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: Markham 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...
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
- Math
- Professional Certifications
- +17 subjects
Moses: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 manner of learning they...
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
- Macroeconomics
- +49 subjects
Tamica: Markham 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
Destiny: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...one! Currently 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...
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
- NAPLEX
- NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination
- NBE - National Board Exam for Funeral Services
- +578 subjects
Reshma: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
Education & Certification
- University of Mumbai - Bachelor, Statistics and Operations Research
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- Elementary School Reading
- English
- +19 subjects
Haider: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Hospital, 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...
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Certified Medical Assistant Exam
- AALAS - American Association for Lab Animal Sciences
- AVA - Association for Vascular Access
- +590 subjects
Rhett: Markham 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
Joanne: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...& 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 bring a unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and a passion for...
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
Yazmin: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...in Human Resources Management as well as a Professional Human 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...
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
- Intermediate Accounting
- AP Macroeconomics
- +16 subjects
Sheri Elizabeth: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 time with...
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
Joe: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...finishing my education, I spent 5 years in the Navy on active duty. Always a lifelong learner, I am presently working on a certificate in computer science and a Master's in Data Science/Business Analytics. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I am passionate about working with all students, especially those needing assistance in finance,...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Nutrition
- Geometry
- UK A Level
- +222 subjects
Robin: Markham 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...
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 English
- Creative Writing
- +11 subjects
Jeffrey: Markham 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
Shawna: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 has led me to build my own HR...
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 Economics
- Technology and Coding
- +17 subjects
Summer: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...of Business Administration from Coastal Carolina University (Magna Cum Laude) and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Summa Cum Laude) from the New England College of Business & Finance. For the past four years, I've specialized in tutoring professionals for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certification exams, combining real-world HR expertise with proven instructional strategies. My...
Education & Certification
- Coastal Carolina University - Master's/Graduate, Business Administration
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
- Six Sigma
- +5 subjects
Sarah: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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 reprogramming, and coaching methodology. This helps me to deepen my Learner's ability to...
Education & Certification
- Bentley University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- Six Sigma
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- PMP
- +38 subjects
Kelli: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...to 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...
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Master of Arts, Counselor Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- PHR - Professional in Human Resources
- IFMA - International Facility Management Association
- AIS - Associate in Insurance Services
- CAE - Certified Association Executive Exam
- +371 subjects
Ahmir: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...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...
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
- Other
- Late Elementary Reading Comprehension
- +22 subjects
Gillian: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...I 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...
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
Dawn: Markham PHR - Professional in Human Resources course instructor
...Illinois 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.)...
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
- Human Resources
- Other
- +8 subjects