SHRM Certification Prep+

Take your HR career to new heights with SHRM Certification Prep+ course. Position yourself for success with the SHRM Certification Prep System at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.
In this Section

The human resources (HR) profession is no longer just about what you know – but how you do your job. By becoming certified by the Society for Human Resource Management's (SHRM), you prove your knowledge, competency and value to colleagues and to employers looking for a competitive edge in today's global economy. Wherever your career takes you, your SHRM certification will define you as an HR expert and leader.

SHRM global credentials include SHRM-Certified Professional (CP) and SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SCP), and they offer growth, advancement and recognition. Ensure you're prepared to take the certification exam with our online SHRM Certification Prep+ course designed for SHRM credential candidates. 

The intensive online program combines expert instruction with the SHRM Certification Prep System to help you learn faster, retain more knowledge, and stay on track for success on the exam with convenient 24/7 online access. It is designed to provide a structured, peer and instructor-supported review of the content in the SHRM Body of Applied Skills (BASK), through high-quality materials and study tools covered each week.

What will you gain?

Professional development credits: 36 SHRM PDCs

Click on the drop-down arrows below to read more about all that the course offers.

Study According to Your Lifestyle
  • Online eReader and downloadable ePublications are both included
  • Printed book provided
  • At home or on-the-go, the SHRM Certification Prep System is portable and convenient
  • 24/7 access to all the materials so you can study when it fits in your schedule
Build Your Knowledge and Confidence with Practice Questions
  • More than 2,500 practice questions
  • Pretest, Quizzes, Post-test, and Practice Exam are included
  • Practice Exam is made up of questions that were previously used on actual SHRM certification exams

Course Outline:

MODULE 1: HR COMPETENCIES

  • Leadership & Navigation
  • Ethical Practice
  • Inclusive Mindset
  • Relationship Management
  • Communication
  • Global Mindset
  • Business Acumen
  • Consultation
  • Analytical Aptitude 

MODULE 2: PEOPLE

  • HR Strategy
  • Talent Acquisition
  • Employee Engagement & Retention
  • Learning & Development
  • Total Rewards

MODULE 3: ORGANIZATION

  • Structure of the HR Function
  • Organizational Effectiveness & Development
  • Workforce Management
  • Employee & Labor Relations
  • Technology Management 

MODULE 4: WORKPLACE

  • HR in a Global Workforce
  • Risk Management
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Employment Law & Regulations (U.S. Only) 
Keep on Track with Your Personal Dashboard
  • Track your progress in relation to your exam date
  • Quickly see completed tasks, scores, and recommended next steps
  • Easily navigate to your next area of study
  • Review areas you’ve already completed to retain learning
Access Important Testing Resources, Right at Your Fingertips
  • SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK), which provides the foundation for both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams
  • SHRM Certification Handbook
  • “Ace Your SHRM Certification Exam” Guide
Easily Navigate Through Three Steps to Success
  • 1-ASSESS: Take the Pretest to evaluate your knowledge gaps
  • 2-STUDY: Study the topics and use the online tools to close your gaps
  • 3-PASS:  Prepare for success on your exam by completing the Post-test and Practice Exam

Who should enroll?

  • SHRM-CP: If you're a Generalist, Manager, or Director, the SHRM-CP credential is your key to unlocking new heights in your career. This exam equips you with the essential skills needed to excel in operational positions.
  • SHRM-SCP: Aimed at Senior Managers, Directors, VPs, and CHROs, the SHRM-SCP credential is your passport to strategic leadership. Elevate your career to new horizons by mastering the complexities of senior-level HR responsibilities.
  • For details on requirements, visit SHRM's Eligibility Criteria page.

What will it cost?

  • Earlybird Rate (by September 8, 2026): $1095
  • Stout Proud Discount (UW-Stout Faculty, Staff, Student, and Alumni Registration): $1095
  • Regular Rate: $1395
Important Notes: 
  • COURSE MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE!
  • EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Register at least 7 days before the course start date with coupon code EARLYBIRD to receive 20% off.
  • STOUT PROUD DISCOUNT: UW-Stout Polytechnic faculty, staff, students and alumni, reach out to continuinged@uwstout.edu to receive a 20% coupon code BEFORE completing the registration form.
    • Note: Only one coupon code can be applied.
  • FAQs: For information on Payment and Cancellation Policy, Disability Accommodations, and other issues, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions page.

When will it be offered?

  • Course Dates: September 15 - December 15, 2026

  • Live Online Sessions: Tuesday evenings, 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. 

    • September 22, 2026

    • September 29, 2026

    • October 6, 2026

    • October 13, 2026

    • October 20, 2026

    • October 27, 2026

    • November 3, 2026

    • November 10, 2026

    • November 17, 2026

    • December 1, 2026

    • December 8, 2026

    • December 15, 2026 

  • Optional Online Review Sessions: Saturday mornings, 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. 

    • October 3, 2026

    • October 17, 2026

    • October 31, 2026

    • Novvember 14, 2026

    • November 28, 2026

    • December 12, 2026

When do I schedule the SHRM certification exam?

For best results, schedule your certification exam for a date that is after the end of your preparation course. Testing windows are May 1-July 15 and Dec 1-Feb 15. To learn more about testing windows and exam fees, please visit SHRM's Exam Options page. Live remote proctoring is available for SHRM certification exams, so you have the option to take your test at home or at a testing center. Visit SHRM's website to apply. Visit SHRM's website to apply.

Who is your instructor?

With a wealth of expertise in both on-site and remote human resource management, project management, and customer/employee service, Dr. Katie Walk is a seasoned professional renowned for master-level communication and relationship-building skills essential for fostering positive talent development outcomes. Throughout a dynamic career, Katie has over 25 years of professional Human Resources and management experience and has successfully navigated roles such as Human Resources Director, District Manager, Senior Implementation Manager, and Account Manager. Currently serving as the Program Director for the Human Resources program at Chippewa Valley Technical College and an associate lecturer at UW-Stout, Katie plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of HR and management professionals. Notably, Katie holds esteemed certifications, including the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), and possesses SHRM Specialty Credentials in People Analytics and Workplace Inclusivity. Furthermore, Katie is an HRCI Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).

As a multifaceted professional, Katie seamlessly blends strategic leadership, organizational acumen, and a commitment to continuous learning. Her diverse experience in various managerial capacities underscores a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of HR and business management. In addition to certifications, Katie has obtained a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from University of Missouri – Columbia and an MBA from University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. Beyond academia and professional achievements, Katie is a frequent guest speaker, sharing insights and expertise, and a dedicated community volunteer. Katie lives in Eau Claire, WI with her husband and three children.

In partnership with SHRM - "Better Workplaces Bettwe World"
SHRM-CP Certified Professional Badge
SHRM-SCP Senior Certified Professional Badge
SHRM Certification Prep Plus