26 HR certifications you can earn for your career

Earn professional recognition and boost your career with 26 HR certifications. Enhance your skills in hiring, pay, development, and regulation with these top certifications.

By Brad Nakase, Attorney

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. What is an HR Certification?

3. The HR Certification Institute’s (HRCI) certifications

4. Other HRCI Certifications

5. ASA (American Staffing Association) Certifications

6. SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Certifications

7. Additional HR certifications

8. HR Certification Benefits

Introduction

A broad spectrum of professional knowledge in hiring, pay, development, and regulation is included in HR (human resources). To prove your expertise in a certain field or sector, like technology or health care, you can obtain a variety of HR certifications. Obtaining certification in human resources can enhance your professional competencies and broaden your resume for both present and potential companies.

The top 26 HR certification courses are included in this piece along with information on their prerequisites, perks, and credentials.

What is an HR Certification?

HR certifications serve as credentials for confirming one’s understanding of HR policies, procedures, and initiatives. A wide range of HR-related professional associations provide specialized certificates appropriate for various HR roles. The majority of certificates demand the completion of relevant coursework, prior HR work experience, and certification exam success. Depending on the specialization in human resources, these tests have different lengths and types of questions. For the majority of HR credentials to stay valid, regular recertification is also necessary, usually every 2 years.

According to the organization that certifies, you can obtain the following 26 human resources certifications:

The HR Certification Institute’s (HRCI) certifications

The HR certifications offered by the HRCI are as follows:

aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources)

For first-time candidates that fresh to the world of HR, the aPHR certification can be quite helpful. Basic information is tested in the certification examination. A person can start their job with such a distinction and demonstrate their general HR knowledge even if they have no previous work experience. Upon receiving your aPHR certification, you can apply for basic positions in a variety of fields, including human resources assistant and generalist.

The aPHR accreditation is explained in further detail below:

Qualifications: To take this exam, no prior experience in human resources is required.
Exam structure: Multiple questions regarding human resource development, employee relations, recruiting and selection, pay and benefits, and retention of employees
Duration of certification: The validation of this certification shall apply for a period of three years from the initial date of their implementation.
Procedure for recertification: Retake the certification exam or get the necessary recertification credits.

PHR (Professional in Human Resources)

In the human resource management practice, there is an examination that some of the human resource employees who work under the HR director are required to take, and this is the Professional in Human Resources. The PHR can also provide validation of the competencies that you possess in managing the business of the HR and confirm whether the company is running under the laws of the region, state, or country. This also describes how well you are acquainted with labor and employee relations, HR programs, and operational direction.

Additional information regarding this HR certification is provided below:

Qualifications: Have worked in HR for between one and four years, based on your educational background.
Exam structure: Questions about matters like learning & development, overall rewards, talent planning & acquisition, labor & employee relations, and business management
Duration of certification: The validation of this certification shall apply for a period of three years from the initial date of their implementation.
Procedure for recertification: Retake the certification exam or get the necessary recertification credits.

GPHR (Global Professional in HR)

Professionals in HR who operate in international markets are designated as GPHRs. Your proficient understanding of global duties and policies can be demonstrated by this. The following details are necessary to obtain this HR certification:

Qualifications- According to your educational background, you should have 2 to 4 years of human resources job experience.
Format of the exam: Numerous questions on a range of subjects, such as culture at work, total rewards, international talent management, worldwide mobility, strategic global HR, compliance, and risk management.
Certification duration: Good for three years.
Method of recertification: Either finish the global recertification and HR credits or repeat the test.

SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources)

Proficiency in HR management is demonstrated by the SPHR certification. This credential is intended for HR directors who handle more general business operations and develop strategic strategies for the needs of human resources. HR managers can demonstrate their in-depth understanding of the HR industry and assist their departments in meeting goals by earning this certification.

Here are some additional details regarding this HR certification:

Qualifications- Based on your educational background, you should have four to seven years of human resources job experience.
Format of the exam: Questions about learning and development, total incentives, talent planning and acquisition, employee relations and engagement, leadership and strategy, and learning and development
Certification duration: Good for three years.
Procedure for recertification: Retake the examination or earn the necessary credits in business and HR.

Other HRCI Certifications

According to your degree of education and experience, the HRCI (Human Resources Certification Institute) offers the following three additional certifications:

aPHRi (Associate Professional in Human Resources – International)
PHRi (Professional in Human Resources – International)
SPHRi (Senior Professional in Human Resources – International)

ASA (American Staffing Association) Certifications

The ASA offers a number of certificates that you can obtain:

CSP (Certified Staffing Professional)

For everyone working in human resources staffing, the ASA advocates earning the CSP designation. It can verify that you are aware of the fundamental regulations for working environments. Additionally, it might demonstrate to employers that you are aware of federal and state labor laws.

The following details are crucial about this certification:

Qualifications- Ace the certification test
Exam structure: A series of questions covering both federal and state rules and laws
Certification duration: Good for a period of three years.
Procedure for recertification: Finish continuing education requirements, file an application, and pay a fee.

CSC (Certified Search Consultant)

Human resources staff helping organizations recruit and train the best individuals for their organizations are welcome for this certification. The course covers registration regulations that impact direct hiring firms and federal employment regulations that are particular to recruiters. Recruiters, consultants, and HR specialists are encouraged to obtain this accreditation by the ASA.

Here are the exam’s specifics for this HR certification:

Qualifications– Clear an accreditation test
Format of the exam: Questions on placement and search laws and rules
Certification period: Three-year validity
The process of recertification: Finish the required hours of continuing education and send in the application and payment for renewal.

CHP (Certified Health Care Staffing Professional)

This specific HR certification helps the present and prospective healthcare sector HR professionals affirm knowledge of different legal requirements and procedures for hiring personnel in the healthcare industry. Clients and staff in the health sector can work with you effectively which earning the Certified Health Care Staffing Professional fulfills. Employers in the healthcare industry generally accept this HR certification.

Here are a few details regarding the accreditation:

Qualifications: Ace the certification test
Exam structure: a series of questions on rules and legislation pertaining to the healthcare workforce
Certification duration: Good for a period of three years.
Procedure for recertification: Finish continuing education requirements, file an application, and pay a fee.

TSC (Technical Services Certified)

The Technical Services Certified certification is intended for HR professionals who hire and recruit people for employment in science or technology. It adds to the credential by demonstrating your familiarity with work classification, visas, and per diem regulations. The designation is yours automatically if you decide to obtain this qualification.

Here are some details regarding this qualification to be aware of:

Qualifications: Ace the credentialing test
Exam structure: a series of questions pertaining to federal search and placement guidelines
Duration of certification: Three years
Recertification: Continuing education including an application and payment must be met to obtain the recertification.

SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Certifications

With SHRM, you may obtain the following certificates:

SHRM-CP (SHRM Certified Professional)

For the people who provide support in human resources in the company, the SHRM-CP level is suitable. Your understanding of operating procedures, guidelines, and techniques can be validated by it. To be eligible for the certification, the SHRM advises having a rudimentary understanding of human resources.

The following details are extra for obtaining this certification:

Qualifications- A suitable degree or some familiarity with HR concepts and procedures
Format of the exam: Questions on areas including interpersonal communication, business, leadership, people, organizational procedures, and workplace knowledge. They are mixed with situational judgment questions.
Certification duration: Good for a period of three years.
Process of recertification: To reinstate your certification, either finish the required professional growth credits or repeat the test.

SHRM-SCP (SHRM Senior Certified Professional)

You can validate your experience being a strategist by obtaining the SHRM-SCP title if you hold a leadership position in HR. This distinction is an additional benefit that senior HR professionals can add to their background and qualifications as HR department leaders. Your ability to pursue career progression and earn more money can be enhanced with this certification.

Here is some information on obtaining this HR certification:

Qualifications: 3 years or more of working experience in executive human resources work, or hold a SHRM-CP certification while pursuing a position at the strategic level
Exam structure: Multiple-choice questions assessing your understanding and contextual judgment in the following areas: people, organizations, leadership, business, and interpersonal communication.
Validity: Three years are allowed for certification validity.
Process of Recertification: To regain certification, either finish the required continuing education credits or repeat the test.

Additional HR certifications

Other HR credentials are available via a number of professional associations:

1. IFEBP (International foundation of employee benefit plans)

Three certifications are available in the human resources sector from the IFEBP. To become a CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist), you must finish a 5-course certificate program. Earning the company’s GBA (Group Benefits Associate) or RPA (Retirement Plans Associate) certifications while finishing the courses to achieve a CEBS also allows you to specialize in benefits for workers. It might also help you address other requirements for CEBS accreditation regarding the completion of courses and credits in ongoing courses.

2. ATD (Association for Talent Development)

For HR staff members with a focus on professional growth and training, the ATD provides two certification programs. If you are entering your HR profession in the field of talent management, and wish to gain professional recognition, then you may consider acquiring APTD (Associate Professional in Talent Development) certification. To receive this certificate, there is a certification examination that checks your knowledge specific to organizational, professional, and personal competencies.

The ATD’s CPLP (Certified Professional in Learning and Performance) accreditation evaluates ten domains of knowledge, including coaching and integrated talent administration. There is a way to gain the certification; it is a two-part examination testing the candidate’s skills and knowledge.

3. American Payroll Association (APA)

For HR professionals in charge of managing payroll accounts, the APA gives two certification levels. If you want to go deeper into the operation of payroll and are thinking about the initial stepping stones for the human resource career, you can take the FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification). Issuance of FPC certification requires taking a certification exam as well as submitting an application for certification.

The APA also provides the CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) credential for the professional growth of the enthusiasts. The organization lays down several conditions regarding experience and education that the applicant must meet in order to receive it. Moreover, there is a certification test that can take many months to prepare for, should the candidate want to pursue this option.

4. WorldatWork

The CCP (Certified Compensation Professional) credential is provided by WorldatWork to confirm your compensation knowledge. The certification entails ten exams covering a variety of subjects, from business expertise for compensation to comprehensive rewards management.

Additionally, you can obtain any of the following HR certifications offered by WorldatWork:

(GRP) Global Remuneration Professional
(CBP) Certified Benefits Professional
(CECP) Certified Executive Compensation Professional
(CSCP) Certified Sales Compensation Professional

5. IHRIM (International Association for Human Resources Information Management)

For those in the IT business who handle HR-related tasks, the IHRIM presents the HRIP (Human Resources Information Professional) certification. It validates your expert understanding of HR information management. Every three years, the IHRIM offers recertification through continuing education, and it also remotely proctors the examination.

HR Certification Benefits

You may receive one or more of the following advantages by obtaining an HR certification:

Employment outlook: If you possess a certain certification, employers may request it in job advertising, increasing your chances of being selected.
Prospects for pay: Certifications also attest to a person’s familiarity with the business and expertise, which may raise one’s potential for compensation.
Networking: Professional associations and organizations that provide members with resources can be accessed through HR certifications.
Professional development: Obtaining a certification could also get you the credits you need for ongoing education as you prepare or enroll in classes to pass a test.
Employee relations: Having an HR certification may help you educate employees about important aspects of their jobs, such as pay and perks.
Workplace contribution: Through continuous learning and education, certified HR representatives may enhance their companies.

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