HR Certification
Thinking about getting an HR certification online? Great choice! HR certification programs validate your expertise, boost your credibility, and open doors to better job opportunities and higher salaries.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to move up in your HR career, the right certification can set you apart and Prepsaret has the perfect study resources to help attain your dream certification.
HR certification isn’t just a fancy title—it’s proof that you understand key HR functions, stay updated on industry trends, and are committed to professional growth.
Many companies prefer or even require HR-certified professionals, making certification a valuable investment in your future.
Why HR Certification Matters for Your Career
HR certification acts as a gold standard for professional competence. Here’s why it matters:
- Boosts Your Job Prospects: Employers often favor certified HR professionals over non-certified ones.
- Increases Your Earning Potential: Certified HR pros tend to earn higher salaries.
- Opens Doors to Promotions: HR management certification can help you land leadership roles.
- Validates Your Expertise: It demonstrates mastery of essential HR principles.
- Shows Commitment to Growth: Staying certified means keeping up with industry changes.
Eligibility Requirements for HR Certification
Before you dive in, it’s essential to check whether you qualify for an HR certification. While each certification has different requirements, most consider:
- Education: A degree in HR or a related field may be required for some certifications.
- Work Experience: Many HR certification courses require a certain number of years in HR roles.
- Exam Completion: You’ll need to pass a standardized exam.
- Continuing Education: Some certifications require ongoing learning to maintain validity.
Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification
The PHR certification is a popular credential for HR professionals looking to establish their expertise in operational and technical HR management.
Who Should Pursue the PHR Certification?
The PHR is ideal for:
- HR professionals with 1-4 years of experience.
- Those working in HR operations, compliance, and employee relations.
- Individuals looking to strengthen their HR knowledge and increase career opportunities.
Continue reading: PHR Certification
Exam Format and Key Competency Areas
The PHR exam tests your knowledge in various HR functional areas. Here’s what you can expect:
- Format: Computer-based test with multiple-choice questions.
- Duration: Around 3 hours.
- Key Topics Covered:
- Business Management
- Talent Planning & Acquisition
- Learning & Development
- Total Rewards
- Employee & Labor Relations
Check this out: PHR Certification Study Materials
Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification
For HR professionals aiming for leadership roles, the SPHR certification is a top-tier credential. It focuses on strategic and policy-making aspects of HR.
PHR vs. SPHR: Key Differences
| Feature | PHR | SPHR |
| Focus | Operational HR functions | Strategic HR leadership |
| Ideal for | Mid-level HR professionals | Senior HR executives |
| Experience Required | 1-4 years | 4-7+ years |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate | Advanced |
If you’re involved in HR planning, policy development, and decision-making, the SPHR may be the better choice.
SPHR Exam Content and Preparation Tips
Like the PHR, the SPHR exam covers critical HR knowledge areas, but with a strategic focus. Expect questions on:
- Leadership & Strategy
- Employee Relations
- Talent Management
- Compensation & Benefits
Preparation Tips:
- Use Official Study Guides: HRCI offers recommended study materials.
- Take Practice Exams: Simulate real exam conditions.
- Join Study Groups: Learn from others preparing for the exam.
- Set a Study Schedule: Consistency is key to mastering the material.
Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) Certification
If you’re managing HR across different countries, the Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification is a game-changer. Offered by HRCI, the GPHR is designed for HR professionals handling global talent strategies, international HR policies, and cross-border compliance.
What Makes GPHR Different from Other HR Certifications?
Unlike other HR certification courses online that focus on U.S. employment laws and practices, the GPHR tests your global HR expertise. It covers:
- International HR policies and labor laws
- Global compensation and benefits
- Cross-border talent management
- Cultural and diversity management
- Risk management and global mobility
This certification is perfect for HR professionals working in multinational companies or those who aspire to take their HR career to the global stage.
GPHR Exam Structure and Key Focus Areas
Exam Format:
- Type: Multiple-choice (mostly scenario-based)
- Number of Questions: 140 (125 scored, 15 pretest)
- Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Delivery: Pearson VUE (in-person or online)
Key Study Resources:
- HRCI’s Official GPHR Preparation Materials
- Global HR textbooks (e.g., Global HR Competencies by Dave Ulrich)
- Online HR certification prep courses and practice exams
Pro Tip: Start studying at least 3-4 months in advance and focus on real-world case studies to ace the exam!
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) Certification
If you’re looking for an HR certification that focuses on competency-based HR skills, the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is a great choice.
This certification, offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), is perfect for HR professionals working in operational or people management roles.
SHRM-CP Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for the SHRM-CP exam, you need:
- A combination of HR experience and education (varies based on degree level).
- HR responsibilities that involve policy implementation, employee relations, and HR operations.
- SHRM has a handy eligibility tool on their website that helps you check if you qualify.
Exam Content and Best Study Resources
The SHRM-CP exam is competency-based, meaning it doesn’t just test HR knowledge—it evaluates how well you can apply it in real-world situations.
Key Topics Covered:
- HR competencies (Leadership, Business Acumen, Ethical Practice)
- Employee relations and engagement
- Talent acquisition and workforce planning
- Compensation and benefits
- HR policies and compliance
Top Study Materials:
- SHRM Learning System (Highly recommended!)
- Official SHRM-CP practice exams
- HR analytics certification prep courses and study groups
Pro Tip: Since the SHRM-CP exam focuses on real-life HR scenarios, practice situational judgment questions as much as possible!
Free HR Certification Options
For those exploring free HR certification courses, several organizations offer introductory HR training. Websites like Coursera, Alison, and HR.com provide free HR certification programs that cover essential HR topics.
While these may not replace industry-recognized certifications, they can be a great way to enhance your HR knowledge.
Pursuing an HR certification course online can be a game-changer for your career. Whether you’re aiming for a foundational credential or an advanced HR management certification, the right program can validate your expertise and open new career opportunities.
SHRM-CP vs. SHRM-SCP: Which One Should You Get?
| Feature | SHRM-CP | SHRM-SCP |
| Best for: | HR generalists, early/mid-career HR pros | Senior HR leaders, strategists |
| Focus Area: | Operational HR, employee relations | High-level HR strategy, business impact |
| Eligibility: | 1-4 years of HR experience | 6+ years of HR experience |
| Exam Content: | HR policy implementation | HR leadership, business strategy |
Pro Tip:
If you’re new to HR, start with the SHRM-CP. If you’ve completed HR certification classes and are already in a leadership role, the SHRM-SCP is your best bet.
Related blog post: SPHR vs PHR
Advanced HR Competencies Tested in the SHRM-SCP Exam
The SHRM-SCP exam focuses on big-picture HR strategy and business impact. It tests your ability to:
- Align HR strategy with business goals
- Lead workforce planning and organizational change
- Manage advanced talent development initiatives
- Handle complex employee relations and compliance issues
Recommended Study Materials:
- SHRM Learning System (SCP version)
- Harvard Business Review HR case studies
- Strategic HR management certification textbooks
Which HR Certification Should You Choose?
If you work in global HR, choose GPHR.
If you’re focused on day-to-day HR operations, go for SHRM-CP.
If you’re in a senior HR leadership role, SHRM-SCP is your best bet.
No matter which certification you choose, earning an HR certification online free or through a formal program is a smart investment in your career. So, pick the one that matches your goals, start studying, and get ready to level up your HR game.
How to Choose the Right HR Certification for Your Career
Before you dive into studying, you need to pick the right certification. Different HR generalist certification and HR specialist certification programs align with different career levels, industries, and goals.
Factors to Consider When Selecting an HR Certification
Choosing the best certification isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Here’s what to think about:
- Your Job Role: Are you an HR generalist, a specialist (e.g., compensation, benefits, talent acquisition), or aspiring to be an HR leader? Some certifications focus on strategic leadership, while others are more technical.
- Experience Level: Some certifications, like the aPHR, are designed for beginners, while others, like the SPHR, are aimed at experienced professionals. If you’re new, consider an HR certification for beginners before advancing.
- Industry and Specialization: If you work in a specialized industry, look for certifications that align with it. For example, if you’re in global HR, you might want the GPHR.
- Career Aspirations: If you want to climb the corporate ladder, a certification like the SHRM-SCP can help you get there faster.
Industry and Career Path Alignment
Here’s a quick rundown of popular HR certifications and their ideal candidates:
- aPHR (Associate Professional in HR): Best for newcomers to HR with no experience.
- PHR (Professional in HR): Ideal for HR professionals with at least one year of experience.
- SPHR (Senior Professional in HR): Suited for senior HR professionals handling strategy.
- SHRM-CP (SHRM Certified Professional): Great for HR professionals focusing on operational HR.
- SHRM-SCP (SHRM Senior Certified Professional): Designed for HR leaders shaping company strategy.
- GPHR (Global Professional in HR): Perfect for HR professionals working in international business.
Choosing the right certification is key, but understanding the HR certification cost is also essential. Some options offer affordable or even free training resources to help you prepare.
How to Prepare for HR Certification Exams: Study Tips and Resources
So, you’ve picked your certification—awesome! Now, it’s time to hit the books (or screens) and study smart.
Best Study Materials and Courses for HR Certification Exams
Not all study materials are created equal. Here are some top-rated resources that will help you pass your exam:
Official Certification Prep Books:
- SHRM Learning System (for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP)
- HRCP (Human Resource Certification Preparation) Program (for PHR and SPHR)
Online Courses and Bootcamps:
- LinkedIn Learning HR certification classes
- Udemy and Coursera HR Certification Prep
- HR.com Prep Courses
Practice Exams & Study Groups:
- Use HR.com, Quizlet, and Prepsaret PHR Test Prep for practice tests.
- Join Facebook and LinkedIn study groups to connect with other test-takers.
Exam-Day Strategies for Success
You’ve studied hard—now it’s time to ace the exam! Here’s how to stay calm and focused on test day:
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Cramming the night before won’t help. Your brain needs rest!
- Eat a Brain-Boosting Breakfast: Think protein, whole grains, and fruit. Skip the sugar crash.
- Manage Your Time Wisely: Most HR exams are timed, so pace yourself. Don’t get stuck on a single question—mark it and move on!
- Review Your Answers: If you finish early, go back and double-check your work.
- Stay Positive: Confidence is key. You’ve prepared for this, and you’ve got this!
Find out: PHR Certification Cost
Ready to Get Certified?
Earning an HR management certification or any other HR credential is a game-changer for your career. Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up, the right certification can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick your certification, start studying, and take that next big step toward your dream HR career.
FAQs
Is it Worth Getting an HR Certificate?
Yes, certifications enhance employability and earning potential. SHRM-CP and SPHR holders earn significantly more than uncertified peers, with SPHR professionals averaging 93% higher salaries.
Certifications validate expertise in compliance, talent management, and strategic HR, aligning with employer expectations for roles requiring specialized knowledge.
How Do You Become HR Certified?
To become HR certified, start by selecting a certification that aligns with your career goals, such as the SHRM-CP for early-career professionals or SPHR for senior leaders.
Next, verify eligibility requirements, which often depend on experience—SHRM-CP typically requires 3–5 years, while SPHR demands 10+ years.
Prepare thoroughly using study materials, courses, or exam prep programs tailored to your chosen certification.
Once ready, apply during designated registration windows and schedule the exam, which may involve formats like SHRM-CP’s 134-question, 4-hour test or SPHR’s 140-question, 2.5-hour exam.
After passing, maintain certification by recertifying every 3 years through continuing education credits or re-examination, ensuring your expertise stays current.
How Much Does an HR Certification Cost?
Costs vary by program: SHRM-CP fees depend on location, while SPHR requires a $100 application fee + $495 exam fee. AIHR’s HR Manager Program costs $1,125 per course or $1,850 for full access.
CHRP in Kenya charges Ksh 15,000–25,000 per level, totaling ~Ksh 150,000 for all six levels. Installment plans or employer sponsorships may offset expenses.