Overview

What is a CHRP?

The Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation is a nationally recognized level of achievement within the field of human resources. It reflects a conviction that the professional practice of human resources management can safeguard the interests of employers, employees and the business community. The designation represents continuing recognition of the bearer's professionalism.

Following an approach taken by national HR associations in the UK, USA, Australia and South America, the CHRP designation, awarded to qualifying HR practitioners, has been in existence in Canada since the early 1990's.

Although the purpose, characteristics and qualifications of this designation were relatively common, each province, under the direction of a provincial HR association, was responsible for setting certification standards and granting CHRP designations. HR professionals have quickly recognized the need for a more national profile and portability of the CHRP designation. In March 2003, a national CHRP certification program, managed by the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations (CCHRA) and administered by the provincial HR associations, became a reality.

Through the national CHRP certification, the HR profession continues to play an important role in linking business strategies and people management, and in securing our position as an equal business partner at the senior management table.

The HRIA is a founding member of the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations and the exclusive granting body for the province of Alberta. There are currently more than 1,800 CHRPs in Alberta.

Benefits of Becoming a CHRP

The CHRP recognizes achievement and capability. The designation means that the CHRP holder has achieved and actively demonstrates mastery of the HR body of knowledge - each CHRP designate must demonstrate the core competencies relevant to the HR profession. In other words, certification is seen as an essential tool for maintaining high performance standards.

The designation assures employers, clients and other HR professionals that the CHRP holder has agreed to abide by a set of ethical standards, a breach of which will result in disciplinary action including the possible removal of the designation.

CHRP holders are required to complete ongoing professional development in order to qualify for re-certification every three years; the process inherently provides a mechanism to ensure that CHRP holders keep their knowledge and skills current.

A CHRP designation can enhance the HR professional's career opportunities and compensation. An increasing number of HR job postings require or prefer that the successful candidate holds or is working towards obtaining the CHRP designation.

The CHRP designation is recognized throughout Canada. With the implementation of national standards, the CHRP is portable to all provinces and territories.

Find out more about obtaining the CHRP designation.