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.
Tammie: 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 colleges regarding 'employability skills', as well as, address students at commencement ceremonies and job seminars. It has been my honor...
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
- Human Resources
- +2 subjects
Dawn: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...I worked in restaurant retail, grocery retail, and pharmaceutical retail 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...
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
- Financial Accounting
- Other
- +8 subjects
Haider: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...students of all backgrounds includes a diverse range of ages, learning styles, and learning disabilities, which have always been at the forefront of my educational endeavors. I believe fostering a love for learning and building students' confidence is essential for their academic and personal growth. My role as a tutor in clinical settings has provided me with firsthand knowledge of the challenges and demands faced by students and professionals alike. This experience has further enhanced...
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- USMLE Step 1
- PANRE - Physician Assistant National Recertifying Examination
- 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
Tamica: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
I am an HR leader with a proactive approach to Human Resources. With 20+ years of experience, I am a total HR nerd that loves helping other people learn how to be value-added business partners.
Education & Certification
- American InterContinental University-Online - Bachelor in Arts, Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Northern Arizona University - Master in Management, Organizational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Heather: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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), and become more confident in themselves". Affirmation and praise and ensuring all students come to understand and believe they are "Highly Intelligent" in every way possible is...
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
- International Sports Sciences Association
- Exam P - Probability
- CPE - Certificate of Proficiency in English
- +443 subjects
Iveliz: 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 relationship building. I understand that each individual is a unique asset, and by fostering a culture of inclusivity, trust, 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
- Microeconomics
- Business
- +16 subjects
Kristine: 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 process. If you're a people leader and your team would benefit from an Employment Law update along with leave training...
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
- Human Resources
- Business Ethics
- +17 subjects
Joe: 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 that enables students to articulate core concepts in their own words after hearing an explanation and always provide guidance that...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Technology and Coding
- Cost Analysis
- Political Science
- +222 subjects
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
Ahmir: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 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 Business
- Late Elementary Reading Comprehension
- +22 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...
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
Kevin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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, developed, deployed and delivered dozens of programs in every area of Human Resources with a special emphasis on...
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
Moses: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 mindset. I always encourage my students to pursue the...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, Art History, Criticism, and Conservation
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
- ACT
- +49 subjects
Aaron: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 use of these examples in my class lectures emphasizes...
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
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- PMP
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- +411 subjects
Jamal: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 today for the graduates of tomorrow? And what do...
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
- Microeconomics
- +18 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
- College Economics
- +17 subjects
Gillian: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 value of HR certification and encourage anyone that is serious about pursuing HR as a career to obtain one or...
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
Destiny: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...(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 13. Professional Email Composition 14. Poetry 15. Financial/Retirement Planning 16. Organization Skills 17. Salary Proposals 18. Blogging 19. Product Management 20. Positive Psychology...
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
- ARM - Associate in Risk Management
- GACE - Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators
- ACSM - American College of Sports Medicine
- +578 subjects
Yazmin: PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 a way that's practical and gives a real-world understanding of the subject matter. I look for different learning and memorization...
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
- Math
- Microeconomics
- +16 subjects