Setting the standard for HR, worldwide.

HRCI® is the premier credentialing and learning organization for the HR profession. Headquartered in Virginia and trusted in over 100 countries worldwide.

50+ Years setting the global HR standard
8 World-class HR credentials administered
100+ Countries with HRCI credential holders
1976 First HR certification exams administered

Four letters. One commitment.

Every credential, every conversation and every decision is grounded in the values behind the HRCI name.

H

Human-centered

A supportive and respectful environment where teams and customers grow, succeed and share.

R

Responsibility

We act with honesty and make conscious decisions that have a positive impact on team, community and world.

C

Collaboration

We tap into our collective genius to prosper as a team and serve our community.

I

Innovation

We learn and adapt to meet the evolving needs of our customers and community.

Three promises we keep, every day.

01 Setting the Standard

A global market leader in delivering high-quality, forward-looking products and solutions that meet the needs of HR today and tomorrow.

02 Exceeding Expectations

Dedicated to continuous improvement and exceptional service. We anticipate, listen to and respond to customer needs every day.

03 Leading With Integrity

The highest ethical standards in our practices and relationships. We honor commitments and act with goodwill and professionalism.

A profession defined, then elevated.

In 1960, a Cornell study identified five characteristics of a profession. HR met four. The journey to close the fifth, certification, became HRCI.

  1. 1960

    A profession, defined.

    A Cornell study sets the five characteristics of a true profession, including a credentialed body of knowledge.

  2. 1973

    AAI is born.

    ASPA (now SHRM) approves the formation of the ASPA Accreditation Institute, the foundation of HR certification.

  3. 1976

    First exams.

    AAI administers the first HR certification exams. Standards, rigor and recognition begin to take shape.

  4. Today

    HRCI, worldwide.

    Eight credentials, holders in 100+ countries, and 50+ years of advancing HR practitioners, people and organizations.

Ready to elevate your HR career?

Find the HRCI credential that matches where you are, and where you're going.

Explore certifications