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.
Katey: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 with people and motivate them, as I recognize them as unique individuals, is what further drives my passion to teach and mentor. This has allowed me to develop amazing skills to understand, educate and show...
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
- COMLEX
- GACE - Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators
- Exam PA - Predictive Analytics
- +398 subjects
Shawna: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...build a great human resources career. Now, I would like to do the 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 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
- College Business
- Managerial Accounting
- +17 subjects
Jenise: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I have 12 years of 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
- Managerial Accounting
- Intermediate Accounting
- +17 subjects
Tammie: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...has been my honor to be an instructor for the SHRM Learning Systems preparing HR professionals to sit for the HRCI certification exam to attain either a PHR or SPHR. It has been a rewarding experience to not only be a subject matter expert in the field of HR Management as a practitioner, but also to teach fellow HR professionals, lead in HR associations, and teach students within the field of HR Management. With over...
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-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
- +2 subjects
Kelli: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...is to quickly assess, plan, fully commit, and get to the true root and future goal of academics and what academic success can look like. Knowing when to refer is also an act of disciplined and intentional teaching. For those needing English & Writing: My State exam developmental work with Meausurement Inc. helped to further break down and rebuild paragraph questions on standardized tests. Hope to meet you soon and teach your academic goals. Have...
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Master of Arts, Counselor Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- AIFA - Applied Investment and Finance Analyst Certification Exam
- MTEL - Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure
- LMSW - Licensed Master Social Worker
- +371 subjects
Jody: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...a Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in Mathematics from Harris-Stowe State College. I came to St. Louis from New Jersey on a full 4 year basketball scholarship to Saint Louis University. I have been a college Mathematics Instructor for 20+ years. I have taught Mathematics online for 4+ years and I have tutored students in all levels of Mathematics for 20+ years. I am quite passionate about math and basketball. My 2...
Education & Certification
- Harris-Stowe State University - Bachelor of Science, Education
- Webster University - Master of Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Exam P - Probability
- AFSP - Annual Filing Season Program
- Exam FM - Financial Mathematics
- +167 subjects
Dawn: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...all in Business Operations and Human Resources and now run my own company. Given my background working with students from high school to executives at corporations, I have the ability to break things down in such a way the student can understand. I'm your cheerleader and it brings me great joy when you pass your exam or simply catch onto a concept. It is very rewarding to me when my students learn a new skill,...
Education & Certification
- Northern Illinois University - Bachelor of Science, Operations Management
- Gardner-Webb University - Masters in Business Administration, Operations Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Finance
- Business
- +8 subjects
Heather: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...management, study and research skills, communication skills, public speaking, and test-taking strategies as well. It is my goal to use my Master's Degree in Public Administration, my Bachelor's degree in History, the many professional development courses, and required professional exams taken, to continue in my job as an Educator and/or Administrator while continuing with lifelong learning. While doing so, it is my desire to continue teaching my high schooler, as I have for many years,...
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
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- COTA / NBCOT - Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
- NBCOT - National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- +443 subjects
Aaron: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...the most success when I find students use the problem-solving skill-sets I teach in their everyday lives. I try to convey the importance of a rigorous study and examination of textbooks and outside readings to improve the classroom experience and therefore, a student's overall education. The modern approach to education, with a blend of technology-based learning and in-class didactic learning lends itself well to the particular was in which I would like to teach. Particular...
Education & Certification
- ITT Technical Institute-Indianapolis - Bachelor of Science, Network and System Administration
- University of Phoenix-Online Campus - Doctor of Business Adminstration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Six Sigma
- PRAXIS
- +411 subjects
Rhett: 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
Debra: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...education. Prior to joining Varsity Tutors, I worked in HR management positions with 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 Professional (SHRM-SCP). Also, I'm a member of...
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: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 can be so tempting to give up and settle for a grade that does not reflect your true potential. However, with the right attitude and patience, you will be on the fast track to getting...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- TACHS
- MATLAB
- High School Accounting
- +222 subjects
Sarah: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...style to meet the needs of the Learner. I am very familiar with Adult Learning Theory. I am a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR and SHRM-SCP). Additionally, I have a background 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...
Education & Certification
- Bentley University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- PMP
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- +38 subjects
Jeffrey: 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
Reshma: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
Education & Certification
- University of Mumbai - Bachelor, Statistics and Operations Research
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Writing
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- High School English
- +19 subjects
Sheri Elizabeth: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I have a PhD in Human 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 my SPHR and SHRM-SCP credentials and have published books and articles on human resources....
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
Leressa: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...first assessing each students' strengths and determining how I can help them grow and enhance their skills. I am a 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
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- +12 subjects
Barry: 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-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Human Resources
- +2 subjects
Ahmir: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...am Ahmir Kenyatta a Human Resources Executive with ten years of experience and a Professor. I specialize in Business, Human Resources, and similar credentials. I understand civil and employment law exceptionally and can easily teach these areas. As a 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...
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
- Admissions
- CLEP
- +22 subjects
Jamal: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...my global approach in working with my students. I have learned that one of the best methods to assess learning outcome (LO) is to first understand and identify the needs of my students and focus on their strengths to motivate them. Students and trainees (at all levels) have one common goal i.e., success in what they set out to do. Two basic questions that guide my teaching pedagogy are, how relevant is the knowledge of...
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-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- IB Global Politics
- +18 subjects