Published on July 6th, 2023
The world of human resources is constantly evolving. New technologies, regulations, and workplace trends are emerging all the time, and HR professionals need to stay up-to-date in order to be effective. One of the best ways to do this is to earn HR certifications and complete relevant courses.
HR certifications demonstrate your knowledge and skills to employers. They can also help you advance your career and earn a higher salary. There are many different HR certifications available, so you can choose one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most important HR certifications and courses that you should know about. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right certifications for you.
HR certifications are professional credentials that demonstrate your knowledge and skills in human resources. They are awarded by professional organizations after you have passed a rigorous exam. HR certifications can help you advance your career, earn a higher salary, and become a more valuable asset to your employer.
Obtaining an HR certification demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and professional development, while also signaling to employers and colleagues that you possess the necessary qualifications to excel in various HR roles. These certifications cover a wide range of HR disciplines, including but not limited to recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, and HR strategy.
HR certifications often require candidates to meet specific educational requirements, accumulate relevant work experience, and successfully pass rigorous examinations. They are a testament to an individual's mastery of HR best practices, industry standards, and legal regulations.
HR certifications offer a number of benefits including:
There are many factors to consider when deciding when to get an HR certification. Here are a few of the most important:
The SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional) is an entry-level certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed for HR professionals with at least one year of experience in the field.
Eligibility Requirements for SHRM-CP
Exam Fees
Fee Type | SHRM Member Price | Non-member Price |
Early-Bird Exam Fee | $335 | $435 |
Standard Exam Fee | $410 | $510 |
Student Exam Fee | $149 | $209 |
Corporate Exam Fee | $270 | $270 |
Exam Details
Certification Span
Recertification is required every three years from your initial certification. You can choose to earn 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) or retake the exam to maintain your certification.
The SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional) is an advanced-level certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed for HR professionals with at least three years of experience in the field.
Eligibility Requirements for SHRM-SCP
Exam Fees
Fee Type | SHRM Member Price | Non-member Price |
Early-Bird Exam Fee | $335 | $435 |
Standard Exam Fee | $410 | $510 |
Student Exam Fee | $149 | $209 |
Corporate Exam Fee | $270 | $270 |
Exam Details
Certification Span
Recertification is required every three years from your initial certification. You can choose to earn 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) or retake the exam to maintain your certification.
The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is an entry-level certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed for HR professionals with at least one year of experience in the field.
The PHR certification is designed for HR professionals who are involved in program implementation, have tactical and operational responsibilities, and focus on individual HR functions rather than strategic decisions. It signifies that an individual possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to handle the operational aspects of HR management effectively.
Eligibility Requirements for PHR
To be eligible for the PHR certification, the applicant should possess one of the following:
Exam Fees: $395.00 + Application Fee: $100.00
Exam Details
Certification Span: To maintain the validity of your PHR certification, you are required to either earn 60 HR recertification credits within a three-year period or retake the exam. The certification remains valid for three years from the date of testing.
The Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) is a credential offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD) for professionals in the field of workplace learning and performance. It is a comprehensive certification that evaluates a professional's expertise and practical application across a wide range of talent development capabilities.
Eligibility Requirements for CPTD
To be eligible for the CPTD program, candidates must have:
Alternatively, CPTD candidates must have:
Exam Fees: $975 (members) and $1350 (non-members)
Exam Details
Certification Span: To maintain the CPTD® credentials, recertification is required every three years. To recertify, CPTDs must earn a minimum of 60 recertification points within that three-year period.
The Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) certification is a professional designation offered by the Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of HR professionals in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for CHRP
Exam Fees: Course approval for out-of-province coursework (per course) $90.00 Per Course
Exam Details
Certification Span: To maintain your CHRP designation, professionals are required to maintain an active membership with HRPA that is in good standing throughout the recertification period. By meeting these requirements, HR professionals can ensure the continued validity and recognition of their CHRP designation.
While we have already listed the best HR certifications for career advancement, ultimately, the best HR certification for you depends on your individual career aspirations, geographic location, and personal preferences. It's important to research and consider the specific requirements, curriculum, recognition, and relevance of each certification to determine which aligns best with your goals and objectives. Additionally, it can be beneficial to seek advice from HR professionals, mentors, or industry experts who can provide insights based on their experiences and knowledge of the HR field.
Remember that choosing the right certification or course is a personal decision that should align with your career objectives and aspirations. Consider factors such as program content, accreditation, industry recognition, and the time and resources required for completion.
Continuing education and professional development are crucial for HR professionals to stay competitive in an evolving field. Whether you pursue certification or enroll in a course, the investment in your HR education will pay dividends, providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your HR career and make a meaningful impact in the organizations you serve.
Visit HireQuotient if you are an HR professional looking to widen your recruitment toolkit. With our suite of tools for skills-based assessments, talent sourcing and video interviewing, you can rest assured and hire the right person for your organization.
Radhika Sarraf
Radhika Sarraf is a content specialist and a woman of many passions who currently works at HireQuotient, a leading recruitment SaaS company. She is a versatile writer with experience in creating compelling articles, blogs, social media posts, and marketing collaterals.
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