Top 10 Workforce Management Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a workforce management analyst in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the analyst has the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in the position. Certifications also show potential employers that the analyst is committed to their professional development and is dedicated to staying up-to-date on the latest trends in workforce management. They can also provide evidence of an analyst’s expertise and experience, which can help them stand out from other applicants. Ultimately, certifications can be a valuable tool for demonstrating competency, credibility, and commitment when it comes to a workforce management analyst’s job search.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Workforce Management Analysts and explain how they can help advance an analyst's career.

What are Workforce Management Analyst Certifications?

Workforce management analyst certification is a professional designation that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of best practices in workforce analytics and the ability to effectively apply these principles to optimize organizational performance. It provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze workforce data, create effective HR strategies, and develop solutions for optimizing human capital investments. With this certification, professionals can demonstrate their commitment to staying up-to-date on the most advanced practices in workforce analytics, as well as their willingness to use this knowledge to help organizations reach their goals.

By becoming certified in workforce analytics, individuals can prove their expertise in utilizing data-driven insights to improve operational efficiency and productivity. This includes identifying cost savings opportunities through optimization of staffing levels and processes, providing recommendations for implementing new technologies, and making evidence-based decisions about recruiting and training initiatives. In addition, those who obtain this certification can gain access to career advancement opportunities within their organization or others by demonstrating their technical capabilities and knowledge of emerging trends in workforce management.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a workforce management analyst certification, make sure to research the different types of certifications available and determine which one best fits your career goals. Additionally, be sure to understand the requirements and application process for each certification so you can ensure you meet them in order to become certified.

Related: What does a Workforce Management Analyst do?

Top 10 Workforce Management Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Workforce Management Analysts today.

1. Certified Workforce Management Analyst (CWMA)

Certified Workforce Management Analyst (CWMA) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to become an effective workforce management analyst. It is a comprehensive certification that covers topics such as performance metrics, forecasting, scheduling, staffing models, and analytics. The certification requires successful completion of an exam and includes continuing education requirements.

The CWMA program takes approximately one year to complete, depending on the individual's prior experience with workforce management concepts. To get certified, applicants must first complete a self-assessment to determine their level of knowledge in the field and then take an online course or attend an instructor-led training session. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as analytics, forecasting, scheduling, performance metrics, and staffing models.

The cost of the CWMA program varies depending on the type of training chosen by the applicant. Online courses typically cost between $500-$1,000 while instructor-led trainings can range from $2,000-$3,000. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exam which include a registration fee of $250 and a proctoring fee of $50.

2. Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR)

Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and competencies necessary to excel in the field of human resources. The CPHR designation is awarded by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), which is Canada’s largest HR membership organization.

The CPHR certification process involves completing an online application, providing proof of education and experience, and passing a written exam. The exam covers topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits, recruitment and selection, organizational development, training and development, performance management, employee relations, labour relations, health and safety, privacy laws, ethics and professional practice.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete the CPHR certification process. To get started on your CPHR journey you must first become a member of HRPA by paying an annual fee of $225. After becoming a member you can then apply for the CPHR designation. The cost of applying for the CPHR designation is $750 plus applicable taxes. This fee covers the cost of processing your application as well as writing and administering the written examination.

3. Certified Workforce Planning Professional (CWPP)

Certified Workforce Planning Professional (CWPP) is a certification program designed to help individuals develop and demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of workforce planning. This certification is offered by the Human Capital Institute (HCI). The CWPP certification provides professionals with the skills necessary to understand, analyze, and develop comprehensive workforce plans that are aligned with organizational goals.

The CWPP certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and a hands-on workshop. The online assessment is designed to assess an individual’s knowledge of workforce planning concepts, tools, and techniques. Upon successful completion of the assessment, participants must attend a one-day workshop where they will learn how to apply their knowledge in practice.

The cost for the CWPP certification program varies depending on the type of program chosen. For example, the cost for an online course can range from $500-$2,000 while attending a live workshop can range from $1,500-$3,000.

It typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete the entire CWPP certification process.

4. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a professional certification for human resource professionals. It is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The SHRM-CP certification recognizes individuals who demonstrate mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR practice, as well as the ability to apply knowledge in real-world situations.

To become a SHRM-CP, an individual must have a minimum of one year of professional experience in human resources or a related field. This experience must be within the past three years prior to applying for the exam.

The SHRM-CP exam consists of 125 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost of the exam is $300 USD for members of SHRM and $400 USD for non-members.

In order to prepare for the exam, individuals are encouraged to review the SHRM Learning System course materials, which include textbooks, online modules, and practice exams. Additionally, there are many online resources available that can help individuals prepare for the exam.

Once an individual has successfully passed their exam they will receive their official SHRM-CP certification from SHRM. The certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking additional courses or retaking the exam.

5. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) is a professional certification offered by the WorldatWork Society of Certified Professionals. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of compensation and rewards. The CCP credential provides assurance to employers that their compensation professionals possess the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively design, develop, and administer total rewards programs.

To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by WorldatWork. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as job analysis and evaluation, base pay administration, incentive plans, executive compensation, international compensation, and total rewards strategies.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and can be taken at any of WorldatWork's testing centers or online through its virtual proctoring service. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of professional experience in the field of compensation or related fields.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of WorldatWork or not. For members, the cost is $495; for non-members it is $695. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with scheduling an appointment at a testing center or using the virtual proctoring service.

6. Certified Human Resources Business Professional (CHRP)

Certified Human Resources Business Professional (CHRP) is a professional certification for human resources professionals. It is offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) and is recognized across Canada as the gold standard for HR professionals. The CHRP designation signifies that an individual has achieved a high level of competency in their field and is committed to continuing education.

It takes approximately two years to complete the requirements to become a CHRP. In order to qualify, applicants must hold a post-secondary degree or diploma in business, human resources, or a related field; have at least three years of relevant work experience; and pass the CHRP examination.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on your membership status with HRPA. For non-members, the fee is $1,100 plus applicable taxes. For members, the fee is $750 plus applicable taxes.

To apply for certification, you must first become an HRPA member and then submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts and proof of work experience. Once your application has been approved, you will be eligible to take the CHRP exam.

7. Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in project management and their commitment to the profession. The PMP certification demonstrates that the holder has the knowledge, skills, and experience required to successfully manage projects of any size or complexity.

In order to obtain the PMP certification, individuals must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements as well as pass an exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma or equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience and 7,500 hours leading and directing projects; or a four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience and 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering five domains: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. The exam takes four hours to complete. A passing score is determined by PMI based on the difficulty of questions answered correctly.

The cost for taking the PMP exam varies depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For members it costs $405 USD while non-members pay $555 USD. Additionally, there is an application fee of $100 USD for all applicants regardless of membership status.

Once certified, individuals must earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years in order to maintain their credential. PDUs can be earned through activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to project management or teaching courses related to project management topics.

8. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills to lead Six Sigma process improvement initiatives. The Green Belt certification program is intended for those with some experience in Six Sigma, but not necessarily a full mastery of all its principles.

The duration of the Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider and the type of training chosen. Most providers offer an online course that can be completed in as little as two weeks, while classroom-based courses may take up to three months.

In order to obtain a Six Sigma Green Belt certification, you must first complete a course or training program from an accredited provider. After completing the course, you must then pass an exam administered by the provider in order to receive your certification.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider and type of training chosen. Online courses typically cost between $500 and $1,000, while classroom-based courses may cost up to $3,000 or more.

9. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification is a globally recognized certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in the Microsoft Office suite of applications. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their mastery of the tools used by businesses around the world.

The MOS certification requires passing one or more exams on specific Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Access. The exams are administered by Certiport, an independent testing organization.

The duration of the MOS certification process depends on which application you choose to take the exam for. Generally speaking, it takes between two and four hours to complete each exam.

In order to get certified, you must first register with Certiport and purchase an exam voucher from them. The cost of the voucher varies depending on which application you are taking the test for and which country you are taking it in. In general, vouchers cost approximately $100 USD per exam.

Once you have purchased your voucher and registered for your exam, you will be able to access study materials and practice tests from Certiport's website. These materials can help prepare you for the actual exam so that you can maximize your chances of success. After completing your practice tests and studying up on any topics that may be unfamiliar to you, it is time to take the actual exam at a testing center near you.

Once all exams have been completed successfully, Certiport will issue a certificate recognizing your achievement as a Microsoft Office Specialist. This certificate is valid for two years after which time it must be renewed if necessary.

10. Oracle E-Business Suite Human Capital Management Certification

Oracle E-Business Suite Human Capital Management Certification is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the use of Oracle E-Business Suite Human Capital Management. It is a comprehensive certification program that covers all aspects of Oracle E-Business Suite Human Capital Management, including its core modules, such as Talent Acquisition, Performance Management, Workforce Analytics and more.

The certification exam takes approximately 2 hours and consists of multiple choice questions. To get certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the exam varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $200-$250 USD.

To prepare for the exam, Oracle provides extensive training materials and resources on their website. These include webinars, white papers, practice tests and more. Additionally, there are numerous third-party training programs available to help you prepare for the exam.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your Oracle E-Business Suite Human Capital Management Certification credential. This credential is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or passing another examination.

Do You Really Need a Workforce Management Analyst Certificate?

No, you do not need a Workforce Management Analyst Certificate to be successful in this field. However, having one can certainly help you stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. A certificate can also provide you with an advantage when applying for jobs or promotions. It shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the field and have acquired specific skills related to it. Additionally, a certificate may give you access to additional resources and networking opportunities that can help you further develop your career. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue a certificate will depend on your individual goals and ambitions within the workforce management field.

Related: Workforce Management Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Workforce Management Analyst Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for Workforce Management Analysts?

Answer: There are various certifications available for Workforce Management Analysts, including Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR), Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).

2. How do I become certified as a Workforce Management Analyst?

Answer: To become certified as a Workforce Management Analyst, you must complete the necessary courses and exams associated with the certification. You may also need to have relevant work experience and meet other requirements depending on the specific certification.

3. What is the cost of becoming a certified Workforce Management Analyst?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified Workforce Management Analyst varies depending on the type of certification chosen and whether or not you choose to take any additional courses or exams required for that particular certification.

4. Is there an age requirement for becoming a certified Workforce Management Analyst?

Answer: No, there is no age requirement for becoming a certified Workforce Management Analyst; however, some certifications may require applicants to have relevant work experience or be employed in certain positions prior to being eligible for certification.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements to maintain my certification as a Workforce Management Analyst?

Answer: Yes, many certifying organizations require that their workforce management analysts complete continuing education credits each year in order to maintain their certification status.