Top 8 HR Certification Classes in 2024

Are you interested in advancing your career in human resources?

If so, obtaining an HR certification might be the right move for you. HR certifications not only demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field but also provide you with the necessary training to gain foundational knowledge in various aspects of human resource management.

In today’s competitive job market, human resources specialists are expected to be well-versed in legal environments, understand global human resources practices, and develop retention initiatives that comply with regulations.

HR certifications can help you gain the expertise needed to navigate these complexities and support your organization’s growth. Moreover, certifications can also help you specialize in particular areas, such as people analytics, compensation, and benefits packages, or talent management, making you a valuable asset in your field.

Top Rated HR Certification Class Courses

Several institutions offer HR certification courses that cater to different levels of experience and specialization.

Most courses will typically cover the fundamentals, but the distinction between a course that paves the way for a thriving career and one that does not lies in the quality and comprehensiveness of study resources, the access it provides to industry experts, and the networking opportunities it offers with fellow professionals.

In the following list, we’ll dive into the details of a few HR certification courses available out there:

1. HR Management Certification offered at HR University

The HR Management Certification course offered by HR University is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the core functions and responsibilities of an HR manager.

The course offers:

  • 90+ lectures
  • 30+ case studies
  • exclusive interviews with industry experts
  • Real-world case studies
  • A step-by-step guide to answering popular HR Manager interview questions
  • A certificate of completion
  • Access to a global HR community, and more.

It covers topics such as recruitment and selection, employee relations, compensation and benefits, performance management, and legal and regulatory compliance.

Throughout the course, participants will learn how to develop and implement effective HR policies and practices, manage talent effectively, and ensure their organization remains compliant with relevant laws and regulations. By completing this certification, participants will be better equipped to manage a range of HR functions and contribute to the overall success of their organization.

Key Takeaways:

  • Develop and implement effective HR policies and practices
  • Manage talent effectively
  • Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations
  • Comprehensive understanding of core HR functions and responsibilities

2. HR Business Partner Certification offered at HR University

The HR Business Partner Certification course at HR University focuses on strategic HR practices, talent management, workforce planning, and performance management. Participants in this course will learn how to align HR strategies with business objectives, effectively communicate with stakeholders, and drive performance improvements across the organization.

The course offers:

  • 60+ lectures + assignments + quizzes
  • 30+ case studies
  • Exclusive interviews with industry experts
  • Real-world case studies
  • A certificate of completion
  • Access to a global HR community, and more.

Through a combination of expert-led instruction, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain the expertise needed to excel as an HR Business Partner.

Key Takeaways:

  • Align HR strategies with business objectives
  • Effectively communicate with stakeholders
  • Drive performance improvements across the organization
  • Expert-led instruction, case studies, and practical exercises

3. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) – SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Certifications

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers two levels of HR certification: the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) for early- and mid-career professionals and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) for senior-level practitioners.

  • The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications focus on both behavioral competencies and HR knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the HR profession.
  • SHRM provides a variety of resources, including an online learning system, study guides, and practice exams to help candidates prepare for the certification exams.
  • Earning a SHRM certification demonstrates a strong commitment to professional development and expertise in the field of human resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • Two levels of certification available for different career stages
  • Comprehensive focus on both behavioral competencies and HR knowledge
  • Access to a variety of study resources

4. HR Certification Institute (HRCI) – PHR, SPHR, and GPHR Certifications

The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) offers several HR certification options, including the Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), and Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR).

  • The PHR, SPHR, and GPHR certifications cover a wide range of HR topics, with the PHR focusing on operational aspects, the SPHR targeting strategic and policy-making aspects, and the GPHR focusing on global HR practices.
  • HRCI provides a variety of resources to help candidates prepare for the exams, including study materials, practice exams, and online courses.
  • Earning an HRCI certification validates your expertise in the field and demonstrates a commitment to professional development.

Key Takeaways:

  • Multiple certification options for different career stages and specializations
  • Comprehensive coverage of HR topics
  • Access to a variety of study resources

5. Talent Management Institute (TMI) – TPHR, STPHR, and GTPHR Certifications

The Talent Management Institute (TMI) offers three levels of HR certification, focusing specifically on talent management: Talent Management Practitioner (TPHR), Senior Talent Management Practitioner (STPHR), and Global Talent Management Practitioner (GTPHR).

  • These certifications are designed for human resources professionals who specialize in talent management, including recruitment, employee development, and performance management.
  • TMI provides a range of resources to help candidates prepare for the exams, including study guides, practice exams, and online courses.
  • Obtaining a TMI certification demonstrates your expertise in talent management and your commitment to professional growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Focused on talent management specialization
  • Three levels of certification available
  • Access to study resources

6. International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) – IPMA-CP and IPMA-SCP Certifications

The International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) offers two HR certifications tailored for public sector HR professionals: IPMA Certified Professional (IPMA-CP) and IPMA Senior Certified Professional (IPMA-SCP).

  • These certifications focus on the unique challenges and best practices associated with managing HR in the public sector.
  • IPMA-HR provides a variety of resources to help candidates prepare for the exams, including study materials, practice exams, and online courses.
  • Earning an IPMA-HR certification demonstrates your expertise in public sector HR and your commitment to professional growth in the field.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tailored for public sector HR professionals
  • Two levels of certification available
  • Access to study resources

7. World at Work – Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

World at Work offers the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) certification for HR professionals who specialize in compensation and benefits management.

  • The CCP certification focuses on key aspects of compensation management, including job analysis, salary structures, incentive plans, and regulatory compliance.
  • World at Work provides various resources to help candidates prepare for the exams, including study materials, practice exams, and instructor-led courses.
  • Earning a CCP certification demonstrates your expertise in compensation management and your commitment to professional development in this specialized area.

Key Takeaways:

  • Specialized certification for compensation and benefits management
  • Comprehensive coverage of key compensation topics
  • Access to study resources

8. Association for Talent Development (ATD) – Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD)

The Association for Talent Development (ATD) offers the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) certification for HR professionals who specialize in employee training and development.

  • The CPTD certification covers essential aspects of talent development, including instructional design, facilitation, coaching, and performance improvement.
  • ATD provides a range of resources to help candidates prepare for the exam, including study materials, practice exams, and online courses.
  • Obtaining a CPTD certification demonstrates your expertise in talent development and your commitment to professional growth in this specialized area.

Key Takeaways:

  • Focused on talent development specialization
  • Comprehensive coverage of essential talent development topics
  • Access to study resources

Unlock Your Potential with HR University’s Full Access Package

HR University’s Full Access Package is a holistic training program tailored for driven professionals striving to reach new heights in the human resources field.

This package offers students lifetime access to all the courses provided by the organization, ensuring they stay well-informed and up-to-date with the dynamic HR industry. It allows learners to acquire the crucial knowledge and certifications needed to thrive in their careers, all with a single, cost-effective investment.

The Full Access Package stands out for its capacity to award students with five distinct certificates, highlighting their proficiency in various HR disciplines. This educational investment empowers learners to expand their expertise and remain current with state-of-the-art industry practices and trends. Compared to other courses on the market, HR University’s Full Access Package presents an affordable and comprehensive learning experience that will benefit professionals throughout their careers.

Key features of the Full Access Package include:

  • Lifetime access to all courses offered by HR University
  • Cost-effective, one-time investment
  • Acquisition of five separate certificates across HR specializations
  • Continuous updates on industry trends and best practices
  • An opportunity to advance your career with comprehensive knowledge

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to renew my HR certification?

Many HR certifications require periodic recertification, typically every three years. Recertification often involves completing a certain number of continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam. This process ensures that human resources professionals stay updated on the latest developments in the field, including the legal environment, and continue to gain knowledge for developing retention initiatives and valuable skills related to compensation and benefits packages. Once you sign up for one of HR University courses, you receive lifetime access to the material. That means you make a one-time investment and always have access to up-to-date HR content, helping you to better navigate the legal environment and gain knowledge.

What are the benefits of completing HR certification classes?

Completing HR certification courses helps professionals develop a strong foundation in human resources practices, regulations, and legal environments. These certifications can also help enhance your resume, increase your earning potential, and support your career growth, especially for human resources specialist positions. By obtaining certifications from reputable institutions, you can gain valuable skills related to compensation and benefits packages, talent management, and global HR practices, which can be instrumental in implementing various company growth strategies and securing a human resources specialist position.

What kind of knowledge can I gain from an HR certification course?

HR certification courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including legal environment, employment law, talent management, compensation and benefits, and more. By completing a certification course, you can gain foundational knowledge in various aspects of human resource management, stay updated on the latest developments in the field, and develop valuable skills related to human resources practices, regulations, and legal environments. The training you receive will help you gain foundational knowledge and understand how these aspects interconnect within the HR field.

How do HR certification courses help with training and gaining foundational knowledge?

HR certification courses typically include comprehensive study materials, access to industry experts, and opportunities for networking with fellow professionals. This comprehensive training approach helps participants gain foundational knowledge in various aspects of human resource management, including legal environments, global human resources practices, and regulations. Additionally, the certification process often involves practical exercises and case studies, allowing you to apply your newfound knowledge and skills in real-world situations to better understand and manage global human resources.

Do I need an HR certification to work in human resources?

While an HR certification is not always required for entry-level positions, it can help you stand out in the job market and demonstrate your commitment to professional development. As you progress in your career, obtaining a certification may become increasingly important for advancement, particularly for human resources specialist positions. Gaining a certification not only validates your expertise in the field but also equips you with the necessary training to gain foundational knowledge for success in your chosen career path. By understanding global human resources practices and adapting to different legal environments, you can become a well-rounded HR professional.

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Josh Fechter
Josh Fechter is the founder of HR.University. He's a certified HR professional and has managed global teams across 5 different continents including their benefits and payroll. You can connect with him on LinkedIn here.