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How do I get a Human Resources Certificate?

By Tess C. Taylor
Updated Mar 02, 2024
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The field of human resources is an exciting career choice option for any business professional to pursue; however, it does require a certain level of specialized training in human capital management and employment law. Generally, the minimum education required to pursue a position in human resources is a certificate level credential, which can be obtained in a variety of ways. The human resource certificate demonstrates a baseline general knowledge in human resource topics and is best suited for entry level human resource work. You can get certification through a training program offered by a business or human resources educational provider, college or university.

The training that leads to a human resources certificate usually requires taking a minimum of 12 to 18 semester credit hours in coursework specific to human resources topics. This may include courses that cover recruiting practices, employment laws, employee management and general hr strategy.

A quality program can be found at many colleges and universities, as well as through organizations that credential human resource professionals. Often, the certification courses can be completed online over a period of nine months to a year. This is an attractive choice for a business or human resource professional who is seeking additional credentials to pursue advanced placement at work or to change careers and move into a human resources role.

Training provides a broad range of learning for anyone considering a career in human resources or for managers who want to better manage employees. In some cases, the certification may help with obtaining continuing education credits that will eventually lead to an advanced degree in human resource management and even greater employment options. A human resources certificate is a good choice for anyone who is in an entry level human resource, personnel or recruiting role.

For the working human resource professional or the student in an accredited human resource degree program, there is also another type of certificate offered by the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) that can provide advancement opportunities. Upon successful completion of an approval and testing process, the credential is earned and can be maintained so long as there is continual employment in the human resources field. The certificate offered by the SHRM is a highly valued credential to obtain in human resources.

Earning a certificate in human resources demonstrates a solid knowledge base for the human resources professional that is valued by peers in this industry. When deciding on what type of human resource certificate to obtain, it’s best to seek out a program that offers up-to-date human resource strategy and employment law topics.

PracticalAdultInsights is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Discussion Comments

By anon217565 — On Sep 25, 2011

I am a third year HR major. I am interested in this very aspect of business because it gives me a variety of jobs to choose from, whether that be recruiting, compensation, or employee relations. If I have a degree from another country? how can my knowledge transfer to this enterprise? Would it help much? or is it basically useless?

By anon190319 — On Jun 25, 2011

Hello I have a Bachelors Degree in HR but in my country. So in order to get a job here in the US, I have to get a certification in Payroll. So I've been looking some online courses, but I don't know if they are reliable. I really need help.

By slywil091 — On Jun 15, 2011

Can anybody please explain the comprehensive model of strategic human resource management, please?

By anon148540 — On Feb 01, 2011

This was very informative. I have always had the desire to work in HR because I love working with people, conflict resolution, and just being fair. I've been told by everyone who knows me and my work ethic that I will be great in HR but I have no HR experience.

I'm currently in school getting my Masters in HR Training and Development, but like someone mentioned jobs are only looking for people with yrs of experience. How can I get my foot in the door without taking a pay cut that will put me out of my home?

By anon137378 — On Dec 27, 2010

I've applied for an HR officer position. So what important key points are there to know? --FAFK

By anon132309 — On Dec 06, 2010

My only concern is that it seems like there is a catch 22 with getting certified. Every HR job I've seen requires a certificate. However to get the certificate you have to have HR job experience. How does someone actually start off in this profession?

By yournamehere — On Jul 23, 2010

@earlyforest -- HR management training can take on a lot of different aspects.

For instance, many HR training courses are usually trained to think about what the higher-ups value, and what the employees value, and how to mesh the two.

Many HR courses also cover conflict management, mediation, and how to deal with substance abuse issues.

Finally, one of the most important aspects of HR training is learning how to minimize company liability in terms of employment law violations, work environment, etc.

By EarlyForest — On Jul 23, 2010

So what exactly is involved in human resources management training?

I know the article says that it involves recruitment, hr strategy, but what are some other areas involved?

By FirstViolin — On Jul 23, 2010

I agree with ellaesans -- there is nothing worse than a miserable HR person, because they can make everybody else miserable too.

By ellaesans — On Jul 08, 2010

Before you focus on becoming a member of Human Resources with a company, there are several things you should consider. Mainly, you should understand that you’re going to be working with people everyday – day in and day out. If you don’t like people, this isn’t the job for you. There are several different positions available within large companies when it comes to HR, too, and you should fully invest yourself into some heavy research when it comes to deciding where you want to be.

One more thing, if you don’t like being stuffed in an office most, if not all, of the day then don’t put yourself in this position by becoming an HR consultant or HR Lead.

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