SHRM CP and SHRM SCP: A Comprehensive Overview

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers two distinct HR certifications: SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). These certifications are designed to recognize and validate the competencies and knowledge of HR professionals at different stages of their careers.

SHRM CP: A Foundation for HR Professionals

SHRM CP is a competency-based HR certification that focuses on the core set of competencies and knowledge outlined in the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK). It is designed for individuals performing HR or HR-related duties or pursuing a career in Human Resources.

Eligibility Criteria for SHRM CP

• Individuals must have a basic working knowledge in HR.
• Their current or most recent work in HR must be operational in nature (i.e., implementing policies, serving as the HR point of contact for staff, or performing day-to-day HR functions).
• Their duties tend to be specialized versus general.

Exam Format and Content

• The SHRM CP exam consists of two types of multiple-choice questions: stand-alone knowledge-based items and scenario-based situational judgment items.
• Approximately half of the exam questions are allocated across three behavioral competency clusters, and the other half are allocated across three HR knowledge domains.

SHRM SCP: Advancing Strategic HR Leadership

SHRM SCP is an advanced HR certification that builds on the competencies and knowledge tested in the SHRM CP certification. It is designed for HR professionals with significant experience in strategic roles.

Eligibility Criteria for SHRM SCP

• Individuals must have a work history of at least three years performing strategic level HR or HR-related duties.
• SHRM-CP credential holders who have held the credential for at least three years and are working in, or are in the process of transitioning to, a strategic level role are also eligible.
• Their current or most recent work in HR must be strategic in nature (i.e., develop HR policies, execute all integrated HR operations, direct the entire HR enterprise, or lead the alignment of HR strategies to organizational goals).

Exam Format and Content

• The SHRM SCP exam is similar to the SHRM CP exam in terms of format and content. However, it covers more advanced HR topics and requires a deeper understanding of strategic HR concepts.

Choosing the Right Certification: SHRM CP vs. SHRM SCP

The decision between SHRM CP and SHRM SCP depends on an individual’s career goals, experience, and qualifications. SHRM CP is a good starting point for individuals new to HR or those in operational roles. SHRM SCP is more appropriate for experienced HR professionals who aspire to strategic leadership positions.

Conclusion

SHRM CP and SHRM SCP are valuable certifications that demonstrate an individual’s commitment to the HR profession and their dedication to continuous learning and development. Earning these certifications can enhance career opportunities, increase earning potential, and provide a competitive edge in the job market.

References

• SHRM: Credentials & Certification
• SHRM: Choosing the Right HR Certification
• SHRM: SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

FAQs

What is SHRM CP?

SHRM CP stands for SHRM Certified Professional. It is a competency-based HR certification that focuses on the core set of competencies and knowledge outlined in the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK). It is designed for individuals performing HR or HR-related duties or pursuing a career in Human Resources.

What is SHRM SCP?

SHRM SCP stands for SHRM Senior Certified Professional. It is an advanced HR certification that builds on the competencies and knowledge tested in the SHRM CP certification. It is designed for HR professionals with significant experience in strategic roles.

What are the eligibility criteria for SHRM CP?

To be eligible for SHRM CP, individuals must have a basic working knowledge in HR, their current or most recent work in HR must be operational in nature, and their duties tend to be specialized versus general.

What are the eligibility criteria for SHRM SCP?

To be eligible for SHRM SCP, individuals must have a work history of at least three years performing strategic level HR or HR-related duties, or be a SHRM-CP credential holder for at least three years who is working in, or transitioning to, a strategic level role. Their current or most recent work in HR must also be strategic in nature.

What is the difference between SHRM CP and SHRM SCP?

SHRM CP is a foundation-level HR certification designed for individuals in operational roles, while SHRM SCP is an advanced HR certification designed for experienced HR professionals in strategic roles.

Which certification is right for me: SHRM CP or SHRM SCP?

The decision between SHRM CP and SHRM SCP depends on an individual’s career goals, experience, and qualifications. SHRM CP is a good starting point for individuals new to HR or those in operational roles, while SHRM SCP is more appropriate for experienced HR professionals who aspire to strategic leadership positions.

What is the exam format for SHRM CP and SHRM SCP?

Both the SHRM CP and SHRM SCP exams consist of two types of multiple-choice questions: stand-alone knowledge-based items and scenario-based situational judgment items. Approximately half of the exam questions are allocated across three behavioral competency clusters, and the other half are allocated across three HR knowledge domains.

How can I prepare for the SHRM CP and SHRM SCP exams?

There are various resources available to help individuals prepare for the SHRM CP and SHRM SCP exams, including study guides, online courses, and practice exams. SHRM also offers a variety of preparation materials, including the SHRM Learning System and the SHRM BASK.