If you are interested in pursuing a career in the field of human resources (HR), you may want to consider earning an HR certificate. While professionals in this field must have a bachelor’s degree, additional voluntary certificates increase your area of specialization and make you more attractive to employers. Read on to learn more about the types of HR certification available.
Why Get Certified?
According to the HR Certificate Institute (HRCI), getting certified in different areas of the human resources profession has an array of benefits. Certification can boost your resume, show your employer that you’re independently motivated, and allow you to network with other professionals in the field. HRCI is the organization responsible for the certification process. Through HRCI, you can earn several different certificates:
Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
To earn the PHR certification, you must have one year of experience in an HR position plus a master’s degree, two years of experience and a bachelor’s degree, or four years of experience with a high school diploma. The 175-question test to earn the certification costs $400 and is valid for three years.
Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
To be eligible for the SPHR certification, you must have four years of experience and a master’s degree, five years of experience with a bachelor’s degree, or seven years of experience and a high school diploma. The 175-question test to earn the certification costs $525 and is valid for three years.
Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)
If you are interested in working in international human resources, this certification is for you. Eligible professionals must have two years of global experience and a master’s degree; three years of experience, two of which must be global, and a bachelor’s degree; or four years of experience, two of which must be global, and a high school diploma. The 165-question test to earn the certification costs $525 and is valid for three years.
Human Resources Management Professional (HRMP)
Designed for those at the management level, the HRMP certification is open to those who have four years of experience and a master’s degree; five years of experience and a bachelor’s degree; or seven years of experience and a high school diploma. The 130-question test to earn the certification costs $375 and is valid for three years.
Human Resources Business Professional (HRBP)
This credential, which shows HR knowledge and operational skills, is available to those with one year of experience in an HR position plus a master’s degree, two years of experience and a bachelor’s degree, or four years of experience with a high school diploma. The 175-question test to earn the certification costs $275 and is valid for three years.
HR certification is an ideal way to prove your skills in a competitive job market.
