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.
Jenise: Des Plaines 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
- College Economics
- Professional Certifications
- +17 subjects
Kelli: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...higher grades. Former Standardization test designer and scorer for Measurement Inc., and Leader in the development of Standardized and Test Prep development. As a Licensed Educator M.Ed MHS-MFT, Ed.S, it is important that my Students enjoy themselves in the things they learn organically as they develop their confidence in each subject matter. As a Educational Leader, it is my duty to assess At-Risk and Fail grade situations with care and compassion. My goal with students...
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Master of Arts, Counselor Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- ARM-E - Associate in Management-Enterprise Risk Management
- FACHE - Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives
- IFMA - International Facility Management Association
- +371 subjects
Sheri Elizabeth: Des Plaines 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
Haider: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...I spearheaded curriculum development and instructional design initiatives for surgical education programs, integrating cutting-edge medical advancements to enhance the learning experience of medical students and surgical residents. These experiences have fueled my 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...
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- ABS - American Board of Surgery
- CPCE - Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination
- +590 subjects
Sarah: Des Plaines 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
- PMP
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- Six Sigma
- +38 subjects
Tamica: Des Plaines 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
Ahmir: Des Plaines 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
- College Business
- Admissions
- +22 subjects
Sandra: Des Plaines 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
- Business
- Business Ethics
- +5 subjects
Jody: Des Plaines 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
- MTC - Missouri Teacher Certification
- AFSP - Annual Filing Season Program
- Exam FM - Financial Mathematics
- +167 subjects
Debra: Des Plaines 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-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- SHRM-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Professional Certifications
Tammie: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...management, within roles such as: a Registered Rep with the National Association of Securities Dealers, career development instructor, Corporate Trainer, and Human Resources Director. While I was employed in the adult education industry, I had the honor of being invited to Sao Paulo, Brazil, as an International Train-the-Trainer at an American-Brazilian cultural Institute. Upon returning home to the US, I expanded my role in Training and Human Resources. To extend my educational goals in Human...
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
- Business
- +2 subjects
Dawn: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...University with concentrations in Accounting & Operations Management Information Systems. (Fun fact, during my senior year at NIU, I did my internship in Egypt where we created a software package 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"...
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
- Finance
- +8 subjects
Heather: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...as well as individual classes, allows me personally to broaden my own scope of education. I strongly believe whether teaching in the classroom or online using a platform, as well as in-person or online tutoring, yields substantial benefits for students who are willing and eager to push past obstacles, learn fundamental skills, core concepts, and helps each develop a more generalized thought process with more engagement. I am passionate and enthusiastic when I teach, as...
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
- OAE - Ohio Assessments for Educators
- CBEST - The California Basic Educational Skills Test
- TAP - Test of Academic Proficiency (Illinois)
- +443 subjects
Katey: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Minor in Sociology. All of which I earned from George Mason University. In my 15 years as an educator I have taught and tutored over 399 subject areas, online as well as in-person with pupils of all ages. I have piloted programs implementing technology, and those designed to apply my aptitude for differentiated instruction strategies for clients of all learning styles and abilities. I pride myself, on my extensive background and passion for teaching; knowing,...
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
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- CBEST - The California Basic Educational Skills Test
- EAS - Educating All Students (NY Teaching exam)
- +398 subjects
Jamal: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...years, working in Australia, New Zealand, Central Asia, Jamaica, China, Pakistan and in other parts of the world. My Undergraduate degree is in Economics, Graduate degree is in Hospitality Management, and 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...
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
- Economics
- +18 subjects
Aaron: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...posed an andragogical challenge. In our typical management scenario, I regularly have students with no training in interpersonal relations or management. The goal of those initial lectures will then acquaint students with a practical working knowledge of management, human relationships, and leadership principles. This approach is rarely met with resistance, often leading students to appreciate their chosen academic career path and creating a decision to further pursue degrees in business and accounting. However, I find...
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-SCP - Society for Human Resource Management- Senior Certified Professional
- Six Sigma
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- +411 subjects
Jeffrey: Des Plaines 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
Gillian: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...received my Bachelor's degree in Human Resources from Pacific 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...
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
Barry: Des Plaines 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
Destiny: Des Plaines PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...I am: 1. A product manager 2. A published author 3. 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...
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
- ANCC - American Nurses Credentialing Center
- NES Biology - National Evaluation Series Biology Test
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- +578 subjects