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.
Kristine: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...I enjoy learning and reading about new things that challenge how I think and work. I bring that hunger for knowledge to your tutoring sessions. Together we will build your personal learning plan that will help us stay on track to meet your goal. Your plan will also allow for concentrated time on a topic or subject where you may need some additional support. Our tutoring sessions will be comfortable and collaborative and will build...
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
- Business
- UK A Level Psychology
- +17 subjects
Heather: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...student masters a goal 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 research skills, communication skills, public speaking, and test-taking strategies as well. It is my goal to...
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
- PRAXIS
- CBEST - The California Basic Educational Skills Test
- EAS - Educating All Students (NY Teaching exam)
- +443 subjects
Sheri Elizabeth: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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. In my spare, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending...
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
Shawna: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...to help you build your human resources career. As a life long learner I have been very fortunate to have had teachers, mentors, advisors and tutors who have helped me 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 & 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
- College Business
- +17 subjects
Ahmir: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 tool, and I am committed to helping my students...
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
- Reading
- High School Reading
- +22 subjects
Tammie: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...workshops in local colleges regarding 'employability skills', as well as, address students at commencement ceremonies and job seminars. It 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...
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
- Professional Certifications
- +2 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
- Economics
- Study Skills
- +17 subjects
Leressa: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Bachelor's in Business Education 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' strengths and determining how I can help them grow and enhance their skills. I am a...
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
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- +12 subjects
Gillian: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Lutheran University and a 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 60 Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) to maintain both certifications. I am a strong believer in the...
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-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Aaron: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...well to the particular was in which I would like to teach. Particular use of these examples in my class lectures emphasizes the relevance of continual self-improvement (education) to modern management and leadership. Whenever possible, I try to present the information in a manner that invites participation from the class so that further enhances the learning experience. The end goal is always to reinforce the principles of success and to see the application in the...
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
- CSCP - Certified Supply Chain Professional
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- CAPM - Certified Associate in Project Management
- +411 subjects
Iveliz: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...and relationship building. I 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 their potential through self-awareness and education, and I bring to every challenge a commitment to fostering...
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
- Human Resources
- Economics
- +16 subjects
Yazmin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Resources Certification (PHR). Currently, I am pursuing my Masters's degree in Human Resources Management at Florida International University (FIU). I have a 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...
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
- AP Macroeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- +16 subjects
Destiny: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...A personal fitness and nutrition trainer 4. A seasoned tutor since 2007 5. An entrepreneur and business woman since age 9 6. Music teacher (Piano & 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...
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
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- ANCC - American Nurses Credentialing Center
- MTC - Missouri Teacher Certification
- +578 subjects
Jamal: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...that guide my teaching 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 business. The process is often long and requires patience - there are no magic bullets.
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
- English
- +18 subjects
Joe: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...doing method that enables 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 can be so tempting to give up and settle for a grade that does not reflect...
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 Math
- Plant Biology
- HSPT Verbal
- +222 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
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
Kevin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...- from front-line managers to C-suite executives - and companies succeed. I have over 25 years of experience in Training and Human Resources Management and a broad business experience ranging from small start-ups to multi-national Fortune 500 organizations spanning a wide variety of industries, including IT, Life 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,...
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
Debra: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 the Society for Human Resource Management and the Northern...
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
Sandra: 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
- Study Skills
- Business Ethics
- +5 subjects