Human Resource Certification Institute
Certification Corner

Maintained by: Ann Meeks, PHR

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the HR Certification Institute CORNER and a place where you can find some answers to your questions regarding HR certification. We also plan to keep you informed about the PHR/SPHR certification through the Chapter's Newsletter, Monthly Chapter Meetings and the VSHRM Website.

Why is Certification Desirable?
The PHR and SPHR designations are a visible reminder to peers and co-workers of the holder's significant professional achievement. It is also an aid to career advancement, just ask a fellow chapter member who has PHR or SPHR Certification.

Purpose and Use of Certification
PHR and SPHR certification shows that the holder has demonstrated mastery of the HR body of knowledge and through recertification, has accepted the challenge to stay informed of new developments in the HR field.

Effective 2011, HR Certification Eligibility Requirements Change!

• PHR Eligibility Requirements: Four years demonstrated exempt level HR experience with less than a bachelor’s degree; two years of demonstrated  exempt level HR experience with a bachelor’s degree; or one year of demonstrated exempt level HR experience with a master’s degree or higher.
• SPHR Eligibility Requirements: Seven years of demonstrated exempt level HR experience with less than a bachelor’s degree; five years of demonstrated exempt level HR experience with a bachelor’s degree; or four years demonstrated exempt level HR experience with a master’s degree or higher.
• GPHR Eligibility Requirements: Four years of demonstrated exempt level HR experience (with two of the four being global HR experience) with less than a bachelor’s degree,; three years of demonstrated exempt-level HR experience (with two of the three being global HR experience) with a bachelor’s degree; or two years of demonstrated global exempt level HR experience with a master’s degree or higher.
• Students: Will not be eligible to sit for the certification exams until they have the required level of exempt work experience for their educational level.
• Current Certified HR Professionals: Certified professionals who would like to recertify by exam in 2011 or after must meet the new eligibility requirements in order to take the exam, even if they are eligible for the exam under the current standards.

SHRM Member Regional Scholarship Program

The SHRM Foundation awards a total of $100,000 to national SHRM members, chapters, and state councils in 2009. For those of you not familiar with the SHRM Foundation here is an overview:

The SHRM Foundation was founded in 1966 as a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors from the HR profession, including academics, practitioners and representatives from SHRM. The Foundation funds research, publications and education to advance the HR profession and enhance the effectiveness of HR professionals. To support its important work, the SHRM Foundation conducts an annual fundraising campaign. All contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

The Foundation promotes research, innovation and the use of research-based knowledge. With an annual budget of approximately $1 million, it funds major research projects that have a direct and practical impact in advancing the HR profession.

National SHRM members who are pursuing a degree in human resources or SPHR / GPHR / PHR certification are encouraged to apply for a scholarship through the SHRM Foundation.  More information regarding the scholarships can be found at http://shrm.org/about/foundation/scholarships/Pages/default.aspx.

CRITICAL DATES TO REMEMBER:

Testing Windows and Deadlines

Note: Please refer to www.hrci.org for information regarding GPHR Certification.

2009 Exam Fees

HOW TO GET STARTED...

Certification Information Handbook
Includes valuable information about the examinations, the content outline, the application dates and fees. This handbook is now available online in both HTML and PDF version at www.hrci.org.

PHR & SPHR At A Glance
This brochure provides information on what the “ideal” PHR and SPHR candidate possesses in terms of work background and experience. The brochure is available online in both HTML and PDF version and can be requested by contacting HR Certification Institute at info@hrci.org.  The HR Certification Institute website also contains information regarding the GPHR (Global Professional in Human Resources) certification.

Recertification: It’s Easier Than You Think
A brochure providing an overview of the recertification requirements to retain the PHR and SPHR designation.  Please feel free to contact HR Certification Institute at 1-800-283-7476 option 4 or info@hrci.org if you have any further questions.

PREPARING FOR CERTIFICATION

College and University Courses
A textbook is often used in conjunction with the instructor-designed materials. HR Certification Institute always recommends, however, that multiple resources be used to prepare for the examination.

SHRM Certification Preparation Course
This three-day seminar should be used as a review session rather than a learning resource.  Saginaw Valley State University offers a program in partnership with SHRM based on the SHRM Learning System.  For more information, visit www.svsu.edu/ocepd or call 989-964-4475.

The HR Certification Institute Certification Guide is an excellent resource on how to approach certification. It includes the test specifications, recommended study resources, and a 135 question sample test. Its affordable price ($20-$25) and comprehensive format make it a ‘must have’ resource for anyone preparing for either examination level. It can be purchased through the SHRM bookstore at http://shrmstore.shrm.org/, Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) or Barnes and Noble online www.barnesandnoble.com.

The SHRM Learning System covers all functional areas found in the test specifications. It includes self-directed modules, application activities and end-of-module examinations. It was follows the HR Certification Institute body of knowledge test specifications and can be purchased through the SHRM bookstore at http://shrmstore.shrm.org/.

HR textbooks are often a good study resource and many are listed in the HR Certification Institute Certification Guide. Textbooks should be up-to-date and other resources more than two years old should be used with great caution.

VSHRM Member Study Groups will be formed based upon member interest in response to notification prior to the winter and spring exam windows.  In response to member interest, VSHRM will help coordinate the formation of member study groups including dates, times, and location.  You must purchase study materials in order to participate in the study group.  If you decide not to participate, we are not able to refund the cost of the materials.

A Mentor Concept
Another excellent way to receive support is through a mentor.

VSHRM'S HR Certification Institute Contact

Please do not hesitate to call or email me regarding the following:

• Are you preparing for the PHR/SPHR Certification Exam?   
  When?
• Are you interested in being a potential Mentor?
• Are you interested in a Study Group?
• Are you interested in a college/university preparation
  program?

Ann Meeks, PHR
VSHRM President Elect & Certification Chair
989-752-7700
meeks@mistequaygroup.com