Learn About Professional Human Resources Certification

The term Human Resources or the certification associated with that industry—called HR certification, Professional Human Resources Certification or Human Resources certification–can actually refer to a variety of things. There is no one set definition for the field. A quick online search will reveal an assortment of certification programs in HR readily available. While you can certainly get a certificate from a variety of companies, be aware that only a handful of those institutions will yield a certification that is actually meaningful in the job market.

If you are new to the world of work, or new to the field of HR, you are trying to break in. Your job prospects are what is known as entry level jobs or jobs which pay an hourly rate. For those new to the field, a less structured, less recognized program will benefit you. It will set apart from the other applicants who are in your same position. What you are seeking is the proverbial “foot in the door.” Thus, any certification program you complete will make you more a desirable candidate for the entry level positions, which are less skilled HR positions anyway.

If you’ve already broken into the industry and are seeking advancement, then you must more carefully consider the program you pursue. The Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) sets the bar for the entire industry and you will want to pursue a program which is recognized by this group.

SHRM is in alliance with the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI). Both organizations not only determine the certification criteria, they track and modify those criteria as needed. SHRM is the expert authority on the HR industry, and sets the trend and expectations.

HRCI offers four certification programs for professionals in the human resources field:

• PHR – Professional in Human Resources
• SPHR – Senior Professional in Human Resources
• GPHR – Global Professional in Human Resources
• PHR-CA and the SPHR-CA – the PHR and SPHR certifications particular to practitioners in the State of California.

You cannot pursue a certificate through HRCI unless you are already a salaried HR employee or you already have exempt-level work experience in the field. Requirements for the certificate include passing a rigorous exam. However, all the hard work is worth it as HRCI certification is a definitive leg up in the HR field. Once you have the certification itself, you must maintain it by completing continuing education courses. These courses are delivered by HRCI. This protects everyone by ensuring that HR professionals with this certification are privy to the very latest education in HR.

The exam by which you obtain HR certification from HRCI is a 225 question test. You will be asked multiple choice questions regarding basic HR knowledge. Typically, you will want to set aside four hours to take the exam.

World at Work is global HR organization. They also offer a HR certification, which merits respect. This certification demonstrates acumen and knowledge of compensation, total reward, benefits, and work-life issues in the HR industry. The advantage of these certifications is that they allow you to establish yourself as a specialized expert in a specific area of HR. If you are eying a seat in management or as a specialist in a field, then you need to ponder striving for a certification. You have to get continuing education credits under the standards set by SHRM and HRCI. These certifications meet those requirements.

You will enjoy the personal pride of knowing that you have achieved a specialized certification within your field of choice and demonstrated the skill and knowledge necessary to perform your job functions to the fullest of your potential. Your current boss and your future prospective employers will recognize your commitment and dedication to your field.

If you are considering attempting to gain HR certification, you have a myriad of options from which to choose. You will want to factor in where you are in your career at present, your past work experiences, and how committed you are to your professional growth in order to choose the right program for your needs.