Top 11 Human Resources Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a human resources specialist’s professional qualifications and can help them stand out in the job market. Employers may look more favorably upon candidates who have certifications, as it indicates that the individual has specialized knowledge and experience in their field. Certifications also demonstrate dedication to professional development and can provide evidence of a commitment to improving one’s skills and staying up-to-date with best practices. Additionally, certifications are often required for certain positions or promotions within a company, so obtaining them can be beneficial for career advancement.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Human Resources Specialists and explain how they can enhance a human resources specialist's career.

What are Human Resources Specialist Certifications?

Human Resources Specialist Certification is a professional certification program for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of human resources. It is designed to help individuals develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities to effectively manage the human resources function within an organization. The certification program consists of a series of courses and assessments that cover topics such as recruiting, compensation and benefits administration, labor relations, employee development, organizational development, and risk management.

The certification program provides individuals with a comprehensive understanding of human resource management principles and best practices. This enables them to be better prepared to address various issues related to the recruitment and retention of employees, compliance with labor laws, employee development plans and strategies, performance evaluation systems, and other key aspects of HR management. By obtaining Human Resources Specialist Certification, individuals are better equipped to make informed decisions about hiring practices, compensation policies and procedures, employee training programs, job descriptions and qualifications standards. Additionally, they can provide guidance on how organizations can create positive work environments that promote employee engagement and productivity.

Having Human Resources Specialist Certification also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to staying up-to-date on current trends in human resource management. It shows employers that they have the necessary skillset to successfully manage the HR function in their organization. This can enable them to secure more senior positions within their organization or in other organizations as well.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different certifications available to human resources specialists, as some may require additional education or experience. Additionally, look into the cost and renewal requirements of each certification before committing to one.

Related: What does a Human Resources Specialist do?

Top 11 Human Resources Specialist Certifications

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

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to recognize professional excellence in the field of human resources. The PHR certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in areas such as recruitment, compensation, employee relations, labor law, benefits administration and training and development.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the PHR exam. During this time, individuals should review relevant materials, including HRCI's body of knowledge and practice exams. Additionally, they should attend webinars or seminars related to human resource topics.

In order to obtain the PHR certification, individuals must pass an examination administered by HRCI. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as strategic management, workforce planning and employment law.

The cost of obtaining the PHR certification varies depending on whether you are a member of HRCI or not. For non-members, it costs $395 for the application fee plus $395 for the exam fee. For members of HRCI, it costs $295 for the application fee plus $295 for the exam fee.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification for experienced human resources professionals. The certification is issued by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to demonstrate mastery of the body of knowledge in the field of human resources management, and to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the practice of human resources.

To get SPHR certification, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. To be eligible for the exam, you must have at least four years of experience in a professional-level HR position within the last eight years. You must also have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university, or equivalent international education/experience.

The SPHR exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $400-$500 USD. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your SPHR certification and can use it to demonstrate your expertise in human resources management.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and competency of human resource professionals. It is administered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The SHRM-CP is an entry-level certification that demonstrates a mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR practice.

The SHRM-CP program consists of two parts: an online assessment exam and a comprehensive recertification process. The online assessment exam tests your knowledge in areas such as HR management, communication, global issues, legal compliance, and more. To pass the exam, you must score at least 70% on each section.

It typically takes about three months to complete the SHRM-CP program from start to finish. During this time, you will need to study for and take the online assessment exam, complete any additional requirements set forth by SHRM, and submit your application for recertification.

To get started with the SHRM-CP program, you must first register with SHRM and pay the registration fee of $200 USD. Once registered, you will receive access to all of the materials required to prepare for the online assessment exam. You can also take advantage of various resources such as webinars and practice exams offered by SHRM to help you better understand the material covered in the exam.

Once you have successfully passed the online assessment exam, you will need to submit an application for recertification along with supporting documents such as proof of completion of continuing education credits or other qualifications that demonstrate your commitment to staying current in HR practices. After submitting your application for recertification, it typically takes about one month for SHRM to review it before awarding you with your official certification status as a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP).

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize those who demonstrate mastery in the principles and practices of effective human resource management. The SHRM-SCP credential is the highest level of certification offered by SHRM and indicates a commitment to excellence in the field of human resources.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for obtaining this certification. To become certified, individuals must have at least three years of experience in HR management or related fields, as well as a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as talent acquisition and retention, employee relations, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and strategic HR management.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-SCP credential varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of SHRM. For members, it costs $300 to register for the exam and $100 for each additional attempt if needed. For non-members, it costs $400 to register for the exam and $200 for each additional attempt if needed.

In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also complete 60 hours of professional development activities within three years prior to taking the exam in order to maintain their certification status. These activities can include attending conferences or workshops, completing online courses, participating in webinars or seminars, writing articles or books about HR topics, or volunteering with HR organizations.

5. 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 a professional designation that recognizes professionals who have achieved a high level of mastery and expertise in the field of human resources management. The GPHR certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and application of global HR strategies, practices, and principles.

The GPHR certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in global HR management as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of four sections: Global HR Knowledge, Global HR Strategy & Execution, Global Talent Acquisition & Retention, and Global Employee Relations & Compliance. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in the field.

The cost for the GPHR certification varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or in-person. The online version costs $400 while the in-person version costs $450. Additionally, there is a $50 nonrefundable application fee required to apply for the exam.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the GPHR exam. During this time, applicants should review all relevant materials related to global HR topics such as international labor laws, global compensation systems, and cultural diversity issues. Additionally, they should practice answering sample questions from past exams so they can become familiar with the format and structure of the test.

Once an applicant has passed their GPHR exam, they will receive their official certification from SHRM within 4-6 weeks after completion of their application process.

6. Society for Human Resource Management – California Certification (SHRM-CP/SCP-CA)

The Society for Human Resource Management – California Certification (SHRM-CP/SCP-CA) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills required to effectively manage human resources in California. This certification is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), an international professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of human resource management.

To qualify for SHRM-CP/SCP-CA certification, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, including a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution and at least two years of professional experience in a human resource position. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and organizational development.

It typically takes about three months to complete the application process for SHRM-CP/SCP-CA certification. After submitting your application materials, you will be notified if you are eligible to take the exam. Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will receive your SHRM-CP/SCP-CA certification.

The cost of obtaining SHRM-CP/SCP-CA certification varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of SHRM. For members, it costs $300 to apply for the exam and $200 to take it; nonmembers pay $400 to apply and $300 to take it. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with completing continuing education credits required for recertification every three years.

7. International Public Management Association for Human Resources – Certified Professional (IPMA-CP)

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources-Certified Professional (IPMA-CP) is a certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of human resource professionals. The IPMA-CP is designed to demonstrate mastery of the core competencies required for successful human resources management in public sector organizations.

The IPMA-CP requires applicants to pass an exam administered by the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMAHR). The exam covers topics such as recruitment, selection, compensation, benefits, performance management, labor relations, and organizational development. Applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in the field of human resources or a related field to be eligible to take the exam.

It typically takes about four months to complete the IPMA-CP certification process. This includes preparing for and taking the exam and submitting all required documents.

To get certified, applicants must first register with IPMAHR and pay a fee. After registering, applicants will receive instructions on how to prepare for and take the exam. Once they pass the exam, they will need to submit additional documentation such as proof of work experience and references from current or former employers.

The cost of obtaining an IPMA-CP certification varies depending on location and other factors but generally ranges between $500-$700 USD.

8. WorldatWork – Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

WorldatWork's Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification that recognizes expertise in the field of compensation and rewards. It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills and abilities required to design, develop, implement and manage compensation programs.

To become a CCP, applicants must have at least five years of relevant experience in the field of compensation and rewards or have completed a degree in human resources or a related field. They must also pass an exam administered by WorldatWork. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as job analysis, pay structures, incentive plans, benefits administration, legal compliance, total rewards philosophy and communication strategies.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $495 for members of WorldatWork or $595 for non-members. Once the exam has been passed successfully, applicants will receive their CCP certification from WorldatWork. The certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed. Renewal requires that applicants submit proof of continuing education credits earned within the past three years.

9. WorldatWork – Total Rewards Professional (TRP)

WorldatWork’s Total Rewards Professional (TRP) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively design, implement, and manage total rewards programs. The program consists of two parts: a self-study course and an exam.

The self-study course covers topics such as job evaluation, compensation structures, executive compensation, benefits plans, performance management systems, and employee recognition programs. It takes approximately 40 hours to complete the self-study course.

To get the TRP certification, individuals must pass the exam administered by WorldatWork. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering all aspects of total rewards. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

The cost for the TRP certification is $1,295 for WorldatWork members and $1,595 for non-members. This fee includes access to the self-study course materials and one attempt at taking the exam.

10. WorldatWork – Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)

WorldatWork Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a mastery of the core concepts and principles of employee benefits. The CBP credential is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of those working in the field of employee benefits, such as HR professionals, compensation analysts, and benefit administrators.

The CBP program consists of three components: an exam, a work experience requirement, and a commitment to ongoing education. The exam covers topics such as retirement plans, health and welfare plans, executive compensation, payroll taxes, and compliance. To be eligible for the CBP credential, applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience in employee benefits or related fields.

The exam can be taken online or in person at one of WorldatWork’s testing centers. The cost for the exam is $495 USD plus applicable taxes. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your CBP certificate within six to eight weeks.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also complete 30 hours of continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their certification status. WorldatWork offers many different courses that can help you meet this requirement.

11. WorldatWork – Global Remuneration Professional (GRP).

WorldatWork’s Global Remuneration Professional (GRP) certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in the field of global compensation. The GRP program focuses on understanding the complexities of global compensation issues, as well as developing strategies to design and manage total rewards programs across multiple countries and cultures.

To become a GRP, you must first complete an online application and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of five sections: Global Compensation Principles, Global Compensation Practices, Global Benefits Practices, International Employment Law, and Cross-Cultural Management. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

The cost for the GRP program is $1,495 for WorldatWork members or $1,595 for non-members. This fee includes the cost of the application fee, exam fees, study materials, and access to an online learning center with practice exams and other resources to help prepare for the exam.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded your GRP certification which is valid for three years. To maintain your certification status after this period has expired you must complete continuing education requirements every three years.

Do You Really Need a Human Resources Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals. If you are looking to advance your career in the field of Human Resources, a Human Resources Specialist Certificate could be beneficial. This type of certification is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of Human Resources. With a certificate, you can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to staying up-to-date on industry trends, best practices, and compliance requirements.

Having a Human Resources Specialist Certificate can give you an edge when competing for jobs or promotions. It shows potential employers that you are serious about your career and have taken the initiative to invest in yourself. It also demonstrates that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills required for success in Human Resources roles, such as recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, performance management, benefits administration, employee relations, compliance, and more. Additionally, having a certificate may make it easier for employers to recognize your qualifications when reviewing resumes or job applications.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Human Resources Specialist Certificate depends on your individual situation and career aspirations. If you want to take your HR career to the next level or stand out from other applicants during the hiring process, it may be worth pursuing certification.

Related: Human Resources Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Human Resources Specialist Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for Human Resources Specialists?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available, including the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification, and the Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification.

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

Answer: To become certified, you must pass an exam administered by the HR Certification Institute. The exam covers topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management and organizational development.

3. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the exam and receive your certification. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual study habits.

4. What is the cost associated with becoming certified?

Answer: The cost of taking the exam varies depending on which type of certification you are pursuing; however, it typically costs around $400-$500 USD to take an exam for one of the three certifications mentioned above.

5. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Certifications must be renewed every 3 years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.