Education · 1 of 5
The path
A degree or diploma, a knowledge exam, then experience to earn the full designation.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
English, business and any course with writing and presenting.
- 2
Post-secondary
2 to 4 years
A 4-year degree in HR (human resources), business or psychology, or a 2-year college diploma. Graduates of other degrees often add a 1-year graduate certificate in HR management.
- 3
Knowledge exam
After graduation
In Ontario, the CHRP (Certified Human Resources Professional) knowledge exam through HRPA (Human Resources Professionals Association) plus an Ontario employment law exam. In the rest of Canada, the National Knowledge Exam through CPHR (Chartered Professionals in Human Resources) Canada's provincial bodies. Accredited programs can waive the exam.
- 4
Coordinator to generalist
2 to 4 years
Onboarding, benefits, records, recruiting support. Then broader files: performance, policy, employee relations.
- 5
Full designation
About 3 years of experience
The CHRL (Certified Human Resources Leader) in Ontario or CPHR (Chartered Professional in Human Resources) elsewhere adds an experience requirement and, in Ontario, a second exam.