As workforce dynamics and organizational structures evolve, the demand for skilled human resources (HR) professionals is rising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- Employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033.
- Employment of human resources managers is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033.
If you’re a current human resources professional or interested in an HR career, you may want to consider getting certified. An HR certification from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) demonstrates you have the knowledge and skills to move up in your profession.
Two prominent HR certifications include:
We sat down with faculty members from the School of Business and Information Technology at Purdue Global to learn the difference between the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications.
>> Related Reading: How a BA in Business Can Help Launch Your HR Career
SHRM-CP vs. SHRM-SCP
The certification that you choose to pursue depends on:
- Your day-to-day responsibilities (operational vs. strategic)
- Your level of experience (limited experience vs. multiple years in a strategic HR role)
“It’s important to consider the type of work you do when evaluating which certification to pursue,” says Carrie Stringham, DM, faculty member at Purdue Global. “You may be eligible to test for the SHRM-SCP but choose to test for the CP because it more closely aligns with your day-to-day duties.”
What Is SHRM-CP?
SHRM-CP stands for the Society of Human Resource Management Certified Professional. This certification is designed for individuals working in HR-related operational roles or for those who are pursuing an HR-related career. Typically, a person in an operational role is focused on day-to-day HR tasks and serves as an HR point of contact for employees.
No experience is required for this certification, but a working knowledge of HR is recommended.
What Is SHRM-SCP?
The SHRM-SCP stands for the Society of Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional. This is a credential for HR leaders in strategic roles, whereas the SHRM-CP is for those in operational roles.
In order to qualify for the SHRM-SCP exam, HR professionals need multiple years of experience that are focused on strategic HR activities, such as developing policies or directing an HR enterprise.
The general breakdown of eligibility requirements is as follows:
| SHRM-CP | SHRM-SCP |
|---|---|
| Focused on operational or tactical roles, including serving as the HR point of contact for their company or performing day-to-day HR duties | Focused on strategic HR responsibilities, including developing HR programs, policies, and procedures; executing HR operations; and analyzing performance metrics |
| No specific HR experience required | 3 years of experience working in a strategic HR role or 3 years of holding the SHRM-CP credential while working in, or transitioning to, a strategic role |
| No minimum hours required | Candidates must demonstrate they have 1,000 hours/calendar year dedicated to strategic HR duties |
| HR job title not required | HR job title not required |
SHRM Certification Exam Process
There are two testing windows for each exam throughout the year (May to July and December to February). Each window has a deadline for applications, so make sure you submit your application by the relevant deadline. In general, if you're interested in a SHRM credential, you'll want to:
- Check eligibility requirements.
- Create a study plan.
- Apply to take the exam when the application window is open (check dates).
- Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) email.
- Schedule your exam.
Reasons to Pursue SHRM Certification
You will be competing for jobs, and holding an HR certification from SHRM sets you apart from those who do not have one. Earning this credential demonstrates that you are skilled, motivated, and eager to advance your career in the HR field. It can sometimes even be a factor in receiving promotions.
“There's a great demand for good HR people,” says Robert Freeborough, PhD, faculty member at Purdue Global. “HR used to be seen as mere personnel management, taking care of paperwork and pay and benefits. That’s shifted, and now HR professionals are seen as a critical piece of a company’s overall strategy for success. Companies recognize that people really are the greatest resource that they have. In addition, employment law is complex. Certification shows you are dedicated to the field and have the skills to succeed.”
Advance Your HR Career With Purdue Global’s SHRM-Aligned Programs
The Society for Human Resource Management has acknowledged that the following Purdue Global online college programs fully align with the organization’s HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates:
- Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resources
- Master of Science in Management and Leadership with a concentration in human resources
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in human resources
“Alignment refers to the minimum HR content areas that SHRM believes HR students should study,” says Jack McCann, PhD, faculty member at Purdue Global. “We take our curriculum from SHRM, and we have received alignment with them."
Learn how one of the online degrees above can help you launch or further a human resources career. To get more information about Purdue Global’s online degree programs, including those that can help your HR career, contact us today.
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Learn more about online programs at Purdue Global and download our program guide.