As organizations navigate new workforce trends and technologies, HR professionals with the right certifications are in high demand. If you’re looking to advance your career in 2025 and beyond, earning an HR certification can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional development.
Here’s a look at some of most sought-after HR certifications that will help you stay competitive in the evolving workforce for years to come.
1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR®)
The PHR® is one of the most widely recognized HR certifications. It focuses on the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including laws and regulations in the U.S.
Who Should Get It: This certification is perfect for early-career HR professionals looking to solidify their knowledge in HR operations.
Requirements:
- At least 1 year of professional-level HR experience and a master’s degree,
- At least 2 years of professional-level HR experience with a bachelor’s degree, or
- At least 4 years of professional-level HR experience without a degree
Cost: $395 for the exam, plus a $100 application fee
Where to Learn More: Visit the HRCI website at www.hrci.org.
2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®)
The SPHR® is an advanced certification tailored for HR leaders who are responsible for planning and strategizing in HR, rather than day-to-day operations.
Who Should Get It: Ideal for HR professionals with senior-level roles focused on policy-making and strategic planning.
Requirements:
- At least 4 years of professional-level HR experience and a master’s degree or higher,
- At least 5 years of professional-level HR experience with a bachelor’s degree, or
- At least 7 years of professional-level HR experience without a degree
Cost: $495 for the exam, plus a $100 application fee.
Where to Learn More: Visit www.hrci.org.
3. Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP®)
The SHRM-CP® certification is aimed at individuals who are either engaged in general HR tasks or are in the process of building a career in Human Resource Management. This includes current students or early-career professionals.
Who Should Get It: Ideal for those working in or transitioning to an HR role, this certification is also great for students preparing for a future in HR. It’s well-suited for professionals who want to validate their operational HR skills.
Requirements: To qualify for this certification, you do not need to hold an official HR title, have a degree, or have prior experience. However, it’s recommended that you have foundational HR knowledge or a degree from an Academically Aligned program.
Cost:
Standard Exam Fee:
- SHRM Members: $410
- Non-Members: $510
Early-Bird, Student, Corporate, and Military exam fee options are available.
Where to Learn More: Visit www.shrm.org.
4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP®)
The SHRM-SCP® is tailored for individuals who have a minimum of three years of experience working in strategic HR roles or SHRM-CP credential holders who have maintained their certification for at least three years and are advancing into strategic positions.
Who Should Get It: This certification is ideal for HR professionals responsible for leading high-level initiatives, including creating and overseeing HR policies, managing large HR departments, or aligning HR strategies with overall business objectives.
Requirements:
- No degree or specific HR title is required, but applicants must demonstrate they have dedicated at least 1,000 hours per calendar year to strategic HR tasks.
- Part-time work qualifies, as long as the 1,000-hour annual threshold is met.
- Strategic-level responsibilities include developing HR policies, managing the integration of HR functions, and leading HR efforts that influence the organization’s direction.
Those working as HR consultants may demonstrate qualifying experience through the HR/HR-related work they perform for clients as long as their contracted hours meet the 1,000-hour per calendar year standard.
Cost:
Standard Exam Fee:
- SHRM Members: $410
- Non-Members: $510
Early-Bird, Student, Corporate, and Military exam fee options are available.
Where to Learn More: Visit www.shrm.org.
5. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR®)
The GPHR® certification is designed for HR professionals who work with global workforces, ensuring they understand multi-national HR strategies, policies, and legal regulations.
Who Should Get It: Perfect for HR professionals responsible for global talent management, international assignments, or multinational operations.
Requirements:
- At least 2 years of professional-level HR experience and a master’s degree or higher,
- At least 3 years of professional-level HR experience with a bachelor’s degree, or
- At least 4 years of professional-level experience without a degree
Cost: $495 for the exam, plus a $100 application fee.
Where to Learn More: Visit www.hrci.org.
6. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP®)
The CCP® certification focuses on compensation strategy and salary management. It’s a valuable credential for those interested in specializing in compensation, pay structure, and benefits design.
Who Should Get It: This certification is ideal for HR and compensation professionals looking to validate their expertise in compensation practices, particularly within single-country organizations. It’s suited for those entering the field or managing compensation programs, as well as professionals working alongside compensation analysts or consultants who want to validate their proficiency.
Requirements: No formal HR experience is required, but relevant work in compensation or benefits is highly recommended.
Cost: The CCP® consists of 10 courses/exams covering topics like pay structure, job analysis, and benefits strategies.
- WorldatWork Members: Starting at $1,350 course/exam
- Non-Members: Starting at $1,929 course/exam
Where to Learn More: Visit www.worldatwork.org.
7. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS®)
The CEBS® is designed for HR professionals focused on employee benefits. This certification draws from the Group Benefits Associate (GBA) and Retirement Plans Associate (RPA) curriculum and equips you with knowledge about health plans, retirement plans, and the legalities surrounding benefits administration.
Who Should Get It: This certification is perfect for those starting a career in benefits, professionals currently working in employee benefits, or experienced individuals looking to deepen their expertise in the field.
Requirements: There are no prerequisites, but most candidates have experience in benefits or compensation.
Cost: The CEBS® certification consists of five required courses. The cost per course varies depending on the study materials selected:
- Required Exam: $550**/course
- Essential Study Guide: $250/course (includes print and online access)
- Essential Textbook: cost varies
- Optional Instructor-led Online Study Group: $250/course
**includes two attempts if purchased in 2024
Where to Learn More: Visit www.ifebp.org.
Elevate Your Expertise with HR Certification
Earning a professional HR certification can significantly boost your career and ensure you stay ahead in a constantly evolving field. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to specialize in a particular area, there’s an HR certification that aligns with your career goals and ambitions.
Start exploring the certification that fits your experience level and career aspirations today. With the right credentials, you’ll gain credibility, knowledge, and a competitive edge in the HR industry.
