CCP (Certified Compensation Professional)
Short Summary
CCP – Certified Compensation Professional
The CCP – Certified Compensation Professional designation is issued by WorldatWork and is part of the organization’s Total Rewards credentialing pathway, which also includes CBP, CSCP, CECP, and GRP. The designation is a premier credential designed for HR and Total Rewards professionals who specialize in compensation strategy, plan design, and regulatory compliance. It equips candidates with the expertise to align pay programs with organizational goals, manage labor costs strategically, and ensure fairness, competitiveness, and legal defensibility in compensation practices. CCP holders are recognized as subject matter experts in employee rewards and compensation governance.
The updated CCP program includes eight required courses and exams covering topics such as base pay systems, variable pay, market pricing, compensation analytics, regulatory environments, and business acumen. Candidates may complete the program via e-learning or virtual classrooms, with flexible scheduling and access to dedicated learning advisors. Recertification is required every three years through continuing education credits. The program is available in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with a separate GRP track for global compensation professionals.
Earning the CCP signals advanced capability in designing and managing compensation programs that drive performance, support equity, and comply with evolving regulations. Designees are often employed as Compensation Analysts, Total Rewards Managers, HR Directors, or Consultants in mid-to-large organizations. The CCP complements other WorldatWork credentials such as CBP, CSCP, and CECP, and is widely preferred by hiring managers for compensation-focused roles.
Industry Focus
Employee Benefits
Jobs That Benefit Most
Course Description
The Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation, offered by WorldatWork, is a premier credential for professionals specializing in compensation strategy, pay structures, and total rewards management. It equips individuals with the expertise to design, implement, and manage compensation programs that align with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
Purpose of the CCP Designation
- Provides strategic and operational knowledge for managing compensation programs.
- Helps professionals develop competitive pay structures that attract and retain talent.
- Ensures compliance with U.S. and global compensation regulations.
- Strengthens skills in market analysis, job evaluation, and pay equity.
Key Topics Covered
The CCP program includes courses on:
- Compensation Fundamentals – Understanding base pay, variable pay, and total rewards.
- Market Pricing & Pay Structures – Conducting salary benchmarking and designing pay scales.
- Job Analysis & Evaluation – Assessing job roles to determine fair compensation.
- Regulatory Compliance – Navigating laws like FLSA, pay transparency, and equal pay regulations.
- Executive & Sales Compensation – Structuring incentive plans for leadership and sales teams.
- Global Compensation Strategies – Managing pay structures across international markets.
Specialization Options
While the CCP designation provides a comprehensive compensation education, professionals can focus on specific areas such as:
- Executive Compensation
- Sales Incentive Plans
- Pay Equity & Compliance
- Global Compensation & Remuneration
Costs
The total cost of earning the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation depends on the courses, study materials, and exam fees. Here’s a breakdown:
Cost Breakdown
- Course Fees: Each required course typically costs between $1,200 and $1,500.
- Exam Fees: Exams are included in the course fees, but retakes may have additional costs.
- Study Materials: Some courses may require textbooks or additional resources, which can range from $100 to $300 per course.
- Certification Application Fee: Some programs charge a one-time certification fee, usually around $200.
Total Estimated Cost
Since the CCP designation requires multiple courses, the total cost can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on course selection and study materials.
Prerequisites
The Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation, offered by WorldatWork, has some prerequisites to ensure candidates have the foundational knowledge needed for success.
Prerequisites for CCP
- Educational Background – A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory.
- Required Courses – Candidates must complete eight courses covering core compensation topics before earning the designation.
- Work Experience – While there is no strict experience requirement, professionals with HR, compensation, or benefits experience will find the coursework more applicable.
Steps to Earn the CCP
- Enroll in CCP Courses – Complete the required courses on compensation strategy, pay structures, and regulatory compliance.
- Pass the Exams – Each course includes an exam to test understanding of the subject matter.
- Earn the CCP Credential – Once all courses and exams are completed, candidates receive the CCP designation.
Renewal Requirements
Yes, the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation requires renewal every three years to maintain active status. Renewal is achieved through Continuing Education Units (CEUs), ensuring professionals stay current with compensation trends and regulatory changes.
CCP Renewal Requirements
- Renewal Period: Every three years.
- Continuing Education: Must complete CEUs to maintain certification.
- No Re-Examination Required: Renewal does not require retaking the CCP exam.
- No Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Option: CEUs are the only renewal method.
This renewal process ensures CCP-certified professionals remain knowledgeable in compensation strategy, compliance, and industry best practices.
Time to Complete Course
The Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation can typically be completed in 6 months to 2 years, depending on the candidate’s pace and study schedule. Since the program consists of eight required courses and exams, completion time varies based on factors such as:
Factors Affecting Completion Time
- Study Time Commitment – Candidates who dedicate consistent study hours can complete it faster.
- Course Scheduling – Some courses may be available on-demand, while others follow a structured timeline.
- Work & Personal Obligations – Professionals balancing full-time jobs may take longer.
- Instructor-Led vs. Self-Paced Learning – Instructor-led courses may have set durations, while self-paced options allow flexibility.
Exam Details
The Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation requires candidates to pass multiple exams, each corresponding to a specific course in the curriculum.
Exam Details
- Number of Exams: The CCP program consists of ten required exams.
- Exam Format: Each exam contains multiple-choice questions.
- Exam Duration: Exams are typically 2 to 3 hours per module.
- Testing Window: Exams are available in scheduled testing periods throughout the year.
- Exam Delivery: Exams are offered online and at select testing centers, providing flexibility for candidates.
- Results Processing: A passing score is usually 75% or higher, and results are available immediately after completing the exam.
Certifying Body
The Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation is offered by WorldatWork
Where to Get Started
https://worldatwork.org/certifications/certified-compensation-professional-ccp
