The Benefits of HR Certification and Program Options

Key takeaways

A human resources (HR) certification demonstrates your knowledge of the industry and skills required for an HR role.

• Some employers prefer or require candidates with a human resources certification [1].

• Benefits of earning an HR certification may include career advancement and the potential to earn a higher salary.

• You can explore certification options through human resources organizations such as the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). 

Discover how earning a professional HR certification can expand your knowledge in the field and help you stay competitive when looking to advance your career. Afterward, consider enrolling in Leading: Human Resources Management and Leadership Specialization, offered by Macquarie University. You’ll have the opportunity to examine the ways you can harness your team’s diversity and use teamwork to innovate and increase your organisation’s output. Upon completion, add this shareable credential to your resume or LinkedIn profile.

What is HR certification?

An HR certification is a professional title that shows employers your knowledge of industry practices. It can give you leverage when getting hired, advancing in your current position, or increasing your earning power. Professional associations offer certification programs for all skills and experience levels, and you can earn your HR certification online.

HR certification program vs. degree

HR professionals usually begin their careers with a bachelor's degree in HR or a related field; some even work their way through the company to an HR position. An HR certification is usually not required, although some companies prefer or require candidates who have one, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. If you are already employed in the HR industry, earning a certification from a professional organization can enhance your chances of career advancement.

HR professionals typically perform more than general administrative duties. They are usually involved in various aspects of a business, such as company culture, talent acquisition, onboarding, and performance management. They can also choose to specialize in one area. If you choose to pursue a master's degree, you have a stronger chance of acquiring a more advanced position in HR and earning a larger salary. With an HR certification, you can convey your competence, background, commitment, and credibility to a potential employer. Also, getting a certification is usually much less expensive than a master’s degree.

Read more: What Can I Expect from a Human Resources Degree?

Benefits of certification

An HR certification can help when looking to advance your career. It shows you have competence and experience while demonstrating your dedication to the field.

Whether you have years of experience or are just starting, a certification can be an asset in all stages of your career, proving beneficial if you are:

• A recent graduate looking for your first HR job

• Making a career switch to HR

• An HR professional looking to advance to a higher position

• Already certified but want to move up by getting a higher-level certification

How HR certification impacts salary

Having an HR certification can help you grow both financially and professionally. According to Glassdoor, an HR generalist in the US earns a median total salary of $83,000, and the rate increases as the job advances, with HR managers in the US making a median total salary of $121,000 [2, 3].

Many certifications are available, but two that can provide a remarkable boost in salary are the Certified Professional Coach (CPC) certification, which pays an average base salary of $93,000 to employees who have it [4], followed by an average of $118,000 for those with the Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) credential [5].

Each industry responds to certification differently. For example, health care, retail, customer service, accommodations, and food services give certification holders the highest percentage of salary increases.

Meanwhile, the lowest pay increases for certification holders occur in the technology, nonprofit, engineering, and science industries. Additionally, although certification can help boost your salary early- and mid-career, employees who reach the level of director typically don’t see the pay increase, likely because those in higher positions have enough on-the-job experience that it is no longer as beneficial to gain or renew their certifications, allowing them to expire.

Is it worth getting an HR certification?

An HR certification may be worth pursuing if you want to stand out from other job candidates, further your knowledge of human resources and the skills that the profession requires, and potentially increase your salary.

Career outlook for HR professionals

According to the BLS, the outlook for HR specialists will grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034. The BLS projects about 81,800 openings each year, on average, during the decade [6]. The job responsibilities will require handling more complex employment laws and benefit options; another reason certifications help you remain relevant in the workplace.

For those in an HR managerial position, BLS foresees job growth at 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, with 17,900 new openings each year for the decade [7]. This prediction depends on the success and development of the individual companies.

How to get HR certification: Types of HR certification programs

HR certification programs offer advanced HR skills and knowledge for all experience levels. Many certifications require work experience in HR and a related degree. After passing a certification exam, you will receive your certification. HR certification organizations typically require recertification every few years.

When choosing a program, look for one that fits your career goals, if it requires prerequisites, and at the same time commitment and cost. While you can select your program depending on your career goals, two organizations stand out as industry standards: The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). 

HRCI certifications

The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) offers certifications for many HR job levels, including generalists, administrators, and managers. After completing a competency exam covering HR practice and policies, you'll receive your certification. Renewal is a requirement every three years. Below are a few individual certifications.

1. Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)

Requirements: None

Cost: $300 to test and $100 to apply [8]

The Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) certification is for beginners with no experience in HR. You can learn the basics of HR. It focuses on operations, employee relations, recruitment, and other fundamental HR skills.

2. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Requirements: Four years of experience in an office or a combination of less experience and formal education

Cost: $395 to test and $100 to apply [9]

The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) program is geared toward those who already have a degree but want to further their knowledge and education. This credential focuses heavily on responsibilities in HR roles and helps you hone your knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.

SHRM certifications

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the largest HR professional society in the world and dedicates its operations to human resource management and furthering the HR profession. One way SHRM accomplishes this is by offering certifications in the HR field that all industries acknowledge and respect.

1. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

Requirements: Recommended to have a basic knowledge of HR practices or a degree from an Academically Aligned program Cost: $495 for members; $595 for non-members [10]

The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) credential is for early and mid-career HR professionals interested in an HR management career. It requires a well-rounded grasp of topics ranging from business and leadership to exercising sound judgment in various scenarios.

2. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

Requirements: At least three years of HR experience, or three years with an SHRM-CP  certification and a current position in a strategic role, or plans to transition to one. Cost: $595 for members; $695 for non-members [10]

Holding the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification can help you stand out in your HR leadership position. It is geared toward senior-level professionals who work in a strategic role involving policy development and overseeing HR operations.

No-fluff help for when you’re stuck

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