Albany, N.Y. (January 24, 2012) – The Center for Professional Development (CPD) at Excelsior College today announced a preparation course for human resources professionals seeking certification from the Society for Human Resource Management. The course, offered in partnership with SHRM, will begin on February 6, 2012.

The course is designed for students seeking PHR (Professional in Human Resources) or SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) certification. It is integrated with the SHRM Learning System which incorporates SmartStudy tools and an extensive use of interactive, multimedia learning modules. Research has found that students who use the SHRM Learning System outperform the national pass rate.

"According to a 2010 study by the HR Certification Institute, 97 percent of employers consider professional HR certification to be important. It can't be underscored enough how significant securing credentials can be," said Sarah Galimore, executive director for the Center for Professional Development. "We’re proud to work with SHRM to develop a comprehensive prep course that can help aspiring HR professionals develop and advance in their careers."

Students will receive guided instruction and interact with other students nationwide in their cohort as they progress through 12 weeks of focused training. The online course supplements the SHRM Learning Management system with interactive discussion boards, case studies, assessments and review games.

Sally A. Hart, a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources, will instruct the course. Hart has 30 years of human resource experience and provides consulting expertise and human resources technical advice to a wide variety of businesses and employers.

Enrollment is now open for the course. For additional information, interested individuals may call toll free at 888-647-238 Ext. 118211 or email cpd@excelsior

CPD

The Center for Professional Development at Excelsior College offers a variety of non-credit bearing programs that are designed for individuals seeking continuing education, lifelong learning and professional development opportunities in job-specific areas.