Get Certified. It’s Good for Your Career.

Earning your HR certification makes you a recognized expert and leader in the field of HR, and a valuable asset to your organization.

Study Groups Fall 2025 Schedule

Participation is limited to the first 12-15 registrants and is contingent on the following:

• Current Richmond SHRM membership
• SHRM Learning System Materials – Materials must be issued in 2025. Study Group participants can purchase materials (2025 edition) through the chapter for $675.
• Study Group Course Fee – A $200 course fee will be charged per participant.
• Exam Registration – Registration for the SHRM Certification exam must be completed by the 2^nd week of the study group session.

About RSHRM Study Groups

Purpose and Structure

The SHRM Certification Study Group hosted by Richmond SHRM is designed to help HR professionals prepare for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification exams through a structured, peer-supported learning environment. The group meets virtually once a week for 12 weeks and follows a facilitator-led syllabus that aligns with SHRM’s official Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK). Commitment by individual participants is essential for success within the study group and on the exam.

Facilitator Expertise

Each study group is led by a certified HR professional who previously completed the program and successfully passed the SHRM exam. This is not structured as a traditional instructor-led education course, but rather the facilitator serves as a guide—offering exam insights, answering participant questions, and helping candidates navigate complex exam content.

Focus on Exam Readiness

Unlike general HR training, this study group is laser-focused on preparing participants for SHRM's certification exam. The emphasis is on learning how to approach and interpret SHRM-style questions. Discussions often center on analyzing answer options—especially when two choices seem plausible—and understanding how SHRM distinguishes the “best” answer based on their framework.

Key Distinction

It’s important to note that the “correct” answers on the SHRM exam may differ from how participants might approach workplace situations in real life. This group helps bridge that gap by training participants to think through SHRM’s lens—a critical skill for passing the exam.

Study Resources

• SHRM Learning System
• HRCI has a wealth of information about studying, registering and taking the PHR, SPHR, and GPHR exams.

University Programs

• The University of Richmond School of Professional and Continuing Studies
  

Preferred Provider

Richmond SHRM is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP.

For more information and to register, contact Townley Goldsmith-Ray at tgoldsmith-ray@richmondshrm.org.