Syllabus:  Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Certificate Program On Demand

PSHRA's on demand learning offers you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, providing you with 90 days to complete the content. With no scheduled meetings and no instructor-led sessions, you have the freedom to tailor your learning experience to fit your schedule. 

This asynchronous course will equip you with the necessary tools to shift from a transactional to a strategic role in Public Sector HR by using a competency framework.

Your role has evolved beyond merely transactional tasks. Today's HR department in the public sector is pivotal to the agency's success. It involves teaching team building, coaching, conflict resolution, consensus-building, fostering a risk-taking culture, enhancing communication, building trust, and more. 

Course Outcomes:

This comprehensive leadership course is designed for mid- to senior-level public sector HR leaders, providing a solid foundation for success.

To achieve this, the course focuses on the following outcomes:

• Assess the impact of HR and human capital management in the public sector and justify HR programs in the public sector.
• Design programs that align with specific competencies within the PSHRA Competency Model, covering three major modules: Leader, Business Partner, and Change Agent.
• Evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses regarding these competencies and create a plan for your individual professional development as an HR professional using the PSHRA Competency Model.
• Plan professional development in accordance with your personal competencies.

You will finish this course with:

• A solid strategic foundation for success.
• A professional development plan.

Certificate of Attendance:

You will earn a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the course.

Course Design:

This on demand course does not include cohort meetings or an instructor. It is available to you for 90 days and allows you to set your own individual pace.

Time Commitment:

This course is self-paced allowing you to decide how much time you need to spend on each lesson. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. 

Course Workbook:

The course includes a workbook.  You'll use the workbook throughout the course to reflect on what you're learning, record ideas, plan for future personal development, and plan activities for your agency. There are two versions:

• a PDF version - if you'd like to print it and write your answers and ideas and
• an MS Word version - if you'd prefer to work electronically.

The files have the same content - just differences in page layout. You will use the workbook while working on your online lessons.

The workbook is available by selecting the Course Materials tab and then Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Workbook.

Making public sector work better^®

Course Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Leslie Tolliver, JD

Course Overview:

Learners will build practical knowledge and confidence in navigating the complex landscape of employee relations, understanding union structures and rights, and engaging effectively in the collective bargaining process. Each session is designed to be digestible, engaging, and immediately applicable to your day-to-day work.

Audience: Whether you are new to labor relations or looking to sharpen your skills, this course provides a structured, interactive learning experience grounded in real government workplace scenarios.

Learning Objectives - By the end of this three-part series, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the foundations of employee relations and their importance in a government HR context
2. Describe how unions are structured, certified, and how they operate within the public sector
3. Identify the key legislation governing labor relations in government workplaces
4. Navigate common employee relations challenges including performance issues, discipline, and workplace conflict
5. Interpret collective agreement provisions and apply them to workplace situations
6. Outline the stages of the collective bargaining process from preparation to ratification
7. Demonstrate effective strategies for working collaboratively with union representatives
8. Recognize the warning signs of escalating labor-management conflict and apply de-escalation approaches

Course Structure:

Session 1: Foundations of Employee Relations in Government - This opening session sets the stage for the full series. We explore what employee relations means in a government context, why it matters, and how HR professionals play a central role in shaping a healthy, productive, and legally compliant workplace. We examine the unique features of public sector employment and introduce the concept of unionized workplaces.

Session 2: Understanding Unions & Working Effectively with Union Representatives -  This session, we pull back the curtain on how unions work — how they are formed, how they are structured, and what motivates union representatives. We explore the rights and responsibilities of both management and unions, and focus heavily on building effective, professional working relationships with union reps. Participants will work through a realistic scenario to apply key concepts.

Session 3: Collective Bargaining:  Process, Strategy & Practice - This final session, we dive into the collective bargaining process — one of the most significant and sometimes misunderstood aspects of labor relations in government. We walk through each stage of bargaining from preparation to ratification, explore the HR professional’s supporting role, and discuss how to sustain positive labor-management relations beyond the bargaining table. Participants will leave with practical tools they can use right away.

Course Design:

The course will be delivered over three days with one-hour sessions per day.  You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. 

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/15/2026
• Completion Date: 9/17/2026
• Meeting 1:  9/15/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Meeting 2:  9/16/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Meeting 3:  9/17/2026 - 2:30 - 3:30 pm ET

Certificate of Attendance:

You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Cancellation Policy:

Professional Development Cancelation Policy

Recertification Points:  

PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5

Making public sector work better®.

Course Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Jackie Little 

Course Description

Learners will explore the foundational components of public sector compensation:  compensation elements and strategy, labor market assessment, and internal equity. Appropriate and fair compensation directly impacts employee attraction, retention, motivation, and productivity. A well-structured compensation system that aligns with the organization’s goals helps maintain fiscal responsibility and promotes fair and equitable pay.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• explain key differences between public and private sector compensation systems
• understand basic public sector pay and classification structures
• apply foundational compensation principles

Student Expectations:

• Live attendance and full engagement at all 3 Zoom sessions.
• Respond to each of the instructor’s discussion posts within 3 days.
• Complete weekly readings and assignments.
• Contact instructor if questions arise, [email protected].

Instructor Expectations:

• Provide weekly assignments and regular discussion posts for student engagement and learning.
• Prepare for and present course content for live Zoom sessions.
• Respond to any student email inquiries within 3 days.

Week One: Foundations of Public Sector Compensation

• Total compensation
• Public sector compensation strategy
• Private and public sector differences

Week Two: Labor Market Assessment

• Labor markets
• Salary data sources
• Benchmarking jobs
• Compensation structure
• External equity

Week Three: Internal Equity and Fair Compensation

• Internal equity
• Pay increases
• Compensation influences

Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible.  We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.  

All your course materials will be found on your course dashboard.

Course Design:

The course will be delivered over three weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.  

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).

Meetings and Discussions:

• Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
• Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/17/2026
• Completion Date: 9/24/2026
• Meeting 1:  9/17/2026 - 11:30 - 12:30 pm ET
• Meeting 1:  9/21/2026 - 11:30 - 12:30 pm ET
• Meeting 3:  9/24/2026 - 11:30 - 12:30 pm ET

Certificate of Attendance:  You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Cancellation Policy:  Professional Development Cancelation Policy

Recertification Points:  PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5

Making public sector work better®.

Course Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Dr. Tony Luton

Succession Planning for Local Government explores the critical process for ensuring continuity of leadership and maintaining high-quality public services in local government. This course equips department heads, managers, and HR professionals with practical tools and strategies to identify, develop, and retain future leaders within municipal organizations. Participants will learn how to align workforce planning with organizational needs, build a talent pipeline, and reduce risks associated with turnover or retirements. The program emphasizes both strategic planning and actionable steps that can be immediately applied in a local government setting.  The course will be delivered over three-weeks with one-hour weekly online sessions.

Overview

Through a mix of instruction, applied frameworks, case studies, and guided analysis, participants will strengthen their ability to interpret policy, assess ethical risks, navigate conflicting pressures, and promote cultures rooted in trust and public service values.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Understand Succession Planning Fundamentals
   • Define succession planning and explain its importance in local government.
   • Differentiate between succession planning and replacement planning.
2. Assess Organizational Readiness
   • Identify critical roles and competencies necessary for organizational sustainability.
   • Analyze workforce demographics, retirement trends, and turnover risks.
3. Develop a Succession Planning Framework
   • Apply methods for identifying high-potential employees.
   • Create development plans and career pathways that prepare staff for advancement.
   • Integrate succession planning into existing HR and performance management processes.
4. Implement Tools and Practices
   • Utilize assessment tools, mentoring programs, and training opportunities to strengthen leadership pipelines.
   • Establish clear policies and communication strategies that foster buy-in across the organization.
5. Measure and Sustain Progress
• Design key performance indicators (KPIs) to track succession planning effectiveness.
• Adapt plans to meet evolving community needs, legal requirements, and workforce challenges.

Course Meeting Recordings: Coming Soon!

Expected Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Develop a written succession plan tailored to their department or local government unit.
• Build a pool of prepared and capable employees ready to assume leadership roles when vacancies arise.
• Reduce disruptions caused by retirements, promotions, or unexpected staff departures.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning, mentorship, and career growth within the organization.
• Strengthen organizational resilience by ensuring leadership continuity and institutional knowledge retention.

The course will be delivered over three-weeks with 3 one-hour weekly online meetings.

Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible.  We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.  

All your course materials will be found on your course dashboard.

Course Design:

The course will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.  You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).

Meetings and Discussions:

• Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
• Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/21/2026
• Completion Date: 9/25/2026
• Meeting 1:  9/21/2026 - 1:00 - 200 pm ET
• Meeting 2:  9/23/2026 - 1:00 - 2:00 pm ET
• Meeting 3:  9/25/2026 - 1:00 - 2:00 pm ET

Certificate of Attendance:  You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Cancellation Policy:  Professional Development Cancelation Policy

Recertification Points:  PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5

Making public sector work better®.

PSHRA’s Foundations Public Sector HR Certificate Program Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Joseph Gilkerson

Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible.  We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.  

Course Material (All you need is on your dashboard)

• Foundations of Public Sector HR Certificate Program Workbook
• Foundations of Public Sector HR Certificate Program Lessons Summary
• HR20/20 Report

Course Design:

The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. 

Time Commitment:

Plan for 2 hours for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).

Course Cohort Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/15/2026
• Completion Date: 11/24/2026
• Cohort Session 1:  9/22/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 2:  9/30/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm
• Cohort Session 2:  10/20/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 4:  10/28/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 5:  11/3/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 6:  11/12/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET

Course Content:

Week 1 - Introduction

Cohort Session 1:  Introduction

Week 2 - Lesson 1:  Public Sector Basics

Week 3 - Lesson 2:  Recruitment

Cohort Session 2:  Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment

Week 4 - Lesson 3:  Selection

Week 5 - Lesson 4:  Classification and Compensation

Cohort Session 3:  Selection, Classification & Compensation

Week 6 - Lesson 5:  Benefits

Week 7 - Lesson 6:  Labor and Employee Relations

Cohort Session 4:  Benefits and Labor Management Relations

Week 8 - Lesson 7:  Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity

Week 9 - Lesson 8:  Organizational Development

Cohort Session 5:  Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization

Week 10 - Lesson 9:  Course Summary

Cohort Session 6:  Course Summary and Wrap-up

Certificate of Attendance earned upon course completion.

Making public sector work better®.

Course Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Dr. Patrick Henley

Course Overview:

Learners will move from understanding conflict, to applying resolution strategies, to practicing those strategies through realistic public sector scenarios. By the end of the course, learners will have a practical framework they can use immediately when responding to employee disputes, supervisor-employee tension, interdepartmental conflict, communication breakdowns, and situations where emotions are high but professionalism still matters.

Audience: This comprehensive learning program is designed for public sector HR professionals, employee relations professionals, HR managers, department leaders, supervisors, and public agency professionals who are responsible for addressing workplace conflict, coaching managers, supporting employees, and helping maintain a healthy and productive workplace culture.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify common causes and early warning signs of workplace conflict in public sector environments.
2. Distinguish between performance issues, behavior issues, communication breakdowns, personality conflict, and systemic workplace problems.
3. Apply practical de-escalation, active listening, and mediation techniques to reduce defensiveness and move conversations toward resolution.
4. Explain HR’s role in balancing neutrality, empathy, accountability, policy compliance, documentation, and organizational risk.
5. Use structured conflict-resolution tools to prepare for, facilitate, document, and follow up after difficult workplace conversations.
6. Practice conflict-resolution strategies through public sector case studies, role-play scenarios, and facilitated group discussion. 

Course Structure:

Session 1: Understanding Conflict in Public Sector Workplaces This session focuses on what conflict is, why it happens, how it escalates, and why public sector workplaces have unique conflict dynamics. Participants will explore common root causes such as unclear expectations, poor communication, perceived disrespect, role confusion, inconsistent supervision, workplace silos, and fear of speaking up. We will also discuss public sector pitfalls such as political sensitivity, public scrutiny, hierarchy, union or labor considerations, and the tendency to avoid conflict until it becomes formal.

Session 2: Resolving Conflict — HR’s Role, Tools, and Frameworks This session focuses on what HR, managers, and leaders can do once conflict is present. Participants will learn practical tools for de-escalation, active listening, reframing, mediation preparation, meeting structure, ground rules, policy alignment, documentation, and follow-up. We will also discuss how to balance empathy and accountability, how to stay neutral without becoming passive, and how to help employees move from positions to interests.

Session 3: Conflict Resolution Lab — Public Sector Case Studies and Role Play This final session is application-focused. Participants will work through realistic public sector scenarios involving employee disputes, supervisor-employee conflict, interdepartmental tension, communication breakdowns, and emotionally charged conversations. Through breakout rooms, role-play, group debriefs, and guided discussion, learners will practice using the tools from Sessions 1 and 2 in a safe, structured environment.

Course Design:

The course will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.  You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. 

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/23/2026
• Completion Date: 10/1/2026
• Meeting 1:  9/23/2026 - 2:30 - 3:30 pm ET
• Meeting 2:  9/30/2026 - 2:30 - 3:30 pm ET
• Meeting 3:  10/1/2026 - 2:30 - 3:30 pm ET

Certificate of Attendance:

You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Cancellation Policy:

Professional Development Cancelation Policy

Recertification Points:  

PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5

Making public sector work better®.

Syllabus:  Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Certificate Program

Meet Your Instructor:  Isabel Godina-Vergara 

Welcome:

Welcome to PSHRA's Strategies for Public Sector Leadership. This course will equip you with the necessary tools to shift from a transactional to a strategic role in Public Sector HR by using a competency framework. Your role has evolved beyond merely transactional tasks. Today's HR department in the public sector is pivotal to the agency's success. It involves teaching team building, coaching, conflict resolution, consensus-building, fostering a risk-taking culture, enhancing communication, building trust, and more. 

Course Outcomes:

This comprehensive leadership course is designed for mid- to senior-level public sector HR leaders, providing a solid foundation for success.

To achieve this, the course focuses on the following outcomes:

• Assess the impact of HR and human capital management in the public sector and justify HR programs in the public sector.
• Design programs that align with specific competencies within the PSHRA Competency Model, covering three major modules: Leader, Business Partner, and Change Agent.
• Evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses regarding these competencies and create a plan for your individual professional development as an HR professional using the PSHRA Competency Model.
• Plan professional development in accordance with your personal competencies.

You will finish this course with:

• A solid strategic foundation for success.
• A professional development plan.

Certificate of Attendance:

You will earn a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the course.

Course Design:

The course spans six weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. You will receive details about the dates, times, and locations of cohort sessions. 

Time Commitment:

Plan for 90 minutes for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans.

Meetings and Discussions:

• Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
• Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."

Online Cohort Schedule (subject to change):

• Cohort #1 – 9/25/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
• Cohort #2 – 10/7/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
• Cohort #3 - 11/16/2026 - 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm ET
• Cohort #4 - 10/23/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET

Course Schedule:

Week 1:

Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 1: Introduction

Week 2:

Cohort Session (virtual) - Session 1: Introduction

Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 2: The Role of the HR Leader

Week 3:

No Cohort Session

Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 3: The Role of an HR Business Partner

Week 4:

Cohort Session (virtual) - Session 2: The Role of the HR Leader

• Negotiation: the cohort participants will perform a mock negotiation of a contract or provisions of a rule and have sides. This activity will allow participants to see how people react in these situations and practice skills used to defuse tension
• Emotional Quotient/Intelligence: cohort participants will develop a proposed response modeling EQ based on a stressful leadership/communication scenario

Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 4: The Role of the Change Agent

Week 5:

Cohort Session (virtual) - Session 3: The Role of an HR Business Partner

• Partnered practice scenario performs as a trusted coach or consultant on a challenging people issue such as performance, DEIA, risk management, or leadership coaching (developing) or advising (consulting)
• Partners work on conducting an HR needs analysis

Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 5: Summary

Week 6:

Cohort Session (in-person or virtual) - Session 4: The Role of the Change Agent & Summary

Course Workbook:

The course includes a workbook.  You'll use the workbook throughout the course to reflect on what you're learning, record ideas, plan for future personal development, and plan activities for your agency. There are two versions:

• a PDF version - if you'd like to print it and write your answers and ideas and
• an MS Word version - if you'd prefer to work electronically.

The files have the same content - just differences in page layout. You will use the workbook while taking the online lessons and while attending the cohort sessions.

The workbook is available by selecting the Course Materials tab and then Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Workbook.

Making public sector work better™.

Course Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Dr. Patrick Henley

Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible.  We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.  

Course Material (All you need is on your dashboard)

• Detailed Course Syllabus
• Ethics and Policy Participant Handbook
• Ethical Decision-Making
• Framework-Cheat Sheet

Course Design:

The course will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.  You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. 

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/30/2026
• Completion Date: 10/6/2026
• Meeting 1:  9/30/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Meeting 2:  10/2/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Meeting 3:  10/6/2026 - 12:30 - 1:30 pm ET

Course Content:

Module 1 — Foundations of Ethics in Public Sector HR

Topics Covered

• Why ethics matter in government HR
• Major ethical theories and practical applications
• Public-service values and professional responsibility
• HR as steward, strategist, and guardian of trust

Module 2 — Professional Standards & Codes of Conduct

Topics Covered

• Purpose and structure of HR codes of ethics
• Core principles: fairness, impartiality, confidentiality, transparency
• Ethical leadership behaviors and modeling expectations
• Documentation and rationale in ethical decision-making

Module 3 — Ethical Risks & Integrity Challenges in HR

Topics Covered

• Risks in hiring, promotion, and classification decisions
• Favoritism, undue influence, and political pressure
• Conflicts of interest and divided loyalties
• Misuse of authority and breaches of trust
• Systems weaknesses that enable misconduct
• Subtle or “quiet” forms of unethical behavior

Module 4 — Building Ethical Culture & Governance Structures

Topics Covered

• HR’s role in shaping organizational culture
• Governance mechanisms and internal controls
• Transparency practices and reporting pathways
• Whistleblowing, psychological safety, and anti-retaliation norms
• Leadership impact on ethical climates

Module 5 — Ethical Decision-Making Frameworks (Applied Practice)

Topics Covered

• Structured reasoning processes
• Assessing stakeholders, principles, and consequences
• Applying policies and values to real situations
• Navigating ambiguity and competing obligations
• Hands-on scenario walkthroughs
• Developing confidence in ethical judgment

Module 6 — Policy, Accountability & Public Trust

Topics Covered

• Designing clear, enforceable HR policy
• Aligning policy with ethical expectations
• Accountability structures and compliance practices
• Managing gray areas and policy gaps
• The relationship between ethical HR and public confidence

Certificate of Attendance:  You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Making public sector work better®.

Course Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Dr. Beatriz Coningham

Learners will explore the full investigation process from intake to reporting, with a focus on balancing legal, ethical, and organizational considerations. Participants will gain tools to plan, conduct, and document investigations with fairness, consistency, and clarity. The content will be delivered through a realistic and engaging case study.

Overview

This comprehensive learning program is designed for Human Resource (HR) professionals in the United States public sector. It prepares learners for the complexities and challenges of conducting fair and effective workplace investigations.

Learning Objectives

1. Ensure Legal Compliance: Understand the legal frameworks and compliance requirements necessary for conducting workplace investigations.
2. Support the Complainant and Prevent Retaliation: Master communication techniques that prioritize confidentiality and complainant protections.
3. Enhance Investigative Skills: Learn advanced investigative techniques to conduct thorough and effective investigations.
4. Apply Skills Practically: Engage in scenario-based activities that simulate real-life challenges, enhancing practical application skills. 

Program Components

Workshop 1

• Introduction to Workplace Investigations: Overview of legal and ethical considerations specific to public sector contexts.
• Supporting the Complainant, Preventing Retaliation: Processes and techniques.

Workshop 2

• Planning an Investigation: Steps for a thorough, timely and impartial investigation.
• Conducting Interviews: Developing effective interview questions and documentation.

Workshop 3

• Gathering and Analyzing Evidence: Managing your own bias, selecting and collecting evidence from various sources.
• Reporting and Concluding an Investigation: Deciding on the outcomes and recommendations, and communicating the results. 

Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible.  We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.  

All your course materials will be found on your course dashboard.

Course Design:

The course will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.  You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings

Time Commitment:

Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).

Meetings and Discussions:

• Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
• Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 10/5/2026
• End Date: 10/7/2026
• Meeting 1:  10/5/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Meeting 2:  10/6/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Meeting 3:  10/7/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET

Certificate of Attendance:  You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Cancellation Policy:  Professional Development Cancelation Policy

Recertification Points:  PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5

Making public sector work better®.

PSHRA’s Foundations Public Sector HR Certificate Program Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor:  Cheryl Cepelak

Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible.  We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.  

Course Material (All you need is on your dashboard)

• Foundations of Public Sector HR Certificate Program Workbook 
• Foundations of Public Sector HR Certificate Program Lessons Summary
• HR20/20 Report

Course Design:

The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. 

Time Commitment:

Plan for 2 hours for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).

Course Cohort Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 9/29/2026
• Completion Date: 12/8/2026
• Cohort Session 1:  10/6/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 2:  10/20/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm
• Cohort Session 2:  11/3/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 4:  11/17/2026 - 3:00 - 4:30 pm ET
• Cohort Session 5:  12/1/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 6:  12/8/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET

Course Content:

Week 1 - Introduction

Cohort Session 1:  Introduction

Week 2 - Lesson 1:  Public Sector Basics

Week 3 - Lesson 2:  Recruitment

Cohort Session 2:  Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment

Week 4 - Lesson 3:  Selection

Week 5 - Lesson 4:  Classification and Compensation

Cohort Session 3:  Selection, Classification & Compensation

Week 6 - Lesson 5:  Benefits

Week 7 - Lesson 6:  Labor and Employee Relations

Cohort Session 4:  Benefits and Labor Management Relations

Week 8 - Lesson 7:  Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity

Week 9 - Lesson 8:  Organizational Development

Cohort Session 5:  Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization

Week 10 - Lesson 9:  Course Summary

Cohort Session 6:  Course Summary and Wrap-up

Certificate of Attendance earned upon course completion.

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