Top Certifications for Human Resource Managers

3 April 2025

Top Certifications for Human Resource Managers

Gaining HR certification is a vital step for career progression, showcasing professional competence and commitment to excellence in human resources. Certifications like SHRM-CP, PHR, or CIPD signal expertise in HR principles, compliance, and best practices, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Employers value certified professionals for their up-to-date knowledge and ability to navigate complex workplace challenges. Beyond credibility, certifications enhance confidence, networking opportunities, and access to industry resources. They often lead to promotions, higher salaries, and expanded roles. In a dynamic field like HR, certification demonstrates your dedication to lifelong learning and propels your career forward. This blog post examines some of the best certifications for HR managers.

HR Manager Certificate Program by AIHR

The HR Manager Certificate Program by AIHR is a comprehensive online course designed to equip HR professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in leadership roles within the human resources field. What does this program offer?

AIHR focuses on developing a broad set of skills that are essential for strategic HR leadership. It covers:

● Organizational design
● Lean management
● Business administration
● HR operating models

The curriculum also helps participants build business-driven HR strategies and optimize their team’s efficiency using Agile methodologies. This online HR certificate program is delivered entirely online, offering a flexible, self-paced learning experience. Participants have 12 months of access to the course content, meaning this can be studied as someone pursuing their studies as well. The program includes:

● Video lessons
● Interactive case studies
● Practical resources and templates

AIHR’s certifications, including the HR Manager Certificate Program, are accredited by leading HR associations such as SHRM and HRCI. The program is priced at US $1,125 for individual enrolment. Alternatively, professionals can opt for Full Academy Access at US $1,850, which provides unlimited access to all of AIHR’s certificate programs and courses for 12 months.

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

One of the best certifications for HR managers is the SHRM Certified Professional, offered by the Society for Human Resource Management. This certification is tailored for HR professionals operating at the functional or operational level, making it ideal for those implementing policies, managing day-to-day HR operations, and serving as a point of contact for staff and stakeholders. With its global recognition and emphasis on practical HR knowledge, the SHRM- CP is a valuable asset for advancing an HR career. The program covers a range of relevant topics, including:

● Policy implementation
● Employee relations
● Compliance with labor laws
● Technology and Data Management in HR
● Ethical decision-making

The certification is globally recognized, making it a strong credential for professionals working in
diverse industries or international markets. One of the appealing aspects of the SHRM-CP is its accessibility. Candidates do not need prior HR experience or a specific degree to apply. However, a basic understanding of HR principles or a degree from a SHRM-aligned academic program is recommended. This makes it suitable for both early-career professionals and for those transitioning into HR roles. The two types of questions asked in the SHRM-CP exam are:

1. Knowledge-based items: These evaluate the understanding of factual HR concepts.

2. Scenario-based situational judgment items: These assess decision-making skills in workplace scenarios.

The exam consists of 134 questions, including 80 knowledge-based items, 54 situational judgment items, and 24 unscored field-test questions. It is computer-based and lasts four hours, including 3 hours and 40 minutes of testing time. Candidates can take the exam at authorized Prometric testing centers.

So how much does the SHRM-CP cost? It depends on the exam and membership status with SHRM itself. Members typically pay less than non-members. To maintain the certification, professionals must earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) every three years through activities such as attending workshops or completing additional courses. 

HRAcademia

The HRAcademia certification is an accredited online program that empowers HR professionals worldwide. It is one of the best certifications for human resource managers in 2025 because it focuses on providing flexible, accessible, and comprehensive certifications for the requirements of all kinds of industries.

HRAcademia offers six specialized certifications that cover the entire spectrum of human resource management. These certifications are designed to meet the needs of professionals at varying career levels and provide in-depth knowledge of HR functions. The available certifications include:

1. CHRP-Online (Certified Human Resource Professional): A foundational certification for all levels of HR professionals, covering essential HR processes from hiring to offboarding.
2. SHRP-Online (Senior Human Resource Professional): Tailored for senior-level professionals focusing on strategic HR management and business leadership.
3. CHRA-P (Certified Human Resource Analytics Professional): Focuses on deploying data-driven HR models to support organizational goals.
4. CHRBP-Online (Certified Human Resources Business Partner): Integrates business goals with HR policies, emphasizing strategic alignment.
5. CHRM-Online (Certified Human Resource Manager): Specifically designed for HR managers aiming to enhance operational efficiency and leadership skills.
6. CTDP-Online (Certified Training & Development Professional): Specializes in training management and organizational development.

There are numerous advantages of taking HRAcademia certifications, including:

1. Comprehensive Learning Modules: Each certification includes detailed modules covering topics such as HR analytics, business strategy, employee relations, and global workforce management.
2. Global Recognition: Accredited by the American Institute of Chartered Certifications, these credentials are recognized worldwide.
3. Lifetime Certification: Unlike many other programs, once certified by HRACADEMIA, professionals retain their credentials for life without the need for recertification.

Eligibility criteria of HRAcademia certifications make it attractive to both fresh graduates and seasoned practitioners. CHRP-Online requires only a high school diploma and is accessible to entry-level candidates, while SHRP-Online requires professional level-experience. The exam fees depends on which  particular program applied for:

• CHRP-Online exam fee: $595
• SHRP-Online exam fee: $695
• CTDP-Online exam fee: $295

Testing for all of these programs are also flexible, being available year-round.

Strategic HR Leadership program by the Human Capital Institute (HCI)

This is another HR certification which is well worth considering in 2025. The program offers a structured approach to developing HR leaders for today’s business world. This certification focuses on the evolving role of HR professionals as strategic partners within organizations. Students learn how to integrate HR practices into broader business strategies, all while focusing on human capital management and how it contributes directly to the organization’s goals.

The experienced faculty provides a hybrid model of online material and live virtual sessions, enabling students to learn at their own pace. Topics covered include:

• Strategic HR planning
• Workforce analytics
• Talent management
• Organizational design
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I)

At US $1,195, an HR professional will be certified with all the necessary skills to compete in today’s businesses. Accredited programs such as this are a must-have for all human resource managers.

Summing up

Adding an HR certification to your resume provides professionals with a competitive edge, showcasing their expertise and commitment to the field. It demonstrates mastery of critical HR competencies, enhancing credibility and earning respect from employers and peers. Certifications often lead to improved career prospects, including higher salaries and expanded job opportunities. They also offer access to valuable networks, resources, and continuous learning, keeping professionals updated on industry trends.

For organizations, certified HR staff contribute to strategic decision-making and drive efficiency in workforce management. Overall, certification is an investment in personal growth, professional development, and organizational success. Have you considered pursuing one yourself?

Investing in human resources with PERFORM

Once you’ve recruited the right people, knowing how to motivate them is one of the most important aspects of a manager’s job.

One key to this is understanding and managing the factors that contribute to that motivation, and creating the conditions for people to perform and realise their potential.

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>> Return to the Managing Performance Knowledge Hub