In Human Resources, progressing in your career often hinges on the certifications you hold, extensive experience in the field and social proof of your work. Experience and social proof come much later.
So, if you have ever wondered which HR certifications can set you apart in such a competitive field. And with the plethora of options available, how do you choose the one that aligns best with your career goals? This is the blog you should be reading.
The rise of distance learning is changing how HR professionals can study for and acquire these certifications while working. Gone are the days when pursuing additional qualifications meant putting your career on hold. Now, we’ve got well-structured and researched online programs. But again with so many distance learning options, how do you ensure you're picking a program that's credible, comprehensive, and relevant?
This is your guide.
The Value of HR Certifications
The value of HR certifications in shaping a professional's career trajectory is more than just anecdotal; it's backed by solid data.
A comprehensive study by Payscale, analyzing salary profiles from 102,006 HR professionals in the United States, reveals that 34.2% of these professionals reported having at least one HR certification?
Now you know the prevalence and importance of these certifications in the HR field. But what's the real impact of these certifications on pay and career progression? The study found that the impact varies depending on factors such as job level, geography, industry, and the specific certification.
However, the overarching trend is clear: obtaining an HR certification is generally a smart career move. This is not just a subjective opinion but a conclusion drawn from extensive surveys.
Top HR Certifications
Academy to Innovate HR (AIHR)
- Program Overview: AIHR offers a comprehensive range of HR certification programs online, focusing on domain-specific learning. The 12 HR certificate programs cover various aspects, including Organizational Development, People Analytics, Digital HR, HR Business Partner, and more. Each program is designed to build core HR competencies and is delivered online with interactive lessons and activities.
- Who It’s For: Suitable for HR professionals at all experience levels.
- Cost: Individual courses are $975, while full Academy access is $1,675 for 12 months.
Professional in Human Resources (PHR) by HRCI
- Program Overview: The PHR certification by the HR Certification Institute is highly sought after, with levels ranging from associate to senior and global HR management. It requires candidates to have relevant HR experience and education.
- Who It’s For: Ranging from beginners to senior and global HR leaders.
- Cost: Varies by level, with a PHR exam fee of $395.
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
- Program Overview: SHRM offers a competency-based certification program focusing on leadership and organizational strategy. It covers various HR aspects and is suitable for HR generalists.
- Who It’s For: Ideal for HR generalists.
- Cost: Varies by certification type and candidate status.
Strategic HR Leadership (SHRL) by the Human Capital Institute
- Program Overview: Focused on aligning human capital with business strategy, the SHRL certification is ideal for new HR leaders. It includes participant materials, guides, and mentor support.
- Who It’s For: Suitable for those new to HR leadership roles.
- Cost: $1,195 for the online certificate program.
Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) by HRPA
- Program Overview: Offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association, the CHRP credential requires completing a series of subject areas and exams. It's exclusive to HRPA members.
- Who It’s For: Ideal for those pursuing studies in HR or with an HR degree.
- Cost: Varies based on membership and course fees.
Talent Management Practitioner by the Talent Management Institute
- Program Overview: This certification focuses on careers in talent management, one of the fastest-growing HR areas. It includes a comprehensive resource box for exam preparation.
- Who It’s For: Designed for recent graduates focusing on HR and talent management.
- Cost: $625 all-inclusive, plus taxes.
Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) by ATD
- Program Overview: ATD's certification covers various talent development topics. It offers in-person, online, and workshop options for preparation.
- Who It’s For: HR and talent development professionals.
- Cost: $1,895 for non-members, with additional options available.
Human Resource Information Professional (HRIP) by IHRIM
- Program Overview: Focused on HR information management, this certification is ideal for HRIT and HRIS professionals. It covers generalized competencies in HR.
- Who It’s For: Suitable for professionals with 3-5 years of experience.
- Cost: Ranges from $445 to $110 for different packages.
Certified HR Manager (CHRM) by HR University
- Program Overview: This program offers a blend of video courses and interactive learning techniques, covering various HR topics.
- Who It’s For: Anyone looking to start or progress in their HR management career.
- Cost: $199 for one certification, $499 for a full catalog.
These certifications boost job performance, giving professionals a competitive edge, and building a future-proof career in HR. For instance, a Payscale study found that certified HR professionals are up to 25% more likely to get promoted. Additionally, those who further their education through certification programs can improve their earnings potential by as much as 44%.
Master’s Degree: Distance Learning Options
University of Connecticut
- Program: Master of Science in Human Resource Management Online
- Location: Mansfield, CT
- Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Key Features: Accelerated program with cutting-edge coursework delivered in seven-week terms.
- Outcome: Offers flexibility in elective courses to concentrate on specific career goals.
Colorado State University- Global Campus
- Program: Master in Human Resource Management
- Location: Fort Collins, CO
- Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Key Features: Provides a multi-perspective view into HR with 25 specializations.
- Outcome: Emphasizes training leaders in business and HR fields with in-depth understanding of team management and ethical decision-making.
Indiana University--Bloomington (Kelley)
- Location: Bloomington, IN
- Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $1,521
- Enrollment: 1,718
- School Type: Public
- Why It's Better: Known for its strong business education reputation, Kelley provides a rigorous and comprehensive MBA program with a focus on real-world HR management skills.
University of Massachusetts--Amherst (Isenberg)
- Location: Amherst, MA
- Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $925
- Enrollment: 1,646
- School Type: Public
- Why It's Better: Isenberg offers a cost-effective program with a strong focus on strategic HR management, making it ideal for students seeking a balance between quality and affordability.
University of Utah (Eccles)
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Location : Salt Lake City, UT
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Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $1,350
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Enrollment: 282
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School Type: Public
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Why It's Better: Eccles stands out for its innovative approach to HR education, integrating the latest HR technologies and analytics into its curriculum.
Pennsylvania State University--World Campus
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Location: University Park, PA
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Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $1,236
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Enrollment: 1,076
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School Type: Public
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Why It's Better: This program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making it suitable for those looking to apply HR principles effectively in real-world scenarios.
University of Nebraska--Lincoln
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Location: Lincoln, NE
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Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $650
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Enrollment: 470
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School Type: Public
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Why It's Better: It's known for its strong emphasis on leadership development within the HR field, preparing students for senior management roles.
Oklahoma State University (Spears)
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Location: Stillwater, OK
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Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $364
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Enrollment: 322
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School Type: Public
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Why It's Better: Offers one of the most affordable online MBA programs with a focus on practical HR management skills and strategies.
University of Pittsburgh (Katz)
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Location: Pittsburgh, PA
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Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $1,579
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Enrollment: 215
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School Type: Public
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Why It's Better: Katz is renowned for its strong network and career support, making it an excellent choice for career advancement in HR.
University of Wisconsin--Whitewater
- Location: Whitewater, WI
- Cost Per Credit (Out-Of-State): $652
- Enrollment: 774
- School Type: Public
- Why It's Better: Known for its strong focus on integrating HR theory with practical application, preparing students for real-world challenges in HR roles. Know more about the program
George Washington University
- Location: Washington, DC
- Cost Per Credit: $2,285
- Enrollment: 426
- School Type: Private
- Why It's Better: Offers a prestigious MBA program with a strong emphasis on global HR management, ideal for students looking to work in international HR roles.
HR Certifications and HR Career Progression
HR certifications enhance the likelihood of promotions at almost every job level. Certified HR professionals at the assistant level have a 25% higher chance of promotion compared to their non-certified counterparts. This trend is consistent across various job titles and levels.
In entry-level roles, 82% of certified professionals reported being promoted in the past five years, compared to 68% of those without certification.
This trend is also evident in higher positions, such as HR directors, who are more likely to be promoted when certified.
Payscale's report, "HR Certifications: How They Impact Pay and Career Trajectory," found that higher-level HR professionals are more likely to have an HR certificate. For instance, while only 13.2% of HR administrators have at least one credential, this percentage rises to 35.5% for HR managers and 51.1% for Vice Presidents of HR.
(Source: HR Dive)
Total Cash Compensation and HR Certifications
According to a report by PayScale, almost all HR certifications lead to a pay raise, with increases ranging from 2.9% to 28%. The Certified Professional Coach certification from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC) brought the highest boost in pay, followed by the Global Professional in Human Resources certification from HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
The salary range for HR professionals varies with the type of certification. For example, the average salary for a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certified professional ranges from $57,000 to $127,000 per year, with a midpoint of $72,000.
In contrast, Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certified professionals earn between $68,000 and $212,000 on average.
(Source: Workology)
Conclusion
As HR professionals, you are not just facilitators of growth opportunities for others; your own professional development is equally crucial.
But why should HR professionals invest in their education and career growth? The answer lies in the dynamic nature of the workplace. With the rise of remote working, skills-based hiring, and data-driven talent planning, the HR landscape is undergoing a radical transformation.
Certifications provide HR professionals with the competence to adapt to these changes effectively. For instance, 65% of respondents in the HRCI study stated that HR certification is preferred in their organizations, signaling a candidate's dedication to the profession.
The impact of certifications on career growth and salary is also significant. Many HRCI certified professionals reported salary increases post-certification. In industries like mining, healthcare, and chemicals, there's a high preference for certified HR professionals, with rates as high as 75%, 72%, and 71%, respectively.
The journey of learning and certification in HR is not just about keeping up with the trends; it's about leading the charge in an ever-changing business world.
As Amy Schabacker Dufrane, CEO of HRCI, puts it, "Certification can also be a conduit for historically underrepresented groups to improve their earnings and access to professional opportunities."