19 Best HR Certifications for Beginners for Upskilling in 2025
HR certifications for beginners are valuable for individuals new to the human resources field, providing foundational knowledge and skills that enhance their employability and career prospects.
I've summarized the best HR certifications for beginners with notes about who and what each is best for so you can find the right one for the next step in your career.
Best HR Certifications for Beginners Shortlist
- Human Resources Certificate — Best for foundational HR skills
- Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) — Best for entry-level HR professionals
- Certified HR Manager (CHRM) — Best for aspiring HR managers
- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) — Best for HR professionals seeking global recognition
- HR Generalist Certificate Program — Best for HR generalist roles
- Certification Course in Human Resource Management — Best for comprehensive HR management knowledge
- Foundation Certificate in People Practice — Best for understanding people management
- Strategic HR Leadership (SHRL) Certification — Best for strategic HR leadership skills
- Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) — Best for Canadian HR standards
- Digital HR 2.0 Certificate Program — Best for digital transformation in HR
- Human Resources Management Certificate — Best for HR management fundamentals
- Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) — Best for talent development expertise
- Certified HR Generalist (CHRG) — Best for HR generalist career advancement
- Certificate in Human Resource Management QLS Level 1 Award — Best for beginner-level HR education
- HR Metrics & Dashboarding Certificate Program — Best for HR data analytics skills
- Online Human Resource Certificates — Best for flexible learning options
- Talent Management Practitioner (TMP™) Certification — Best for talent management practices
- Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management — Best for graduate-level HR education
- Human Resource Information Professional (HRIP) Certification — Best for HR information systems expertise
Overview of the Best HR Certification for Beginners
Below are my detailed summaries of the best HR certifications for beginners that made it onto my shortlist.
1. Human Resources Certificate - Best for foundational HR skills
This certification focuses on enhancing expertise in human resource management and organizational development. It offers structured learning to address complex HR challenges with practical applications.
Issued by: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Focus:
- Human Resource Management
- Employee Performance Management
- Labor and Employment Law
- Change Management
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: None
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No (It does not expire)
Price: $2,422.00
Who It’s For: Ideal for PHR/SPHR/GPHR certified professionals who seek HR Certification Institute re-certification credit to demonstrate advanced HR expertise.
2. Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) - Best for entry-level HR professionals
This certification is a great way to jumpstart your career. It’s designed for two types of people: those who are just starting their HR career and those who work in other areas but want to move into HR. It’s a great first step to help you grow in the field.
Issued by: HRCI
Focus:
- Human Resource Operations
- Employee Relations
- Compensation and Benefits
- Human Resource Development and Retention
- Health, Safety, and Security
- Talent Acquisition
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Required (65 scored questions + 25 pretest questions)
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, valid for three years. Requires earning 45 recertification credits or retaking the exam.
Price:
- Exam fee: $300
- Application fee: $100
Who It’s For: Perfect for non-HR professionals or those beginning their HR career journey seeking to establish an HR credential.
3. Certified HR Manager (CHRM) - Best for aspiring HR managers
This self-paced certification course focuses on advancing knowledge in organizational culture and HR strategies. It combines theoretical principles with practical applications to prepare you for complex HR responsibilities.
Issued by: HR University
Focus:
- HR management fundamentals
- Strategic HRM
- Diversity and inclusion
- Employee recruitment
- Performance management
- Employee benefits
- Labor relations
- Workplace safety
- Global HR practices
- Ethical practices and decision-making in HR
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Exam: Completion of quizzes and practical activities
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration and does not require renewal
Price:
- Human Resources Management Certification: $199
- Full Access: $499
Who It’s For: Ideal for new and experienced HR professionals looking to improve their skills and boost their job market competitiveness.
4. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) - Best for HR professionals seeking global recognition
This certification validates knowledge and skills in implementing HR policies and supporting organizational goals. It focuses on practical and strategic HR management principles.
Issued by: Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
Focus:
- HR principles and strategies
- Employee engagement and development
- Organizational goals alignment
- Effective HR practices
- HR knowledge and competencies
Prerequisites:
- Education: Bachelor's degree or higher
- Work Experience: At least 1-2 years in a professional HR role
- Exam: Required (pass the SHRM-CP exam)
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Valid for three years; renewable by earning 60 professional development credits or retaking the exam.
Who It’s For: Perfect for HR professionals looking to showcase their global expertise and ability to align HR strategies with business goals.
5. HR Generalist Certificate Program - Best for HR generalist roles
This certification gives you the knowledge and tools to succeed as the only HR person in your company. It covers everything from creating HR policies to managing payroll, helping you build and manage important HR processes, handling difficult situations, and adding value to the business.
With short on-demand video lessons and helpful guides, this program is perfect for HR generalists who want to make a real impact.
Issued by: AIHR
Focus:
- Key HR processes
- Policy frameworks
- Payroll management
- Employee lifecycle
- Strategic HR management
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Capstone project required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Does not expire
Price:
- Single: $1,125
- Full Access: $1, 850
- Team Licence: $2,600
Who It’s For: Ideal for ambitious HR generalists seeking to make a significant impact in their organizations, enhancing their ability to manage HR departments and processes effectively.
6. Certification Course in Human Resource Management - Best for comprehensive HR management knowledge
This certification offers an online course full of valuable HR resources that you can download and use right after you finish. Plus, you’ll get access to a support community on Facebook, YouTube, and podcasts to help you practice your new skills.
The course covers important HR topics like managing attendance, handling disciplinary problems, and creating strategies for terminations and employee exits.
Issued by: Udemy
Focus:
- Recruitment and Selection
- Performance Management
- Employee Relations
- Training and Development
- Compensation and Benefits
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: None
- Exam: None
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Not applicable
Price: $69.99
Who It’s For: Perfect for those starting a career in HR or looking to expand their HR management knowledge.
7. Foundation Certificate in People Practice - Best for understanding people management
This certification covers the basics of people practices, including the entire employee lifecycle, policies, laws, and regulations. It also covers important areas like recruitment, talent management, rewards, and learning and development, which are all key to a career in HR.
Most importantly, this certification helps you apply what you learn, building your confidence and skills as you progress.
Issued by: CIPD
Focus:
- Recruitment
- Employee Relations
- Organizational Development
- Principles of Analytics
- Core Behaviors for People Professionals
- Essentials of People Practice
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Does not expire
Price: From £1300 to £2300
Who It’s For: It is ideal for individuals seeking foundational HR knowledge and skills, providing a robust entry-level understanding of people management to enhance career prospects in HR.
8. Strategic HR Leadership (SHRL) Certification - Best for strategic HR leadership skills
This certification focuses on developing leadership skills for HR professionals to create and lead high-performing teams. It provides practical tools and strategies for aligning HR initiatives with business goals and improving team performance.
Issued by: Human Capital Institute
Focus:
- Team leadership and skill assessment
- Linking teamwork to business strategy
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion practices
- Feedback and coaching techniques
- Team interaction and design
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: Experience in HR leadership roles recommended
- Exam: Multiple-choice exam (80% passing score)
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Renewable every three years
Price: $1,995
Who It’s For: Designed for HR leaders seeking to align team leadership with organizational goals and build high-performing, inclusive teams.
9. Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) - Best for Canadian HR standards
This professional certificate validates your HR knowledge, workplace readiness, and commitment to lifelong learning. It combines coursework, exams, and a job readiness program to ensure competency in HR practices.
Issued by: HRPA
Focus:
- HR fundamentals and employment law
- Workplace professionalism and ethics
- Transitioning into HR roles
Prerequisites:
- Education: Completion of coursework in nine HR-related subjects
- Exam: CHRP Knowledge Exam and Employment Law Exam
Renewability: Requires ongoing HRPA membership, adherence to ethical standards, and completion of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements
Other Certifications: Not required
Price: From $28 to $593.25
Who It’s For: Perfect for HR professionals aiming to build foundational expertise and align their career goals with industry standards.
10. Digital HR 2.0 Certificate Program - Best for digital transformation in HR
This certification teaches how to use design thinking to design effective and memorable digital employee experiences. It helps implement digital projects, reduce resistance to change, and drive adoption.
Additionally, it covers optimizing HR processes to increase efficiency and prepares you to lead digital HR initiatives.
Issued by: AIHR
Focus:
- Digital HR strategy and adoption
- Optimizing and automating HR processes
- Enhancing employee experiences
- Measuring digital HR maturity
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Exam: Completion of coursework and assignments
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Does not expire
Price:
- Single: $1,125
- Full Access: $1,850/year
- Team License: $2,600
Who It’s For: Designed for HR professionals aiming to modernize HR operations and enhance efficiency through digital tools.
11. Human Resources Management Certificate - Best for HR management fundamentals
This certification is a comprehensive program designed to enhance your HR expertise. It covers essential HR functions, including compliance, talent acquisition, employee relations, and strategic management, preparing you to handle HR responsibilities and contribute to organizational success effectively.
Issued by: Bryant University
Focus:
- HR fundamentals and compliance
- Talent acquisition and retention
- Employee relations and engagement
- Strategic HR management
Prerequisites:
- Education: A bachelor's degree is required for enrollment
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: None
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Certificate does not expire
Price:
- Human Resources Management Certificate: $799
- SHRM Exam Prep: $1,475
Who It’s For: Ideal for HR professionals looking for flexible learning to enhance skills or pursue SHRM-Certified Professional and SHRM Senior Certified Professional credentials.
12. Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) - Best for talent development expertise
This certification measures expertise in applying talent development principles and practices across various organizational contexts. It includes a comprehensive assessment of professional capabilities to enhance learning strategies and improve organizational performance.
Issued by: ATD Certification Institute
Focus:
- Organizational impact
- Strategic aspects of employee learning
- Professional judgment and critical thinking
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: At least 5 years of experience in talent development (or 4 years with an APTD credential)
- Exam: Yes (Standardized three-hour exam)
- Other Certifications Required: APTD or ATD Master Designations for alternative pathways
Renewability: Requires renewal every three years
Price:
- ATD members: $975
- Non-members: $1,350
Who It’s For: Perfect for experienced talent development professionals meeting eligibility requirements, showcasing mastery in driving learning strategies and organizational success.
13. Certified HR Generalist (CHRG) - Best for HR generalist career advancement
This certification features lectures, downloadable templates, and exclusive interviews with HR experts to prepare you for a successful career in human resources.
It focuses on building practical skills in recruiting, hiring, training, and benefits management while providing actionable insights to help you navigate HR challenges and excel in your role.
Issued by: HR University
Focus:
- Core human resources principles
- Building and managing organizational culture
- Practical strategies for HR interview preparation
- Templates and tools used by HR professionals
Prerequisites:
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Completion of certification test
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Certification does not expire and offers lifetime access to course content
Price: $199
Who It’s For: Individuals aiming to boost their HR career, improving job opportunities and salary potential.
14. Certificate in Human Resource Management QLS Level 1 Award - Best for beginner-level HR education
This certification course offers an entry-level overview of human resource management, focusing on the duties and responsibilities of HR managers. You'll explore proactive performance management and employee motivation, laying the groundwork for a future career in HR.
Issued by: Oxford Home Study Centre
Focus:
- Fundamentals of HR management
- Roles and responsibilities of HR managers
- Performance management strategies
- Employee motivation techniques
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: None
- Exam: None
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Does not expire
Price: £9.99
Who It’s For: Ideal for those new to HR who wish to gain foundational knowledge and enhance their career prospects in human resources.
15. HR Metrics & Dashboarding Certificate Program - Best for HR data analytics skills
This program empowers you to transform HR data into compelling visual stories that drive strategic decisions. You'll master the entire reporting process, from implementing essential HR metrics to automating reports in intuitive dashboards.
Issued by: AIHR
Focus:
- Data visualization
- Storytelling with data
- Dashboard creation in Excel
- Analyzing employee turnover
- HR strategy creation
- Implementation of HR metrics
- Workforce scorecards
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: None
- Exam: Completion of coursework and assignments
- Other Certifications Required: Not required
Renewability: Does not expire
Price:
- Single: $1,125
- Full Access: $1,850/year
- Team License: $2,600
Who It’s For: Ideal for HR professionals aiming to enhance their data analysis capabilities to support strategic business management decisions.
16. Online Human Resource Certificates - Best for flexible learning options
This certification is perfect for those looking to start building new skills in HR. It helps you understand how HR professionals support organizations in areas like automation, AI, and remote work, making them key to success.
Southern New Hampshire University’s Undergraduate Human Resource Management Certificate provides a strong foundation to begin your HR journey.
Issued by: Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Focus:
- Human Resource Functions
- Employee Experience
- Labor Relations
- Compensation and Benefits
- Strategic HR Planning
Prerequisites:
- Education: None for undergraduates; Bachelor's degree for graduates
- Work Experience: Not required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Does not expire
Price:
- Undergraduate: $330 per credit
- Graduate: $637 per credit
Who It’s For: Ideal for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the HR field, providing foundational to advanced HR knowledge adaptable to strategic roles in various settings.
17. Talent Management Practitioner (TMP™) Certification - Best for talent management practices
This certification shows you're ready to join talent management teams. Talent management is not just a trend but a key area that drives organizational agility and competitiveness. TMP™ is recognized proof of your skills in this important field.
Issued by: Talent Management Institute (TMI)
Focus:
- Talent Management frameworks and practices
- Strategy and leadership in HR
- Critical focus areas in Talent Management
- International Talent Management experiences
Prerequisites:
- Education: HR-related degree recommended
- Work Experience: 1-2 years in HR beneficial
- Exam: Computer-based, 120 minutes, proctored
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes
Price: $675
Who It’s For: The TMP™ certification is ideal for new HR professionals or recent graduates seeking to establish a solid foundation in talent management.
18. Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management - Best for graduate-level HR education
This certification teaches how to manage and empower an organization’s most valuable asset—its people. It covers how HR impacts business results and helps develop talent while exploring ways to boost productivity through training, coaching, and compensation programs.
It also teaches how to use HR metrics to improve employee and organizational success.
Issued by: Walden University
Focus:
- Recruitment
- Employee relations
- Organizational development
- HR analytics
- Compliance assessment
- HR systems analysis
Prerequisites:
- Education: Bachelor's degree required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: None
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Does not expire
Price:
- Tuition: $12,400
- Program Fee: $350
Who It’s For: Perfect for those looking to boost their HR skills and apply them in real-world situations for career growth in human resources.
19. Human Resource Information Professional (HRIP) Certification - Best for HR information systems expertise
This certification is designed to assess the skills and knowledge of HR professionals in the HR technology field. Passing the exam shows a strong understanding of HR information management and the ability to apply it effectively. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise in this important area.
Issued by: International Association for Human Resources Information Management (IHRIM)
Focus:
- HR Information Management
- HR Technology Competency
- HR Systems Knowledge
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Typically 3-5 years in HR technology or related fields
- Exam: 90-question exam
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, the certification encourages ongoing education and professional development.
Price:
- Exam only: $445
- Exam + Membership: $645
- Exam + Membership + Prep Course: $1,100
Who It’s For: Ideal for HR technology professionals looking to validate their expertise and enhance their career prospects in HR information systems.
FAQs about HR Certifications for Beginners
What are the most popular HR certifications for beginners?
The most popular HR certifications for beginners include the SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional), the aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources) from HRCI, and the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in Human Resource Practice. These certifications are designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills for those starting their HR career.
How long does it take to earn an HR certification?
The time it takes to earn an HR certification varies depending on the specific certification and the individual's study pace. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. For example, preparing for the aPHR exam typically takes about 6-8 weeks of study.
Are there any prerequisites for HR certifications?
Most entry-level HR certifications, like the aPHR, do not have prerequisites, making them accessible to beginners. However, some certifications might require a certain amount of work experience or educational background, so it's important to check the specific requirements for each certification.
How much does it cost to get an HR certification?
The cost of obtaining an HR certification can vary significantly depending on the certification body and the level of the certification. For example, the exam fee for the aPHR certification is approximately $300, while SHRM-CP may cost around $400 for the exam.
Do HR certifications expire, and how can they be renewed?
Yes, many HR certifications expire and require renewal every few years. The renewal process typically involves earning continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam. For instance, the aPHR certification from HRCI requires recertification every three years, which can be achieved by earning 45 recertification credits.
Other Useful Resources
Here are a few other useful resources to check out:
- Best HR certifications to take
- Best HR software guide
- Guide to the recruitment process
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