May 7, 2025
Written By Evans Momodu, published 09:38
Discover how to get an HR certification in 2025. Explore top HR certifications, eligibility, costs, and steps to boost your human resources career.
Many professionals often find themselves feeling as though they’re trapped beneath a huge boulder, with promotions appearing as distant stars and the idea of changing jobs feeling like an insurmountable peak, especially without the essential certifications that pave the way. However, human resource professionals possess a unique insight— the talent pool out there brims with exceptional individuals equipped with the skills necessary to excel.
The true challenge lies not in the absence of talent but in the scarcity of advocates or "cupbearers" to champion these candidates’ abilities before the decision-makers—the kings of the corporate realm. In this metaphor, the Biblical cupbearer represents a meticulously crafted resume, one that vividly illustrates the candidate's roles and responsibilities, all backed by relevant and prestigious certifications that endorse their qualifications.
Acquiring human resource certification is not just a stepping stone; it is the bedrock that fortifies Human resource professionals, enhancing their appeal to business owners while garnering the respect of both colleagues and employees alike. These certifications serve as a beacon of validation, showcasing your knowledge, skills, and expertise in human resources. Offered by esteemed and accredited institutions, these credentials affirm that you not only meet industry standards but also possess the competence to navigate and excel in the multifaceted realm of HR roles.
HR certification enhances your resume, making you a more competitive candidate. Human resource professionals who dare to venture into acquiring certifications do not only make their candidacy appealing to prospective employers, but also, they stand out with a blinking emblem. This is why certified professionals often qualify for senior roles such as HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Lead, or HR Business Partner (HRBP).
Certification programs provide comprehensive training in areas such as recruitment, employee relations, payroll, legal compliance, employee data management, leveraging AI to automate processes, and performance management.
Obtaining an HR certification enhances your credibility and shows your commitment to the profession, often earning you the respect of both peers and employers. Additionally, it can lead to better job opportunities with attractive salaries and benefits. More advanced human resource certifications often result in organisations being willing to offer higher compensation to bring you onto their team.
Offered 100% online, MSBM's programme covers essential HR functions, strategy, and leadership skills. Suitable for working professionals irrespective of whether they are working remotely, at the office or practising the hybrid system..
This is a globally recognised certification that is ideal for senior HR professionals responsible for developing strategies that are crucial for leading HR departments.
This certification is well-recognised in Canada. It basically covers HR essentials, employment law, and organisational behaviour, suitable for both entry-level and senior officers in human resource management..
Offered online, this Ivy League certificate focuses on strategic HR leadership and practical tools for workplace success. It exposes human resource professionals to trending tools that help automate processes, manage talent more effectively and monitor employee performance.
This flexible HR course is designed for both new and mid-level HR professionals, emphasizing real-world applications. It is a hands-on training program that ensures participants not only receive certification but also feel prepared to successfully apply their skills in the workplace.
AIHR offers self-paced online courses that are highly practical and globally respected. The courses offered by this academy are Ideal for professionals who wish to upskill to move their careers to the next level.
UK-based CIPD offers Level 3 to Level 7 qualifications. It is an institution that is well-respected in Europe, ideal and highly recommended for strategic human resource roles.
It is crucial to consider your current level of experience before you choose a program relevant to your career growth and aspirations. Below is a short list of 3 broad categories that could guide you in selecting a program that can position your human resources career for growth.
It is important to come to terms with your niche area in human resource management, even though you need to know every other area. When you have decided on which area to specialise, you can then choose certifications that align with your desired HR domain, e.g. talent management, analytics, or labour relations.
Funding and time management are the major reasons most professionals either find it difficult to start a certification program or are unable to finish up when they find the funds to start due to commitments here and there. Consequently, it is advisable to compare course costs, duration, and format (online vs in-person) before you choose a program from an institution. MSBM and AIHR offer affordable, flexible options.
Evaluate multiple programmes to compare them against the backdrop of your desired goals. You can also read reviews and frequently asked questions to get insights from those who have taken the certifications before. This will help guide you to the best program that will suit your career aspirations.
To be sure that you meet educational and work experience requirements for your desired program, you must check eligibility criteria, especially by country and language requirements. This will save you time and ease a lot of stress that could come from making a mistake in making payment for a program that you might not be eligible for.
This is the best approach to ensuring that you are on the right track. A training or Prep programme helps you with all the specific skills and knowledge needed to ace your exams. Choose a certified provider like MSBM to gain foundational knowledge and exam readiness.
The first way to prepare for your exam is to study. Additionally, you can use official study materials, join forums, and attend webinars to get insights from others.
Register for the exam, make sure to read and follow the instructions for the exam and ensure timely preparation. The preparatory processes for the exam have been explained in item 3 above.
Most certifications require ongoing education or recertification after a few years. Consequently, to stay at the top of the food chain, you must continue to seek relevant certifications and recertifications to enrich your qualifications and boost career growth.
|
Certification Name |
Ideal for |
Cost (USD) |
Duration |
Delivery Mode |
|
MSBM Executive HR Management |
All levels |
$300 - $600 |
3-6 months |
Online |
|
SHRM-SCP |
Senior |
$475 (members), $630 (non-members) |
Varies |
Online/In-person |
|
CHRP |
Mid-level |
$300+ exam fees |
Varies |
In-person |
|
Cornell HR Certificate |
Mid-Senior |
$3,600 - $5,400 |
2-4 months |
Online |
|
HRCI (aPHR, PHR, SPHR) |
Varies |
$300 - $495 |
Varies |
Online |
|
AIHR |
All levels |
$997/year |
Self-paced |
Online |
|
CIPD |
All levels |
$2,000 - $7,000 |
6-24 months |
Online/In-person |
Certified HR professionals earn 20-30% more on average and are preferred by top global employers.
Study at your own pace from anywhere in the world.
MSBM is affiliated with UK awarding bodies and recognised globally.
Low-cost programmes with flexible payment plans make professional development accessible.
Are you still sitting there, pondering whether it’s time to pursue your human resource certification? If you’ve made it this far, it sounds like you’re ready to take the leap! The guide above is packed with insights that tackle common questions and eliminate those lingering doubts about starting and completing this journey.
Your HR certification under your belt wouldn't be just a piece of paper but a strategic investment in your future. With a wealth of certification options out there, it's essential to choose one that aligns with your personal goals, experience, and budget.
Whether you’re just starting or eyeing a senior position, obtaining your certification can be your ticket to exciting career advancements, enhanced credibility, and incredible personal growth. So, why wait? Your future in HR could be just a certification away! Try it and thank me later.