Recertification Q&A: Submitting Work Projects
Answers to frequently asked questions about maintaining your credential
Editor's Note: This Q&A was updated on April 9, 2020.
Have questions about recertifying your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP? Twice a month, the SHRM certification team will answer some of the frequently asked questions they receive from credential-holders.
Q: Can I earn recertification credit for a work-related project? What are the specific requirements?
A: Yes, SHRM recognizes the value of your activities in the workplace that contribute to the continued success of your organization and to your growth as an HR professional by awarding professional development credits (PDCs) for eligible projects. A project must meet or support organizational goals and provide opportunities to advance your capabilities in HR competencies, in alignment with the SHRM Body of Competency and Knowledge (SHRM BoCK).
Q: How many credits can be awarded for work projects?
A: A maximum of 20 PDCs may be awarded per three-year recertification period in the Advance Your Organization category. A qualifying project will fall into one of two categories:
- 10 PDCs for the completion of an HR-related project that involved 50+ hours of work
- 20 PDCs for the completion of an HR-related project that involved 100+ hours of work
Q: What kind of documentation do I need to submit to get credit for a work project?
A: Acceptable supporting documentation may include:
- An executive summary of the work project, including project objectives, time frame and hours spent on it.
- A letter from your supervisor verifying the dates and hours spent on the project and how it aligned with organizational goals and the SHRM BoCK.
Q: Can I combine smaller projects and submit them as one activity for credit?
A: No, smaller projects that are not directly related to each other will not be considered one activity for which credit may be awarded. However, if a project involves various phases of design and implementation, those can be combined and submitted as one single activity.
What perplexes you most about recertification? Send your questions to SHRMCertNews@shrm.org.
Learn more about the SHRM recertification program at shrmcertification.org/recertify.
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