Why was the coursework requirement introduced?
This requirement has been introduced to set the bar for academic comprehension, establish a standard for educational requirements and build on credibility of the CPHR designation. This requirement will be applicable to anyone writing the National Knowledge Exam (NKE).
What are the required courses? Why?
There are nine (9) required HR courses you must complete to be eligible to write the National Knowledge Exam (NKE). These courses are:
- Accounting and Financial Management
- Human Resources Management
- Industrial Relations
- Organizational Behaviour
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Recruitment and Selection
- Strategic Compensation
- Strategic Human Resources Planning
- Training and Development
These courses align with CPHR Canada’s Competency Framework and are fundamental knowledge areas of human resources.
How can I complete the required courses?
You can complete the required courses in a variety of ways:
- With a post-secondary degree or diploma in HR
- With HR courses completed within your non-HR diploma or degree
- With a post-secondary certificate in HR
- Via the CPHR Academic Program with online courses from Captus Press
Do any of the courses completed in my post-secondary program count for the required coursework?
Yes, eligible Human Resource courses you completed within your non-HR diploma or degree in Canada can be applied to the coursework requirement. A review of your official transcript of HR courses can be conducted by Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) by Captus Press Inc. for $70/course. There is also an equivalency database also known as Pre-determined PLAR that will be available that will include courses and program equivalencies. If your course is listed in the database, it would count as one of the required coursework.
What is an equivalency database also known as Pre-determinded PLAR?
An equivalency database is set up and maintained by Captus Press Inc. at no cost. It is a chance for individuals to login to see if their courses or programs has equivalencies to the CPHR Academic Program.
What is the minimum required grade for courses completed in my post-secondary program?
Your official transcripts need to show an average of C+ or a numerical grade of 65% for each course.
What is the time limit for courses previously taken to be considered for PLAR?
There is no limitation for the length of time between the completion of a course and its consideration for PLAR. In all cases, students must be able to supply all required documentation for PLAR to proceed, if such documentation does not pre-exist within the PLAR Equivalency Database.
What if I have a diploma or degree in Human Resources?
We will review your diploma or degree in HR to see if it fulfills the coursework requirement so you can move to the next step in obtaining your designation – registering for the National Knowledge Exam. For determining whether an academic program you have completed has been assessed as equivalent to the CPHR Academic Program, view the database.
What if I have post-secondary certificate in Human Resources?
We will review any post-secondary certificate programs and courses you have taken to determine the eligibility of waiving some or all the required courses.
What if my education was achieved outside of Canada?
A review of your international education can be conducted by Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) by Captus Press Inc. for $70/course.
When can I register for the National Knowledge Exam (NKE)?
You are eligible to register for the NKE when you have completed the coursework requirement and have shown the Registrar documentation.