Optional · 1 of 3
Certifications employers ask for
None are legally required. Employers ask for them anyway.
SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional)
The common first certification. No degree or experience requirement, so you can sit it early.
SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional)
For strategic roles. Needs about three years of senior human resources work or three years holding the first certification.
Credentials from a second certifying body
The HR Certification Institute (an independent organization, separate from the one above) offers an associate-level credential for beginners plus the Professional in Human Resources and Senior Professional in Human Resources for experienced staff.
Payroll certification
A specialist route with its own exams, and consistently short of qualified people.