Human resources has grown far beyond handling payroll and paperwork. Today, HR is a strategic part of every organization, shaping company culture and driving business success.
Because of this evolution, the demand for certified HR professionals has never been higher. Earning a certification shows you have both the knowledge and commitment to meet industry standards and lead with confidence.
This guide explores the most respected certifying organizations—SHRM® and HRCI® as well as the organization, AIHR, which offers certificate programs—to help you find the right HR move based on your goals, experience, and future career plans.
The material contained in this blog is for informational purposes only.
Why HR certifications matter
The HR field has become more competitive and more strategic than ever before. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, HR professionals have taken on a larger role in shaping company strategy, culture, and talent management. Many organizations now see HR as essential to business success.
When Louise entered the HR department in the 1970s, it was still called “Personnel.” Her job focused on collecting and organizing paperwork for hiring, payroll, and employee records. She started her first role while earning a two-year degree in business at her local community college.
Today, the work looks very different. Her colleague Aubrey, who joined decades later, holds an MBA in human resource management and leads a project using data analytics to improve turnover rates and employee rewards. When Aubrey applied for her role, the company received more than 200 applications. Many of the applicants had advanced degrees, certifications, and years of experience.
This shift shows how much the field has changed. Earning an HR certification signals credibility and commitment. It tells employers that you’re serious about your career advancement and ready to apply advanced knowledge in real-world settings.
The value of certification in human resources
Earning an HR certification shows more than just knowledge—it signals dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous learning. Employers and clients recognize that certified HR professionals invest time and effort to stay current in the field.
While a certification can’t guarantee a new job or promotion, it often opens doors. Many HR professionals find that certification helps them qualify for higher-level roles, gain respect from leadership, and negotiate stronger salaries.
A certification also complements your degree and hands-on experience. It bridges the gap between what you learn in college and what you do every day at work. By validating your skills through an industry-recognized credential, you show that you can apply HR concepts in real-world situations and make an impact across your organization.
Meet the major HR certification organizations
Several organizations offer HR certification programs, each serving different areas within human resource management. The most recognized groups include:
- SHRM – Society for Human Resource Management®1
- HRCI – HR Certification Institute®2
- ATD – Association for Talent Development4
Each organization has its own focus, testing style, and specialty. Together, they give HR professionals a range of ways to demonstrate their skills and advance in their careers.
SHRM certifications: SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the largest HR membership organization in the world, with more than 300,000 members across 165 countries. SHRM focuses on professional development, research, and advocacy for HR professionals at every career stage.1
Its two main credentials are the SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) and the SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional). These certifications are recognized globally and considered the gold standard in the HR profession.
The coursework in Rasmussen University’s Human Resources and Organizational Leadership Bachelor’s degree program is aligned with the standards for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), and meets the academic requirements to sit for the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exam. There may also be additional requirements like work experience.
Specific work experience for a designated number of years and/or certification are required to sit for the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) exam. It is important to check with the Society for Human Resource Management regarding these requirements.
Who SHRM certifications are for
The SHRM-CP is designed for early to mid-level HR professionals who handle day-to-day HR functions and policy implementation.
The SHRM-SCP targets senior-level leaders who make strategic decisions and influence organizational direction.
Benefits of SHRM certification
SHRM certifications test both behavioral and technical knowledge. This helps certified professionals apply what they know about HR practices, employment laws, and compensation planning to real-world business situations.
SHRM also provides valuable professional development resources like research reports, toolkits, and local networking opportunities. To maintain certification, professionals complete continuing education through courses, workshops, or conferences.
Challenges of SHRM certification
While SHRM certifications are highly respected, they come with costs and ongoing commitments. Exam fees can be several hundred dollars, and study materials or prep courses may add to the expense. Recertification is required every three years and involves a fee plus continuing education hours.
Some HR professionals also find the broad scope of SHRM certification too general. For those with a narrow or highly specialized focus, such as nonprofit compensation or people analytics, other certifications may better align with their goals.
Is SHRM right for you?
The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP are ideal for HR professionals seeking a well-recognized, competency-based certification with wide industry credibility. These credentials are particularly valuable for generalists, specialists, and aspiring leaders who want to demonstrate both technical skill and strategic insight in human resource management.
HRCI certifications: aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, GPHR®
The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) is one of the oldest and most trusted organizations offering HR certifications. Known for setting high standards, HRCI has a long history of preparing professionals to demonstrate their technical knowledge and leadership skills in human resources.
Here are the main HR certificates they offer.1,2,3,4
Certification | Target Career Stage | Total Exam Fee | Recertification Fee |
aPHR | Entry-level | $400 | $169 |
PHR | Mid-level | $495 | $169 |
PHRca® | Mid-level (California) | $495 | $169 |
SPHR | Senior-level | $595 | $169 |
GPHR | Global HR | $595 | $169 |
The coursework in Rasmussen’s Human Resources and Organizational Leadership Bachelor’s degree program is aligned with the standards of the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI), and meets the academic requirements to sit for…
- The HRCI Associates Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)
- The Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
- The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) exam
Additional requirements, such as work experience in an HR role, may be required for each exam and certification. It is important to check the requirements with the HR Certification Institute.
Benefits of HRCI certification
HRCI credentials are highly respected among employers who value tradition and structure. The variety of certification options makes it easy for HR professionals to find the right fit based on their level of experience and career goals.
Because HRCI exams are known for their technical depth, they are especially valuable for professionals who want to show strong knowledge of employment laws, compliance, and organizational structure. HRCI also has strong international recognition, especially outside the United States.
Challenges of HRCI certification
Some HR professionals view HRCI as more knowledge-based than competency-based. The exams focus heavily on what you know rather than how you apply that knowledge. Others find the recertification process to be somewhat rigid compared to newer, more flexible options.
Who should choose HRCI?
HRCI certifications are ideal for HR professionals who value structure, tradition, and global recognition. They’re best suited for experienced professionals following a clear career path—from generalist to specialist to senior leader—and for those working in international or compliance-focused roles.
AIHR certificate programs: An alternative choice for digital HR and analytics
The Academy to Innovate HR (AIHR)3 focuses on preparing HR professionals for the digital future of work. While they don’t offer certifications, they offer certificate programs that can help you train into tech-specific functions.
These programs emphasize data, analytics, and technology-driven HR practices—areas that are becoming essential to strategic HR leadership. The courses combine theory with practical projects so professionals can apply what they learn right away.
Benefits of AIHR programs
AIHR certificate programs are ideal for HR professionals who want to integrate technology and analytics into their work. The programs cover topics like human resource information management, talent development, and data-driven decision-making.
It is important to check with employers regarding education and/or certifications that are required for certain positions.
Limitations of AIHR programs
While AIHR has grown in popularity, it isn’t yet as widely recognized by employers as SHRM or HRCI. Its focus is more specialized, appealing mainly to those in digital or tech-focused industries. Professionals seeking a generalist or compliance-based credential may find other certifications a better fit.
Matthew’s story: A data-driven transformation
To understand this better, here’s an example.
Matthew, an HR business partner at a mid-sized tech company, noticed his organization was relying more on data to make key decisions. Even though he had years of experience, he felt left out of conversations about analytics.
To build new skills, he enrolled in AIHR’s People Analytics program. Within months, he was building dashboards that tracked hiring, training, and retention metrics. His new expertise helped him support leaders with better insights and improved decision-making.
Kendra’s story: Leading digital adoption
For a different example, let’s say Kendra, an HR manager at a global retail company, wanted to play a larger role in her organization’s digital transformation. Traditional certifications didn’t offer the technology focus she needed, so she chose AIHR’s Digital HR Certificate Program.
The program helped her learn about automation tools, change management, and emerging technology trends. Its self-paced format allowed her to study while continuing to work full time, making it a flexible choice for upskilling.
Comparing the top HR certifications
Choosing among the most HR certifications can feel overwhelming, especially since each program offers something different. This quick comparison can help you understand how they stack up and which might fit your HR role best.1,2,3,4
Main differences at a glance
- SHRM: Broad, competency-based focus with global recognition
- HRCI: Traditional, exam-based certifications known for technical depth
- ATD: Specializes in learning, performance, and talent development
Focus and format
- SHRM: Combines behavioral and technical knowledge; exam-based after prep courses
- HRCI: Measures technical HR knowledge and compliance; multiple certification levels available
- ATD: Focuses on employee learning and training strategies
No single option is the best HR certification for everyone. Some professionals even pursue multiple certifications to show versatility across HR functions and career stages.
Choosing the right HR certification for your career goals
So, which HR certification should I get? It depends entirely on your career goals, experience level, and desired HR role. Here's a quick recap:
- Just starting out? Try the aPHR (HRCI) or SHRM-CP to begin your certification journey.
- Have a few years in HR? Consider PHR, SHRM-SCP, or AIHR’s strategic HR leadership tracks.
- Looking to specialize? Explore certifications in talent acquisition, people analytics, or human resource information management through AIHR or ATD.
- Working globally? Go for GPHR via HRCI or combine multiple certifications to show versatility.
- Already leading teams? Earn the SHRM Senior Certified Professional or SPHR certification to solidify your place as a strategic HR leader.
Remember: most HR certifications and certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree or college degree and, in some cases, a master’s degree plus at least seven years of relevant experience. So, plan accordingly and align your choice with your unique path in the HR profession.
Power your next move in HR
There isn’t one single best HR certification, and the right choice depends on your career goals, experience level and where you want your HR journey to lead. Each program offers its own strengths, whether it’s broad business insight, global expertise, or advanced skills in analytics and technology.
The most successful certified HR professionals align their certifications with their long-term vision. Whether you want to lead people, manage data or innovate HR through technology, earning the right credential can strengthen your credibility and open new opportunities.
Now is the time to take the next step in your professional development. Explore your options, plan your certification journey and find the program that best matches your path in the world of HR certifications.
After all, human resources is always changing! Check out HR and AI: What Prospective HR Professionals Should Know.
SHRM® is a registered trademark of Society for Human Resource Management
HRCI® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc
Society for Human Resource Management® is a registered trademark of Society for Human Resource Management
HR Certification Institute® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc
SHRM-CP® is a registered trademark of s a registered trademark of Society for Human Resource Management
SHRM-SCP® is a registered trademark of Society for Human Resource Management
aPHR® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc.
PHR® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc.
SPHR® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc
GPHR® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc.
PHRca® is a registered trademark of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc.
1Society for Human Resource Management. (n.d.). About SHRM | Building a world of work that works for all. Viewed November 13, 2025
2HRCI Organizational Certification. https://www.hrci.org/certifications/individual-certifications Viewed November 13, 2025
3AIHR, The world's largest library of online HR courses, https://www.aihr.com/ Viewed November 13, 2025
4Association for Talent Development, About ATD, https://www.td.org/ Viewed November 13, 2025
