Human Resources Certificate
Put the Human in Human Resources.
Human Resources Certificate and SHRM Certification Prep+
Built for HR professionals at every career stage seeking credentials that strengthen their professional profile
Villanova offers flexible online programs for professionals seeking to enter the field of human resources or build on existing experience. Designed for busy working adults, these programs help learners develop transferable, in-demand skills that apply across industries.
Supports professionals preparing for SHRM certification
The Human Resources Certificate is designed to support professionals pursuing SHRM certification, including the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP.
Build practical knowledge to grow your impact in HR
Gain the tools, strategies and legal knowledge to move forward with confidence in your human resources career. Whether you are new to the field or preparing to lead at a higher level, this program helps you strengthen your skills and expand your impact.
Special Enrollment Promotion!
20% Tuition Savings
New students who register between April 14 and May 11, can apply a 20% tuition savings code to select professional education courses and programs when they enroll in our upcoming May 11 session start date. Complete the form above to receive promo code by email.
Tuition savings applicable to packages with May 11 course start dates only. See course descriptions to enroll in individual courses. Review Terms and Conditions.
Villanova University is a SHRM Education Partner.
$140,030
median annual salary for Human Resources Managers1
17,900
average projected openings for HR managers each year in the next decade1
15%
salary premium associated with SHRM certification2
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics1 and SHRM2
This 6-week 100% online course utilizes the SHRM Certification Prep System and will help you on your human resources career path and prepare you to become a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and/or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
Professionals who completed Villanova's SHRM Certification Prep+ course are more likely to pass SHRM exams than the national average.
For those enrolled or who have completed the HR Certificate Program, the SHRM Certification Prep+ course can be purchased at a significant cost savings.
HUMAN RESOURCES CERTIFICATE COURSES
Select three courses below to complete the full certificate.
Gain essential HR management skills in talent acquisition, employee development, performance management, compensation and benefits. Explore the employee life cycle, from recruitment to separation, while ensuring employment law compliance. Learn to build a diverse workforce, implement HR technology and create HR strategies that drive engagement, retention and organizational success.
This course offers a comprehensive overview of key employment laws and their application in Human Resources, focusing on compliance with regulations like Title VII, FMLA, and ADA. Students will learn to integrate legal knowledge into policies, from hiring to termination, while handling workplace scenarios and fostering an ethical, respectful environment. Perfect for aspiring HR leaders, this course equips participants with the tools to navigate complex HR challenges and ensure legal compliance throughout the employee lifecycle.
This course teaches experienced HR professionals how to implement a Total Rewards strategy that aligns with their organization’s vision and motivates top talent. Students will learn to craft a compelling Employment Value Proposition, improve satisfaction with compensation and benefits, and guide managers in making compliant, high-quality decisions. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to lead transformative HR strategies that drive organizational success and foster a positive workplace culture.
This course teaches leaders how to manage diverse teams in traditional, virtual and hybrid settings. You'll apply Tuckman’s Model for team development, develop strategies to foster trust and collaboration and use CliftonStrengths to optimize team performance. Key topics include managing conflict, creating team charters and coaching for success. Ideal for leaders seeking to enhance team dynamics, motivate members and drive high performance aligned with organizational goals.
This course empowers professionals to become visionary leaders who drive organizational success. You’ll learn to apply strategic leadership theories, analyze external factors impacting your organization, and craft data-driven strategies. Through reflection, storytelling, and strategic frameworks, you’ll develop a personalized plan to enhance your leadership style and achieve your goals. Ideal for those looking to refine their leadership capabilities and make a meaningful impact in their organizations.
FLEXIBLE BY DESIGN
Our programs are built for busy adult learners. Each course requires a one-hour live session one evening per week. Additional coursework can be done whenever is most convenient for you. You'll follow a structured weekly rhythm, supported by a learning experience that blends faculty-led guidance, peer engagement and applied work to help you connect concepts to your professional context. In addition, career management resources are available to support goal-setting, professional materials and next-step planning.
WHO SHOULD ENROLL?
- Any human resources professional, from junior-level HR practitioners to senior executives with decades of experience.
- Those involved with talent acquisition, retention, employee management and leadership.
- Human resources professionals who would benefit from resume-boosting certifications.
- Anyone who would like to move into the field of human resources.
New to HR? We recommend this course path:
- HR Fundamentals
- HR Professional
One elective from the list below:
- Advanced HR
- Building & Leading Highly Effective Teams
- Strategic Leadership
For more experienced HR Professionals, we recommend the following course path:
- HR Professional
- Advanced HR
One elective from the list below:
- Building & Highly Effective TEams
- Strategic Leadership
HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
I have so much more confidence after taking Villanova's SHRM Certification Prep+ course. I no longer have to say, 'I'll get back to you' when asked a question, and I'm better able to support other areas of our organization.
-Madison P., Human Resources Student
LEARNED SKILLS
- Leadership
- Communication
- Risk Management
- HR Trends
- Strategic Planning
- Talent Acquisition
- Workforce Management
- Problem Solving
- Diversity and Inclusion
- U.S. Laws and Regulations
- Ethics
- Organizational Design
YOUR PATH FROM HR CERTIFICATE TO SHRM EXAM SUCCESS AND RECERTIFICATION
Successful completion of this certificate will help prepare you to sit for the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) exam.
As a bonus, you're also eligible to take Villanova's SHRM Certification Prep+ course for $750.*
*a cost savings of over $800
Villanova is proud to be listed as a SHRM Recertification Provider. SHRM Recertification Providers are recognized as a provider of choice for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP credential holders working to maintain their credentials. HR/HR-related educational offerings bearing the SHRM Recertification Provider badge indicate that the program is pre-approved by SHRM for recertification professional development credits (PDCs).
CREDENTIALS
Earn a certificate and digital badge for each course you complete. Complete all three courses to earn your program certificate. Hosted through Credly, Villanova digital badges provide verifiable information about the credential and the requirements completed to earn it. Showcase your expertise by adding your credentials to your resume, LinkedIn profile or email signature.
THE VILLANOVA DIFFERENCE
The College of Professional Studies has cultivated a distinguished reputation for delivering the hallmark Villanova experience — academically rigorous, top-quality and innovative programs within a supportive community — to students who are pursuing higher education amidst busy professional and personal lives. As an internationally recognized institution, Villanova is proud of its vibrant community of alumni, faculty, students and staff who are dedicated to driving meaningful impact and transformative change within their communities.
At Villanova, we believe where you've been is just the beginning.
Pursue the Next You.™
Please note that this program is 225 Clock Hours.