Best HR Certifications Without a Degree
A college degree is not required for SHRM-CP, and aPHR only requires a high-school diploma or equivalent. PHR can also be earned without a degree, but the no-degree path requires four years of professional-level HR experience.
Match the credential to your actual HR experience.
A college degree is not required for SHRM-CP, and aPHR only requires a high-school diploma or equivalent. PHR can also be earned without a degree, but the no-degree path requires four years of professional-level HR experience.
Explore Human Resources courses and programs on edX
Compare flexible online human resources learning options from universities and industry partners on edX. Use this as training alongside the credential path discussed in this guide.
HR credentials worth comparing
SHRM-CP
No degree required.
aPHR
High-school diploma / equivalent.
PHR
Four years professional-level HR experience.
Best HR Certifications Without a Degree questions
Can you earn SHRM-CP without a degree?
Yes. SHRM states that a degree is not required.
Can you earn aPHR without a college degree?
Yes. HRCI requires a high-school diploma or global equivalent.
Can you earn PHR without a degree?
Yes, but HRCI requires at least four years of professional-level HR experience on the no-degree path.
Will an HR certification replace a degree requirement?
Not universally. Employers can still set their own education requirements.
Which is better without a degree: SHRM-CP or aPHR?
Both are accessible. Choose based on employer demand, desired credentialing body and the exam model.
What makes a no-degree HR profile stronger?
Hands-on HR experience, HRIS familiarity, recruiting/employee-relations work and measurable people-operations results.