Top 11 Human Resources Recruiter Certifications

Certifications are important for Human Resources Recruiters in the job market because they show that the recruiter has a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. They can also help demonstrate a recruiter’s proficiency in various areas, such as interviewing skills, recruiting techniques, and hiring practices. Additionally, certifications provide evidence that a recruiter is up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. This can be beneficial when trying to attract top talent to an organization. Ultimately, having certifications can help recruiters stand out from their peers and increase their value to employers.

This article reviews the top certifications for Human Resources Recruiters and explains how they can help further a recruiter's career.

What are Human Resources Recruiter Certifications?

Human resources recruiter certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the recruitment and hiring process. It typically requires passing a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as job analysis, sourcing strategies, interviewing techniques, selection methods, legal considerations, and onboarding. By becoming certified, recruiters demonstrate that they have the skills needed to successfully manage the entire recruitment process from start to finish.

Having a human resources recruiter certification can help recruiters stand out in the field of HR by demonstrating their commitment to excellence and providing them with an edge over other candidates. It also provides employers with a way to evaluate applicants’ qualifications quickly and easily. Furthermore, certified recruiters are more likely to stay current on best practices in recruitment due to continuing education requirements associated with maintaining their credentials. This means they can provide employers with more valuable advice when it comes time to hire new employees. Ultimately, having a human resources recruiter certification can give recruiters an advantage in their career by expanding their opportunities for growth and helping them become more successful in their roles.

Pro Tip: When considering a human resources recruiter certification, make sure to research the specific requirements and credentials needed to qualify. Many certifications require an HR degree or relevant work experience in addition to passing an examination. Additionally, look into the cost of obtaining the certification and ensure that you have the necessary time and resources available to successfully complete the program.

Related: What does a Human Resources Recruiter do?

Top 11 Human Resources Recruiter Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). The PHR certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the technical and operational aspects of human resource management. It is intended for those with experience in HR roles, such as HR managers, generalists, directors, and other senior-level practitioners.

It typically takes six months to one year to prepare for the PHR exam. Preparation includes studying the HRCI Body of Knowledge, which covers topics such as staffing, employee relations, compensation and benefits, safety and health, and more. Additionally, you can take courses or workshops to help you study for the exam.

To get the PHR certification, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of professional-level HR experience within the past five years; a bachelor’s degree or higher; and passing an exam administered by HRCI. After meeting these requirements, you can apply online for the PHR exam.

The cost of taking the PHR exam varies depending on your location and whether or not you are a member of HRCI. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD to take the exam without being a member of HRCI; however if you are a member then it can be significantly cheaper (around $200 USD).

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification for human resources professionals. It is offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). The SPHR certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for the SPHR certification. This includes completing an approved course of study, passing an exam, and meeting certain experience requirements. The cost of obtaining the SPHR certification varies depending on where you take the course and how much preparation you do beforehand. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,500 and $2,000 to get your SPHR certification.

To get your SPHR certification, you must first meet certain eligibility criteria set forth by HRCI. These include having at least three years of professional-level HR experience within the past five years; holding a bachelor's degree or higher; and completing an approved course of study or passing an exam related to HR topics such as employment law, compensation management, performance management, employee relations, organizational development, staffing selection processes, and more.

Once you have met these criteria, you can register for the exam through HRCI's website or through a testing center near you. You will then be required to pass a multiple-choice exam that covers all aspects of human resources management. Once you have passed the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your official SPHR certificate from HRCI.

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 professionals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies of human resource management. This certification is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), which is the world’s largest association devoted to human resource management.

The SHRM-CP certification is designed to help HR professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as employee relations, recruitment, and training and development. It also helps employers identify qualified HR professionals who can effectively manage their organizations’ human capital.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for and obtain the SHRM-CP certification. To become certified, you must pass an exam that covers the SHRM Body of Competency & Knowledge (SHRM BoCK). The exam consists of 180 multiple choice questions that are divided into four sections: People, Organization, Workplace, and Strategy & Solutions.

To get started on your journey towards becoming a SHRM-CP certified professional, you will need to register with SHRM online. Once registered, you will need to purchase study materials from SHRM or other vendors that offer preparation courses for the exam. You may also want to join a local chapter of SHRM so that you can network with other HR professionals and gain access to additional resources.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-CP certification varies depending on whether you choose self-study or a preparation course from an outside vendor. The cost of self-study materials ranges from $200-$400 USD while taking a preparation course from an outside vendor can range from $1,000-$2,000 USD. Additionally, there is a fee for taking the exam which currently stands at $300 USD for members of SHRM and $400 USD for nonmembers.

4. 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 experienced HR professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and competencies necessary to effectively lead an organization’s human resource function.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the SHRM-SCP certification process. To get certified, you must first apply and be accepted into the program. Once accepted, you must complete an online course that covers topics such as employee relations, compensation and benefits, recruitment and selection, training and development, and labor laws. After completing the coursework, you will need to pass a comprehensive exam.

The cost of the SHRM-SCP certification varies depending on your membership status with SHRM. If you are not a member of SHRM, it will cost $400 for the application fee plus $300 for the exam fee. If you are a member of SHRM, it will cost $200 for the application fee plus $300 for the exam fee. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking review courses or purchasing study materials to help prepare for the exam.

Overall, obtaining your SHRM-SCP certification can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise in human resources management and increase your job prospects in this field.

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

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) is a professional association that works to advance the practice of public human resource management. It provides education, training, and certification to human resources professionals in the public sector.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the IPMA-HR certification process. The first step is to become a member of IPMA-HR and complete an application for certification. Once your application is approved, you will need to pass a written exam and complete a portfolio review. After passing the exam and completing the portfolio review, you will be awarded your IPMA-HR Certification.

To become an IPMA-HR member, you must submit an application and pay an annual membership fee. This fee varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of an organization.

The cost of taking the written exam also varies based on whether you are taking it as part of an organization or as an individual. For individuals, the cost is $250 per exam attempt; for organizations, it is $500 per exam attempt. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam if you require special accommodations or if you wish to take it at a test center other than your local one.

Finally, there is also a fee associated with submitting your portfolio review for certification; this fee is currently $250 per submission.

6. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a professional designation awarded by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the area of employee benefits. The CEBS program provides comprehensive education and training for those interested in pursuing a career in employee benefits.

The CEBS program consists of five courses, each focusing on a different aspect of employee benefits. To earn the CEBS designation, individuals must complete all five courses within two years and pass an examination for each course.

To get started with the CEBS program, individuals must first become a member of IFEBP by paying an annual membership fee. Once they are members, they can register for any or all of the five courses offered by IFEBP. Each course costs $495 and includes access to online study materials, textbooks, and other resources needed to prepare for the examinations.

The cost of becoming a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) depends on how many courses you take and whether or not you choose to purchase additional study materials or textbooks. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,475 to $3,000+ depending on what you decide to purchase.

Once you have completed all five courses and passed all five examinations within two years, you will be eligible to receive your CEBS designation from IFEBP.

7. World at Work Total Rewards Certification (WATWC)

World at Work Total Rewards Certification (WATWC) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of total rewards. The certification focuses on four key areas: total rewards strategy, compensation, benefits, and recognition. It is aimed at professionals who are responsible for developing and managing total rewards programs in their organizations.

The WATWC certification process typically takes six to nine months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first pass an online assessment that covers the four main topics of the certification. After passing the assessment, applicants must complete an online course that covers all of the topics in greater detail. Finally, applicants must pass a proctored exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the material covered in the course.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take your courses and exams; however, it typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 USD.

8. World at Work Strategic Compensation Certification (SWSCC)

The World at Work Strategic Compensation Certification (SWSCC) is a professional certification program offered by the WorldatWork Society of Certified Professionals. It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in strategic compensation management. The certification is intended for those who are responsible for developing, implementing, and managing an organization’s total rewards strategy.

The program consists of two courses: the Strategic Compensation Management course and the Advanced Strategic Compensation Management course. Both courses must be completed within two years in order to qualify for the SWSCC certification.

In order to get the SWSCC certification, you must first complete both courses and pass a final exam with a score of 80% or higher. You will also need to submit proof of your work experience in compensation management or related fields as well as two letters of recommendation from supervisors or colleagues who can attest to your knowledge and skills in this area.

The cost for the SWSCC certification varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in-person, but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.

9. American Staffing Association Certified Staffing Professional (CSP)

The American Staffing Association Certified Staffing Professional (CSP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the staffing industry. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to excellence in the staffing field.

It typically takes about 3 months to complete the CSP program, depending on how quickly you can study and prepare for the exam. To get started, you must first submit an application and fee to the American Staffing Association. The application fee is $395 for members of the ASA and $495 for non-members.

Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to online study materials, which include a practice test and various resources such as articles, videos, and webinars. You should use these resources to prepare for the exam, which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as recruiting strategies, legal issues, customer service, and more.

Once you have passed the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your CSP designation from the ASA. This designation will remain valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

10. Institute of Organization Development Certifications

The Institute of Organization Development (IOD) is a professional organization that provides certifications in the field of organization development. It offers two levels of certification: Certified Professional in Organization Development (CPOD) and Senior Certified Professional in Organization Development (SCPOD).

The CPOD certification is designed for those who have a minimum of three years’ experience in organization development or related fields. To obtain this certification, applicants must complete an online application, provide evidence of their work experience, and pass a written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as strategic planning, change management, team building, and organizational culture. The cost for the CPOD certification is $495 USD.

The SCPOD certification is designed for experienced practitioners with at least seven years’ experience in organization development or related fields. To obtain this certification, applicants must complete an online application, provide evidence of their work experience, and pass both a written exam and an oral examination. The written exam covers topics such as strategic planning, change management, team building, and organizational culture. The oral examination includes questions about the applicant's professional practice and their ability to apply OD principles to real-world situations. The cost for the SCPOD certification is $795 USD.

Both certifications require renewal every three years to maintain validity. Renewal involves submitting documentation demonstrating continuing education activities or professional accomplishments since the initial certification was obtained.

11. Global Remuneration Professional Certification

Global Remuneration Professional Certification (GRP) is a certification program designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of global compensation and benefits practices. It is offered by the WorldatWork Society of Certified Professionals, an international organization that promotes excellence in total rewards management.

The GRP certification requires successful completion of four courses: Global Compensation Principles, Global Benefits Principles, Global Mobility Principles, and Global Rewards Strategies. Each course takes approximately 10 hours to complete and can be taken online or in person.

To earn the GRP certification, individuals must successfully complete all four courses and pass the GRP exam with a score of at least 70%. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on the material covered in the courses. The exam fee is $400 USD for members of WorldatWork and $500 USD for non-members.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification status by earning continuing education credits every three years. This involves attending workshops or seminars related to global compensation and benefits topics or completing other approved activities such as writing articles or presenting at conferences.

Do You Really Need a Human Resources Recruiter Certificate?

When considering whether or not you need a Human Resources Recruiter Certificate, it depends on your specific career goals and objectives. If you are interested in becoming a recruiter for an HR department, then obtaining a certificate may be beneficial to you. A certificate can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to become successful in this role. It can also provide employers with evidence of your commitment to the field.

On the other hand, if you already have experience in recruiting and are just looking for a way to further your knowledge or update your skills, then it may not be necessary to obtain a certificate. For instance, if you already have experience working in HR as an assistant or consultant, then there may be other ways of getting up to date on current trends and best practices without having to go through the process of obtaining a certificate. Additionally, if you are looking to move into an HR management position, then obtaining an advanced degree such as an MBA might be more beneficial than having a Human Resources Recruiter Certificate.

At the end of the day, it is important that you make sure that whatever steps you take towards advancing your career align with your goals and objectives. Whether that means obtaining a certification or taking additional classes or seminars will depend on what you want out of your career and how much time and money you are willing to invest into achieving those goals.

Related: Human Resources Recruiter Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resources Recruiter Certifications

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

A: A Human Resources Recruiter Certification can demonstrate an individual’s expertise in recruiting, hiring, and managing personnel. It can also help to increase job opportunities and salaries by providing recognition of one’s knowledge and skills in this particular field.

2. How do I obtain a Human Resources Recruiter Certification?

A: Obtaining a Human Resources Recruiter Certification typically requires passing an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Depending on the certification, additional requirements such as work experience or continuing education may also be necessary.

3. How much does it cost to get a Human Resources Recruiter Certification?

A: The cost of obtaining a Human Resources Recruiter Certification will vary depending on the certification you are pursuing, but typically range from $200 - $600 USD.

4. What is the difference between a Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) and a HR Professional Certified (HRPC)?

A: The CPHR is offered by SHRM and is designed for experienced HR professionals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of HR management. The HRPC is offered by HRCI and is geared towards entry-level HR professionals who want to gain recognition for their knowledge and skills in recruitment, hiring, training, etc.

5. How long does it take to complete a Human Resources Recruiter Certification?

A: This will depend on the specific certification you are pursuing; however, most certifications can be completed within 6-12 months if you are able to commit yourself to studying regularly and taking practice exams prior to taking the actual certification exam.