SHRM Specialty Credentials

In today’s dynamic and competitive business environment, the role of human resources has evolved significantly, necessitating specialized knowledge and skills across various HR functions. 

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) recognizes this need through its Specialty Credentials, which offer HR professionals the opportunity to enhance their expertise in critical areas of human resource management. 

These credentials not only validate an individual’s proficiency but also serve as a testament to their commitment to professional development. In this article, we will explore all the SHRM specialty credentials.

SHRM Specialty Credentials List

SHRM’s Specialty Credentials encompass a wide range of topics, including talent acquisition, workplace investigations, total rewards, and inclusive workplace culture. Below is a comprehensive list of all the available credentials.

• SHRM Talent Acquisition Specialty Credential
• SHRM HR Department of One Specialty Credential
• SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential
• SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential
• SHRM People Analytics Specialty Credential
• SHRM U.S. Employment Immigration Specialty Credential
• SHRM Workplace Investigations Specialty Credential
• SHRM Caltech Advanced Technology Credential
• SHRM California Law HR Specialty Credential
• SHRM Caltech Strategy Capabilities Credential
• SHRM AI + HI Specialty Credential

If one identifies the credential they need, they can then pursue it through a structured process. This involves enrolling in the relevant educational program, completing required courses, and passing an online assessment. 

Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate of accomplishment and a digital badge to verify their specialty.

Check Out: How to earn SHRM Specialty Credential. 

SHRM Talent Acquisition Specialty Credential

The SHRM Talent Acquisition Specialty Credential is designed for HR professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in the crucial area of talent acquisition. This credential recognizes the importance of effective recruiting in building a high-performing workforce in today’s competitive job market. Participants engage in a comprehensive educational program that includes three core eLearning courses:

• Global Hiring: Strategies for sourcing talent internationally.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I): Best practices for creating inclusive hiring processes.
• The Virtual Talent Acquisition Life Cycle: Techniques for digital recruitment.

Additionally, the program features bonus content related to cybersecurity roles, providing insights into assessing and building cyber teams. Upon completion, participants must pass an online assessment to demonstrate their proficiency in the subject matter. 

Earning this credential grants 22 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

The SHRM Talent Acquisition Specialty Credential not only enhances an individual’s skill set but also boosts career advancement opportunities by validating their commitment to professional growth. 

This credential serves as a valuable asset for HR practitioners looking to align their hiring practices with organizational goals and effectively navigate the complexities of talent acquisition.

SHRM HR Department of One Specialty Credential

The SHRM HR Department of One Specialty Credential is designed for HR professionals who serve as the sole HR representatives within their organizations. This credential acknowledges the unique challenges faced by solo practitioners and provides them with the necessary tools to manage all aspects of human resources effectively. 

Check out: SHRM HR Titles

Participants engage in an educational program that includes two comprehensive eLearning courses:

• HR Department of One: Developing Targeted L&D Solutions: Focuses on identifying learning and development needs.
• HR Department of One: Gaining Support for HR Initiatives: Teaches strategies for securing stakeholder buy-in.

After completing the courses, participants must pass an online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of the material. Upon successful completion, they earn 17 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) toward SHRM-SCP or SHRM-CP recertification.

This credential enhances the skills of solo HR practitioners, enabling them to maximize their effectiveness and drive organizational success. It also boosts career advancement opportunities by validating their expertise and commitment to professional growth. 

The program fosters valuable networking opportunities with peers in similar roles, allowing for knowledge sharing and support. 

The SHRM HR Department of One Specialty Credential serves as a testament to one’s qualifications, showcasing their ability to navigate the complexities of human resources as a solo practitioner.

SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential

The SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential is for HR professionals seeking to develop expertise in creating effective total rewards strategies that attract and retain top talent. 

In a job market where the number of available positions far exceeds the pool of qualified candidates, workers are negotiating for more than just competitive salaries; they are looking for comprehensive compensation packages that meet their diverse needs.

This credential provides the knowledge and guidance necessary to design a total rewards strategy that positions organizations for success.

Key components of the credential include:

• • Educational Program: Participants enroll in the Compensation & Benefits: Unlock the Power of Total Rewards Educational Program.

• eLearning Courses:

• • Optimizing Total Rewards Through External Vendors: Focuses on leveraging vendor relationships to enhance benefits programs.
  • Equitable Total Rewards: Addresses fairness and equity in compensation practices.
• Knowledge Assessment: Participants must pass an online assessment after completing the courses.
• Professional Development Credits (PDCs): Earn 21 PDCs toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

Find Out: SHRM Prep Course Near Me

Benefits of earning this credential include enhanced skills in building market-competitive reward programs, increased professional credibility, and valuable networking opportunities. 

The SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential serves as a testament to one’s commitment to professional growth, allowing individuals to showcase their qualifications in the field of human resources effectively.

SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential

The SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential is for HR professionals committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within their organizations. 

As workplaces increasingly recognize the importance of inclusivity, this credential equips practitioners with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a culture where all employees feel valued and engaged.

Key components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: Participants enroll in the Inclusive Workplace Culture: Leading and Sustaining a Culture Transformation program, which consists of three comprehensive eLearning courses focused on building an inclusive workplace.
• Knowledge Assessment: After completing the courses, participants must pass an online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of the material.
• Professional Development Credits (PDCs): Successful completion earns participants 22 PDCs toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

The benefits of earning this credential include enhanced skills in implementing effective inclusion strategies, increased credibility in the HR field, and valuable networking opportunities with like-minded professionals.

SHRM People Analytics Specialty Credential

The SHRM People Analytics Specialty Credential equips HR professionals with the skills to leverage data and analytics to drive business decisions and enhance organizational performance. 

As talent becomes an organization’s most significant investment, understanding how to analyze and utilize people-related data is crucial for making informed decisions aligned with business objectives.

Components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: Participants gain access to pre-seminar eLearning, enroll in the People Analytics: Taking Data-Driven Action Educational Program, and complete two additional eLearning courses.
• Knowledge Assessment: Candidates must pass a 50-question online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of people analytics concepts.
• Professional Development Credits (PDCs): Successful completion earns participants 22 PDCs toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

Benefits of earning this credential include enhanced skills in gathering, interpreting, and activating people data to support HR practices and organizational objectives. It demonstrates a commitment to using data-driven insights in HR decision-making and provides networking opportunities with peers and experts in the field. 

Importantly, individuals do not need to be SHRM-certified to pursue this credential, making it accessible to a broad audience. 

The SHRM People Analytics Specialty Credential positions HR professionals as key contributors capable of driving organizational success through informed, data-driven insights.

SHRM U.S. Employment Immigration Specialty Credential

This Specialty Credential is designed for HR professionals who manage workplace immigration processes and want to enhance their understanding of U.S. immigration laws and regulations. 

>>> SHRM Employment Law Certification

In today’s global economy, organizations must navigate complex immigration systems to attract and retain skilled workers effectively.

Components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: Participants enroll in the Global Hiring: Complying with U.S. Visa Requirements Educational Program, which includes three comprehensive eLearning courses:
  • Employment Eligibility: A Practical Guide to I-9 and E-Verify
  • Hiring Foreign Nationals: Non-Immigrant Visas
  • Hiring Foreign Nationals: Immigrant Visas
• Knowledge Assessment: Candidates must pass a 50-question online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of U.S. employment immigration concepts.
• Professional Development Credits (PDCs): Successful completion earns participants 26 PDCs, applicable toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

Earning this credential enhances skills in managing employment visas and compliance issues, providing credibility in a highly sought-after field. 

The SHRM U.S. Employment Immigration Specialty Credential positions HR practitioners as key contributors capable of navigating the complexities of immigration while ensuring organizational compliance and competitiveness in talent acquisition.

SHRM Workplace Investigations Specialty Credential

The SHRM Workplace Investigations Specialty Credential is for HR professionals responsible for conducting workplace investigations. 

This credential equips practitioners with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage sensitive situations that arise from employee complaints or misconduct, ensuring that investigations are thorough and impartial.

Key components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: Participants enroll in the Leading Workplace Investigations Educational Program, which consists of two comprehensive eLearning courses:
  • Managing Bias in a Workplace Investigation
  • Competent Workplace Investigation Interviews
• Knowledge Assessment: Candidates must pass an online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of workplace investigation concepts.
• Professional Development Credits (PDCs): Successful completion earns participants 13.5 PDCs, which can be applied toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

Earning this credential enhances skills in effective interviewing, data gathering, and analysis, enabling HR professionals to draw conclusions and make informed recommendations. 

Additionally, it establishes credibility in the field of workplace investigations and provides networking opportunities with peers and experts. 

The SHRM Workplace Investigations Specialty Credential empowers HR practitioners to navigate complex workplace issues effectively, ensuring compliance and fostering a fair work environment while mitigating organizational risks.

SHRM AI + HI Specialty Credential

The SHRM AI + HI Specialty Credential is an innovative program designed to equip HR professionals with the skills needed to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into human resources effectively. 

This credential focuses on the intersection of AI and human intelligence (HI), emphasizing how these technologies can enhance HR practices across various functions.

The program consists of a structured learning approach divided into three stages:

• Exposure: This initial stage introduces participants to AI concepts and applications, sparking interest in how AI can streamline HR processes.
• Curiosity: Participants explore strategic implementations of AI within organizations, fostering inquiry into its potential benefits and uses.
• Experimentation: In this final stage, learners engage in hands-on activities, applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Key features of the credential include interactive exercises, hands-on labs, and a capstone project where participants develop a customized AI implementation plan for their organization. 

Throughout the course, learners can connect with AI experts through online communities for guidance and support.

Upon completion, participants earn a certificate and 30 Professional Development Credits (PDCs), which are automatically added to their SHRM Certification profile. 

This credential empowers HR professionals to leverage AI effectively, enhancing decision-making and improving employee experiences in the workplace.

SHRM Caltech Advanced Technology Credential

The SHRM Caltech Advanced Technology Credential is a pioneering program offered in partnership between the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). 

This credential is designed to equip HR professionals with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape impacting the workplace.

Key components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: Participants must complete five core courses:

• • Artificial Intelligence: Understanding how AI can transform HR processes.
  • Data Analytics: Learning to leverage data for informed HR decision-making.
  • Cybersecurity: Protecting sensitive HR information against digital threats.
  • Systems Thinking: Developing a holistic view of organizational dynamics.
  • Cloud Computing: Utilizing cloud technology to enhance HR operations.
• Duration and Credits: The program consists of approximately 20 hours of content, with an additional 4 hours of bonus content, totaling 24 Professional Development Credits (PDCs).
• Assessment Requirement: Participants must pass an online assessment to earn the credential.

This credential is particularly beneficial for HR professionals looking to integrate advanced technologies into their practices, ensuring they remain competitive and effective in their roles. 

By completing this program, participants not only gain valuable insights but also enhance their credibility in the field, positioning themselves as strategic leaders capable of driving innovation within their organizations.

SHRM California Law HR Specialty Credential

The SHRM California Law HR Specialty Credential is designed for HR professionals who practice or conduct business in California, providing them with essential knowledge of the complex California labor code. 

This credential empowers participants to develop employment guidelines that comply with intricate state laws, minimize litigation risks, and align with organizational objectives.

Check Out: SHRM California Certification

Key components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: Participants enroll in the California HR: Applying CA Law to Employment Practices program, which includes an eLearning course titled Foundations of CA Employment Law that must be completed prior to the program.
• Comprehensive Courses: The program consists of five eLearning courses covering California-specific topics:
  • California Wage and Hour Laws
  • California Privacy, Safety, and Security
  • California Mandated Benefits and Workers’ Compensation Insurance
  • California Protected Leaves of Absence
  • California Employee and Employer Relations
• Knowledge Assessment: Candidates must pass an online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of California employment law.
• Professional Development Credits (PDCs): Successful completion earns participants 26.5 PDCs, which can be applied toward SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification.

This credential not only enhances participants’ expertise in California employment law but also positions them as knowledgeable resources within their organizations.

 By earning this credential, HR professionals can effectively navigate the complexities of California’s labor regulations, ensuring compliance and fostering a high-performing workplace.

SHRM Caltech Strategy Capabilities Credential

The SHRM Caltech Strategy Capabilities Credential is a cutting-edge program developed in partnership between the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). This credential is designed to equip HR professionals with essential strategic skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of modern workplaces.

Key components of the credential include:

• Educational Program: To earn the credential, participants must complete five core courses:
  • Innovation Frameworks: Focuses on fostering creativity and innovative solutions within HR.
  • Agility and Strategy: Develops strategic thinking and adaptability to align HR initiatives with organizational goals.
  • Leading Change: Equips participants with the skills to lead transformative initiatives and manage transitions effectively.
  • New World People Manager: Provides tools for managing and developing talent in contemporary work environments.
  • Future of Work: Explores emerging trends and technologies, preparing HR professionals to adapt in a rapidly changing landscape.
• Duration and Credits: The program comprises approximately 20 hours of content, with an additional 4 hours of bonus material, totaling 24 Professional Development Credits (PDCs).
• Assessment Requirement: Participants must pass an online assessment to demonstrate their understanding of the course material.

This credential empowers HR professionals to build a future-focused strategic vision, enabling them to innovate and respond effectively to changes in the workplace. 

By completing this program, participants enhance their credibility and position themselves as strategic leaders capable of driving organizational success.

Comparison of SHRM Specialty Credentials with SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP

The SHRM Specialty Credentials are designed to recognize competency-based professional development in specific HR practice areas, demonstrating specialized knowledge in complex and evolving topics. 

Upon completion, practitioners receive a certificate of accomplishment and a digital badge to verify their expertise. 

Additionally, SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential holders who complete a specialty credential will have the associated Professional Development Credits (PDCs) automatically uploaded to their SHRM Certification Portal.

In contrast, the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications represent comprehensive, competency-based credentials grounded in the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK). These certifications provide a broad framework for HR professionals, focusing on essential competencies that lead to personal and organizational success.

This focuses on key competencies that drive both personal and organizational success. The SHRM-CP is designed for early-career professionals, while the SHRM-SCP is intended for those in senior HR positions. 

To successfully pass these certifications, candidates are encouraged to enroll in the SHRM-CP prep course and also the  SHRM-SCP prep course, as these certifications are challenging and require thorough preparation.

Both credential types enhance an HR professional’s career trajectory. Specialty Credentials allow for targeted skill development in niche areas, while the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications offer a roadmap for broader career advancement and leadership opportunities.

Together, they support continuous learning and adaptation in the dynamic field of human resources, fostering improved organizational effectiveness and employee engagement.

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