Top 11 Human Resources Certifications

Certifications are important for human resources professionals in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge, and experience in the field. Having certifications can make a candidate more competitive and attractive to employers. They also provide evidence of a commitment to professional development, which can show employers that the candidate is dedicated to their career and willing to invest time and resources into furthering their skills. Certifications can also help HR professionals stand out from other candidates by showcasing specialized skills or knowledge related to specific areas of HR practice.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for Human Resources and explain how they can help to advance a Human Resources career.

What are Human Resources Certifications?

Human resources certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources. It is typically earned through the completion of an accredited program or coursework and can be used to demonstrate a commitment to professional development, validate one's qualifications and experience, and bolster their resume. By obtaining a human resources certification, individuals are able to gain recognition as knowledgeable professionals within the field who are capable of providing quality services within the industry.

Having a human resources certification can also open up opportunities for career advancement. As HR professionals increasingly take on more strategic roles, employers are looking for candidates with credentials that demonstrate they have advanced expertise in areas such as talent management, employee relations, recruitment, and compensation. Having a certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when seeking positions at higher levels within an organization. Moreover, it provides employers with confidence that the applicant has the qualifications necessary to successfully fulfill the role they are applying for.

In addition to career advancement opportunities, having a human resources certification can also provide access to professional networks and mentorship programs that offer support throughout one's career. This type of credential is highly valued by employers as it demonstrates dedication to continued learning and developing industry-specific skills.

Pro Tip: When considering a human resources certification, research the certifying organization to make sure it is accredited by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or other recognized professional organization. This will ensure that your certification is held in high regard and will give you an edge in the job market.

Related: What does a Human Resources do?

Top 11 Human Resources Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a professional certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). The PHR certification is designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of human resource professionals in the areas of strategic management, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, risk management, and workplace safety.

It typically takes between six months to two years to prepare for the PHR exam. To get started, individuals should review the eligibility requirements on HRCI’s website. Once these requirements are met, individuals can register for the exam online or through their local HRCI office.

The cost of taking the PHR exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range from $300-$400 for members of HRCI or affiliated organizations and $450-$550 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with study materials or practice tests.

Once an individual has passed the PHR exam they will receive a certificate from HRCI which will be valid for three years. After this time period they must renew their certification by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification for human resources professionals. It is awarded by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), an independent, non-profit organization that provides certifications and credentials to HR professionals. The SPHR credential is the highest level of certification offered by HRCI and demonstrates expertise in strategic human resource management.

To obtain the SPHR credential, applicants must have a minimum of four years of experience in a professional-level HR position, with at least three years in a strategic role. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as business management and strategy, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee relations, health safety and security, and risk management.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on where you live but typically ranges from $395 - $495 USD. The exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of human resources. The SHRM-CP certification validates an individual’s expertise in the areas of employee and labor relations, talent acquisition and retention, total rewards, and workplace safety and health.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam. To get certified, you must first become a member of SHRM and then register for the exam. You will need to complete an online application form that includes your educational background and work experience. Once you have registered for the exam, you will be able to access study materials such as practice tests, textbooks, webinars, and more.

The cost of the SHRM-CP exam varies depending on whether or not you are a SHRM member. For non-members, it is $300 USD; however, members receive a discounted rate of $200 USD. Additionally, there are discounts available for military personnel and students.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have achieved a high level of mastery in the field of human resource management. The certification demonstrates that an individual has a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of effective HR management, as well as the ability to apply them in real-world situations.

To become certified, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of experience in an HR role and possessing a bachelor's degree or higher. After meeting these requirements, candidates must pass a rigorous exam that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as employee relations, organizational development, compensation and benefits, employment law, and strategic planning.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. Candidates should expect to spend time studying for the exam and preparing for it through practice exams or other resources. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether you are an SHRM member or not. For non-members, the fee is $400; for members, it is $300.

5. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage human resources on an international scale. The GPHR certification is intended for experienced HR professionals who are looking to expand their global knowledge and expertise.

The GPHR exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in international human resources management or global HR operations. Those without this experience may still qualify if they have at least three years of combined domestic and international HR experience.

To prepare for the GPHR exam, SHRM recommends that applicants review their study materials, attend review courses or seminars, and practice with sample exams. Additionally, SHRM offers a variety of self-study materials such as textbooks, online courses, webinars, and practice tests.

The cost of the GPHR exam varies depending on whether the applicant is a member of SHRM or not. For members, the cost is $400; for non-members it is $600. In addition to these fees, there may also be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or attending review courses or seminars.

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

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the mastery of the core competencies and knowledge required of HR professionals. The SHRM-CP credential is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively perform in an HR role.

It takes approximately 4-6 months to complete the SHRM-CP certification process. To become certified, you must first submit an application and pay a fee. Once your application is accepted, you will be assigned a mentor who will help guide you through the process. You must then pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as business acumen, people management, communication, leadership & navigation, global & cultural effectiveness, consultation, critical evaluation and ethical practice.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-CP certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of SHRM. For non-members, the cost is $300 for members and $400 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as proctoring fees or testing center fees.

7. Human Resources Certification Institute – aPHR™

The Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) aPHR™ is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of entry-level human resources professionals. It is designed to assess an individual’s understanding of the fundamentals of human resource management, including recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations, employment law, safety and health, and performance management.

To receive the aPHR™ certification you must pass an exam administered by HRCI. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as employee relations; compliance with federal laws; organizational development; staffing and recruitment; compensation and benefits; performance management; and HR systems. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the aPHR™ certification you must have at least one year of professional experience in a human resources role or have completed an approved college-level course in human resources management within the past five years. You must also meet certain educational requirements which vary depending on your current level of education.

The cost to take the aPHR™ exam varies depending on whether you are an HRCI member or nonmember. For members it costs $300 USD while for nonmembers it costs $400 USD. There may also be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as proctoring fees or travel expenses if you need to take your test at an offsite location.

8. WorldatWork – Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

WorldatWork's Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification program that focuses on the fundamentals of total rewards and compensation. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of compensation.

It takes approximately 12-18 months to complete the CCP program, depending on the individual’s experience and background. To obtain the CCP certification, an individual must first pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as job analysis, job evaluation, base pay administration, executive compensation, employee benefits and more. In addition to passing the exam, individuals must also have at least three years of professional experience in a related field.

The cost for obtaining the CCP certification varies depending on WorldatWork membership status. Non-members can expect to pay $1,495 for the entire program while members receive discounted rates of $995 or $895 depending on their level of membership. Additional fees may be required if an individual needs to retake any part of the exam or if they need additional study materials.

9. WorldatWork – Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)

WorldatWork’s Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of employee benefits. The CBP credential is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, and manage comprehensive benefit programs.

To become certified as a WorldatWork Certified Benefits Professional, an individual must pass the CBP exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as benefit plan design, legal compliance, cost containment strategies, communication and enrollment processes, and technology solutions.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete; however, individuals can take up to six hours if needed. To prepare for the exam, WorldatWork offers study materials such as practice exams and webinars. Additionally, individuals can attend instructor-led training courses offered through WorldatWork or its partners.

The cost for the CBP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of WorldatWork. For non-members, the cost is $495 USD; for members it is $395 USD. Once certified, individuals must renew their credentials every three years by completing continuing education activities or retaking the exam.

10. International Public Management Association for Human Resources – Certified Professional in Human Resources (IPMA-CPHR)

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources – Certified Professional in Human Resources (IPMA-CPHR) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of competency and expertise in the field of human resources. This certification is offered by the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR), an organization that provides professional development, education, and advocacy services to public sector human resource professionals.

To obtain the IPMA-CPHR certification, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of three years of experience in the field of human resources; completing at least 40 hours of approved continuing education courses; and passing an examination administered by IPMA-HR. The exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions covering topics such as labor relations, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee relations, training and development, performance management, organizational development, and legal compliance.

The cost to apply for the IPMA-CPHR certification varies depending on whether you are an IPMA-HR member or not. For non-members the fee is $375 USD plus applicable taxes. For members the fee is $250 USD plus applicable taxes.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for obtaining the IPMA-CPHR certification.

11. International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans – Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS).

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional designation for individuals who specialize in employee benefits. It is a comprehensive program that covers the entire spectrum of employee benefits, from retirement and health plans to executive compensation and global benefits. The CEBS program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively design, implement, manage, and evaluate employee benefit programs.

The CEBS program consists of five courses and exams: Fundamentals of Employee Benefits; Group Benefits; Retirement Plans; Health Care Benefits; and Global Benefits. Each course focuses on a different aspect of employee benefits, providing an in-depth understanding of the topics covered. Upon completion of all five courses, candidates must pass a comprehensive examination in order to earn their CEBS designation.

The CEBS program typically takes two years to complete, depending on the individual’s pace. Candidates can take each course at their own pace or enroll in an accelerated program that allows them to complete all five courses within one year.

To get started with the CEBS program, candidates must register online through IFEBP’s website or contact them directly for assistance with registration. Once registered, they will be provided with access to study materials and resources needed to complete the program successfully.

The cost of the CEBS program varies depending on how many courses are taken at once or if any discounts are available. Generally speaking, it costs between $3,000 - $4,000 for all five courses plus exam fees ($500 per exam).

Do You Really Need a Human Resources Certificate?

Yes, a Human Resources certificate can be very beneficial to someone looking to advance their career in the field of human resources. A certificate program can provide you with the necessary training and knowledge to become an effective HR professional. Some of the topics covered in such a program include recruitment, selection, performance management, compensation and benefits, labor relations, and organizational development.

Having a Human Resources certificate can give you an edge over other job applicants and open more doors for you in terms of career advancement. It also shows that you are committed to your profession and have taken the steps necessary to improve your skillset. Employers look favorably upon those who demonstrate a willingness to learn new things and grow professionally.

Having a Human Resources certificate can also help you land promotions or higher-paying jobs within the same company. Companies want employees who understand how best to manage people and ensure that their company’s policies are being followed. An HR certificate allows you to demonstrate your expertise in this area, which could increase your chances of moving up in the organization.

In addition, having a Human Resources certificate is beneficial if you plan on starting your own business or becoming an independent consultant in the field of HR. Having this type of certification demonstrates that you possess knowledge that is essential for providing quality services to clients or employers.

Overall, obtaining a Human Resources certificate is highly recommended if you want to advance your career or start your own business in this field. It will give you the skills necessary to succeed as well as make you more attractive to potential employers or clients.

Related: Human Resources Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resources Certifications

1. What are the benefits of a Human Resources Certification?

Answer: A Human Resources Certification provides a professional credential that demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in human resources management. It is beneficial for job seekers as it can provide an edge in the job market, help advance career opportunities, and increase earning potential.

2. What are the different types of Human Resources Certifications?

Answer: The most common types of Human Resources Certifications include Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), and Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR).

3. How long does it take to obtain a Human Resources Certification?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification and individual preparation, it typically takes between 4-18 months to complete the requirements for a HR certification.

4. How much does it cost to obtain a Human Resources Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a HR certification varies depending on the organization offering the certification, but generally ranges from $300-$800 USD.

5. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Human Resources Certification?

Answer: Most organizations offering HR certifications do not have an age limit; however, some may require applicants to be at least 18 years old or older before they can apply for certification.