Not sure what the difference is between the HR Certifications from HRCI and SHRM? Are you trying to decide how important (or not important) being certified really is? These are the HRCI and SHRM certification details that will clear your mind and guide you to a firm decision and direction.
HR Certification demonstrates an HR professional’s commitment, expertise, and competency in the field. Two of the most recognized accrediting bodies in HR certification are the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Each offers a variety of certifications suited to different levels of experience and areas of HR practice. These certifications can differentiate HR professionals in the job market, potentially leading to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and professional growth.
To maintain certification from either HRCI or SHRM, you are required to complete a variety of professional development activities or credits over a set timeframe, usually every three years. This ensures that HR professionals continue to evolve in line with the latest HR trends, laws, and best practices.
This blog post is your guide to advanced HR credentials through HR Certifications from HRCI & SHRM.
Overview of HR Certification
When advancing your HR career, you may consider obtaining a professional certification. Two prominent certifying bodies dominate the field: the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
To obtain an HR certification from HRCI or SHRM, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, which typically include a combination of HR experience and education, and pass a comprehensive examination. The HRCI has been certifying HR professionals since 1976 with their well-established Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), and Global Professional in HR (GPHR) among others tailored by skillset, education, and geography. SHRM offers the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), linked to practicing HR-related duties or pursuing a career in human resources.
Below are all of the current HRCI Certifications available for Human Resources professionals:
- APHRi: Associate Professional in Human Resources – International
- APHR: Associate Professional in Human Resources
- PHR® : Professional in Human Resources
- PHRi: Professional in Human Resources – International
- PHRca: Professional Human Resources – California
- SPHR® : Senior Professional in Human Resources
- SPHRi: Senior Professional in Human Resources – International
- GPHR® : Global Professional in Human Resources
Below are all of the current SHRM Certifications available for Human Resources professionals:
- SHRM-CP : SHRM Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP : SHRM Senior Certified Professional
In contrast, SHRM introduced its certifications in 2014 with a focus on competency-based certifications. The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP are designed for HR professionals with varying levels of experience. Both include global information so that Human Resources professionals can show global knowledge and credibility.
Consider the following when choosing a certification body:
- Your career stage and the geographical scope of your HR current role or the role you aim to obtain.
- The cost of certification exams; HRCI exams tend to be more expensive compared to SHRM’s.
Choose a certification path that aligns with your career aspirations and needs.
HRCI Certification
The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) provides various levels of HR certifications tailored to your professional experience. Recognized globally, these certifications can be pivotal for career advancement and professional development.
PHR: Professional in Human Resources
The PHR certification focuses on the operational aspects of HR management. It proves your expertise in the HR field and demonstrates your ability to tackle tactical and logistical challenges. To earn the PHR, you need to possess a combination of HR experience and education, and you must pass a comprehensive exam.
Typically, HR professionals who are early in their careers obtain this certification. Certifications do not equate to specific job titles because as your career grows, you maintain the same certification unless you decide to retest for the exam and successfully pass that exam as well.
SPHR: Senior Professional in Human Resources
Designed for seasoned HR professionals, the SPHR emphasizes strategic and policy-making aspects of HR practice and delivery. Similar to the PHR, the SPHR requires substantial professional experience and a successful score on the certification exam.
Prior to the SHRM certifications becoming available in 2014, it was more common to see HR leaders such as an HR Manager or HR Director with this certification. Since obtaining this certification does not test HR professionals on global information, then professionals with this certification typically live and work in one country.
GPHR: Global Professional in Human Resources
The GPHR is a certification for HR professionals who have cross-border or global responsibilities. This certification recognizes your expertise in multinational HR challenges and your ability to develop HR policies and strategies within a global context where employees and/or operations take place for one company in more than one country. Prerequisites include a mix of global HR experience.
SHRM Certification
SHRM offers two main certification options geared towards HR professionals aiming to validate their skill and knowledge level in the HR career field. It is not uncommon to see HR professionals with an HRCI certification and a SHRM certification. This is largely because after SHRM certifications became available in 2014 they encouraged HR Professionals who already had any of HRCI’s certifications to obtain the SHRM certification as well. The barrier of acquisition was very easy to obtain by simply reviewing a short (20-30 minute) presentation.
SHRM-CP: Certified Professional
The SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) is designed for HR professionals who are primarily engaged in operational roles. This certification demonstrates your proficiency in carrying out policy implementation, day-to-day HR operations, and serving as a point of contact for staff and stakeholders. To be eligible, you need to meet specific educational and work experience criteria, which involve a combination of HR-related duties.
SHRM-SCP: Senior Certified Professional
For those in more senior roles, the SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) emphasizes strategic and policy-making aspects of HR management. SHRM-SCP requirements detail that this certification is suited for individuals who have developed strategies, led HR initiatives and contributed to decision-making at an executive level. Like the SHRM-CP, the SHRM-SCP also requires meeting educational and professional experience prerequisites.
Both certifications require passing a comprehensive examination and commitment to continuing professional development to maintain the credential.
Exam Preparation and Study Strategies
Preparing for HR certification exams, such as HRCI and SHRM exams, requires a structured approach and effective study strategies.
Here are several tips:
- Dedicate Time: Allocate between 40 and 120 hours for exam preparation, adjusting based on your HR work experience, education, and life dynamics (i.e. marital status, children, methods of learning, etc.).
- Establish a Routine: Develop a consistent study routine to remain focused on your goal. Disciplined preparation leads to better results.
- Use Official Resources: The SHRM Learning System is a customizable resource, offering various study materials and practice tests tailored to the exam’s content and Heyyy HR provides a full list of study resources for both HRCI and SHRM exams.
- Engage with Content: Expand your understanding by listening to podcasts like Workology’s HR Certification Podcast, which provides insights and study tips for the exams and Amanda Woods provides detailed study sessions.
- Join Study Groups: Collaborating with peers can offer support, diverse insights, and accountability. There are several study groups on Facebook tailored to the HRCI and SHRM exam test takers.
- Utilize Practice Exams: Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format and identify areas needing improvement. Exam Edge offers a number of practice exams for both SHRM exams.
Sample Study Plan
| Week | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Review HR fundamentals; begin self-assessment |
| 3-5 | Deepen knowledge in specific competencies |
| 6 | Join a study group; discuss challenging topics |
| 7-8 | Take practice exams; analyze performance |
| 9 | Review difficult areas; take additional quizzes |
| 10 | Rest; ensure mental preparedness for the exam |
Remember, consistent effort and strategic study practices greatly enhance your chances of success. Click the picture above for a FREE HR Certification Study Checklist.
Certification Maintenance and Renewal
To maintain your SHRM certification, you are required to earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) every three years or retake the certification exam. A similar requirement is outlined for the HRCI certification; however, details on specific credits may vary.
Earning PDCs
For SHRM, PDCs can be accumulated through:
- Advance Your Education – Attend SHRM conferences, seminars, or eLearning courses
- Advance Your Organization – Projects that contribute to your organization’s HR goals
- Advance Your Profession – Professional activities like volunteer work, thought leadership, or research
Recertification Process
Follow these steps to recertify:
- Log into your SHRM certification portal or, for HRCI, access your HRCI account.
- Enter your PDCs as you earn them throughout your cycle.
- Once you’ve reached 60 PDCs, submit your application for recertification along with the recertification fee.
Click the picture to the right to get a list of ways to earn recertification credits.
Cycle Dates
- Your recertification cycle for SHRM begins on the day you pass the exam and ends on the last day of your birth month, three years later.
- For HRCI, the cycle varies and you should refer to their recertification guidelines for specifics.
Lapsed Certification
If you fail to recertify by the deadline, your credentials will be suspended. For HRCI, you have an additional 12 months to recertify with a late fee. SHRM aligns with similar policies, and details can be reviewed on the SHRM website.
Remember that engaging in continuous professional development activities is crucial for maintaining your certification and enriching your career in HR.
Key Takeaways
- HR certifications from HRCI and SHRM signify professional expertise and may lead to career advancements.
- Eligibility for certifications includes a combination of experience and education, along with passing a rigorous exam.
- Maintaining HR certifications requires ongoing professional development to stay current in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, you’ll find insights and specific details addressing common questions and concerns related to HR certifications, particularly from HRCI and SHRM, that will assist you in making informed decisions for your HR career development.
What are the key differences between HRCI and SHRM certifications?
The main distinctions between HRCI and SHRM certifications lie in their focus and recognition. HRCI offers various levels of certification, such as PHR and SPHR, centered on technical HR mastery and U.S. laws. SHRM certifications, such as SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP, emphasize the application of HR practices in conjunction with broader business context Certification FAQs – SHRM.
How do you prepare for the PHR certification exam?
Preparation for the PHR certification exam typically involves having a clear study plan that may include attending preparatory courses, reviewing study materials, taking practice exams, and staying updated on HR practices. Guided learning provided by HRCI also helps candidates tailor their study to the exam content. Click here for a free study checklist for HRCI exams.
What are the eligibility requirements for taking the SHRM certification exam?
To sit for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam, you need to meet specific criteria regarding your level of HR education and experience. For instance, those with an HR-related degree may require less professional experience than those without an HR background.
Can you break down the cost of obtaining HRCI certification?
The cost for obtaining an HRCI certification, like the PHR, includes examination fees, which may vary based on membership status, plus additional costs for study materials and prep courses. It’s essential to check updated fees on the official HRCI website to budget accordingly.
What benefits does holding a SHRM certification provide for HR professionals?
SHRM certification offers HR professionals global recognition for their expertise and skills, helping them to stand out in the job market. It also demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development, which can lead to better job opportunities and increased credibility in the HR career field.
How can HR certifications enhance my career progression in the field of human resources?
HR certifications like those from HRCI and SHRM signify that you have met a high standard of knowledge and skills in the HR field, which can substantially boost your career prospects. Certified professionals often enjoy higher salaries, expanded job roles, and respect as industry experts.
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