Top HR Certifications for 2023: An Overview

Liza HR Manager

Thu, 17 Apr 2025

Human Resources (HR) is an essential part of any organization, and with the constantly changing landscape of the industry, it's essential to keep your skills up-to-date. One way to do this is by earning HR certifications. These certifications demonstrate to employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform HR tasks effectively. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the top HR certifications for 2023.

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

The PHR certification is offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and is aimed at HR professionals who are just starting their careers. The certification covers all areas of HR, including strategic management, workforce planning and employment, employee and labor relations, and compensation and benefits. To qualify for the certification, you need to have at least two years of experience in an HR role.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

The SPHR certification is also offered by the HRCI and is designed for HR professionals with more than six years of experience in the field. The certification covers advanced topics such as leadership and strategy, talent development and management, and risk management. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to move up the ladder into more senior roles.

3. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

The SHRM-CP certification is offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and is designed for HR professionals who are just starting their careers or have less than three years of experience. The certification covers all aspects of HR, including talent acquisition, learning and development, and total rewards. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of the latest HR trends and best practices.

4. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM-SCP certification is also offered by SHRM and is designed for HR professionals with more than three years of experience. The certification covers advanced topics such as strategic planning, global HR management, and leadership and navigation. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to move up the ladder into more senior roles.

5. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

The CCP certification is offered by WorldatWork and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in compensation and benefits. The certification covers topics such as job analysis and evaluation, salary surveys, and performance management. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in compensation and benefits.

6. Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS)

The CEBS certification is offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in employee benefits. The certification covers topics such as retirement planning, health and welfare plans, and compliance issues. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in employee benefits.

7. Professional in HR Information Management (PHRi)

The PHRi certification is offered by the HRCI and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in HR information management. The certification covers topics such as data management, HR technology, and analytics. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in the growing field of HR technology.

8. Talent Acquisition Strategist (TAS)

The TAS certification is offered by the Human Capital Institute (HCI) and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in talent acquisition. The certification covers topics such as employer branding, candidate experience, and social media recruiting. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in talent acquisition and recruitment.

9. Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)

The CDP certification is offered by the National Diversity Council and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The certification covers topics such as cultural competence, unconscious bias, and inclusive leadership. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in DEI and contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces.

10. Professional in HR Analytics and Metrics (HRMP)

The HRMP certification is offered by the HRCI and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in HR analytics and metrics. The certification covers topics such as data analysis, predictive analytics, and strategic HR metrics. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in the growing field of HR analytics and data-driven decision making.

11. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

The CPLP certification is offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD) and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in learning and development. The certification covers topics such as instructional design, training delivery, and evaluation and measurement. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in learning and development and contribute to enhancing employee performance and productivity.

12. Certified Professional in Employer Branding (CPEB)

The CPEB certification is offered by the Employer Branding Academy and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in employer branding. The certification covers topics such as employer brand strategy, employee experience, and candidate communications. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in building and promoting a strong employer brand that attracts top talent and enhances the organization's reputation.

13. Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)

The CBP certification is offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in employee benefits. The certification covers topics such as health and welfare plans, retirement plans, and legal and regulatory issues. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in employee benefits and ensure that employees receive competitive and comprehensive benefits packages.

14. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

The GPHR certification is offered by the HRCI and is designed for HR professionals who work in a global context. The certification covers topics such as global HR management, cross-cultural communication, and international labor laws. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in managing HR functions across multiple countries and regions.

15. Certified Professional in Disability Management (CPDM)

The CPDM certification is offered by the International Disability Management Standards Council (IDMSC) and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in disability management. The certification covers topics such as workplace accommodations, return-to-work programs, and disability prevention. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in creating inclusive and supportive workplaces for employees with disabilities.

16. Certified HR Leader (CHRL)

The CHRL certification is offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) in Canada and is designed for HR professionals who want to demonstrate their leadership skills. The certification covers topics such as strategic HR management, organizational behavior, and ethics and professional practice. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who are looking to specialize in leadership roles and contribute to the success of their organizations.

17. Certified Professional in Human Resources - California (PHRca)

The PHRca certification is offered by the HRCI and is designed for HR professionals who work in California. The certification covers topics such as California employment laws and regulations, compensation and benefits, and employee and labor relations. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who want to specialize in California-specific HR practices and ensure compliance with state laws.

18. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)

The CCP certification is offered by WorldatWork and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in compensation and benefits. The certification covers topics such as pay structure design, job analysis and evaluation, and incentive plan design. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who want to specialize in creating effective compensation strategies that attract and retain top talent.

19. Senior Professional in Human Resources - International (SPHRi)

The SPHRi certification is offered by the HRCI and is designed for HR professionals who work in a global context. The certification covers topics such as global talent acquisition, global HR management, and international employment laws. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who want to specialize in managing HR functions across multiple countries and regions at a senior level.

20. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)

The CEBS certification is offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and is designed for HR professionals who specialize in employee benefits. The certification covers topics such as group benefits, retirement plans, and ethics and fiduciary responsibility. It's an excellent option for HR professionals who want to specialize in creating comprehensive and competitive employee benefits programs.

In conclusion, the HR industry is constantly evolving, and earning a certification is an excellent way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. The certifications listed above are some of the top options for HR professionals in 2023, and there's a certification that's right for you, whether you're just starting your HR career or looking to specialize in a particular area. With the right certification, you can enhance your career prospects, demonstrate your expertise to employers, and contribute to creating more efficient, equitable, and inclusive workplaces.