Top 11 Human Resource Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for human resource consultants in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the field. Certification programs provide an opportunity to gain the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to become a successful HR consultant. They also provide employers with assurance that the consultant is qualified and knowledgeable enough to handle their specific needs. Certifications can also give HR consultants a competitive edge when applying for jobs as employers are more likely to hire candidates who have taken the time and effort to earn certifications in their specific field. Finally, certifications can open up new career opportunities and help HR consultants stand out from the competition.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Human Resource Consultants and explain how they can help to further a human resource consultant's career.

What are Human Resource Consultant Certifications?

Human resource consultant certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a person's knowledge and expertise in the area of human resources. This certification is typically earned through an accredited program or course, and it provides individuals with the tools they need to effectively manage the human resources within an organization.

The primary benefit of obtaining a human resource consultant certification is that it allows individuals to gain credibility as professionals in their field. With this credential, they can demonstrate their knowledge of laws and regulations related to employment, compensation, benefits, labor relations, employee development, and other topics. Additionally, they can use their certification to show employers that they are experienced in implementing effective HR strategies and policies that ensure compliance with relevant laws.

Having a human resource consultant certification also enables individuals to obtain higher-paying jobs at larger organizations. They may be able to secure positions such as HR director or manager or even become consultants for other companies. Furthermore, those who are certified may have access to more advanced training opportunities and seminars that further expand their skill set.

Overall, having a human resource consultant certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in the field of HR management by providing them with valuable skills and knowledge as well as greater job security and higher wages.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a human resource consultant certification, make sure to research the different types of certifications available and what they entail. This will help you determine which certification is best suited for your career goals and ensure that you have all of the necessary qualifications to obtain it.

Related: What does a Human Resource Consultant do?

Top 11 Human Resource Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Human Resource Consultants 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 professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the technical and operational aspects of human resources management. It also validates their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of strategic management, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, and risk management.

To earn the PHR certification, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements including having a minimum of one year of professional-level HR experience within the past three years. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as business management and strategy; workforce planning and employment; total rewards; employee and labor relations; risk management; and HR analytics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that are administered over a four-hour period.

The cost for taking the PHR exam varies depending on whether you are taking it through HRCI or a third party provider. Through HRCI, you can expect to pay between $400-$500 for the exam fee. If you choose to take it through a third party provider such as Prometric or Pearson VUE, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$300 for the exam fee.

Once you have successfully passed your PHR exam, you will receive your certification within 4-6 weeks after completing all necessary paperwork. To maintain your certification status, you must meet certain continuing education requirements every three years which includes earning at least 60 credit hours in approved activities such as attending conferences or taking courses related to human resource management.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification

The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification is a professional credential for human resources professionals. It is awarded by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) and is recognized as the highest level of certification available for HR professionals. The SPHR demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the body of knowledge in the field of human resources management and their ability to apply this knowledge in the workplace.

It typically takes between six months to one year to earn the SPHR certification, depending on how much time you have available to study and prepare for the exam. To become certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a minimum of four years of professional-level HR experience and a master’s degree or higher in HR or a related field. You must also pass an examination that covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment law.

To get started on your journey towards earning your SPHR certification, you will need to register with HRCI and pay a registration fee. The cost varies depending on your membership status with HRCI, but typically ranges from $450-$600 USD. This fee includes access to study materials, practice exams and other resources to help you prepare for the exam. Once you have registered with HRCI, you can begin studying for the exam at your own pace using their online materials or through self-study courses offered through various organizations or universities.

Once you are ready to take the exam, you will need to schedule an appointment with a testing center near you and pay an additional fee of $395 USD. After passing the exam, you will receive your official SPHR certification from HRCI within 8-10 weeks.

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

The Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively perform the role of a human resource professional. This certification is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), which is the world’s largest association devoted to human resource management.

In order to obtain the SHRM-CP certification, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of HR principles, practices, and strategies. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as business acumen, communication, critical evaluation, ethical practice, global & cultural effectiveness, leadership & navigation, relationship management, and consultation.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for and pass the SHRM-CP exam. During this time period it is recommended that individuals take advantage of study materials offered by SHRM or other third party providers in order to ensure they are adequately prepared for the exam.

In order to get certified as a SHRM-CP an individual must first register with SHRM and pay an application fee. Once registered they will be able to access the online proctored exam at any Pearson VUE testing center around the world. The cost of taking the SHRM-CP exam is $300 USD for members of SHRM and $400 USD for non-members.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification program developed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The SHRM-SCP credential is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the knowledge and competencies necessary to successfully lead and manage an organization’s human capital. It is the highest level of certification offered by SHRM, and requires a comprehensive understanding of HR management principles.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to prepare for the SHRM-SCP exam. To become certified, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least three years of HR experience in a professional role, or having earned an undergraduate degree or higher in HR or related field. You must also pass both the SHRM Learning System Exam Prep course and the SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP Certification Exam.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which type of exam you take, whether you are a member or nonmember of SHRM, and if you purchase additional study materials. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $500-$600 for members and $1,000-$1,200 for nonmembers.

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 a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources. The GPHR certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to professional excellence and their ability to effectively manage global HR operations.

The GPHR certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. To be eligible for the GPHR certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in HR management roles, including two years of international HR experience. Applicants will also need to pass an exam that covers topics such as global HR strategy, employment law, compensation and benefits, talent management, and more.

The cost of the GPHR certification varies depending on the country you are applying from. In the United States, it costs $595 USD for SHRM members and $795 USD for non-members. In Canada, it costs $695 CAD for SHRM members and $895 CAD for non-members. The cost also includes access to study materials such as practice tests, sample questions, and more.

Once certified, individuals can use the GPHR designation after their name to demonstrate their expertise in global human resources management. This credential can help individuals stand out among other job applicants and advance their career opportunities in international business settings.

6. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) Certification

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) certification is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in the field of compensation. It is offered by WorldatWork, a global association of human resources professionals dedicated to advancing total rewards practices.

The CCP certification program consists of three parts: an exam, experience requirements, and continuing education. To become certified, an individual must pass the CCP Exam with a score of 70% or higher; have at least three years of compensation-related experience; and complete 30 hours of continuing education every three years.

The CCP Exam is offered twice each year in April and October. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as job evaluation methods, pay structure design, compensation program management, performance management systems, and legal compliance. The exam fee is $595 for members and $795 for non-members.

To prepare for the exam, WorldatWork offers study materials such as textbooks and practice exams. Additionally, individuals can take preparatory classes offered through their local chapters or online webinars.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing 30 hours of continuing education credits every three years. These credits can be earned through attending conferences or taking courses from WorldatWork or other approved providers.

7. International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) Certification

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is an international professional organization that provides certification for human resources professionals. The IPMA-HR certification program is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in the field of public sector human resources management.

The IPMA-HR certification process typically takes between six and twelve months to complete, depending on the level of preparation and commitment of the individual applicant. To become certified, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements by having a minimum of three years of experience in public sector human resources management or equivalent education/experience. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written examination that covers topics such as labor relations, employee benefits, recruitment and selection, compensation and classification, training and development, performance management, safety and health, labor law compliance, organizational development and change management.

The cost of obtaining IPMA-HR certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. For the Certified Professional (CP) level certification exam fee is $385 USD; for the Senior Certified Professional (SCP) level it is $485 USD; and for the Master Certified Professional (MCP) it is $585 USD. In addition to these fees there are also fees associated with membership in IPMA-HR which range from $50-$150 USD depending on your profession or affiliation.

8. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (WCCP) Certification

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (WCCP) certification is the premier credential for compensation professionals. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field of compensation and rewards.

The WCCP certification program consists of two courses: Foundations of Total Rewards and Advanced Topics in Total Rewards. The Foundations course provides an introduction to total rewards, including base pay, incentives, benefits, and recognition programs. The Advanced Topics course covers more complex topics such as job analysis, market pricing, performance management, and executive compensation.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the WCCP certification program depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in a related field or one year of experience plus a relevant degree from an accredited college or university.

In addition to completing the two required courses, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam with a score of 80% or higher. The exam covers all aspects of total rewards including legal compliance issues and best practices.

The cost for the WCCP certification program is $2,700 for WorldatWork members and $3,000 for non-members. This fee includes tuition for both courses as well as access to online study materials and practice exams.

9. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) Certification

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) Certification is a professional designation awarded by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in employee benefits, retirement plans, health and welfare plans, and executive compensation.

The CEBS program consists of five courses that cover topics such as retirement plans, health and welfare benefits, legal compliance, investments, and executive compensation. Each course includes an exam that must be passed in order to receive certification. The entire program can take up to two years to complete depending on how quickly you complete each course.

To get certified as a CEBS you must first meet certain educational requirements which include having either a bachelor’s degree or three years of experience in the employee benefits field. You must also pass all five exams with a score of at least 70%. Once you have met these requirements you can apply for certification through the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans website.

The cost for becoming certified as a CEBS varies depending on your individual situation. It typically ranges from $1,500-$3,000 for tuition fees plus additional fees for books and materials.

10. National Association of State Workforce Agencies HR Consultant Certificate Program

The National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) HR Consultant Certificate Program is a professional development program for human resource professionals. The program provides an opportunity for individuals to obtain a certificate that recognizes their knowledge and experience in the field of human resources.

The program consists of three courses: Human Resource Management, Employment Law, and Performance Management. Each course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the topics covered. Participants must complete all three courses within 18 months in order to be eligible for the certificate.

In order to get the certificate, participants must pass a final exam after completing each course. The exams are administered by NASWA and are proctored by a qualified professional. The cost of the program varies depending on the number of courses taken, but typically ranges from $350-$450 per course.

Upon successful completion of all three courses and passing the final exams, participants will receive their HR Consultant Certificate from NASWA. This certificate serves as recognition that they have obtained a comprehensive knowledge base in human resources management and employment law, as well as demonstrated proficiency in performance management principles and practices.

11. International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans HR Consultant Certificate Program

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans HR Consultant Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to help professionals in the field of human resources gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective consultant. The program is offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) and consists of three courses: Human Resources Management, Benefits Administration, and Retirement Planning. Each course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of employee benefit plans, as well as practical application tools for use in their own consulting practice.

The program can be completed in as little as six months. However, it may take longer depending on how quickly the student completes each course. To get started, interested applicants must first register with IFEBP and pay a one-time fee of $295 USD. This fee covers access to all three courses, along with a study guide and other materials needed for successful completion of the program.

Once registered, students can begin taking any or all of the courses at their own pace. Each course includes lectures, readings, assignments, quizzes and exams that must be completed before moving onto the next course. Upon successful completion of all three courses, students will receive their HR Consultant Certificate from IFEBP.

The cost for this program varies depending on which courses are taken and how long it takes to complete them. Generally speaking, however, it should cost around $1,000 USD for all three courses combined if taken within six months’ time.

Do You Really Need a Human Resource Consultant Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a Human Resource Consultant Certificate to become a successful HR consultant. However, having one can certainly give you an advantage when it comes to landing jobs and gaining credibility in the industry.

Having a certificate in Human Resource Consulting demonstrates that you have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective HR consultant. It also shows employers that you are committed to continuing your professional development in the field and have taken the time to obtain specific qualifications.

In addition, having a certificate can open up more career opportunities for you. For example, some companies may prefer candidates with formal qualifications over those without them. Moreover, having this certification can help set you apart from other applicants who may not have taken the extra step of obtaining such credentials.

Finally, a Human Resource Consultant Certificate can provide valuable networking opportunities for job seekers. Many organizations offer courses and workshops for those looking to obtain their certificate, or even online forums where HR professionals can connect with each other and discuss best practices or new trends in the industry. Having access to these resources can be invaluable when starting out as an HR consultant.

All in all, while having a Human Resource Consultant Certificate is not an absolute necessity for success in the field of HR consulting, it certainly has many advantages that could prove beneficial both personally and professionally.

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FAQs About Human Resource Consultant Certifications

Q1. What is a Human Resource Consultant Certification?

A1. A Human Resource Consultant Certification is an accreditation that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources management and consulting. This certification allows individuals to demonstrate their commitment to providing quality HR services to their clients.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Human Resource Consultant Certification?

A2. The benefits of obtaining a Human Resource Consultant Certification include being able to demonstrate professional competence, improve job prospects, gain greater credibility within the HR community, and provide valuable insight into the current trends in HR management and consulting.

Q3. How do I become certified as a Human Resource Consultant?

A3. To become certified as a Human Resource Consultant, you must pass an examination administered by one of the recognized certifying bodies such as HRCI or SHRM. You will also need to complete approved continuing education courses in order to maintain your certification status.

Q4. How long does it take to obtain a Human Resource Consultant Certification?

A4. The amount of time it takes to obtain a Human Resource Consultant Certification will depend on how quickly you can study for and pass the certification exam and how quickly you can complete any necessary continuing education courses required for renewal of your certification status. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years or more depending on your personal dedication and effort put into studying for the exam and completing required courses for renewal purposes.

Q5. Is there ongoing support available after I obtain my Human Resource Consultant Certification?

A5: Yes, many certifying bodies offer support services such as access to online resources, mentorship programs, webinars, workshops and networking opportunities after you have obtained your certification so that you can stay up-to-date with current industry trends and best practices in HR management & consulting.