Top 10 Human Resources Officer Certifications

Certifications are important for human resources officers because they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and professional competency. They provide proof that the HR officer has the skills and qualifications necessary to perform their job effectively. Certification also adds value to a candidate’s resume, making them stand out from other applicants and increasing their chances of getting hired. Additionally, certifications can give employers confidence that the individual is knowledgeable about current trends in the HR field, as well as best practices for recruiting, training, and managing employees. Ultimately, certifications provide assurance that an HR officer is qualified to take on the tasks associated with their position.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Human Resources Officers and explain how they can help further the career of a Human Resources Officer.

What are Human Resources Officer Certifications?

Human Resources Officer Certification (HROC) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in the field of human resources management. This certification is awarded by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI), an independent organization dedicated to setting and maintaining standards for HR professionals. The HROC recognizes those who demonstrate expertise in areas such as recruitment, compensation, labor relations, legal compliance, employee development, and performance management.

Holding the HROC can be beneficial in numerous ways. It provides employers with assurance that the individual has been tested and found to possess the knowledge necessary for successful human resources management. It also signals to potential employers that the individual has taken initiative and invested time and effort into becoming better qualified for their role. Finally, it gives individuals an advantage over other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions within their current organization, as it demonstrates their commitment to professional excellence.

Pro Tip: When considering human resources officer certification, look for programs that are accredited by a professional organization such as SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management). This will ensure that the program is recognized and respected throughout the industry.

Related: What does a Human Resources Officer do?

Top 10 Human Resources Officer Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of human resource professionals. The PHR certification is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency and expertise in the areas of HR management, such as recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations, and compliance.

The PHR certification requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in an HR role. Candidates must also pass an exam to demonstrate their mastery of the material covered. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as employment law, employee development, and organizational behavior. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get the PHR certification, candidates must first apply for the certification through HRCI's website. Once accepted into the program, candidates will be required to pay a fee for registration and testing materials. Generally speaking, this fee ranges from $300-$400 USD depending on whether you are an HRCI member or not.

Once registered for the exam, candidates should begin studying for it using resources provided by HRCI or other third-party providers. After passing the exam with a score of at least 70%, applicants will receive their PHR certification within 6-8 weeks after completing all requirements.

Overall, obtaining your PHR certification can take anywhere from 3 months to 1 year depending on how quickly you complete all requirements.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification

The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification is a professional designation for experienced human resources (HR) practitioners. It is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), and it is designed to recognize HR professionals who demonstrate mastery of the body of knowledge necessary to meet the challenges of today’s complex HR environment. The SPHR credential is a highly respected and sought-after certification that can help open doors to career advancement, higher pay, and greater job security.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to prepare for the SPHR exam. Preparation includes studying the HRCI Body of Knowledge, attending classes or workshops, reading books on HR topics, and participating in study groups.

To become certified as an SPHR, you must first pass the comprehensive exam administered by HRCI. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have at least four years of experience in a professional-level HR position within the last 10 years. You must also have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The cost of taking the SPHR exam varies depending on your location and whether you are a member of HRCI or not; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

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

The Society for Human Resource Management 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 resources. The SHRM-CP credential is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the core HR principles and practices, as well as a commitment to ongoing professional development.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the SHRM-CP certification process. To get certified, you must first pass the SHRM Learning System exam, which covers topics such as leadership, business acumen, communication, ethical practice, and global & cultural awareness. After passing this exam, you must then submit an application to become certified.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-CP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of SHRM. For nonmembers, the cost is $300 USD for the exam and $100 USD for the application fee. For members of SHRM, there is a discounted rate of $200 USD for the exam and $50 USD for the application fee.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a certification program designed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is a globally recognized credential for HR professionals who demonstrate mastery in the field of human resource management. The SHRM-SCP certification is intended to recognize experienced HR practitioners who have mastered the knowledge, skills and competencies required to effectively lead and manage an organization’s HR function.

It typically takes between 6 and 12 months to prepare for the SHRM-SCP exam. To get certified, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements, which include having at least three years of professional experience in an HR role as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher. Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for the exam online through SHRM’s website.

The cost of taking the SHRM-SCP exam varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are a member of SHRM. In the United States, the cost is $300 for non-members and $200 for members. International fees may vary. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with study materials and test preparation courses.

5. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification

Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification is an internationally-recognized certification that validates an individual's expertise and knowledge in the field of human resources. It is offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), a global leader in HR credentialing.

The GPHR certification is designed for experienced HR professionals who work on a global scale, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to manage human resources in multiple countries or regions. The certification covers topics such as global HR strategies, international labor laws, cross-cultural communication, and more.

It typically takes about six months to complete the GPHR certification program. To get certified, individuals must first submit an application to HRCI and then pass two exams: one covering general HR topics and one covering international/global HR topics.

The cost of obtaining a GPHR certification varies depending on where you live; however, it typically costs around $1,000 USD for both exams combined.

6. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) Certification

The Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) certification is a professional credential offered by the WorldatWork organization. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of compensation and benefits. It is one of the most prestigious certifications for compensation professionals and is widely recognized as an industry standard for excellence.

To become a CCP, candidates must have at least five years of experience in the field of compensation and benefits, as well as demonstrate their knowledge through passing a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, total rewards strategy, base pay structure, equity-based plans, executive compensation, employee benefits and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the CCP exam, candidates must first join WorldatWork or renew their membership with them if they are already members. They must then register for the exam online or by mail. The cost of the registration fee is $450 USD for WorldatWork members or $650 USD for non-members.

Once registered for the exam, candidates will receive study materials from WorldatWork that will help them prepare for the test. It typically takes six months to one year to prepare for the CCP exam depending on an individual's background knowledge and experience in compensation and benefits management. After successfully passing the exam, candidates will be awarded their CCP certification which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

7. WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (WCCP) Certification

The WorldatWork Certified Compensation Professional (WCCP) certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage an organization’s compensation programs. The WCCP certification is awarded by WorldatWork, a global non-profit association for human resources professionals.

To become certified, applicants must pass a three-hour exam that covers topics such as job evaluation and design, pay structures and systems, total rewards strategies, performance management and employee benefits. The exam is offered in both English and Spanish.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the exam. Preparation involves studying course materials provided by WorldatWork or taking a preparatory course offered through their website. In addition, applicants should have at least two years of experience in the field of compensation management or related areas.

The cost of the WCCP certification varies depending on whether you are already a member of WorldatWork or not. For non-members, the fee is $495; for members it is $395. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking preparatory courses or purchasing study materials from WorldatWork.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the achievements of public sector human resources professionals. It is designed to provide recognition and credibility to those who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience, and expertise in the field of public sector human resources management.

The IPMA-HR Certification Program consists of three levels: Certified Professional (CP), Senior Certified Professional (SCP), and Master Certified Professional (MCP). Each level requires a different set of qualifications and criteria to be met in order to obtain certification. To become certified at any level, individuals must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the areas of public sector human resources management by passing an examination administered by IPMA-HR.

The process for obtaining IPMA-HR certification typically takes between six months and one year, depending on the individual’s current level of education, experience, and preparation for the examinations. The cost for obtaining certification varies based on which level you are seeking; however, it generally ranges from $200-$500 USD.

To get started with the process, individuals must first register with IPMA-HR as a candidate for certification. This requires submitting an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts or certificates demonstrating educational qualifications and/or work experience related to the field of public sector human resources management. Once registered as a candidate, individuals can then begin studying for the examinations associated with each level of certification.

Once all requirements have been met and all examinations passed successfully, candidates will receive their official IPMA-HR certification credentials along with other benefits such as access to exclusive online content and discounts on future training courses offered by IPMA-HR.

9. HR Certification Institute’s Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) Certification

The Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) certification is a credential offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed for entry-level and mid-level HR professionals who are looking to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field of human resources. This certification is ideal for those who are new to the profession or those who have been working in HR for several years but want to gain additional recognition.

The aPHR certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as human resources fundamentals, employment law, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and workplace safety. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of three hours. The cost of the exam is $300 USD.

In order to be eligible for the aPHR certification, individuals must meet certain requirements such as having at least one year of professional experience in a human resources role or having completed an accredited college or university program related to human resources management. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of professional experience or education when applying for the certification.

The process of obtaining the aPHR certification typically takes between four to six weeks from start to finish. After registering for the exam and paying the fee, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access their study materials and take their practice exams. After studying for the exam, applicants can schedule their test date with Pearson VUE Testing Centers located throughout North America. Once they have successfully passed their exam, they will receive their official certificate from HRCI within two weeks.

10. National Association of State Workforce Agencies’ Certified Government Chief Human Capital Officer Program

The National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) Certified Government Chief Human Capital Officer Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of government leaders in human capital management. It is intended to provide recognition for those who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field. The program provides an opportunity for government leaders to demonstrate their commitment to excellence and their ability to effectively manage human capital resources.

The program consists of three levels: Certified Government Chief Human Capital Officer (CGCHCO), Senior Certified Government Chief Human Capital Officer (SCGCHCO) and Master Certified Government Chief Human Capital Officer (MCGCHCO). To obtain any of these certifications, applicants must have at least five years of experience in public sector human capital management, pass an examination, and complete a series of courses related to the field.

The CGCHCO certification requires applicants to pass a two-hour exam covering topics such as legal requirements, recruitment and selection processes, compensation and benefits administration, performance management, training and development, labor relations, safety and health regulations, employee relations, workforce planning, organizational effectiveness strategies and more. The exam fee is $395.

The SCGCHCO certification requires applicants to pass a four-hour exam covering topics such as strategic human capital planning, budgeting for human capital resources, developing effective policies and procedures for managing human capital resources, using technology for managing human capital resources, managing change initiatives within organizations related to human capital management strategies and more. The exam fee is $495.

The MCGCHCO certification requires applicants to pass a six-hour exam covering topics such as advanced techniques in recruiting talent into organizations; designing effective compensation systems; developing effective performance management systems; leading successful change initiatives; working with unions; creating effective succession plans; leveraging technology for human capital resource management; developing metrics that measure the effectiveness of human capital resource strategies; understanding global trends in HRM practices; and more. The exam fee is $595.

All exams are administered by NASWA’s partner organization – the Institute for Certification Excellence (ICE). Once candidates successfully complete all requirements they will receive their official certificates from NASWA which will be valid for three years from the date it was issued.

Do You Really Need a Human Resources Officer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the specific needs of your business. For some businesses, having a Human Resources Officer Certificate can be beneficial in terms of providing credibility and professional qualifications. However, for other businesses, it may not be necessary to obtain this type of certification.

In general, obtaining a Human Resources Officer Certificate is not required for most businesses. However, if you are looking to increase your expertise in human resources management and demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial. It can also help you stand out from other job applicants when you are looking for employment in the human resources field.

Having a Human Resources Officer Certificate could also provide you with additional training opportunities that would otherwise not be available to you without the certification. This could include specialized courses or seminars that could help you develop new skills and knowledge that would be beneficial to your business or organization. Additionally, having a certificate may make it easier for employers to recognize your credentials and make hiring decisions based on them.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Human Resources Officer Certificate depends on what kind of career goals you have and what kind of benefits it will bring to your business or organization. If you feel that obtaining such a certificate would help further your career goals, then it may be worth pursuing one. Otherwise, it may not be necessary for your particular situation.

Related: Human Resources Officer Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resources Officer Certifications

1. What is a Human Resources Officer Certification?

Answer: A Human Resources Officer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in human resources management, labor relations, and employment law. It is offered by many professional organizations and educational institutions.

2. How do I become certified as a Human Resources Officer?

Answer: To become certified as a Human Resources Officer, you must successfully complete an approved training program or course of study, pass an examination, and meet other eligibility requirements set by the organization offering the certification.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Human Resources Officer?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Human Resources Officer can provide career advancement opportunities, demonstrate expertise to employers, increase job marketability, improve job performance, and open up access to higher-level positions within the field of human resources management.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Human Resources Officer?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified as a Human Resources Officer will depend on the specific certification program or course of study chosen. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within one to two years.

5. Is there any continuing education requirement for maintaining my Human Resources Officer Certification?

Answer: Yes, most organizations offering HR officer certifications require continuing education credits in order to maintain certification status. These credits may be obtained through attending seminars or workshops related to HR topics or taking online courses related to HR topics.