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Preparing for Your HR Certification Test

Whether you’re just starting out as an HR professional or seeking promotion into leadership roles, obtaining an HR Certification is a way to demonstrate your level of expertise and advance your career. 

Don’t worry if the idea of studying for an HR certification test sounds overwhelming. We offer a variety of test preparation options for the most reputable HR certifications offered by HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Before you enroll for an HR certification exam, here are a few things you should know about preparing for your test with HREN.

Certification Test Preparation with HREN

We offer test preparation courses for HR professionals seeking certification through the HR Certification Institute® (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). We are also proud to be an approved recertification provider for both of these organizations. We offer test preparations for the following certifications, so you can choose the best option to support your next steps as an HR professional.

HRCI® Certifications

Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)

The aPHR certification is designed for individuals just beginning their HR careers. This is the perfect certification to fast-track your professional growth and give you confidence as you launch your career in HR. To be eligible, you must have a high school diploma or global equivalent. You don’t need previous HR experience. (HR Education Network doesn’t currently offer the aPHR prep course but is working to offer this in the near future.) 

Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

The PHR certification is designed for HR professionals with some experience and/or education in HR. This certification helps you establish yourself in the HR field and demonstrates your mastery of the technical and operational aspects of human resource management. 

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

The SPHR is designed for more experienced HR professionals who wish to pursue HR management or leadership. This exam has a heavy focus on the HR professionals’ understanding of business and strategy.

International versions of the aPHR, PHR, and SPHR are available through HRCI, as well as specialized Global and California certifications. Visit HRCI’s website for more information on the types of available HRCI certifications.

SHRM Certifications

SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

The SHRM-CP is designed for HR professionals with some HR experience who want to establish their career and expand their knowledge. This certification is comparable to the PHR.

SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The SHRM-SCP is designed for HR professionals with more experience and education in HR who want to pursue HR management or leadership. These individuals excel at leading an HR team and aligning HR strategies to big-picture organization goals.

Visit the SHRM website for additional information on the SHRM certifications.

HREN Online Study Options 

At HREN, we’re passionate about meeting your learning needs. That’s why we offer two options for each of our test prep courses: self-study and instructor-led.

Self-study Test Prep

The self-study test prep course consists of a brief introductory session followed by 11 test preparation modules, each approximately three hours in length. Each module includes the video sessions, along with HRCP’s online test prep materials. You can perform the self-study test prep at your own pace and you have access to it at any time.

Instructor-led Test Prep

The instructor-led course also consists of a brief introductory session, followed by 11 test prep modules, each approximately three hours in length. Each module includes the video sessions, along with HRCP’s online test prep materials. You can view all instructor-led courses live Thursdays from 6-9 p.m. CST, allowing you to have real-time interaction with the instructors and other participants. You can submit questions directly to the instructors, and each course will conclude with a review session, followed by a live Q&A.

What Materials are Included in HREN’s Test Prep?

Our test prep programming allows participants to download associated materials before or during the course. Having all available materials will help you better recall and apply the most important information from each course.

We have partnered with Human Resources Certification Preparation to give you access to their online materials, including books, flashcards, and practice exams. You may be eligible to receive a discounted course rate if you’ve already purchased or have access to HRCP materials.  

Our experts at HR Education Network are happy to help you choose the right course for your next step as an HR professional. Contact us today to get started!

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