1$120k median salary
Validates strategic HR knowledge and judgment across leadership, interpersonal and business competencies, and people, organization and workplace knowledge.
499AdvancedHas prerequisites
Highest-Paying Human Resources Certifications in 2026
Compare advertised salaries for PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. Explore the differences between professional and senior HR credentials, including their eligibility requirements, exam focus and preparation options, to find the route that fits your responsibilities.
2$120k median salary
Validates knowledge of strategic HR leadership, workforce planning, talent management, total rewards and HR information, safety and security.
595AdvancedHas prerequisites
3$100k median salary
Validates knowledge of US employment law and operational HR, including workforce planning, total rewards, engagement and labor relations.
495IntermediateHas prerequisites
4$97k median salary
Validates knowledge of operational HR across people, organization and workplace topics, plus situational judgment.
499IntermediateNo prerequisites
Median annual advertised pay in US postings that mention each certification, Sep 2025–Aug 2026. Source