varies depending on if you are a SHRM member or not. For non-members it costs $400 USD to take the exam while members pay $300 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with studying materials or other resources needed to prepare for the exam.

5. 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 individuals who have achieved mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their human resources roles. The GPHR certification is aimed at professionals with at least four years of global HR experience, including two years of international experience.

It typically takes about 12 weeks to complete the GPHR certification process. To get certified, applicants must first complete an online application and pass a written exam. After passing the exam, applicants must submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and skills in global HR management, such as international labor law, expatriate management, and global compensation practices.

The cost of the GPHR certification varies depending on which country you are applying from. In the United States, it costs $395 for SHRM members and $595 for non-members. In other countries, prices may vary slightly but will generally be similar to those in the US.

6. 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 that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of human resources professionals. It is designed to demonstrate mastery in the areas of human resources management and development, including labor relations, employee benefits, recruitment and selection, and performance management.

The IPMA-HR Certified Professional designation requires passing an exam that covers the core competencies of human resources management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions with a two-hour time limit. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam to be certified.

To become an IPMA-HR Certified Professional, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a minimum of three years of professional experience in human resources or related fields; completing a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education or training in human resources topics; and completing an approved course in strategic HR management or labor relations.

Once all eligibility requirements are met, candidates can apply to take the IPMA-HR Certified Professional Exam by submitting an application form along with proof of eligibility. The cost for taking the exam is $295 USD for members and $395 USD for nonmembers.

7. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) Certification

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of compensation and rewards. This certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of job evaluation, salary administration, incentive plans, executive compensation, and total rewards.

To become a CCP, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam administered by WorldatWork. The exam covers topics such as:

• Job Evaluation
• Salary Administration
• Incentive Plans
• Executive Compensation
• Total Rewards
• Global Compensation Practices
• Benefits Administration
• Human Resources Law & Regulations.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. To be eligible for the CCP certification, applicants must meet certain educational or work experience requirements. Those without the required qualifications can still take the exam but will need to complete additional coursework before they can receive their certification.

The cost for the CCP certification varies depending on whether you are a member of WorldatWork or not. For members, the cost is $595; for non-members it is $795. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $100 for members and $150 for non-members to maintain your certification status.

8. WorldatWork Total Rewards Management Professional (TRMP) Certification

WorldatWork Total Rewards Management Professional (TRMP) Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective total rewards practitioner. The TRMP certification recognizes professionals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of total rewards principles, practices, and strategies.

The TRMP certification requires passing two exams: the Total Rewards Management Exam and the Total Rewards Strategy Exam. The Total Rewards Management Exam covers topics such as compensation, benefits, work-life balance, performance management, recognition programs, and employee engagement. The Total Rewards Strategy Exam focuses on strategic total rewards planning, implementation, and evaluation.

It typically takes about 6-9 months to complete the TRMP certification program. In order to get certified, you must first pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exams, you must also submit a portfolio of your professional experience in total rewards management for review by WorldatWork’s Certification Board.

The cost of the TRMP certification program varies depending on your membership status with WorldatWork. For non-members it costs $1125 for both exams plus $500 for the portfolio review fee; for members it costs $875 for both exams plus $500 for the portfolio review fee.

9. National Association of Colleges and Employers Certified Employment Specialist (CES) Certification

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Certified Employment Specialist (CES) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in the field of college recruiting and employment. The certification is awarded to those who have achieved a certain level of knowledge, skills, and experience in the areas of career services, employer relations, recruitment, and job placement.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of full-time professional work experience in college recruiting or employment services; having an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution; and passing the CES exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to career services, employer relations, recruitment, and job placement.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$250 for the exam fee alone. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

It typically takes about four weeks to prepare for the CES exam after submitting your application form. During this time period you will need to review relevant material such as NACE's Career Services Manual or other resources that cover topics related to career services, employer relations, recruitment and job placement. After completing your preparation period you will then be able to take the actual exam which usually takes between two and three hours to complete.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official CES Certification from NACE which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. In order to maintain your certification during this time period you must participate in continuing education activities such as attending workshops or conferences related to college recruiting or employment services.

10. Institute for Credentialing Excellence Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) Certification

The Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of talent development. It is offered through the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing professional excellence and ethical standards in credentialing.

To qualify for the CPTD certification, applicants must meet certain educational, experience, and knowledge requirements. The educational requirement includes a minimum of a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also have at least three years of full-time experience in the field of talent development, as well as demonstrate knowledge of core competencies related to talent development.

The CPTD certification process consists of two parts: an online application and an assessment exam. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their education, experience, and knowledge related to talent development. Once approved, applicants will be invited to take the assessment exam which tests their knowledge and understanding of key concepts related to talent development.

The entire process typically takes between three and six months to complete, depending on how quickly applicants submit their applications and take their exams.

The cost for the CPTD certification is $395 USD for ICE members and $495 USD for non-members. This fee covers both the application fee and the assessment exam fee.

Do You Really Need a Human Resource Assistant Certificate?

Yes, a Human Resource Assistant Certificate is an important credential to have in the field of human resources. With this certificate, you can demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the industry and its related processes. It also shows employers that you are committed to the profession and have taken the initiative to gain additional qualifications.

The Human Resource Assistant Certificate covers a range of topics such as employee recruitment, compensation, benefits administration, performance management, and organizational development. This certificate can provide you with an advantage when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within your current organization. It also serves as proof of your commitment to professional development in the HR field.

Having a Human Resource Assistant Certificate is beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers, it demonstrates that you are knowledgeable about industry best practices and have the necessary skills needed for successful job performance. For employees, it provides recognition for your hard work and dedication to the profession which can open up new opportunities for career advancement or increased pay.

Overall, having a Human Resource Assistant Certificate is highly recommended if you want to stand out from other applicants in the HR field and take your career to new heights. It is an investment in yourself that will pay off in multiple ways over time.

Related: Human Resource Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resource Assistant Certifications

Q1: What is a Human Resource Assistant Certification?

A1: A Human Resource Assistant Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the field of human resources. It covers topics such as recruitment, onboarding, payroll, benefits administration, employee relations, and more.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Human Resource Assistant?

A2: To become certified as a Human Resource Assistant, you must complete an approved training program and pass the corresponding certification exam. Training programs are usually offered through colleges or professional organizations.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming a certified Human Resource Assistant?

A3: Becoming a certified Human Resource Assistant can help you stand out from other applicants for HR-related jobs. It also shows employers that you have the skills and knowledge to successfully manage their HR needs. Additionally, it can open up new career opportunities and potentially increase your earning potential.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Human Resource Assistant Certification?

A4: Generally speaking, there are no prerequisites for obtaining a Human Resource Assistant Certification. However, depending on the specific certification program you choose to pursue, certain qualifications may be required (e.g., having prior HR experience).

Q5: How long does it take to become certified as a Human Resource Assistant?

A5: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Human Resource Assistant will vary depending on the specific program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, most programs require between 40-60 hours of coursework and study time to complete successfully.