Value of SHRM Certification
Become a recognized expert and leader in HR with SHRM certification
Advance your career and demonstrate you are the most qualified and valuable HR professional you can be when you become SHRM-certified.
The SHRM Certified Professional® (SHRM-CP®) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional® (SHRM-SCP®) are the only behavioral competency-based HR certifications, proving not only what you know but also how you can apply that knowledge on the job.
Why earn your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential?
Increase your earning potential
- HR professionals who pass the SHRM certification exam report earning salaries 7%-9% higher than peers who do not.
Get promoted
- Of SHRM-certified professionals who were promoted, 63% report that their credential was a key factor.
Gain readiness
- Certified professionals report a greater understanding of necessary skills.
Our intensive, 36-hour course combines expert instruction with the 2025 SHRM Learning System® for SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP. The study materials streamline study time, accelerate learning and build your confidence for passing the SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP exam.
Our SHRM Certified Instructor
Tap into the expertise and guidance of our highly experienced, SHRM-certified instructors who are ready to work with you to make sure you are prepared for success on your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam.
Steps to Certification
4 Steps to SHRM Certification
- Determine your eligibility.
- Apply for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam.
- Prepare for the certification exam with expert guidance through SCSU’s prep course
- Take the exam and leverage your certification.
For complete certification details, visit shrmcertification.org.
Qualifies for 36 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) toward SHRM recertification.
Spring 2026
- Tuesdays, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
- Online
This course is offered twice a year; Sept.-Dec. and Feb.-May
Registration Fee:
- TBD
- Non-Minnesota Residents must pay $x for Sales Tax and Fees
- Handouts & materials will be emailed; however, you can request printed handouts & materials for an additional $x.
Questions, contact:
Kassidi Andres
320-308-5759
Roxann Neu
320-308-4962
Classes offers:
- an experienced, SHRM-certified instructor.
- the SHRM Learning System, the #1 HR certification prep tool.
- knowledge and understanding of behavioral competencies.
- a structured learning experience that keeps you on track.
- networking opportunities.
- tuition reimbursement and up to 36 professional development credits (PDCs).
Certification also benefits employers/organizations by:
- demonstrating it has mastered HR technical and behavioral competencies.
- preparing your HR staff to assume greater leadership roles and contribute to the strategic direction of your organization.
- bringing new ideas to your organization that will help drive success.
- creating a common HR language that optimizes effectiveness.
- demonstrating a global view.
Certification Journey Overview
Video - The Value of SHRM Certification to your Employer
The Choice is Yours! Preparing for SHRM Certification - Panel Discussion - Webcast on Demand
Materials included
- 2025 SHRM Learning System for SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, which includes the learning modules in print and e-reader formats.
- Advanced online resources
- Ask your employer about tuition reimbursement
- SHRM Foundation Certification Scholarships
- Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan
- Dislocated worker funds – MN Workforce Center
- Check or credit card
- Payment Plan – see below
Need a payment plan? Two easy steps:
- Contact pace@stcloudstate.edu to inquire about a payment plan.
- Payment Plans are only available if the amount of the registration fee is paid in full prior to the start of the workshop. Payment plans are usually a 4 month payment plan.
What is required?
- 25 percent down-payment
- Monthly payments
- Nonrefundable $30 enrollment fee
Completed payments may not be refunded.
The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications are built upon the SHRM BASK which is more than an exam outline. It defines the standards for knowledge, strategies and competencies required for effective HR professionals around the world.
To maintain this level of excellence and relevancy, SHRM brought together some of the best minds in the HR profession to define eight behavioral competencies and 15 functional areas that every HR professional should know.
A Course Designed for Your Success
Enhance your learning experience with premier tools that complement our course! The SHRM Learning System is designed to help you apply HR knowledge and competencies to real-life situations, prepare for certification, and advance your career.
- Effective and Proven Results
- Designed specifically for adult learners, this interactive system combines in-depth HR knowledge with real-life situations to help you master the material and set you up for success on your certification exam.
- Personalized Approach
- The SHRM Learning System serves up the content and tools you need to fill your unique gaps. It presents topics in bite-sized pieces so you can study anytime and anywhere that fits into your schedule.
- Current and Relevant Topics
- Be prepared for today’s complex HR challenges. The globally applicable content helps you master the SHRM BoCK and learn everything you need to be a forward-thinking, strategic, and effective HR professional.
- Resources to Boost Exam Confidence
- Supplement your class time learning with more than 2,000 practice questions, flashcards and Quickstart videos. Maximize your exam readiness with a Practice Exam made up of more than 150 retired exam questions and a digital copy of Ace Your SHRM Exam: A Guide to Success on the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Exams by Nancy Woolever, SHRM-SCP.
For the SHRM-CP prep course, St. Cloud State surpasses the national pass rates:
| National CP |
National SCP |
SCSU CP |
SCSU SCP |
| 68% | 48% | 71% | 55% |
Testimonial
I wanted to reach out and let you know that I PASSED the SHRM-CP exam. It was definitely a process, but I am so grateful for the opportunity to complete the prep course online as I would not have been able to make the drive to St. Cloud and there was not an option for a course in my area.
Collette is an absolutely wonderful instructor. I felt more prepared because of the instruction and the course. During the test I kept reminding myself of the advice Collette gave for test taking.
Thanks again!
Laura Diaz