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If you’re considering a degree, you can now earn a certificate as part of selected programs.
Human resource management
- Overview
At University of Phoenix, we offer a variety of courses and programs to serve the educational needs at various phases of your career as a human resource (HR) professional. Find out which path is right for you.
For credit
Certificate programs
When you need to develop HR skills to help boost job performance or pursue career opportunities, consider our Human Resource certificate programs. Our certificates are aligned with the standards of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM®) and may be completed in as few as six to eight months each.
For those looking to develop or strengthen basic HR skills and knowledge, we offer an undergraduate Human Resource Management Certificate that covers foundational concepts and day-to-day issues.
Our graduate Human Resource Management Certificate is designed for HR management professionals who have a fundamental knowledge of HR practices and want to develop higher-level skills for leading an organization. Find out more in the Benefits tab.
Noncredit
PHR®/SPHR® info
If you’re an experienced HR professional and you want to expand your skills and earn a globally recognized designation, you may be interested in HR certification, which is granted by HRCI after meeting the certification requirements. University of Phoenix offers an PHR®/SPHR® Certification Preparation Course that covers the body of knowledge needed to sit for the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) exams. The content of this course also acts as an effective complement to our certificate programs. Senior-level professionals can benefit from earning the more advanced SPHR certification. For requirements, see the PHR/SPHR info tab.
Professional development/recertification
After receiving PHR/SPHR certification, you may need to get recertified every three years. Ask about how our noncredit professional development courses can help you satisfy this requirement.
Ready to take the next step? Call an advisor at 866.484.1815 who can guide you to the best education solution for you.
- Benefits
Why earn a certificate or get certified? Find out below, then call an advisor to get started.
Why get HR certification
Professional in Human Resources (PHR®) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®) certifications are globally recognized industry certifications that can help validate your skills and knowledge and take you further. Consider getting certified to:
- Stay current within your profession
- Demonstrate commitment to your profession and mastery of core HR principles
- Set yourself apart in the job market
- Earn recognition from your organization
University of Phoenix offers a PHR/SPHR Certification Preparation Course that covers the body of knowledge needed to sit for the exams.
Why earn a University of Phoenix certificate
Our credit-bearing HR certificate programs are designed for seasoned and aspiring HR professionals who want to develop or reinforce their knowledge of HR concepts and practices, as well as those interested in earning PHR/SPHR certification.
The undergraduate Human Resource Management Certificate is for students who are seeking to develop or strengthen their basic knowledge of HR practices.
Our graduate Human Resource Management Certificate is ideal for experienced HR professionals who want to build on their foundational knowledge with skills that will help them get ahead.
Noncredit courses
We also offer professional development courses for HR professionals who want to expand their skills and knowledge or maintain their PHR/SPHR certification.
Ready to enhance your skills? Call an advisor at 866.484.1815 who can guide you to the best education solution for you.
- Courses
Explore the full list of our HR courses and certificates.
For credit
Certificates
Our graduate and undergraduate human resource certificate programs are aligned with the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM®), and can help you gain knowledge to enhance your career and work toward PHR®/SPHR® certification.
Undergraduate Human Resource Management Certificate — ideal for students with fewer than three years work experience in HR.
Topics covered:
- HR fundamentals
- Employment law
- Employee development
- Risk management
- Strategic management
Graduate Human Resource Management Certificate — ideal for students with more than three years work experience in HR.
Topics covered:
- Staffing
- Ethics and employment law
- Compensation, rewards and recognition
- HR management
- Organizational management
Noncredit
Test preparation
Ready to get your PHR/SPHR certification? Our PHR/SPHR Certification Preparation Course, leveraging the SHRM Learning System, covers the body of knowledge you’ll need to know for the test, and features an instructor-led classroom environment to help keep you focused.
Professional development
Looking to recertify, or just need human resource training to enhance your on-the-job performance? Explore these individual, noncredit courses.
Examining Human Relations and Organizational Behavior
Applying Strategies for Employee Motivation
Essentials of Human Resource Management
Ready to work toward the next phase of your career? Our Enrollment Advisors are ready to help you get started.
- PHR®/SPHR® info
Here are some important things to know about getting your human resource certification.
Applying
To sit for the PHR® exam,* in the past HRCI has required one of the following:
- A master’s degree or higher + one year of exempt-level HR experience
- A bachelor’s degree + two years of exempt-level HR experience
- A high school diploma + four years of exempt-level HR experience
To sit for the SPHR® exam,* the exam for the more experienced HR professional, historically HRCI has required one of the following:
- A master’s degree or higher + four years exempt-level HR experience
- A bachelor’s degree + five years of exempt-level HR experience
- A high school diploma + seven years of exempt-level HR experience
Preparing
The exam is usually only offered at HR Certification Institute-approved testing centers. This computer-based exam has consisted of multiple-choice questions. Find a location near you.
Our PHR/SPHR Certification Preparation Course covers the body of knowledge needed for the exam.
Ready to enhance your career in HR? Call an advisor at 866.484.1815 who can guide you to the best education solution for you.
*See HRCI for latest details
- Resources
FAQ
What’s the difference between PHR®/SPHR® certification and a University of Phoenix certificate?
PHR and SPHR certifications are industry-recognized designations that demonstrate a pre-defined level of experience, education and competency in the HR field. PHR/SPHR certification is granted only by Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI). Certificate programs offered by University of Phoenix are aligned to the body of knowledge needed to become certified by HRCI and also help students build their knowledge of HR concepts.
What is the difference in the exam focus areas between the PHR and SPHR?
The comparative topic areas for each exam are outlined in the table below.
Focus Areas PHR SPHR Business Management/Strategy 11% 30% Workforce Planning/Employment 24% 17% HR Development 18% 19% Comp/Benefits 19% 13% Employee and Labor Relations 20% 14% Risk Management 8% 7% Source: HRCI PHR and SPHR Body of Knowledge
How long does it take to get an HR certificate?
Our credit bearing certificate programs can typically be completed in as few as six to eight months.
How do I schedule my certification exam?
Historically, the HRCI has scheduled exams twice a year. Check the HRCI site for specific dates and fees.
Where do I take the certification exam?
In years past, HR exams have been offered at Prometric® testing centers worldwide. You can find locations here.
How do I know if my job meets HRCI exam requirements if HR is not in my title?
In the past, HRCI has cited a requirement to demonstrate that at least 51 percent of your activities are in the HR function or that you are the direct supervisor of those who deliver HR services. For the more current requirements, consult HRCI.
When will I have to renew my certification?
HR certifications are valid for three years. Recertification requires 60 credit hours of continuing education HR-related courses.
Links
Society for Human Resource Management
Take the next step in your career — call an advisor at 866.484.1815 who can guide you to the best education solution for you.
Learn more today
All courses and programs feature:
- A convenient online format with 24/7 access
- An instructor-led environment
- Instructors with real-world HR experience
This course or program isn't offered in this area
While many of our courses and programs are widely available, you may find some that are not offered in certain locations or formats.
Try selecting a different degree program, different course or choosing a different location.
Have questions about our offerings? Talk to one of our Enrollment Advisors:
Society for Human Resource Management and SHRM are registered trademarks of the Society for Human Resource Management.
PHR and SPHR are registered trademarks of Human Resource Certificate Institute.
Prometric is a registered trademark of Prometric Inc. in the U.S.
Associate, bachelor's and master's courses are academic, for-credit courses. Transferability of credit is at the discretion of the receiving institution. It is the student's responsibility to confirm whether or not credits earned at University of Phoenix will be accepted by another institution of the student's choice. Individual courses are not eligible for federal financial aid.
Most certificate programs are credit-bearing, and many are eligible for federal financial aid for students who qualify. Please note that the A+ Fundamentals, CCNA and Network+ Technologies certificate programs are not eligible for federal financial aid. The Application Delivery Networking Certificate Program (noncredit) is not credit bearing and not eligible for financial aid. Students completing the noncredit Application Delivery Networking Certificate Program will receive a letter of completion.
Test-preparation courses are not eligible for federal financial aid. With the exception of teacher test-prep, our test-prep courses are not credit-bearing. It is the student's responsibility to confirm whether or not credits earned at University of Phoenix will be accepted by employers and/or applicable licensing agencies.
Professional development courses are non-credit-bearing and are not eligible for federal financial aid. Students intending to use courses to satisfy continuing education or professional development requirements are responsible for determining whether courses taken at University of Phoenix will satisfy such requirements. In addition, none of this coursework is eligible to be converted into academic credit at University of Phoenix.
While widely available, not all courses are available in all locations or in both online and on-campus formats. Please check with a University Enrollment Advisor. More information about admissions requirements can be found in the Academic Catalog.