HR Certification Prep at the University of Dallas
Earn Your HR Certification - Prepare with UDallas
Instructor-led, 36 hours of training with HR-certified instructors who are industry
professionals and leaders. Prepare for the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP exam with
live evening sessions, payment arrangements, and early-bird pricing.
SPRING 2027 COHORTS
- 12 sessions | 36-hours
- 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Central Time Zone
- Multiple Modalities Available
- Monday evenings in person at the UD Campus (Irving, TX)
- Wednesday evenings online with a live instructor via Zoom
- Class Schedules and Registration Deadlines: Please view sections below.
- Price: $1,365
- Discounts available: Yes
- Payment plan option: Yes
- Course materials: Included in tuition
- Maximum enrollment: 20 seats
What Does an HR Certification Do?
In today’s competitive workplace, HR professionals are expected to do more than manage people. They are strategic partners shaping the future of business. Pursuing HR certification through HRCI or SHRM is an investment in your professional credibility, leadership readiness, and long-term career growth.
Become certified and stand out as a trusted HR leader.
HRCI’s Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), and SHRM’s Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credentials offer these benefits:
- Professional Credibility & Recognition: Certification signals to employers and peers that you have deep HR knowledge, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence.
- Career Growth & Opportunity: Set yourself apart in the job market. Certified HR professionals often gain:
- Greater confidence in decision-making.
- Increased responsibility and leadership opportunities.
- Higher earning potential and advancement
- Current HR Knowledge: Certification validates your knowledge of current HR practice, from employment law
and workforce planning to business strategy, analytics, and inclusion.
- HRCI emphasizes compliance, operational expertise, and HR law.
- SHRM focuses on behavioral competencies, strategy, and business alignment.
- Organizational Impact: Certified professionals help reduce risk, strengthen compliance, and build cultures that attract and retain top talent, leading initiatives that align people strategy with business success.
- Professional Community: Join a network of HR professionals committed to growth and impact, with access to resources, continuing education, and networking opportunities through HRCI or SHRM.
- Continuous Learning: Certification is an ongoing commitment. Stay ahead of HR trends and strengthen your expertise by earning recertification credits through webinars, conferences, and professional events.
What will you learn in this course?
Knowing what to study is not enough. Our HR certification training program offers comprehensive preparation for the HRCI (PHR and SPHR) and SHRM (SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP) certification exams. Our instructors are SPHR- and SHRM-SCP-certified industry experts who guide you through the exam content and give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. They bring real-world examples into the classroom, so you gain practical knowledge you can apply at work right away. You’ll receive detailed study materials, including online review questions, practice exams, and flashcards, and have the opportunity to network with other HR professionals.
Learn through the University of Dallas Gupta College of Business, an AACSB-accredited business school recognized among the top tier of institutions worldwide. Our HR certification course covers all areas of the exams across five units:
- Business Management, Leadership & Strategy
- Workforce Planning & Talent Acquisition
- Employee Development
- Total Rewards
- Employee Relations & Risk Management
Whether you’re early in your HR career or a seasoned professional looking to advance, our HR certification course can help you achieve your goals.
Your path to HR certification starts here
Whether you’re pursuing the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP, our 12-session course gives you the structure, expert instruction, and study materials to walk into your exam prepared. Classes are small (20 seats maximum), taught live by SPHR- and SHRM-SCP-certified HR leaders, and offered in person or online to fit your schedule.
Tuition can be paid in full or in three monthly payments, and includes all required course materials. And if you complete the course and don’t pass your exam, you can retake it for only $100.
Your Estimated Total Investment
| Credential | Course Tuition | Exam Fees* | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHR | $1,365 | $495 | $1,860 |
| SPHR | $1,365 | $595 | $1,960 |
| SHRM-CP | $1,365 | $595 | $1,960 |
| SHRM-SCP | $1,365 | $695 | $2,060 |
Early-bird and affiliate discounts can lower tuition by up to $270. See the Tuition & Discounts section below for details.
*Exam fees are paid directly to HRCI or SHRM and are subject to change. HRCI fees include the $100 application fee. SHRM fees shown are nonmember rates; SHRM members and students pay less. Visit HRCI or SHRM for current fees.
Registration for Spring 2027 is now open. Each class has its own application form; select the course you wish to take below. Forms close when the course reaches capacity or the registration deadline passes.
Registration Form: Wednesday Online via Zoom
Registration Form: Mondays on Campus
Looking for a future term? We’re happy to send you information about upcoming classes; just fill out this short three-question form.
Testimonials
- "Excellent program from start to finish." Zoe R.
- "The class definitely helped me prepare for my exams and gave me more insights into the world of HR professionals." Tolani L.
- "An engaging, informative class! I have learned so much and feel much more prepared to take on the PHR than I would have felt by just self-studying." Jessica D.
- "Engaging and informative. Such a valuable investment!" Elina M.
Learn more about the University of Dallas HR certification prep program:
Click on the headers below to learn more.
We limit class capacity to 20 students to ensure the best learning experience, and seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure your seat, you must submit both the application and your payment (or first monthly installment). Applications without payment do not reserve a seat.
Complete your registration today! See the sections below for tuition, discounts, and payment options.
- Dates: February 8 - May 3, 2027
- Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. (Monday evenings)
- No Class: March 29 (Easter)
- Modality: In-person class at Irving Campus
- Campus Address: 1845 E. Northgate Drive, Irving, TX 75062
- Registration Deadlines:
- Early-bird: January 8, 2027
- Standard: January 28, 2027
Meet your Instructor:
Arthur Ferrell, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Founder and Primary Consultant - The Ferrell Consulting Group, LLC
Instructor for HR Certification Prep
Arthur Ferrell is the founder and primary consultant of The Ferrell Consulting Group, LLC (TFCG), which provides human resources consulting services to clients across a variety of industries. Arthur has held HR leadership roles in several sectors, including Vice President of Human Resources at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science; Director, Employee Relations at Parkland Health and Hospital System; Senior Director, Human Resources at Conifer Health Solutions; Vice President/Divisional HR Manager at Comerica Bank; and Director, Human Resources roles at Texas Health Resources, Pier 1 Imports, and Yum Brands (Pizza Hut).
Arthur holds a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas. He holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification from the Society for Human Resource Management.
Arthur has served as an adjunct facilitator for the University of Dallas since 2003, instructing HR professionals preparing for the PHR, SPHR, and GPHR certifications.
We limit class capacity to 20 students to ensure the best learning experience, and seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure your seat, you must submit both the application and your payment (or first monthly installment). Applications without payment do not reserve a seat.
Complete your registration today! See the sections below for tuition, discounts, and payment options.
- Dates: January 27 - April 14, 2027
- Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. (Wednesday evenings)
- Modality: Online live instruction via Zoom
- Registration Deadlines:
- Early-bird: January 8, 2027
- Standard: January 17, 2027
Meet your instructor:
Carol Rogers, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Managing Director, Human Resources, Barings Multifamily Capital
Instructor for HR Certification Prep
Carol has more than 20 years of experience implementing and supporting the delivery of human resources strategy, initiatives, and programs through HR leadership roles in a variety of industries.
Her HR experience includes company-wide HRIS implementations, acquisition integrations, and HR operational initiatives. She specializes in partnering with business leaders to influence and lead organizational design and change, resource planning, and innovative customer-focused strategies that align with the organization’s needs.
Carol holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification from the Society for Human Resource Management. She holds an MBA in Management from the University of Texas at Arlington and a BBA in Human Resources Management from the University of North Texas.
Tuition & Discounts
| Standard | Affiliate | |
|---|---|---|
| Early-bird rates: | $1,230 | $1,095 |
| After early-bird deadline | $1,365 | $1,230 |
- Tuition includes twelve class sessions with a live instructor and all required course materials.
Tuition Rate Definitions:
- Early-Bird Tuition: Complete your application and payment (or first monthly installment) by the early-bird deadline to receive the early-bird rate. See the registration deadlines in the Monday and Wednesday course sections above.
- Standard Tuition: After the early-bird deadline, registrations are charged the standard rate.
Affiliate Discounts
The University of Dallas offers discounted tuition to UD alumni and students, UD employees, government employees (federal and local), U.S. veterans, and SHRM chapter members (e.g., Dallas HR). To qualify, indicate your affiliation on the application and provide an active .edu or .gov email, UD ID, or membership number.
How discounts are applied
Discounts are applied with a coupon code at checkout. After you submit your application,
you’ll receive an email with payment instructions and the code(s) for the rates you
qualify for. Affiliate eligibility is verified against application information.
The University of Dallas accepts the following forms of payment:
- Cash payments: The Business Office accepts cash payments during regular business hours.
- Credit/Debit card payments: Pay online at checkout through the course page using Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express. You’ll receive a link to the course page in your payment instructions email after you apply.
- Monthly payment plan: Split your tuition into three equal monthly payments, selected at checkout. See details below.
- Check payments: Make checks payable to “University of Dallas,” write the student’s name and course name in the memo, and mail to: University of Dallas, Business Office, 1845 E. Northgate Drive, Irving, TX 75062.
- Letters of Credit or Company Sponsorship: Please contact Jennifer Howard at jlhoward@udallas.edu for more information.
Payment Plan Details
Our payment plan divides your tuition into three equal monthly payments. Select the payment plan at checkout on the course page.
Payment Plan Amounts
- $1,365 (standard tuition rate)
- 3 monthly payments of $455
- $1,230 (early-bird or affiliate tuition rate)
- 3 monthly payments of $410
- $1,095 (affiliate with early-bird tuition rate)
- 3 monthly payments of $365
How billing works
- Your second and third payments are billed monthly on the same day of the month as your first payment. For example, if you make your first payment on January 8, your next payments are due February 8 and March 8.
- If your first payment falls on the 29th, 30th, or 31st, payments in shorter months are billed on the last day of that month.
- We recommend signing up for automatic payments at checkout so your installments are charged on schedule. (If you don’t sign up for automatic payments, you will receive an invoice by email each month.)
What to expect
- Your seat is reserved once your first payment is received.
- Your first payment must be received by the registration deadline for your course. To receive an early-bird rate, your first payment must be received by the early-bird deadline.
- All payments must be received before the final class session.
- Missed payments may result in removal from the class.
- Certificates, digital badges, and transcripts are released once all payments are complete.
This course is designed for HR professionals preparing for the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP exam. Each certification has its own eligibility requirements based on education and HR experience; see the HRCI and SHRM sections below for details.
Choosing your certification
HRCI certifications focus on HR knowledge, compliance, and HR law:
- The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) demonstrates knowledge of the technical and operational aspects of HR. It generally aligns with professionals who manage day-to-day HR responsibilities.
- The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is designed for experienced HR professionals whose work focuses on strategy, organizational leadership, and broader business objectives.
SHRM certifications focus on behavioral competencies and applying HR knowledge to workplace situations:
- The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is for professionals working at the operational level. It has no minimum HR experience requirement.
- The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is for professionals working at the strategic level.
This course is a good fit for:
- Early-career HR professionals validating their skills, typically with 1-4 years of experience (PHR or SHRM-CP).
- Seasoned HR professionals pursuing a senior-level credential, typically with 4-7 or more years of experience (SPHR or SHRM-SCP).
- HR managers and directors moving into senior leadership roles that require advanced HR knowledge.
- HR specialists in areas like recruiting, benefits, or compliance who want to broaden into generalist or strategic roles.
- Those new to HR or transitioning into HR, who may be eligible for the SHRM-CP without prior HR experience.
- International HR professionals who want to validate their knowledge of U.S.-based HR practices, especially those working with U.S. companies or multinational organizations.
Benefits for you
- Comprehensive preparation: 36 hours of instruction covering the full HR body of knowledge tested on the HRCI and SHRM exams.
- Expert instruction: Learn from SPHR- and SHRM-SCP-certified HR leaders who bring real-world experience and personalized guidance to the classroom.
- Practical expertise: Build HR knowledge, skills, and tools you can apply at work right away.
- Structure and accountability: Set class dates and assignments keep you motivated and on track through exam day.
- Professional network: Share experiences and build connections with fellow HR professionals and your instructor.
- Digital credential: Earn the HR Management digital badge issued by the University of Dallas.
- Earning potential: Certified HR professionals tend to earn more than their non-certified peers. See Career Possibilities below for salary examples.
Benefits for your employer
Sponsoring an employee’s HR certification prep offers several advantages:
- Stronger HR skills: HRCI and SHRM certifications demonstrate knowledge across HR disciplines, including workforce planning, employee relations, compensation, and risk management.
- Reduced risk: Certified professionals bring current knowledge of employment law and compliance.
- Commitment to continuous learning: Certified professionals maintain their credentials through ongoing education, keeping your HR team current with industry trends and best practices.
- Strategic contribution: Senior-level preparation (SPHR and SHRM-SCP) covers a broad range of business issues, preparing HR leaders to contribute to organizational strategy.
- Organizational value: Certified HR professionals strengthen an organization’s reputation and help build a skilled, informed HR team.
Need a cost estimate for your employer? See the total investment table at the top of this page. For company sponsorships or letters of credit, contact Jennifer Howard at jlhoward@udallas.edu.
Course materials included in your tuition.
2027 Complete HRCP Program for PHR/SPHR/SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP (Print Edition)
With more than 900 pages of instruction, the HRCP Learning System includes:
- An online study guide
- Flashcards
- Two sets of online review questions for each unit
- Two comprehensive 100-question online practice exams
Course topics
- Unit 1: Business Management, Leadership & Strategy
- Unit 2: Workforce Planning & Talent Acquisition
- Unit 3: Employee Development
- Unit 4: Total Rewards
- Unit 5: Employee Relations & Risk Management
Shipping
Course materials ship via FedEx, typically two weeks before the first class session,
once the course reaches minimum enrollment. Materials are shipped only to students
who have made their full payment or first monthly installment.
Parking
Students in the Monday in-person course receive a UD parking pass for the duration
of the class.
Established in 1976, the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) has a 50-year legacy of setting the standard in HR certification. HRCI’s certifications are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
NOTE: The PHR and SPHR exams require professional-level HR work experience. Learn more about this requirement on the HRCI website.
PHR Exam (Eligibility requirements & details)
| Education | Minimum Professional-Level HR Work Experience |
|---|---|
| Master's degree or higher | 1-year |
| Bachelor's degree | 2-years |
| High school diploma or Associate's degree | 4-years |
About the exam:
- Exam Time: 2 hours (plus 30 minutes of administrative time)
- Exam Length: 90 scored questions + 25 unscored pretest questions
- Exam Location: Pearson VUE testing center or OnVUE Online Proctoring
SPHR Exam (Eligibility requirements & details)
| Education | Minimum Professional Level HR Work Experience |
|---|---|
| Master's degree or higher | 4-years |
| Bachelor's degree | 5-years |
| High school diploma or Associate's degree | 7-years |
About the exam:
- Exam Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes of administrative time)
- Exam Length: 115 scored questions + 25 unscored pretest questions
- Exam Location: Pearson VUE testing center or OnVUE Online Proctoring
Recertification Requirements
To maintain your HRCI credential, you must earn recertification credits over a three-year period or retake the certification exam.
- PHR: 60 HR recertification credits
- SPHR: 60 recertification credits, including at least 15 business credits
Visit HRCI's website for details on recertification and the ways you can recertify.
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) began as the American Society for Personnel Administration (ASPA) in 1948 and was renamed SHRM in 1989. SHRM is the world’s largest HR membership organization, committed to advancing the HR profession.
SHRM-CP Exam (Eligibility requirements & details)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Professional HR Work Experience | None. The SHRM-CP is for individuals who perform general HR/HR related duties; or for those pursuing a career in HR management. |
| Competency Level | Assesses HR work at the operational level, such as implementing HR policies, supporting day-to-day HR functions, or serving as an HR point of contact for staff and other stakeholders. |
About the exam:
- Test Windows:
- May 1 - July 15
- December 1 - February 15
- Exam Time: 3 hours 40 minutes divided into two 110-minute sections.
- Exam Length: 134 questions (110 scored plus 24 unscored field-test questions)
- Exam Location: Prometric testing center
SHRM-SCP Exam (Eligibility requirements & details)
| Education | Minimum Professional Level Work Experience |
|---|---|
| Minimum Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Professional HR Work Experience |
At least 3 years performing strategic-level HR or HR-related duties, or holding the SHRM-CP for at least 3 years while working in or transitioning into a strategic-level role. An HR title is not required. Candidates must spend at least 1,000 hours per calendar year on strategic-level HR or HR-related work. |
| Exam Competency Level |
Assesses HR work at the strategic level, such as developing HR policies and procedures, overseeing integrated HR operations, directing an HR enterprise, or aligning HR strategy with organizational goals. |
About the exam:
- Test Windows:
- May 1 - July 15
- December 1 - February 15
- Exam Time: 3 hours 40 minutes divided into two 110-minute sections.
- Exam Length: 134 questions (110 scored plus 24 unscored field-test questions)
- Exam Location: Prometric testing center
Recertification Requirements
To maintain your SHRM credential, you must earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) over a three-year period or retake the certification exam.
Visit SHRM's website for more details on recertification and the ways you can recertify.
Career Opportunities & Outlook with HR Certifications
An HR certification enhances your career prospects, credibility, and expertise. Recognized globally, HRCI and SHRM certifications validate your knowledge of essential HR principles and practices.
Certification gives you a competitive edge in the job market, opening doors to advanced career opportunities and higher earning potential. It also supports ongoing professional development, helping you stay current with changing industry practices and strengthen your strategic skills. For employers, certification provides confidence that their HR professionals have the knowledge to support effective, compliant HR initiatives and contribute to organizational success.
PHR or SHRM-CP
- Example job titles: HR Generalist, HR Manager, Recruitment Specialist, Compensation and Benefits Specialist, Assistant HR Manager
- Average base salary*: $86,000 (PHR) | $81,000 (SHRM-CP)
SPHR or SHRM-SCP
- Example job titles: HR Director, Senior HR Manager, VP of HR, Chief HR Officer (CHRO)
- Average base salary*: $112,000 (SPHR) | $110,000 (SHRM-SCP)
*According to Payscale, as of October 2026. Salaries vary by location, industry, and experience.