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.
Kevin: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...world traveler since the age of 3 months, I have lived, studied and worked in Europe and Asia and have managed business located in over 30 countries all over the world. This combined with my educational background gives me a truly global mindset allowing me to work across not only functional boundaries but global borders...
Education & Certification
- Kenyon College - Bachelor in Arts, International Business
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
James: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...individual's unique learning style and needs. I strive to make complex concepts understandable, engaging, and relevant, helping students build confidence and excel in their studies. Whether you're preparing for exams, working on assignments, or seeking to deepen your understanding, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to reach your...
Education & Certification
- University of Georgia - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Six Sigma
- Anthropology
- English
- +267 subjects
Heather: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...to include diverse lesson plans, many hands-on activities, give useful resources, valuable information, and have a zeal to help students learn something new and then be able to watch them expand upon it. I love to see when a student realizes that they finally "get it", or "just realize that they have just learned(something new),...
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
- NBCOT - National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Exam SRM - Statistics for Risk Modeling
- PRAXIS
- +443 subjects
Haider: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...to an organization that prioritizes individualized attention and tailored learning experiences. My experience in providing personalized feedback and support, coupled with my proficiency in utilizing digital tools for teaching, positions me to excel in this role. I am eager to bring my passion for teaching and healthcare to Varsity Tutors and contribute to your student's...
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- ABMGG - American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
- FOM - International Foundations of Medicine Exam Program
- EMT - Emergency Medical Technicians
- +590 subjects
Rhett: Tell 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-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Iveliz: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...the transformative power of education and self-awareness. It is this profound belief in the potential of individuals to evolve into their best selves that fuels my passion. I am dedicated to guiding others on their own paths of self-discovery and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in the principles of performance management, talent acquisition, and...
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
- Management
- Productivity
- +16 subjects
Tammie: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...while also studying towards a Masters in Adult Education. In addition to the full-time positions in HR Management, I also facilitate courses in Human Resources undergraduate and graduate programs at local colleges. I served on the executive board as President of the Human Resources Management Association. I continue to conduct public speaking workshops in local...
Education & Certification
- University of Arkansas - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- University of Central Arkansas - Masters in Business Administration, International Business
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
- Business
- +2 subjects
Katey: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...music the kind that fits exactly when you need it to, adopting animals, and I am a huge college football fanatic. I love traveling to places that are the opposite of the expected, those that have yet to become tourist attractions. I do have one degree I have yet to finish: Life; and, class is...
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 PA - Predictive Analytics
- FRT - Foundations of Reading Test
- Exam FM - Financial Mathematics
- +398 subjects
Gillian: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 60 Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) to maintain both certifications. I am a strong believer in the value of HR certification and encourage anyone that is...
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
Jeffrey: Tell 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-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Debra: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 Professional (SHRM-SCP). Also, I'm a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and the Northern Illinois Human Resource Council. Looking forward to helping you...
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
Joe: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...to help you reach success in all the subjects in which I am approved to tutor. I started tutoring classmates informally while in college and accepted several teaching assistant positions that enabled me to clearly explain course concepts to students with various backgrounds. Instead of lecturing students, I subscribe to a learn by doing method...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Management
- UK A Level Environmental Studies
- OAT
- +222 subjects
Kristine: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...good resource for you. I would like to offer a study group for those HR leaders who are interested in preparing for the SHRM CP test. I have way more years in business management then I'm comfortable in admitting to. That experience includes budgeting, employee relations, business ethics, reasonable suspicion, documentation and the progressive discipline...
Education & Certification
- Minnesota State University-Mankato - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- PHP
- Programming Languages
- +17 subjects
Shawna: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 succeed in their careers.
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
- Professional Certifications
- Technology and Coding
- +17 subjects
Jenise: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...HR 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
- Financial Accounting
- College Economics
- +17 subjects
Ahmir: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...tenured leader I bring my wealth of knowledge and experience, coupled with my experience in education, to help create student-centered plans based on individualized goals to drive student success. I believe that education is a powerful tool, and I am committed to helping my students receive the support they need to maximize their fullest potential.
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Master of Arts, Human Resources Development
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- High School English
- CLEP
- +22 subjects
Barry: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
Forty years of Corporate HR / Labor Relations experience, a J.D. Degree in Employment / Labor Law and a Master of Science Degree in Industrial Relations. I promise I can help you pass the PHR / SPHR exam...
Education & Certification
- West Virginia Wesleyan College - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- University Of Pittsburgh School Of Law - Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc), Employment / Labor Law
- Marshall University - Master of Science, Labor and Industrial Relations
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
- Business
- +2 subjects
Sarah: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...in Transformational Coaching where I have studied neurochemistry, subconscious reprogramming, and coaching methodology. This helps me to deepen my Learner's ability to cognitively integrate new learnings and create successful learning action plans. I infuse fun, humor, and personal stories into my teaching to increase engagement and retention. My style is easy going but deeply impactful.
Education & Certification
- Bentley University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Six Sigma
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- +38 subjects
Leressa: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...strong advocate for project-based experiences and challenging students to think through practical applications using case studies and research. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering with non profit organizations to provide pro bono HR assistance and leadership coaching. I also enjoy exercising and playing tennis with family and our spoiled rotten Airedale Terrier.
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
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- +12 subjects
Sheri Elizabeth: Tell PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Resources as well as I 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...
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