Top 10 Human Resources Director Certifications

Certifications are important for a Human Resources Director in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage the human resources operations of an organization. Certifications demonstrate a commitment to excellence and provide employers with assurance that they are hiring someone who is knowledgeable in their field. They also serve as a benchmark of quality and can help differentiate candidates from one another when competing for jobs. Finally, certifications can give an employer confidence that their HR Director is up-to-date on the latest industry trends and regulations, which helps ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Human Resources Directors and explains how they can contribute to a human resources director's career.

What are Human Resources Director Certifications?

Human Resources Director Certification is a professional credential for those in the Human Resources field. It is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and techniques of Human Resources management. By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in HR management and show employers that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide effective leadership in the HR department.

The certification can help individuals advance their career by giving them an edge when applying for promotions or new positions. It also shows that they have taken the time to further their education and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the field. Additionally, it can offer proof of proficiency in areas such as performance management, employee relations, recruiting and selection, training and development, compensation and benefits, labor law compliance, strategic planning, organizational development, risk management/safety programs, change management strategies, and employee engagement initiatives. This certification can help employers identify qualified professionals who are committed to staying current with changes in best practices related to human resources management.

Pro tip: When looking for a human resources director certification, make sure the program is accredited and recognized by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Additionally, look for programs that offer practical experience in addition to classroom instruction. This will help ensure that you are receiving the most comprehensive education and training possible.

Related: What does a Human Resources Director do?

Top 10 Human Resources Director Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). This certification is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of human resource professionals. It demonstrates that individuals have mastered the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including areas such as recruitment, selection, training and development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, safety and health, and risk management.

To become certified as a PHR professional, individuals must pass an examination administered by HRCI. The exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions covering topics related to human resources management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to qualify for the PHR exam, applicants must have at least one year of professional HR experience or two years of non-HR experience with a master's degree in HR or a related field.

The cost for taking the PHR exam varies depending on whether you are an HRCI member or not. For non-members, it costs $395 USD; for members it costs $295 USD. Additionally, there is an application fee of $100 USD for both members and non-members.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will be eligible to receive your official PHR certification from HRCI.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification for experienced human resources professionals. It is offered by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI), and is recognized as one of the most respected certifications in the field of human resources.

The SPHR certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in areas such as strategic management, workforce planning, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and risk management. It also validates a person's commitment to staying current with best practices and trends in the field of human resources.

It typically takes between two to three months to prepare for the SPHR exam. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost of taking the exam is $395 for HRCI members and $595 for non-members.

In order to qualify for the SPHR certification, individuals must have at least five years of professional-level HR experience and demonstrate mastery of all areas tested on the exam. Individuals who successfully pass the exam are awarded their SPHR certification which must be renewed every three years by meeting continuing education requirements.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification program offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate competency in the principles and practices of human resource management. With an SHRM-CP, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in areas such as recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, labor relations, and risk management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for the SHRM-CP. To get certified, you must first pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as business acumen, leadership & navigation, ethical practice, communication & relationship management, consultation & critical evaluation. The exam consists of 140 multiple choice questions that must be completed in two hours.

The cost for the SHRM-CP exam varies depending on when you register for it. If you register before the early bird deadline then it will cost $300 USD; if you register after the early bird deadline then it will cost $400 USD. In addition to this fee there may also be additional fees associated with studying materials or courses related to preparing for the exam.

4. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) is a certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have achieved a high level of competency in global human resource management. This certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in global HR practices, policies, and strategies.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the GPHR certification process. To get certified, individuals must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having a minimum of three years of professional experience in human resources management and/or international/global human resources management. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as global business strategy, global workforce planning, global compensation and benefits, and global employee relations.

The cost of obtaining the GPHR certification varies depending on whether you are an SHRM member or non-member. For members, it costs $495 for the exam application fee plus $100 for each additional recertification cycle. For non-members, it costs $595 for the exam application fee plus $150 for each additional recertification cycle.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their credential by completing at least 60 professional development credits every three years to remain certified.

5. 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 that recognizes individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and competencies required to effectively lead an organization’s human resource management functions. This certification is the highest level of recognition within the HR profession, and it was developed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field.

It typically takes approximately one year to complete all requirements for SHRM-SCP certification. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, as well as pass an exam. The exam covers topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment, total rewards, employee development, employee relations, risk management, and global HR management.

To get SHRM-SCP certified, applicants must first register with SHRM and pay a registration fee. After registering, applicants must complete an online application form which includes providing information about their educational background and professional experience. Once the application has been approved by SHRM, applicants can then register for the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their SHRM-SCP certification.

The cost of becoming SHRM-SCP certified varies depending on whether or not you are a member of SHRM. Non-members will need to pay a $100 application fee plus the cost of the exam ($300). If you are already a member of SHRM you will need to pay only the cost of the exam ($300).

6. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, and maintain effective compensation systems. The CCP certification is widely respected by employers, human resources professionals, and other compensation experts.

To become a CCP, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, pay structure design and implementation, performance management, total rewards strategy development, and legal compliance issues. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in four hours.

In order to apply for the CCP certification exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of professional experience in compensation or related fields; holding a bachelor’s degree or equivalent; and passing an ethics assessment administered by WorldatWork.

The cost of the CCP certification exam is $795 for WorldatWork members and $995 for non-members. In addition to the exam fee, there may also be additional costs associated with study materials or courses offered by WorldatWork or other organizations.

Once an applicant has passed the exam and met all eligibility requirements, they will receive their official CCP designation from WorldatWork within six weeks of passing the exam.

7. 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 an internationally recognized certification program that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of human resources. The IPMA-HR CP is designed to provide recognition for individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the core competencies necessary for effective human resources management.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete all requirements for the IPMA-HR CP. To get certified, you must first pass a written exam, which covers topics such as human resource management principles, labor relations, employee benefits and compensation, organizational development and training. Once you have passed the written exam, you must then submit a portfolio demonstrating your experience in the field of human resources. This portfolio should include evidence of your work in areas such as recruitment and selection, performance management, labor relations, employee benefits and compensation administration. After submitting your portfolio for review by IPMA-HR staff members, you may be asked to participate in an oral interview with a panel of HR professionals.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on your location; however, it typically costs around $500-$750 USD to register for the exam and submit your portfolio.

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

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) program is a comprehensive, graduate-level professional designation program for those who work in the employee benefits field. The CEBS program consists of five courses and an exam that covers topics such as plan design, funding, legal compliance, communication, and administration.

It typically takes about two years to complete the CEBS program. To get started, you must first become a member of IFEBP and pay the required fees. You then need to complete all five courses within two years or less. The courses are offered online or in person at various locations throughout the year. Once you have completed all five courses, you will be eligible to take the exam and earn your CEBS designation.

The cost of the CEBS program depends on which type of membership you choose with IFEBP. For example, if you choose an individual membership, it costs $195 per year plus course fees. If you choose a group membership, it costs $125 per person per year plus course fees. Course fees vary depending on the course and whether it is taken online or in person.

Overall, getting your CEBS designation can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in employee benefits management and set yourself apart from other professionals in this field.

9. American Society for Training and Development – Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

The American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate expertise in the learning and performance field. This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully design, develop, deliver, manage, and evaluate learning programs.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CPLP certification process. To get certified, applicants must first pass an exam that covers topics such as instructional design principles, adult learning theory, evaluation methods, project management principles, and other related topics. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work which will be reviewed by a panel of experts.

The cost of obtaining the CPLP certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ASTD member. For non-members, the cost is $1125 USD plus applicable taxes; for members it is $925 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally there are fees associated with taking the exam ($450 USD for non-members; $350 USD for members).

10. National Association of Colleges and Employers – Senior Certified Professional (NACE-SCP).

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Senior Certified Professional (SCP) is a professional certification for individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of college and career readiness. It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of college and career planning, recruitment, job search preparation, career development, and employer relations.

To become certified as an SCP, applicants must meet certain educational requirements as well as demonstrate their knowledge through an exam. The educational requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with at least 18 semester hours in college/career counseling-related courses or a master’s degree in counseling or related field with at least 9 semester hours in college/career counseling-related courses. In addition to the educational requirements, applicants must also have at least three years of full-time experience working directly with students on college/career issues.

The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as: career development theories; college admissions process; job search strategies; recruiting trends; employer relations; technology applications; diversity issues; legal considerations; and ethical standards. Applicants must achieve a score of 70% or higher to pass the exam and receive their SCP certification.

The cost for the NACE-SCP certification is $395 for members ($495 for non-members). The exam fee is included in this cost. The entire process usually takes about six weeks from start to finish once all documentation has been submitted.

Do You Really Need a Human Resources Director Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and their current level of experience. For those who are looking to enter the field of human resources, a Human Resources Director Certificate can be a great way to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the area. This certification may also help an individual stand out from other candidates during job searches, as employers may be more likely to view them as knowledgeable and qualified for the position.

For those who already have extensive experience in human resources, a certificate may not be necessary unless they are interested in advancing their careers or expanding into new areas of HR. In these cases, having a certificate can help provide evidence that the individual has additional skills and knowledge that could be beneficial to their employer.

In conclusion, whether or not one needs a Human Resources Director Certificate depends on their individual career goals and current level of experience in the field. For those just entering the field or looking to advance their current positions, obtaining a certificate can demonstrate proficiency and make them more attractive to potential employers. Those with extensive experience may not need such a certification unless they are looking to expand into new roles or take on additional responsibilities.

Related: Human Resources Director Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resources Director Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Human Resources Directors?

Answer: The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certifications, which are both designed for HR directors. Additionally, the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) offers the Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) certification.

2. How do I become certified as an HR Director?

Answer: To earn any of the above certifications, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements and then pass a certification exam. For more information on each certification's specific requirements, please refer to their websites.

3. How long does it take to become certified as an HR Director?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified depends on your current level of experience and education, as well as how quickly you can prepare for the certification exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months to a year or more to complete all of the steps necessary to receive your certification(s).

4. Are there any continuing education requirements after becoming an HR Director?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require that you participate in ongoing continuing education activities to maintain your credential(s). These activities typically involve attending workshops and seminars, reading relevant materials, or taking additional coursework related to the field of human resources management.

5. What is the cost associated with obtaining HR Director certifications?

Answer: Costs vary depending on which certification you pursue and where you choose to take the exam(s). Generally speaking, fees range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for both initial and renewal fees combined.