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.
Moses: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I am a certified HR professional with 10 years of experience across a wide range of specializations including employee relations, leaves of absence, multi-state payroll operations, and legal immigration. I am a graduate of Yale University, with a passion for helping students gain admission to their college of choice through admissions essay review and feedback. My teaching style involves learning new concepts by way of real life examples and scenarios, good humor, and a no-stupid-questions...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, Art History, Criticism, and Conservation
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
- Financial Accounting
- +49 subjects
Destiny: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Guitar) 7. Product Manager, Product Owner, & Scrum Certified Additional Subjects I teach: 1. Personal Budgeting 2. Women's Studies 3. Life Coaching 4. Weight Training 5. Amazon Self-Publishing 6. Minimalism/Decluttering 7. Goal Setting 8. Mock Interviews 9. Healthy Eating 10. Time Management 11. Career Sales Advice 12. College Application Coach 13. Professional Email Composition 14. Poetry 15. Financial/Retirement Planning 16. Organization Skills 17. Salary Proposals 18. Blogging 19. Product Management 20. Positive Psychology 21. Agile/Scrum...
Education & Certification
- University of Georgia - Bachelors, 1. Public Administration, Policy, & Management 2. Psychology 3. Gender & Women's Studies
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- ASCP Board of Certification - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification
- PANCE - Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination
- ARM-E - Associate in Management-Enterprise Risk Management
- +578 subjects
Kevin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Sciences, Logistics, Manufacturing, Services and Transportation. This background gives me a unique perspective from which to assist my clients in finding their full potential. I have also designed, developed, deployed and delivered dozens of programs in every area of Human Resources with a special emphasis on Talent Development, Change Management and Employee Engagement. A world traveler since the age of 3 months, I have lived, studied and worked in Europe and Asia and have managed...
Education & Certification
- Kenyon College - Bachelor in Arts, 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
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...
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
Robin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
With a Master's in Human Resource Leadership and over a decade of professional HR experience, I bring a strong foundation in communication, writing, and critical thinking. I also hold a Bachelor's in English and Allied Language Arts and have classroom and one-on-one tutoring experience. I specialize in creating engaging, personalized lessons that meet each student where they are and help them grow with confidence and creativity.
Education & Certification
- Western Kentucky University - Bachelor's, English and Allied Language Arts
- Sullivan University - Master's/Graduate, Human Resource Leadership
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Middle School Reading
- Essay Editing
- +13 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
- Macroeconomics
- +17 subjects
Joanne: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...to HR certifications, I have co-authored 6 preparation manuals that are published through Mc-Graw Hill. I have developed and delivered five online HR certification training videos for LinkedIn Learning. As the Founder & Chief Strategist of JSW Consulting, I partner with executives, HR leaders, and organizations to 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...
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
Ahmir: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I 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...
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
- Late Elementary Reading Comprehension
- +22 subjects
Dawn: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...for the weights and measures for the Suez Canal. How cool is that? That experience made me fall in love with traveling the world.) I am a lifelong learner who worked full-time while going to school full-time. That has allowed me to bring "real world" examples to help students understand and apply concepts. I worked in restaurant retail, grocery retail, and pharmaceutical retail all in Business Operations and Human Resources and now run my own...
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
- College Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- +8 subjects
Haider: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...passion for education and desire to make a meaningful impact on students' lives. With over 5 years of teaching experience in traditional classrooms, labs, hospital settings, and online platforms, I have honed my skills in course development, instructional design, and assessment methodologies. My commitment to creating highly engaging and interactive learning experiences for students of all backgrounds includes a diverse range of ages, learning styles, and learning disabilities, which have always been at the forefront...
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
- AVA - Association for Vascular Access
- CPE - Certificate of Proficiency in English
- +590 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-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Jody: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I received my Master of Arts degree in Mathematics from Webster University. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a Certificate in Business Administration from Saint Louis University. I also have 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...
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
- Exam FM - Financial Mathematics
- MTC - Missouri Teacher Certification
- +167 subjects
Joe: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Science/Business Analytics. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I am passionate about working with all students, especially those needing assistance in finance, accounting, mathematics, and computer science/programming courses because these subjects present so many opportunities for problem solving and students to obtain that "aha" moment. That said, I am qualified and willing to help you reach success in all the subjects in which I am approved to tutor. I started tutoring classmates informally while...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- TOPS
- ACCUPLACER Elementary Algebra
- AP Calculus AB
- +222 subjects
Iveliz: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...excellence in every endeavor. My journey through the realms of business management, training and development, sales, operations, and human resources has allowed me to cultivate a unique skill set that transcends traditional boundaries. I thrive in dynamic environments, consistently delivering results that drive organizational success. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to witness the transformative power of education and self-awareness. It is this profound belief in the potential of individuals to evolve into their...
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
- High School Business
- Microeconomics
- +16 subjects
Sarah: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
Professionally, for the last 20+ years, I have led Human Resources teams for international corporations including training, learning, and career development. Having worked with all kinds of people, I can readily adapt my teaching 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...
Education & Certification
- Bentley University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Six Sigma
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- +38 subjects
Theresa: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...and foundational business topics. These subjects are a natural fit for me, and I enjoy helping students connect complex ideas to real-world examples that make learning easier and more memorable. My tutoring style is structured, clear, and encouraging. I focus on simplifying difficult concepts and adapting lessons to each student's learning style and goals. Outside of teaching, I'm drawn to psychology, writing, and understanding how people grow in their careers and lives. I aim to...
Education & Certification
- Purdue Global University - Master's/Graduate, Industrial Organizational Psychology
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- SHRM - Society for Human Resource Management
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- +14 subjects
Jamal: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...my PhD is in Curricular and Instructional Studies. At present, I am teaching at the University of Akron's College of Business (Advance Accreditation Council Business Schools Programs), and School of Communication. These experiences have given me firsthand exposure to the emerging challenges and molded 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...
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
- IB Global Politics
- +18 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-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Human Resources
- +2 subjects
Yazmin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...passion for teaching and have been a volunteer teacher for many years. I also have many years of experience training and teaching HR topics. I take pride in preparing for my classes and personalizing them for each individual's learning style. My goal is to bring the lesson to life for my students in a way that's practical and gives a real-world understanding of the subject matter. I look for different learning and memorization techniques that...
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Bachelor of Science, Human Resources Management
- Capella University - Master of Science, Human Resources Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- AAOMS - American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Alibaba Cloud Professional
- AP Macroeconomics
- +16 subjects
Elizabeth: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...as a Senior Professional of Human Resources (SPHR). My background as an employment law attorney, coupled with my extensive experience in Employee Relations and HR Compliance within the Financial Services Industry, has equipped me with the ability to break down complex legal concepts into accessible lessons tailored to diverse learning styles. I am passionate about empowering students through education, believing that knowledge can significantly impact their professional lives. My experience as an instructor in Taekwondo...
Education & Certification
- Wofford College - Bachelor's, Economics
- Wake Forest University - Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.), Law
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications