Top 10 Human Resources Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a human resources manager in the job market because they offer evidence of expertise and knowledge in the field. They demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their chosen specialty, which is invaluable when competing for jobs. Certifications also signal to employers that the individual has taken initiative to gain additional skills and training, which demonstrates dedication and commitment to their profession. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement, as those with higher credentials may be more competitive for promotions or managerial roles. Finally, certifications can provide access to exclusive job networks or recruiters who specialize in HR positions.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Human Resources Managers and explain how they can enhance a human resources manager's career.

What are Human Resources Manager Certifications?

Human Resources Manager Certification (HRMC) is a professional certification program designed to help Human Resources Managers demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field. This certification is offered through a variety of organizations, including the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR).

The HRMC program helps managers to better understand their roles and responsibilities as leaders in their organizations, as well as gain an understanding of current best practices in human resources management. It also provides an opportunity for professionals to stay abreast of new regulations, trends, and developments in the field. Through this certification, managers can demonstrate that they are knowledgeable about all aspects of HR management and have an understanding of legal compliance requirements.

By obtaining HRMC certification, managers can show that they have the skills necessary to effectively manage a staff of employees. This certification can also be beneficial when seeking promotions or applying for new jobs within their organization or elsewhere. Having this certification may give a manager an edge over other applicants who do not possess it. Furthermore, having HRMC certification can provide professionals with more credibility when working with clients or customers outside of their organization.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a human resources manager certification, it's important to research the different types of certifications available and make sure you select one that is relevant to your specific role and responsibilities. Additionally, look for certification programs that provide continuing education opportunities to keep your knowledge up-to-date.

Related: What does a Human Resources Manager do?

Top 10 Human Resources Manager Certifications

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

1. 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 recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the technical and operational aspects of human resource management. The SHRM-CP credential is intended for those who are just beginning their careers in HR, as well as those who have been in the profession for several years.

It typically takes about 6-9 months to prepare for the exam and complete all requirements for certification. To become certified, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an exam. You must also agree to abide by SHRM’s Code of Ethics.

To get started on your path to becoming a SHRM Certified Professional, you should first review the eligibility requirements and decide if you meet them. If so, you should then register for the exam and begin studying. There are many resources available to help you prepare, including books, online courses, practice exams, and more.

The cost of becoming a SHRM-CP varies depending on which study materials you use and whether or not you need to take any additional courses or seminars. Generally speaking, it will cost around $400-$500 for all of the necessary materials and fees associated with taking the exam.

2. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification that is offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skills in the human resources field. The PHR certification demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including areas such as strategic management, workforce planning, employee relations, compensation and benefits administration.

It typically takes 6-12 months for an individual to prepare for the PHR exam. The amount of time it takes depends on the individual’s experience level and how much effort they put into studying for the exam.

To get the PHR certification, individuals must first pass a comprehensive exam administered by HRCI. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least one year of professional experience in a human resources role or two years of professional experience in any other role related to HR management.

The cost to take the PHR exam varies depending on where you live but generally ranges from $400-$500 USD. This fee includes registration, study materials, and access to practice exams.

3. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification granted by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is the highest level of certification available to human resource professionals, and demonstrates mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and manage an organization’s HR function.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the SPHR exam. The preparation process includes studying for the exam, attending workshops or seminars, taking practice tests, and/or obtaining additional education or training.

To become certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of experience in a senior-level HR role, holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, and passing the SPHR examination.

The cost of obtaining the SPHR certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 to take the exam itself; however, additional costs may be incurred if you opt for additional test preparation materials or courses.

4. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) is a professional designation offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in global human resource management. The GPHR demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in areas such as international labor relations, global compensation and benefits, global talent management, and global mobility.

The GPHR certification process includes an online application, a written exam, and a three-hour performance-based assessment. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that test the applicant's knowledge of global human resources topics. The performance-based assessment requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the GPHR certification process. To be eligible for the GPHR certification, applicants must have at least four years of professional experience in global HR or related fields.

The cost of the GPHR certification varies depending on whether you are a SHRM member or not. For non-members, it costs $400 for the application fee plus $300 for each exam module taken (a total of $900). For SHRM members, it costs $250 for the application fee plus $200 for each exam module taken (a total of $650).

5. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of compensation professionals. It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates mastery of the core principles, practices, and techniques of total rewards.

In order to become a CCP, you must complete an application process that includes demonstrating your experience in the field, passing an exam, and agreeing to abide by the Code of Ethics. The exam consists of five sections covering topics such as job analysis and design, compensation program design and administration, performance management systems, executive compensation plans, and legal compliance.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the exam. You can prepare for the exam by taking courses offered by WorldatWork or other organizations or self-study using textbooks or online resources.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of WorldatWork or not. For members, it costs $595 USD; for non-members it costs $795 USD. Additionally there are fees associated with recertification every three years which cost $150 USD for members and $300 USD for non-members.

6. 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 offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to effectively lead and manage people in organizations. The SHRM-SCP credential is intended for experienced HR practitioners who have a minimum of five years of experience in the field.

It takes approximately six months to complete the SHRM-SCP certification process. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must meet certain educational and work experience requirements. In order to apply for the SHRM-SCP certification, applicants must first become a member of SHRM. Once they are members, they can then register for the exam and pay the applicable fees.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-SCP certification varies depending on whether or not an applicant is a member of SHRM. For nonmembers, the total cost is $395 USD; for members, it is $315 USD. This includes both the application fee ($50 USD) and exam fee ($345 USD). Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with study materials or other preparation activities.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is a professional association dedicated to advancing the public sector human resources profession. IPMA-HR provides certification programs designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of public sector HR professionals.

The IPMA-HR Certified Professional (IPMA-CP) certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the core competencies required to be successful in the public sector HR field. This certification is available to individuals who have a minimum of two years of experience in public sector human resources management, or one year with a master’s degree in human resources or a related field.

To obtain the IPMA-CP certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as labor relations, recruitment and selection, benefits administration, employee development, and performance management. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining the IPMA-CP certification varies depending on whether you are an IPMA-HR member or nonmember. For members, the cost is $400; for nonmembers it is $550. Additionally, there are fees associated with re-testing if you do not pass the exam on your first try.

8. HRCI Recertification Provider Program (HRCI-RP)

The HRCI Recertification Provider Program (HRCI-RP) is a program designed to help Human Resources professionals maintain their recertification credentials. The program provides an online platform for HR professionals to earn credits towards their recertification requirements through activities such as attending conferences, participating in webinars, completing online courses, and writing articles or blogs.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the HRCI-RP program. To get started, you must first register with the HRCI website and create an account. Once your account is created, you can begin earning credits by participating in approved activities.

The cost of the HRCI-RP program depends on the number of credits you need to earn for recertification. Generally, it costs $99 per credit hour earned up to a maximum of $1,500 for 15 credit hours. You can also purchase additional credits at discounted rates if needed.

Once you have earned all of the required credits for your recertification level, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from HRCI and your credentials will be updated accordingly.

9. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional designation that is awarded by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP). CEBS certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in employee benefits and retirement plans.

In order to earn the CEBS designation, individuals must complete five courses offered by the IFEBP and pass an exam for each course. The courses cover topics such as retirement plans, health and welfare benefits, investments, financial management, legal compliance, and communication strategies. Each course takes approximately 30 hours to complete.

To get started on the path to becoming a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist, you must first register with the IFEBP. After registering, you can purchase the courses online or through their customer service department. The cost of each course ranges from $400 - $600 depending on whether you purchase them individually or as part of a package. Once all five courses are completed and passed, you will be eligible to take the comprehensive exam which costs $200.

Once all requirements are met and you pass the exam, you will receive your CEBS certification and be recognized as an expert in employee benefits and retirement plans.

10. National Association of State Workforce Agencies Certified Workforce Development Professional (NASWA-CWDP).

The National Association of State Workforce Agencies Certified Workforce Development Professional (NASWA-CWDP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of workforce development. The certification requires applicants to pass an exam administered by NASWA, which covers topics such as labor market analysis, job search strategies, career guidance, and job training.

The NASWA-CWDP certification process takes approximately six months from start to finish. Applicants must first complete an online application and pay a fee of $150. After submitting the application, they will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam. Once they successfully complete the exam, they will be notified that they have been certified as a NASWA-CWDP.

To become certified as a NASWA-CWDP, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of workforce development concepts through passing the online exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as labor market analysis, job search strategies, career guidance, and job training. Applicants must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly in order to pass the exam.

The cost for becoming certified as a NASWA-CWDP is $150 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking and completing the online exam.

Do You Really Need a Human Resources Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals and what you hope to achieve in the field of human resources. If you are looking to move into a management role within HR, then it is likely that a Human Resources Manager Certificate would be beneficial. This certificate will help demonstrate your knowledge and abilities in the area, as well as give you a competitive edge when applying for positions.

However, if you are already an experienced HR professional or have years of experience in the field, then a Human Resources Manager Certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it may be better to focus on continuing education and other credentials that can help demonstrate mastery of the subject matter. These could include specialized certifications or diplomas from accredited institutions or programs.

In any case, it is important to remember that having a Human Resources Manager Certificate does not guarantee success in the field. Other factors such as experience and personal qualities can play an important role in determining whether or not someone is successful in their chosen profession. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide if they need a Human Resources Manager Certificate and how best to obtain one if they do.

Related: Human Resources Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resources Manager Certifications

Q1: What is a Human Resources Manager Certification?

A1: A Human Resources Manager Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and competency in the field of human resources management. It typically includes courses in areas such as recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, and labor laws.

Q2: How do I become certified in Human Resources Management?

A2: To become certified in human resources management, you must complete an accredited human resources program or course of study. You may also need to pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter.

Q3: What are the benefits of getting a Human Resources Manager Certification?

A3: Having a Human Resources Manager Certification can open up job opportunities, show employers that you have the necessary skills for the job, increase your earning potential and help advance your career. It also demonstrates to employers that you take professional development seriously and are committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends.

Q4: How long does it take to get a Human Resources Manager Certification?

A4: The duration of time required to obtain a Human Resources Manager Certification depends on which program or course you choose. Most programs require at least one year of study and may include additional exams or certifications after completion.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for getting a Human Resources Manager Certification?

A5: Depending on which program or course you choose, there may be certain prerequisites required before enrolling in a certification program. These could include having prior work experience in human resources or related fields, completing certain courses or passing an exam demonstrating knowledge of the subject matter.