Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) Learning System Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this material the best to help prepare for the PHR or SPHR exam?
The SHRM Learning System is the official SHRM study material to use in preparing for the PHR or SPHR examinations. Updated yearly, questions used in class are written in the same format and cover the same HR Knowledge Base as the PHR and SPHR exams. The content is delivered through a blended format of printed workbooks, learning software, and web-based study tools making the SHRM Learning System the most comprehensive study materials on the market.

How will participants benefit from this program?
Participants in CSU's SHRM Learning System receive excellent preparation for the PHR or SPHR exams and an overview of the HR field. Our program consistently beats the national pass rates due to our experienced instructors, structured classroom environment, and peer discussions.  In addition, students will benefit from the opportunity to network with their peers and have access to frequent job announcements through our contacts in the HR industry.

What is required to successfully complete the class and receive the certificate of completion?
To receive our certificate of completion, participants must attend at least nine of the class sessions, take all tests and exams, and have a final course grade of 70% or better. The grade is based on 30% of the quizzes given throughout the course and 70% on the cumulative final test. This grading method allows participants who have had difficulty with the individual tests to still complete the program by passing the final exam.

Will participants be certified after completing this course? Does the tuition for this course cover the cost of the Human Resource Certificate Institute (HRCI) certification examination?
No. Course content reflects the general body of knowledge tested by the HRCI. This course of study does not guarantee or assure success on the HR Certification Institute exam. Students must use the most recent edition of the SHRM® educational products for this course and may not use outdated materials. The certification process is completely separate from this course, and participants should apply and pay for the certification exams through the HRCI. The exams are administered by computer at testing centers located throughout the world. The PHR and SPHR exams are three hours in length and consist of 175 multiple-choice questions. An excellent way to determine which exam is best for you is to take the HRCI online assessment exam. This exam helps you determine your strengths and weaknesses in each of the functional areas of the exam and allows you to become familiar with the format and difficulty of the exam questions. Contact HRCI at (866) 898-4724, www.hrci.org, or info@hrci.org for more information.

Is financial assistance available?
Yes, $750 scholarships are available to SHRM members pursuing professional certification. Go to the SHRM Foundation website to learn more about this program.

How widespread is PHR/SPHR certification?

• Nationwide, approximately 200 colleges and universities provide training for the PHR/SPHR certification.
• Over 111,000 people are certified nationally: 56% are PHR and 41% are SPHR.

How do I know if I am eligible to sit for the PHR or SPHR certification exams?
Several factors are considered when you apply to take the PHR or SPHR exams and vary depending on which exam you choose. Visit www.hrci.org or call HRCI at (866) 898-4724 for more information on eligibility requirements.

Can I use the SHRM Learning System course to recertify if I already have my PHR or SPHR?
No. Only students who have their GPHR designation may use the SHRM Learning System course to recertify.

What happens if I register for the SHRM Learning System and find out I am not eligible to sit for the exam?
Students may withdraw from the SHRM Learning System and receive a refund less the cost of materials and a $25 processing fee if notice is given within 5 working days of the class start date. Materials that have been opened may not be returned. Students are responsible for the full tuition amount if notice to withdraw is received after 5 working days from the class start date.

How rigorous are the PHR and SPHR certification exams?
The multiple-choice questions in this course are in the same format as the exams. By reviewing the SHRM Learning System modules, participants should be well prepared to successfully pass the HRCI certification examinations; however, success is not guaranteed. Statistically, participants who attend this program at an educational institution and then take the exam have a higher pass rate on the exam than those who used some other study method.

Visit the HR Certification Institute website to view application deadlines and testing dates.

Does taking CSU's course really help me achieve higher pass rates?
Yes! During the last testing window, nationally only 59% passed the PHR and 48% passed the SPHR exam. However, our SHRM Learning System certificate program consistently achieves student pass rates between 80-100%.

How many people have used the SHRM Learning System?
Each year over 15,000 people use the SHRM Learning System, either through an educational institution or on their own.

Still not sure?
Check out the free SHRM Learning System demo. Participants who do not qualify to sit for the PHR or SPHR exam may still register for this comprehensive program and earn a Certificate of Completion from Colorado State University.