Individuals in human resources positions can highlight their knowledge and experience by earning a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification through the Human Resource Certification Institute. If you're already planning that move and you're looking for a PHR class to help you prepare for the certification exam, Varsity Tutors can help! We can match you with a tutor who knows what you can expect to see as part of your certification process and what is typically included in PHR courses.
According to HRCI, the exam demonstrates your understanding of human resources management when it comes to program implementation as well as the technical and operational aspects of the job. In order to qualify for the PHR certification, you must meet one of these combinations of education and experience: a master's degree and one year of experience; a bachelor's degree and two years of professional experience; or a high school diploma and four years of experience in a professional human resources position.
PHR certification lasts for three years, and over that time frame, you must earn 60 continuing education credits or you'll have to take the exam again at the end of three years.
The table below explains the number of questions on the exam, the length of time to take the exam, and how you can take it.
Exam Details
| Exam Time | # of Questions | Location |
| 3 Hours | 150 scored questions + 25 pretest questions | Computer-based exam at a Pearson VUE testing center |
A PHR class with a private tutor allows you to personalize the content and your study strategies. As a tutor gets to know you better, they can assess your strengths and weaknesses and design a PHR prep course that highlights the areas you'd like more support in and review the content you're comfortable with.
You may find that practice tests, flashcards, and other study techniques are useful, and your tutor can incorporate those in your plan. Your tutor can create a personalized review and study schedule for your PHR classes. These are different from exam prep programs because tutoring provides you with a one-on-one PHR course. You can take your time because there's no limit on PHR prep classes with a tutor. You'll find that this offers a low-stress opportunity to prepare for your certification exam. The PHR certification test includes topics like employee and labor relations, business management, talent planning and acquisition, total rewards, and learning and development. The table below explains the breakdown of content areas on the exam.
PHR Exam Breakdown
| Subject | Percentage of Exam |
| Business Management | 20% |
| Talent Planning and Acquisition | 16% |
| Learning and Development | 10% |
| Total Rewards | 15% |
| Employee and Labor Relations | 39% |
Varsity Tutors works hard to match students who seek a PHR prep class with tutors who can deal with flexible schedules, and this is possible because we use a Live Learning Platform that can connect you with a tutor anytime, anywhere. Location isn't a factor that can stop your test prep. The tutors we match you with specialize in PHR prep courses.
If you're serious about preparing for your PHR exam and need one-on-one support, a PHR prep course with a tutor is a great option. Reach out today to find out how we can connect you with a tutor who can work with your situation and design a program of study that is unique to you.
Heather: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...or achieves a milestone. I have a positive personality and cheerful disposition that helps to engage students of all ages and thankfully have always been able to maintain a good rapport with the students I have taught and currently teach. I am confident in my ability to help any student with time management, study and...
Education & Certification
- Armstrong Atlantic State University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Murray State University - Current Grad Student, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Exam P - Probability
- TAP - Test of Academic Proficiency (Illinois)
- International Sports Sciences Association
- +443 subjects
Kelli: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Test Prep development. As a Licensed Educator M.Ed MHS-MFT, Ed.S, it is important that my Students enjoy themselves in the things they learn organically as they develop their confidence in each subject matter. As a Educational Leader, it is my duty to assess At-Risk and Fail grade situations with care and compassion. My goal with...
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Master of Arts, Counselor Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- NCE - National Counselor Exam
- SCOR-P - SCOR Professional
- LMSW - Licensed Master Social Worker
- +371 subjects
Joe: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...students to articulate core concepts in their own words after hearing an explanation and always provide guidance that aid in understanding. Each of us has a different way of absorbing new ideas and frameworks, and to be aware of those critical differences in learning styles is tantamount to your success. In some rigorous coursework, it...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SAT Mathematics
- ACT Math
- Plant Biology
- +222 subjects
Gillian: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Master's in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga. I have held the HRCI SPHR certification since 2000 and the SHRM-SCP certification since it's inception in 2015. I have chosen to test for recertification voluntarily over the years to test my knowledge and maintain confidence in my skills and abilities. More recently I have chosen to track my...
Education & Certification
- Pacific Lutheran University - Bachelor in Arts, Human Resources Management
- Gonzaga University - Master of Arts, Organizational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Carole: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...in my career, I volunteered to teach illiterate adults, an experience that was both humbling and enlightening. I firmly believe that education is the foundation of personal and professional success, and I am committed to helping students build confidence and achieve their academic goals. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, cooking, and traveling to...
Education & Certification
- Hampton University - Bachelor of Science, Finance
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Master of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- College Business
- Professional Certifications
- +23 subjects
Jeffrey: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I have been a human resource manager for fifteen years, after serving in other management roles previously. I've passed the HRCI PHR exam both times I've attempted, and passed the SHRM-SCP on the first time taken. I'm looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with others!
Education & Certification
- College of the Holy Cross - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
- University of Rhode Island - Master of Science, Human Resources Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Haider: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...future careers. I am passionate about helping students navigate their educational journeys and achieve their full potential. What excites me about Varsity Tutors is its dedication to providing personalized, one-on-one tutoring that supports students in achieving their academic goals. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to an organization that prioritizes individualized attention and...
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- ABPM - American Board of Preventive Medicine
- CDR Exam - Cardiovascular Disease Recertification Exam
- +590 subjects
Rhett: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
My personal and professional aim is to help others identify, prepare, and achieve their full potential in their desired life goals.
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Bay Area Campus - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Globe University-La Crosse - Master of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Sheri Elizabeth: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...am a graduate of The College of William and Mary with my MBA. I have been involved in Human Resources for over 30 years and have been an item writer for the test as well as taught certification prep courses to assist HR professionals in passing the exams. I have my SPHR and SHRM-SCP credentials...
Education & Certification
- Saint Leo University - Bachelor in Arts, Human Resources Management
- Fielding Graduate University - Doctor of Philosophy, Human Resources Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Iveliz: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...understand that each individual is a unique asset, and by fostering a culture of inclusivity, trust, and collaboration, we can unlock their full potential. I am committed to creating environments where individuals feel empowered to excel, knowing that their growth contributes to the collective success of the organization. I am passionate about helping people unlock...
Education & Certification
- Ashford University - Masters in Business Administration, Organizational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Marketing
- Technology and Coding
- +16 subjects
Jenise: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...experience. I've also taught Managing Human Capital, Introduction to Compensation and Benefits and Business courses at the university level. I have trained others in time management and developing effective study skills. In my spare time I'm an avid reader and I love true crime shows. I look forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelor of Science, Community Health Services
- Lewis University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Managerial Accounting
- Microeconomics
- +17 subjects
Katey: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...every moment of every day. I am constantly learning, yes, from books but this degree in Life and its experiences prove often the most important. I proudly embrace my personality that I was not always confident in. I believe my sense of humor, often out of the box thinking, patience, empathy and ability to connect...
Education & Certification
- George Mason University - Bachelor in Arts, Business Communications
- George Mason University - Masters in Education, Teacher Education, Multiple Levels
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Exam FM - Financial Mathematics
- FRT - Foundations of Reading Test
- EAS - Educating All Students (NY Teaching exam)
- +398 subjects
Joanne: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...reimagine leadership, align people strategies with business goals, and create inclusive, high-performing cultures. With over 20 years of cross-sector leadership experience as COO and Chief HR Officer, I bring a unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and a passion for developing leaders at every level. Beyond consulting, I am a TEDx speaker, published author,...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelor in Business Administration, Finance
- University of the Virgin Islands - Doctor of Philosophy, Organizational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Sandra: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I enjoy mentoring and working with those people who are interested in growing their careers. Over the last 20 + years, I have gained a wealth of hands on Human Resources experience. Looking forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Webster University - Master of Arts, Human Resources Development
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Other
- Academic Coaching
- +5 subjects
Leressa: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...from NC A&T State University. I have worked extensively with training business professionals as well as high school and college students. I provide career coaching and mentoring to emerging HR leaders and job applicants in career transition. To prepare for HR certification tests, I provide an individualized approach to instruction by first assessing each students'...
Education & Certification
- North Carolina A T State University - Bachelor of Science, Business Teacher Education
- Old Dominion University - Master of Science, Adult and Continuing Education
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- +12 subjects
Debra: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Detroit News (Gannett), DHL and DeVry Education Group. I earned a B.S. in Business Administration from Central Michigan University with a major in Human Resource Management and MS in Human Resource Management from Keller Graduate School of Management. I've been in your shoes... I earned my Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and Senior Certified...
Education & Certification
- Central Michigan University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Human Resources Management
- DeVry Universitys Keller Graduate School of Management-Illinois - Master in Management, Human Resources Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Shawna: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...same for human resources professionals seeking their credentials. I have more than 20 years of experience as a senior human resources professional. I hold both SHRM-SCP and SPHR designations. My experience and education has led me to build my own HR Consulting and Leadership Coaching business. As you can see, I'm passionate about helping people...
Education & Certification
- Post University - Bachelor of Science, Human Resources Management
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Master of Science, Organizational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- IB Business & Management
- Financial Accounting
- +17 subjects
Summer: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Laude) from the New England College of Business & Finance. For the past four years, I've specialized in tutoring professionals for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certification exams, combining real-world HR expertise with proven instructional strategies. My approach is student-centered and flexibleI adapt to each learner's style and pace to make complex HR concepts accessible and actionable....
Education & Certification
- Coastal Carolina University - Master's/Graduate, Business Administration
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Six Sigma
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- +5 subjects
Jamal: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...pedagogy are, how relevant is the knowledge of today for the graduates of tomorrow? And what do I need to do to work with my students/mentees to create a trusting relationship? I look forward to working with my students to strengthen their confidence in public speaking, understanding marketing concepts and human resources practices, and international...
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Master's/Graduate, Hospitality Management
- University of Akron - Doctorate (PhD), Curricular & Instructional Studies
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Political Science
- +18 subjects
Reshma: University of Wisconsin-Madison PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
Education & Certification
- University of Mumbai - Bachelor, Statistics and Operations Research
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Hindi
- Elementary School Reading
- Middle School English
- +19 subjects