6 Best HR Certifications & Courses Online in 2024

With the rising popularity of online learning, finding the perfect online HR certification can feel like getting lost in a maze of options. The internet is bursting with possibilities, all claiming to be the guiding light on your journey to becoming an HR expert. But here's the catch: not every course has the power to unlock your true potential in the exciting world of Human Resources.

In the era of information overload, many seek the ultimate HR course—one that goes beyond mere information and truly transforms. Your goal is to discover the hidden treasure amidst the numerous options—a course that captures the essence of HR complexities without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. Just imagine stumbling upon that one course that becomes your guiding compass, leading you through the HR maze, unraveling its intricacies, and equipping you with vital knowledge to steer organizational success.

HR courses and certifications cover many essential topics for a successful HR career. You'll explore organizational behavior, strategic HR management, conflict resolution skills, and even employment law. But it doesn't just end there! These programs go beyond theory and include real-life examples, simulations, and hands-on activities. This means you'll be able to put your new knowledge into practice and make a real impact in your professional life.

So, whether you are looking to pursue an HR course for yourself or you want to find a list of top online HR certifications to upskill your employees, we have you covered. Today, we will outline the top six HR online certification courses you should know about.

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What Do Online HR Courses and Certifications Include?

Online HR certification programs and courses are convenient learning options hosted on digital platforms. They are specifically tailored to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge, skills, and certifications for a rewarding career in Human Resources. These comprehensive programs cover a wide range of HR topics, catering to both beginners and experienced professionals seeking to expand their expertise.

Here are some common things that these certification programs include:

• Foundational Modules: Most HR courses typically begin with foundational modules that provide the necessary base for comprehending the essential principles and theories that underpin human resources. These modules encompass subjects such as HR basics, organizational behavior, and the legal framework governing HR operations. They serve as the foundation upon which more specialized knowledge is built.
• Interactive Learning Tools: Online courses commonly incorporate interactive tools such as virtual simulations, case studies, and group discussions to mimic real-world situations. These tools improve the learning experience by offering practical opportunities for applying concepts and strategies, helping learners understand them effectively.
• Specialized Tasks: One of the great things about online HR certifications is how diverse they are. As you advance, you'll come across specialized tracks focusing on different HR domains, like talent acquisition, performance management, employee relations, and strategic HR leadership. These tracks provide a deep understanding and expertise in specific areas of HR, which helps professionals establish themselves in their careers.
• Industry-Relevant Insights: One indication of credible online HR certifications is how well they reflect current industry trends and practices. These certifications often include real-world examples and insights from top organizations, ensuring learners gain relevant knowledge and solutions to succeed in today's dynamic business environment.

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Benefits of Online HR Certification Programs

Online HR certification programs offer a convenient and interactive way to gain specialized knowledge in the field of Human Resources. These programs provide flexibility and keep learners informed about the latest industry trends, helping them grow professionally and advance in their careers.

Here are some major benefits of these opting for these courses:

• Personalized Learning Experience: Online HR courses provide learners with the flexibility to customize their learning experience and concentrate on specific areas of interest within the field of HR. This tailored approach allows individuals to address skill gaps and explore specific domains in more depth, resulting in a more personalized educational journey.
• Diverse Learning: These programs bring together participants from different industries and locations, creating a diverse and enriching discussion environment. This diversity offers unique insights into HR challenges and practices from various perspectives, preparing individuals for the globalized nature of modern workplaces.
• Practical Application and Skill Development: Online HR courses include practical tasks, simulations, and case studies, allowing learners to apply theory to real-life situations. This approach improves problem-solving abilities and the effective implementation of HR solutions.
• Cost and Time Efficiency: When comparing online HR programs to traditional in-person courses, the former is known to be more cost-effective. With no need for commuting or accommodation expenses, individuals can better manage their time by balancing learning with work or other commitments.
• Continuous Professional Development: The field of HR is always changing with laws, technologies, and workplace dynamics. Online HR certifications provide continuous learning opportunities, helping professionals stay up-to-date with the latest trends, tools, and methodologies and remain relevant in their careers.

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Top 6 HR Certification Courses Online

Selecting the correct HR certification online course is vital for professionals aiming to improve their skills or start a career in Human Resources. Below are six outstanding courses known for their extensive curriculum, industry reputation, and practical applicability in HR.

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1. McMaster Human Resources Management Program

Another online HR certification provider that you must consider is McMaster University. It is a premier institute that offers a comprehensive human resources program consisting of four 3-course certificates and one diploma program. Approved by the Human Resources Professional Association, these courses contribute towards obtaining CHRP or CHRL certification.

McMaster University offers learners a complete virtual classroom experience. When you choose it for your online HR certification, you can learn various skills in HR management, like talent planning and acquisition, workplace health and safety, intercultural competency, etc.

By pursuing these certificates, you can work towards achieving CHRP and CHRL designations. This also helps you boost your confidence and establish valuable network connections, all through virtual learning or online self-study. Each HR certificate offered by McMaster University comprises three courses (equivalent to 3.0 units) and can typically be completed in around four months. One of the best things is that these certificates have no exam requirement.

Price: The program costs include a non-refundable $59 application fee, with each course costing approximately $700-800.

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2. Cornell Human Resources Certificate Program

Cornell University provides a wide range of Human Resources courses for both certification and individual enrollment. These courses incorporate practical insights from academic researchers with real-world experience.

One of the best things about HR courses and certificates offered by Cornell is that they are suitable for beginners and experts alike and cater to diverse career paths. So, whether you have just started your career in HR or have years of experience, you can find an excellent online certification at Cornell University. Further, all the certifications have a mandatory exam.

Price: The cost of HR online certification courses offered by Cornell University starts from $5,400.

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3. York University Certificate in Human Resources Management

This is one of the most reputed HR certificate programs in the industry today. Designed by York University, the Human Resources Management certificate offers students the opportunity to gain a solid understanding of HR fundamentals and connect with professionals in the field.

Balancing both professional and personal commitments is possible while studying this program, which focuses on the core competencies outlined by the Human Resources Professional Association. It is a cost-effective option for individuals looking to enhance their HR skills without needing to take time off work. The program is two years long, and you need to take an exam to receive your certification.

Price: The price of the program is $6,921.

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4. SHRM Certificate

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is well-known in the HR field, and its certifications are highly sought after. It offers two top-tier and highly reputed HR certification programs that you can choose depending on your HR experience.

SHRM offers two certifications. The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is designed for individuals in the early stages of their careers, focusing on the operational aspects. On the other hand, the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is for those who work at a more strategic level.

Now, it is quite easy to get confused between these two. Fortunately, SHRM helps you with that as well. To help you choose the right certification, SHRM provides assessment tools and a learning system to help you adequately prepare for the certification exam.

Price: the cost for SHRM's HR online Human Resources course and certification starts from $500.

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5. Calgary University Human Resources Management Certificate

The University of Calgary's Human Resources Management Certificate is another fantastic online HR course worth considering. If you want to climb the corporate ladder and gain updated knowledge, this course can be a perfect choice. It provides 300 hours of instruction, including three core courses and up to 13 optional credits. This program is ideal for those seeking a strong HR foundation or preparing for the CHRP designation.

What we like the most about this is that it also offers various optional courses. For example, you can choose a course in conflict management, employee benefits, and building a positive workplace, and more. All this allows you to specialize and align your interests with your career goals.

You have the flexibility to complete the certificate in approximately four months to 1 year. It is also possible to enroll in single courses if you prefer.

Price: This HR certificate program costs $105 for the application fee and $5400 for tuition fees.

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6. HRCI Certification

The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) is highly respected for establishing and maintaining professional standards in the field of human resources. The institute offers a large variety of HR courses and certification programs that you can choose from as per your requirements and interests. The institute is known for its courses and exams, which are known for their rigor and commitment to excellence.

HRCI certifications are available for HR professionals at all levels and are recognized globally. One of the most renowned HRCI certificates we recommend is the Professional In Human Resources (PHR). It is a top-notch professional course covering talent planning, business management, and employee relations. Another senior-level HRCI certification we recommend is Senior Professional in Human Resources - International (SPHRi™). It is designed for HR leaders outside the U.S. This certification acknowledges your expertise in global HR principles, including strategy, policy development, and service delivery.

In addition to individual certifications, HRCI also offers team certifications that aim to enhance the skills and capabilities of entire HR departments. Further, you can also opt for recertification.

Price: Since HRCI offers numerous HR certification courses online, the prices for each of them differ. However, HRCI Human Resources certificate prices generally cost $300 per certification. So, if you are looking for a cheap HR certification online, this might be the best choice for you.

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Wrapping Up

So there you go! These were our top choices for the best HR certification courses online. At the end of the day, it's not just about any course; it's about finding the right course that provides valuable knowledge and a meaningful experience to enhance your HR skills. As the HR landscape evolves, excellence in this field requires more than just a certificate. It demands a transformative educational journey to tackle the complexities of the modern workplace.

Online HR certification programs offer a range of courses that reflect the diverse challenges HR professionals face today. From strategic workforce planning to fostering inclusive workplaces and utilizing analytics for informed decisions, these courses provide essential expertise for excelling in various HR roles.

However, the true value goes beyond the certificate. It involves acquiring a skill set, gaining insights, and applying learned concepts to real-world scenarios. It's about utilizing networks, staying updated with industry trends, and continuously evolving to remain at the forefront of HR innovation.

Along with knowing about the best online HR certification courses, if you are also looking for top-notch talent assessment software, HiPeople is here to help. HiPeople is an AI-powered talent assessment software with a vast Assessment Library that offers all kinds of assessment options. From evaluating a candidate's English skills to analyzing their Excel abilities, you can do a lot of things with HiPeople. Check it out today!