SHRM Exam Prep Course FAQs

Eligibility

Are there prerequisites to sit for the SHRM exam?

The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification is intended for individuals that perform general HR/HR-related duties; or for currently enrolled college students and individuals pursuing a career in Human Resource Management. Candidates for the SHRM-CP certification are not required to hold an HR title and do not need a degree or previous HR experience to apply; however, a basic working knowledge of HR practices and principles or a degree from an Academically Aligned program is recommended.

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification is for individuals that have a work history of at least 3 years performing strategic level HR/HR-related duties; or for SHRM-CP credential holders who have held the credential for at least 3 years and are working in, or are in the process of transitioning to, a strategic level role. Candidates for the SHRM-SCP certification are not required to hold an HR title and do not need a degree to apply. However, applicants must be able to demonstrate that they devoted at least 1,000 hours per calendar year (Jan. – Dec.) to strategic level HR/HR-related work. 

Learn more eligibility details on SHRM's website.

Should I sit for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam?

The SHRM-CP credential is designed for those working in HR at the tactical or operational level. This level includes implementing policies, supporting day-to-day HR functions and serving as an HR point of contact for staff and stakeholders. Only a foundational knowledge of HR is required.

The SHRM-SCP credential requires 3 years of HR experience and is intended for individuals engaging in strategic HR work. Candidates focus on leading the HR function, analyzing performance metrics and aligning with overall organizational goals.

Registration

Is enrollment into UTC required?

No. You do not have to apply to the university at-large to attend the SHRM Exam Prep Course. 

How do I enroll?

You can register on our website or by calling 423-425-4344.

How do I advocate for course enrollment to my employer? 

Many SHRM Exam Prep Course students ask their employers to fund their professional development, positioning the training as having exponential ROI for both the participant and organization.

Use our employer funding request template to start the conversation with your employer. The letter highlights the benefits organizations may reap through your training.

Download the Template →

Cost

How much does the program cost?

$1,499

Is financial aid available?

Yes. CPE is now offering payment plans for this course! Additionally, we offer Sallie Mae loans, employer payment options and a Southeast Tennessee SHRM Member 10% discount. Learn more financial aid options here →.

How do I submit an invoice for my employer to pay for the program?

When registering for the course, select the invoice option at checkout. UTC will create an invoice to send to your employer. Then, your employer can pay for the course by check.

Is the exam included in the cost of the course?

No. 

Format

What is the course format?

The course will be live-online with set meeting times each week. Group prep allows for collaboration and interaction among participants. This leads to a more dynamic learning environment where individuals can share ideas and discuss concepts. Additionally, group prep often consists of individuals with diverse perspectives that can enrich the learning experience as participants are exposed to different ways of thinking and problem-solving.

See the Full Course Schedule →

What is the course duration?

The course is 11 weeks long.

What is the total course time commitment?

Each week, students spend a total of three hours in class. Additionally, students may spend ~4 hours weekly reviewing materials outside of class. This will vary from student to student but is an average estimated time.

Materials

What materials are included in the course?

• Access to the 2024 SHRM Learning System. Additionally, students have access to the system for 18 months once the system is activated.
• Physical textbooks that cover the four learning modules based on the SHRM BASK™
  • HR Competencies Textbook
  • People Textbook
  • Workplace Textbook
  • Organizations Textbook

How do I receive materials?

Your physical course textbooks will be shipped to you one week prior to the beginning of class. You will also receive an online link one week before the course begins with access to the virtual materials, along with the Zoom link to log in to class each week.

Attendance

What are the attendance requirements?

Students are expected to maintain an 80% attendance rate. If you miss a combined six unexcused or excused absences, you are removed from the course without a refund. Extenuating circumstances will be evaluated.

Post-Course

What will I receive upon completion of the program?  

Participants will receive a certificate of completion based on maintaining attendance requirements. The course also qualifies for 3.3 CEUs.

How soon after the course should I sit for the exam?

30-90 days is the recommended time per the course instructor.

Where do I take the exam?

The SHRM exams are administered via computer-based testing by SHRM's test delivery vendor, Prometric, at one of their testing centers. You also have the option to take your exam online via a remote proctor. 

• View the steps to scheduling an in-person certification exam
• View the steps to scheduling a remotely proctored exam

How do I maintain certification?

There is a three-year recertification cycle for SHRM recertification. There are two ways to recertify: 

1. Earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) within your three-year recertification cycle.

2. Retake the certification exam within the last year of your recertification cycle.

Learn more about SHRM recertification on SHRM’s website.