How to Become a Certified Human Resource Management Specialist

Passing an exam is required to obtain human resources certification.

Certification in Human Resources (HR) is essential for advancement in the career path of a Human Resources professional. Obtaining certification shows that the employee has extensive knowledge and versatility in this field. Though certification may not be required for HR, it is recommended.

The most recognized certifications include: Professional in Human Resources (PHR®) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®). These certifications can be obtained through the HR Certification Institute.

Instructions

1. Decide which certification to obtain and your eligibility for it. In addition to the PHR and SPHR credentials, the HR Certification Institute offers: Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR®) and, for those who work in California, California Certification (PHR-CA® and SPHR-CA®). You must meet criteria established by the HR Certification Institute to be eligible for certification, which includes at least two years of professional HR experience.

2. Apply for the certification online at the HR Certification Institute's website. There are only two certification exams offered per year. You will be required to pay an application fee. Check with your employer to determine if it covers this cost. Fees range from $250 to $425 and are discounted for members of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

3. Schedule your certification exam by visiting the Prometic website. Prometric is the third-party vendor responsible for administering the test. Its website will list testing centers and the exam schedule.

4. Study for the exam. You may want to complete preparation courses, although they are not required. The SHRM offers training and prep courses, as do other organizations. The HR Institute offers certification study guides and practice exams. All of these aids have varying fees that may be covered by your employer.

5. Take the certification exam. Most often you will obtain a pass or fail score the day of the exam. If you do not pass, you have the opportunity to retake the test.

References

• Human Resouces Certification Institute: Eligibility Requirements
• Human Resources Certification Institute:
• Society for Human Resource Management: PHR/SPHR Certification Prep: SHRM Learning System
• Prometric Services: HRCI: HR Certification Institute Testing

Resources

• Human Resources Certification Institute
• Society for Human Resources Management