The human resources (HR) department plays a crucial role in any organization. From recruiting and hiring employees to managing compensation and benefits, the HR team oversees many critical functions. As technology, laws, and business practices evolve, HR professionals must stay current on the latest trends and best practices in the field. A human resource management certificate demonstrates an HR practitioner’s expertise and commitment to the profession.
In this blog, we will explore some of the most valued human resource management certifications available today. Whether you are new to the HR field or an experienced professional looking to advance your career, obtaining an HR certification can help you stand out.
Benefits of Earning an HR Certification
Here are some of the key benefits of earning a certification in human resource management:
- Validates your HR competencies and knowledge
- Enhances your credibility and career advancement opportunities
- Keeps you up-to-date on the latest HR best practices
- Distinguishes you from non-certified HR practitioners
- Demonstrates your commitment to professional development
With the right certification, you can prove your expertise to employers, earn higher compensation, and position yourself for leadership roles within the HR department.
Human Resource Management Certificate Program
Many colleges and universities now offer human resource management certificate online. Though less extensive than a full degree, these certificate programs enable working professionals to expand their HR knowledge and skills within a shorter, more concentrated curriculum.
Here are some of the common courses included within a graduate-level HR certificate program:
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Talent Acquisition and Retention
- Employee Relations
- Total Rewards
- HR Metrics and Workforce Analytics
- Training and Development
- Labor Relations
- HR Information Systems
upGrad Offerings in online courses in HR Management
upGrad is an online higher education platform that offers cutting-edge certificate and degree programs in collaboration with top universities worldwide. Within the field of human resource management, upGrad provides:
- Human Resource Analytics Course from IIM-K
- Executive Program in Human Resource Management
- Master’s Degree in Organizational Development & Change from Liverpool John Moores University
Conclusion
As the HR function continues to evolve, specialized training and credentials help demonstrate your capabilities as a leader. For today’s human resource management professionals, attaining a respected certification or advanced degree is essential for driving your career potential.
FAQs
1. Do I need an HR degree to get certified?
In most cases, no – you do not strictly require an HR academic degree. However, you do need to meet the prerequisite HR experience requirements for each certification to qualify for the exams. Some exceptions are the aPHR and GBA, which allow test eligibility for early-career professionals.
2. How much does certification cost?
Expect fees ranging from $ 300 to $800 to cover study materials, prep courses, exam registrations, and renewal costs every 3 years. Employers often cover these expenses for their HR staff’s professional development.
3. How long does it take to get an HR certification?
Approximately 4-6 months is needed for self-paced studying, enrollment in a certification prep course, and sitting for the exam. Those with more work experience may require less preparation. For degree programs, duration ranges from 1-2 years, depending on if you study full-time or part-time.
4. What is the difference between an HR certification and a degree?
A certification demonstrates specialized knowledge in a specific area of HR, while a degree provides broader training across HR principles and business administration. Certifications take less time and cost compared to earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree. However, degrees allow for more in-depth study and are preferred for management-level positions.
5. Which HR certification is the easiest to obtain?
The aPHR is considered amongst the easiest and fastest HR certifications to attain as it targets early-career professionals with under 1 year of HR experience. The exam focuses more on foundational HR principles compared to the advanced strategic concepts tested in the PHR or SPHR exams which require higher-level capabilities.
