What is an aPHR certification? And, more importantly, what jobs can you get with an aPHR certification? Read on to find out and learn about the benefits of getting one, the best aPHR jobs, and why many consider the aPHR certification worth it.
What Is the aPHR Certification?
The Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR certification) is a professional credential offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed for individuals who are new to the field of human resources and is ideal for students or recent graduates hoping to pursue a career in HR. It’s also a strong option for those transitioning from another field into HR or for veterans entering civilian HR roles.
This entry-level certification demonstrates an individual’s foundational knowledge of HR principles and practices. It covers various HR topics, including HR operations, employee relations, recruitment and selection, benefits administration, and employment law. For anyone starting a career with a human resources management degree, the aPHR provides an additional layer of credibility.
How to Obtain an aPHR Certification
To obtain the aPHR certification, individuals must pass a computer-based aPHR exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. The aPHR exam is administered by HRCI and takes approximately two hours to complete.
Individuals may prepare to take the aPHR certification exam via test preparation programs offered by services such as HREN.
Job Titles Available to aPHR Certified Professionals
There’s no shortage of potential aPHR jobs for certified professionals. Here are some common entry-level positions for those holding an aPHR certification:
- HR Coordinator: An HR Coordinator is responsible for a variety of administrative tasks related to HR operations. This can include coordinating recruitment efforts, managing employee files, and providing support to other members of the HR team. This role is typically an entry-level position and may require an aPHR certification.
- HR Assistant: An HR Assistant provides administrative support to the HR team, including scheduling interviews, managing employee data, and coordinating training programs. This role is also typically an entry-level position and may require an aPHR certification.
- Recruiting Coordinator: A Recruiting Coordinator is responsible for coordinating and scheduling interviews, communicating with candidates, and managing the applicant tracking system. This role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, and an aPHR certification can be a valuable credential for individuals in this position.
- HR Generalist: An HR Generalist is responsible for a variety of HR tasks, including recruiting, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance. This role requires a broad understanding of HR principles and practices, and an aPHR certification can be a helpful credential for individuals who are new to the field.
- Compliance Specialist: A Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring that the organization complies with all relevant laws and regulations. This role requires knowledge of employment law and regulatory compliance, and an aPHR certification can be a valuable credential for individuals in this position.
- Benefits Administrator: A Benefits Administrator is responsible for managing employee benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and leave policies. This role requires knowledge of benefits administration and regulatory compliance, and an aPHR certification can be a helpful credential for individuals in this position.
- Payroll Specialist: A Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing employee payroll, ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time, and maintaining payroll records. They also ensure compliance with payroll laws and regulations and may handle other financial-related tasks such as benefits administration, tax withholding, and processing of deductions.
- Training and Development Coordinator: A Training and Development Coordinator is responsible for developing and implementing training programs for employees. They evaluate training effectiveness and track employee progress to ensure that they are learning and developing new skills. They may also be involved in talent development and succession planning.
- Employee Relations Specialist: An Employee Relations Specialist manages employee relations issues, investigates employee complaints, and guides managers on employee relations matters. They may also be involved in creating and implementing policies and procedures related to employee relations and ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations.
- Talent Acquisition Specialist: A Talent Acquisition Specialist is responsible for recruiting and selecting candidates for open positions. They may screen resumes, conduct interviews, and manage the hiring process. They may also be involved in employer branding and building relationships with potential candidates.
These roles are ideal for individuals just entering the HR field with an HR management degree or those seeking to strengthen their resume with an aPHR. Over time, these positions can lead to more advanced roles such as HR Manager or Director, aligning with higher-paying HR management degree jobs.
What Are the Benefits of an aPHR Certification?
Obtaining an aPHR certification can be beneficial in several ways:
- Demonstrates foundational knowledge: The aPHR certification exhibits that an individual has a foundational understanding of HR principles and practices, which is vital for individuals who are new to the field or who have recently entered an HR role.
- Enhances employability: Having an aPHR certification can make an individual more attractive to potential employers, as it shows that the individual has a certain level of knowledge and expertise in HR.
- Provides career advancement opportunities: The aPHR certificate can be a stepping stone for individuals interested in pursuing higher-level HR certifications, such as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certifications. Obtaining these higher-level certifications can lead to increased career opportunities and higher salaries.
- Keeps knowledge current: To maintain the aPHR certification, individuals must participate in ongoing professional development activities. This helps ensure that individuals are up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in HR.
- Establishes credibility: By obtaining the aPHR certification, individuals can establish credibility with their colleagues, superiors, and clients. For many, the aPHR certification is worth it because it can significantly improve early-career opportunities and growth potential in human resources.
Ready to Be Certified? Prepare for the aPHR Exam With HREN
Overall, there are many benefits to obtaining an aPHR certification, just as much as there are job opportunities. We’re here to help you know what jobs you can get with an aPHR certification. If you’re ready to get your aPHR certificate, start your preparation the right way with HREN. We provide instructor-led and self-study aPHR exam preparation classes and other HR prep options.
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