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Certified Public Manager Program

The Certified Public Manager (CPM) program is designed specifically to meet the needs of today's public managers operating in an environment of close public scrutiny, high expectations, increasing demands and constant change. Instruction bridges theory and practical application, enabling participants to create results that matter most to customers, stakeholders, and citizens.

The Washington state Certified Public Manager program is sponsored by the Governor's Office and is tailored to fit the Governor's GMAP framework for accountability and process improvement.

CPM in a nationally recognized and accredited certification program. It offers an effective combination of study, practice, application and testing, providing a solid managerial foundation. Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded the Certified Public Manager professional credential.

The CPM program is offered in a cohort model. Regularly scheduled classes are held at the Hawks Prairie Center. The program can also be conducted in-house anywhere in the state for organization-wide management development. For more information about the WCPM program, please select one of the following options:

• Who is it for?
• How will I benefit?
• What are the program costs?

What's New?

The Washington Certified Public Manager program has changed to better meet the latest demands of the public manager sector. Starting in September2009 we will be launching our new 9-month e-learning hybrid model. This new hybrid combines face-to-face instruction with the convenience of online learning.

Fundamentals of Public Leadership: - CPM 201

This three month course provides the foundation for the Certified Public Manager Program.  Traditional classroom theory and online instruction combine to provide participants with the foundations of leadership, ethics, and communication.  Participants will identify their own leadership styles and areas where they can improve.  Instruction will also cover practical tips and skills in problem solving, decision making and presentation.

8am to 5pm, February 16-17, March 9-10, April 6-7, 2010

Systems Management - CPM 202

Over the course of this three-month program module participants will focus on the bigger picture of their organization.  Using current theories and practices, participants will delve into the behind the structures and processes of an organization and identify practical strategies for process analysis, improvement and managing organizational change to better meet the needs of customers and stakeholders.  Course topics will also include business and strategic planning, project management, technology resource management and organizational performance enhancement.

8am to 5pm, May 11-12, June 8-9, July 6-7, 2010

Managing People and Money - CPM 203

The final three month portion of the Certified Public Manager course leads participants through operational side of management with practical skills in team building, individual performance management and conflict resolution.  Participants will also delve into budgeting and fiscal accountability as well as take a careful look at the ins and outs of the civil service system.

8am to 5pm, August 17-18, September 14-15, October 12-13, 2010

Who is it for?

While the program was originally designed for public sector employees, the competencies and skills taught meet the needs of any current and future manager and leader.

How will I benefit?

In the program, you will:

• Enhance your personal leadership strength
• Increase your effectiveness as a manager and a leader
• Learn new practical strategies that can be immediately applied to increase organizational performance, efficiency and accountability
• Network with other employees from various public and private entities

Successful graduates earn the professional credential of a Certified Public Manager and become eligible for membership in the American Academy of Certified Public Managers. The Washington chapter provides support and networking events for managers across the state.

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How much is the program ?

The new 9-month online hybrid model offers a significant savings over the old model. The full program cost, including materials and online instruction fees is $3580, a savings of more than $1500 over the previous curriculum model and a fraction of the cost of traditional, theory-based MPA programs.

For payment plan information, contact Jacqueline DeLisle at 360-596-5752.

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