Certificate Programs
The School of Continuing and Professional Studies offers a
number of programs in specialized fields of business, education, and other professions
that lead to the award of certificates. Most certificate programs require 10-30
credits of instruction or an equivalent number of contact hours.
Admission requirements for certificate programs vary but are
usually based on a written application, an interview with the program’s
developer, and an evaluation of the applicant’s work experience, educational
goals, and potential for performing satisfactorily in relevant courses. Applicants
may be required to provide transcripts of previous academic activity. Persons
interested in a certificate program should first consult with the program director
to obtain specific admission requirements.
Students in credit certificate programs must maintain an average
grade of C or better to continue in the program. Admission to a credit certificate
program does not in any way imply admission to the University for a degree program.
To be eligible to receive a certificate, persons enrolled in
noncredit and/or CEU certificate programs must progress satisfactorily in their
courses according to the opinion of the program’s director.
Persons interested in further information about certificate
programs should contact the School of Continuing and Professional Studies regional
center in their area.
Certificate Program in Criminal Justice Education
A program in Criminal Justice Education is offered at the FBI
Academy in Quantico, Virginia, to students enrolled in the National Academy
Program. All students in this 10-week program are required to complete a minimum
of 13 credits of academic work (undergraduate and/or graduate) with at least
one course in each of the five following areas: behavioral science; forensic
science; law enforcement communication; law; leadership development. Each student
may elect to take an additional one to three credits of course work. Some of
these courses are offered to students sponsored by the FBI who are not enrolled
in the National Academy Program.
Refer to the University of Virginia Undergraduate Record
for a complete listing and description of other courses offered in this program.
Course Descriptions
CJ 501 - (3) (Y)
Human Behavior in Organizations
Advanced course focusing on changing patterns of behavior in
organizations. Identifies problem areas, how structural relationships and leadership
patterns influence the climate of an agency, and how groups influence the behavior
of individuals within an organizational setting. Examines the methods and strategies
of organizational development with the aim of increasing effectiveness and adaptation
to change.
CJ 502 - (3) (Y)
Independent Study and Research
This graduate experience permits students to work, under close
faculty guidance, on individual research projects when particular needs cannot
be met by registration in regularly scheduled courses. Credit is determined
by the nature and scope of the project undertaken.
CJ 503 - (3) (Y)
Executive Leadership
Analyzes the leadership role and process, emphasizing the requirements
and developmental needs for current and future leadership.
CJ 507 - (3) (Y)
Managing Organizational Change and Development
This seminar focuses on the effect of change and development
on the behavior of employees. It studies the nature of planned change, methods
of managing change, ways to diagnose changes and development, and ways to implement
change in police departments and other organizations.
CJ 514 - (3) (Y)
Violence in America
Encompasses a historical, contemporary, and future perspective.
Issues include the role of weapons in American culture, patterns and trends
of violence, legitimate use of violence, cultural differences and formulation
of value systems, relationship of drugs and violence, and the role of women
and the media. Examines research findings and discusses the role of high technology
in dealing with violence and the future of violence in America. All students
must bring with them a completed, fully adjudicated case that can be used for
teaching and research purposes. The case must exhibit some degree of violent
behavior, for example, hate-related homicide, suicide by cops, serial murder,
or serial sex offense.
CJ 516 - (3) (Y)
Crime Analysis, Futuristics and Law Enforcement: The 21st Century
Seminar conducted at both the undergraduate and graduate level
in which law enforcement managers are introduced to the study of crime analysis
and futures research and the utility that each has for law enforcement managers.
Students will learn to utilize databases and mapping techniques to analyze criminal
activity and will be shown how to forecast, manage, and create the future.
CJ 517 - (3) (Y)
Managing Investigations of Death and Sexual Offenses Using Investigative
Psychology
Course conducted at both the undergraduate and graduate levels
designed to equip law enforcement managers and supervisors with the unique skills,
knowledge, and management techniques necessary for overseeing and monitoring
death, violent crimes, and sexually related investigations by applying behavior
science research.
CJ 521 - (3) (Y)
Contemporary Issues in Law Enforcement
Focuses on contemporary issues and leadership concerns in various
areas of law enforcement, leadership and management, emphasizing problem solving
and the systematic development of improvement innovations.
CJ 522 - (3) (Y)
Seminar in Organizational Communications for Law Enforcement Executives
Highly interactive seminar designed to explore communications
systems within public and private organizations, with particular focus on federal,
state, and local law enforcement. Course will provide organizational leaders
with strategies and competencies designed to promote a communications-intensive
work environment as well as hone individual interpersonal communications skills.
CJ 523 - (3) (Y)
Seminar in Media Relations for the Law Enforcement Executive
Focuses on contemporary relations between law enforcement and
the news media. Emphasizes the development of a proactive versus reactive departmental
media strategy and the formation of effective media policy.
CJ 524 - (3) (Y)
Interviewing Strategies Through Statement Analysis
Hands-on seminar provides a structured method of examining
verbal and written statements of suspects, victims and witnesses. Provides linguistic
tools to assist investigator in gaining insight to the speaker/writer and in
detecting areas of deception.
CJ 525 - (3) (Y)
Seminar in Team Writing for Executives
Focuses on the frameworks and skills needed to supervise and
participate in the production of documents that involve multiple authors, such
as homeland security directives, joint terrorism task force-related documents,
cooperative agreements, annual reports, budget narratives, grant applications,
articles for publication, and brochures for the public. By working in teams
to write a document, participants examine both the theory and practice of collaborative
writing.
CJ 526 - (3) (Y)
Communicating in a Changing Security Environment: Law Enforcement and Global
Issues
Focuses on post/911 police-media relations. Touches on the
relationship between international security issues and utilizing the media for
effective community policing. Concentrates on the development of competent media
skills in a local Homeland Security context.
CJ 527 - (3) (Y)
Interpersonal Communications for the Law Enforcement Executive
Highly interactive course designed to acquaint the leader not
only with his/her communications styles and preferences, but how the communications
process influences interpersonal relationships in both social and work-related
environments. Practical application a major focus.
CJ 536 - (3) (Y)
Advanced Computer Crimes for Police Supervisors
This forty-four hour
course is designed for law enforcement managers who desire to learn and practice
advanced investigative computer techniques,
methods and data recovery. Students will work with computer hardware and forensic
software tools used by computer crimes investigators and forensic data recovery
personnel. This course will provide the opportunity for hands-on experience
to help prepare or enhance the student’s supervisory role as it applies
to the investigation of computer related crimes.
CJ 544 - (3) (Y)
Forensic Mitochondrial DNA Analysis
This course provides classroom and laboratory experience in
the principles and procedures involved in typing mtDNA from evidentiary items
such as hair, teeth, and bones. Classroom instruction is focused on the nature
of mtDNA, molecular biology principles involved in the polymerase chain reaction
(PCR) and sequencing, and legal issues related to this technique. Discussions
regarding scientific literature published in the area of forensic mtDNA analysis
are also conducted. Laboratory procedures include DNA extraction, PCR, quantification
of amplified products by capillary electrophoresis, and automated sequencing.
Computer-based practice compiling sequences and database searches using appropriate
software is provided and moot court exercises are conducted.
CJ 560 - (3) (Y)
Violent Behavior: A Biopsychosocial Approach
A graduate seminar geared toward the student with a general
background and understanding of the basic principles of psychopathology and
psychodynamics. Focuses on behavioral analysis of crime scenes and behavioral
aspects of interviewing and interrogation. Enrollment is limited to 12 students,
and each student is required to bring a closed homicide or sex offense case.
Graduate Certificate Program in E-Commerce
This nineteen credit program is designed for professionals
who wish to expand their knowledge and stay abreast of new developments in the
e-commerce and e-business industry. Instruction focuses on those who wish to
either move their businesses into e-commerce or pursue a career assisting others
in e-commerce success. Discussions on successful business models, case studies,
strategic management, and e-business applications with a global focus will be
the core of each course. Students who complete all seven courses will receive
the University of Virginia E-Commerce Certificate. This program is offered at
the Northern Virginia center. Contact the center for specific information regarding
admission, transfer credit, and certificate completion requirements.
Required Courses (7): BUS 536, 537, 538, 539, 540, 541,
and 542.
Course Descriptions
BUS 536 - (3)
Introduction to E-Commerce
Explores the principal components and driving forces behind
electronic commerce. Develops an understanding of Internet business practices
including key terms and concepts related to emerging technologies and network
architecture. Discussions analyze the socio-economic and technical impact that
e-commerce has on conducting business-to-business and business-to-consumer transactions
in the global marketplace.
BUS 537 - (3)
Managing and Maintaining an E-Commerce Website
Develops skills needed to manage and maintain a Web Site in
this hands-on course that takes one from the design stage through online implementation.
Teaches basic site architecture, standards and protocols, the role of databases,
methods for capturing and tracking customer data, how to register a domain name,
and writing content for the Web.
BUS 538 - (3)
Web Marketing: Building Awareness on the Internet
Examines the application of marketing principles and practices
in an Internet environment. Identifies principles of marketing with a Web-based
focus. Topics include changing marketing environments in an Internet society,
marketing communications, management, company image, product/brand awareness,
promotion and service information, e-retail and online catalogs, and pre- and-post-sales
support.
BUS 539 - (3)
E-Commerce Law
Focuses on maintaining organizational and consumer privacy,
locating vulnerabilities, encryption methods, management of intellectual property,
and procedures for secure web transactions.
BUS 540 - (3)
Financial Management for Web-based Businesses
Examines basic financial
management and accounting techniques such as review of e-business P & L statements
and balance sheets, cash flow analysis, supply-chain management, and other rules
of thumb. Topics include
a review of stock options and their role as a tool for recruitment and retention
of employees, as well as a conceptual understanding of accounting and financial
reporting for stock options.
BUS 541 - (3)
Strategic Management of E-Commerce Technology
Expands on strategic management principles in the context of
e-commerce and the global marketplace. Through discussions, analysis, and case
studies, students sharpen the skills needed to manage innovation within their
companies by learning to develop and protect e-business infrastructure, identify
lucrative business opportunities, execute implementation plans, and evaluate
key success factors.
BUS 542 - (1)
Emerging Business Models in E-Commerce
This capstone course examines e-commerce start-up success stories,
effective business models, and the innovative use of Internet communications
in business. Participants plan, organize, coordinate, and evaluate e-commerce
initiatives and make informed decisions when implementing new strategies.
Graduate Certificate Programs in Leadership
Students interested in management and leadership training may
choose from two 18-credit certificates: Leadership or Technology Leadership.
The curriculum was developed by an advisory board from Lockheed Martin, SAIC,
EDS, U.S. Department of Treasury, NASA, and other industry leaders. The Technology
Leadership track was designed for technical professionals who currently serve
in managerial or leadership positions, or for those interested in moving into
such positions in the future. Both certificate programs establish a solid foundation
in leadership competencies that can be used in today’s, as well as tomorrow’s,
workplace. . Courses are held at the Northern Virginia center or on site at
area businesses and organizations via contract.
Technology Leadership
Required Courses (5): BUS 530, 531, 532, 534, and 535.
Elective Courses (1): PC 503, BUS 541, or BUS 506.
Leadership
Required Courses (4): BUS 530, 531, 532, and 534.
Elective Courses (2): PC 503, BUS 501, or BUS 504.
Course Descriptions
BUS 530 - (3)
Leadership in the Technology Organization
Investigates the complex and rapidly changing nature of technology
organizations. Teaches the transition to management and leadership roles, the
importance of organizational vision and values, assessing and capitalizing on
human resources, and managing scarce resources in a technology organization.
BUS 531 - (3)
Financial Management
Examines how value is measured, created, and maximized. Beginning
with an introduction to accounting, instruction covers the fundamentals of measuring
and reporting revenue, costs, cash flow, assets, liabilities, and equity. Explores
the financial decisions that management must make, including break-even analysis,
budgeting, investment in assets, and funding with debt equity.
BUS 532 - (3)
Communications and Team Development
Today’s leaders must be skilled
in both communicating with diverse audiences and maintaining effective teams
in order to succeed in
a technology organization. Communications topics include addressing technical
and non-technical audiences using presentations, interpersonal skills, and writing
skills. Team development instruction focuses on managing teams, identifying
and understanding the leadership role, the importance of shared leadership,
product teams, and team decision-making.
BUS 534 - (3)
Employee Recruitment and Development
Topics include recruitment in a tight labor market, employee
selection and incentives, performance assessment, mentoring and career planning,
workforce diversity, understanding organizational change, and developing a learning
organization.
BUS 535 - (3)
Understanding Technology Operations
Examines a number of topics that can have a significant impact
on the extent to which a firm attains world class standards. Topics include
operations strategy, product/service selection and design, business process
reengineering, capacity planning, quality management, facility location and
layout, and supply chain management.
PC 503 - (3)
Introduction to Project Management
Introduces students to the various
aspects of the project life cycle. Exposes students to the Project Management
Institute’s Project Management
Body of Knowledge, other industry project life cycles, and a variety of project
management best practices.
BUS 501 - (3)
Information Security Management
This foundation course provides managers with the essential
framework needed to design and develop an effective information security program.
Explores methods used to raise general security awareness, reviews current industry
practices, and develops expertise needed to adapt policies to safeguard proprietary
information.
BUS 504 - (3)
Creating and Conducting a Security Audit
Investigate the key roles that the information security manager
plays in designing and conducting both limited and full-scale security audits.
Creating audit reports, identifying areas of vulnerability, and responding to
third party audits are addressed.
BUS 506 - (3)
Understanding Technology Used in an Open Access Environment
Students devise an understanding of the technology used to
distribute information in support of eBusiness and the security concerns inherent
in an open access environment.
BUS 541 - (3)
Strategic Management of E-Commerce Technology
Expand your understanding of strategic management principles
in the context of e-commerce and the global marketplace. Students sharpen the
skills needed to manage innovation within their companies by learning to develop
and protect e-business infrastructure, identify lucrative business opportunities,
execute implementation plans, and evaluate key success factors.
Graduate Certificate Program in Information Security Management (ISM)
Companies wishing to maintain their position in Northern Virginia’s
digital economy have a great need for skilled information security managers.
In response to this need, the University of Virginia’s Northern Virginia
Center has developed a six-course graduate certificate program in Information
Security Management (ISM). The ISM is designed to provide Dynamic Security Architecture;
Creating and Conducting a Security Audit; Threat Assessment and Security Measures;
and Understanding Technology Used in an Open Access Environment. The target
audience for the ISM program is managers from all educational backgrounds who
have been charged with overseeing the security function. Students from both
the public and private sectors will benefit from this instruction that emphasizes
industry standards and emerging technologies. The goal of the ISM program is
building the skills needed to manage the information security function for commercial,
government, and non-profit enterprises. Security managers with the essential
tools needed to develop company standards, manage policies, and explore issues
in the area of internal and external threat management. The curriculum reviews
effective security practices, explores methods in network security, and covers
a variety of practical security management measures.
Designed as a six-course, 18-credit program, this graduate
certificate consists of six required courses.
Course Descriptions
BUS 501 - (3)
Information Security Management
This foundation course provides managers with the essential
framework needed to design and develop an effective information security program.
Explores methods used to raise general security awareness, reviews current industry
practices, and develops expertise needed to adapt policies to safeguard proprietary
information.
BUS 502 - (3)
Security Policy Development and Assessment
Effective security managers must know how to develop a security
policy that will be adopted by all employees and supported by executive management.
This course examines the steps required in policy development including risk
assessment, identification of internal and external threats, legal and privacy
issues, creating reports, and escalation procedures. Related topics such as
access controls, security standards, and policy implementation are covered in
depth.
BUS 503 - (3)
Designing Dynamic Security Architecture
Students explore the basic building blocks needed to implement
a life-cycle security system. Instruction focuses on how to analyze internal
applications, computing platforms/network infrastructure, and corporate objectives
with an eye toward designing flexible security architecture that is best suited
for the enterprise. Case studies are used to illustrate key security architecture
concepts and methods. Visiting experts from the field of ISM will enrich classroom
discussions.
BUS 504 - (3)
Creating and Conducting a Security Audit
Investigate the key role the information security manager plays
in designing and conducting both limited and full-scale security audits. Students
review the essential components of a security audit and learn how to integrate
methodology with company needs. The pitfalls connected with conducting a security
audit are covered in full to assure that best practices are incorporated for
effective results. Creating audit reports, identifying areas of vulnerability,
and responding to third party audits are also addressed. Case studies reviewing
government and private audits are used to illustrate course concepts.
BUS 505 - (3)
Threat Assessment and Security Measures
The security manager must be equipped to identify and protect
against all forms of internal and external threats. This computer lab-based
course examines common security threats including hacker attacks, incursions,
backdoor programs, email borne viruses, and the potential for internal sabotage.
Students also learn how to anticipate and respond to such threats using an arsenal
of security tools, appliances, and devices including firewalls, intrusion detection
systems, vulnerability assessment systems, single sign on, virtual private networks,
and authentication systems. Course work also touches on implementing practical
network security measures including the importance of hardening operating systems
and critical applications to eliminate vulnerabilities.
BUS 506 - (3)
Understanding Technology Used in an Open Access Environment
Students develop an understanding of the technology used to
distribute information in support of eBusiness and the security concerns inherent
in an open access environment. Instruction surveys the technologies that are
key for backend integration (XML, CORBA, DCOM and JavaBeans) and front-end deployment
(HTML and Java). Course work reviews the strengths and weaknesses of common
operating systems such as Windows NT, Linux, and Unix as well as the risks versus
benefits of deploying one system over another. Communications concepts such
as TCP/IP, ISP delivery channels, and wireless technology are discussed in detail.
Performance and security issues relative to each technology introduced in this
course are discussed in depth.
Graduate Certificate Program in Procurement and Contracts Management
This certificate was developed in response to the needs of
procurement professionals who already possess an undergraduate degree and are
interested in obtaining training at the graduate level. Students wishing to
complete this certificate with no prior procurement and contracting education
or experience are advised to enroll in PC 401 before beginning the graduate
level offerings. To complete this certificate, students must complete six required
courses and two electives. In addition, prior to receiving their certificate,
students must provide evidence of an undergraduate degree. Students without
an undergraduate degree may take courses at the graduate level as electives
within the undergraduate certificate.
Required Courses (6): PC 501, 502, 503, 504, 506, and
510.
Electives (4): PC 505, 507, 508, 511, 512, or 513.
Course Descriptions
PC 501 - (3)
Procurement and Contracting Principles and Administration
Prerequisites: PC 401 and PC 402 or equivalent.
Contract administration
topics will be covered as well as some of the basics necessary for contracts
and acquisition personnel. Uses many of
the elements of both PC 401 and PC 402 and applies them to case studies.
PC 502 - (3)
Advanced Cost and Price Analysis
Prerequisite: PC 403.
This course concentrates on a primary feature
of the contracting process: the determination and presentation of pricing data.
The course emphasizes
cost and price issues as they relate to the decision making process of each
party in a contract situation. Contractor selection and pricing strategies are
emphasized. This course assumes that the student has had a basic or intermediate
level-pricing course.
PC 503 - (3)
Introduction to Project Management
Provides students with the necessary knowledge to manage large
scale and complex projects. Includes structuring teams, identifying needs,
specifying projects, achieving results, and communications.
PC 504 - (3)
Advanced Contract Formation and Administration
Prerequisite: PC 501.
This course covers the major topics in contract
administration and the laws regarding the formation of government contracts.
Also included
are subcontract administration and acquisition strategies.
PC 505 - (3)
Seminar for Acquisition Personnel
Prerequisite: Completion of all required courses or
permission of instructor.
This course includes current research and advances
and provides an opportunity to develop skill in critical evaluation of theories
and their
application in solving problems.
PC 506 - (3)
Federal Acquisition Case Studies
Prerequisite: PC 402 or 501.
Provides students with a basic understanding
of the laws that affect government contracting, various federal court case studies
addressing
acquisition issues including ethical considerations, and an understanding of
the changes brought forth by recent acquisition statutes and regulations.
PC 507 - (3)
Services Contracting
Prerequisite: PC 401 or 501.
Provides detailed explanations of the
laws, regulations, and procedures during all stages of government services contracting
including planning,
solicitation, proposal development, evaluation, and contract administration.
The course is designed for both experienced and novice contract administrators.
The latest policies and regulations relating to services are presented.
PC 508 - (3)
FAR Standards for Actions and Decisions
Prerequisite: PC 501 or 401.
Provides students with a detailed explanation,
review, and analysis of many FAR standards and tests applied in successful contracting
decisions.
The standards apply to both government buying and industry selling business
decisions.
PC 510 - (3)
FAR 15: Contracting by Negotiations
Prerequisite: PC 401 or equivalent.
The purpose of this course is to
provide students with a detailed explanation of contracting by the negotiation
method as provided in the current
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 15. It provides for an intensive
review of policy and procedures in contracting by negotiation.
PC 511 - (3)
Construction Contracting
Prerequisite: PC 501 or equivalent.
Covers the fundamentals of contracts
for construction, architect-engineering services, and two-phase design-build
projects. Topics relate to the formation
and administration of construction-related contracts and include: the Brooks
Architect-Engineering Act; surety and insurance issues; environmental and safety
issues; labor laws; evaluation of construction contractor performance; differing
site conditions; performance delays and acceleration; and claims, disputes,
remedies, and liquidated damages.
PC 512 - (3)
Electronic Commerce in Federal Acquisition
Prerequisite: PC 401.
Builds a foundation for the challenges facing
the contracting professional during conversion to electronic commerce in the
federal procurement
system. Includes definitions; the engineering aspects of converting from a
paper-driven system; productivity and re-engineering; authorizing statutes and
regulations;
surveys of currently available systems; FAR coverage; computer security; and
the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for the future.
PC 513 - (3)Advanced Services Contracting
Prerequisite: PC 507.
Provides the opportunity for intensive review
and workshop experience in the current predominant policies and procedures of
services contracting.
Laws, regulations, policies, and procedures that are currently superior in
influence and that are drawn from all stages of the services contracting acquisition
cycle
will be covered.
Graduate Certificate Program in Project Management
This 24-credit certificate was designed to create an educational
environment where students are exposed to many facets of Project Management
to enable them to transfer the knowledge acquired to project management positions
in the public and private sectors. The curriculum consists of both required
courses and elective courses. Required courses provide the student with a core
body of knowledge or framework and information on how to apply a wide range
of tools in order to become an effective project manager. Elective courses introduce
students to skills specific to different industries and builds on the required
courses. The certificate is ideal for individuals required to manage projects
in any field, and those in the engineering field with a limited understanding
of how to perform their role in a project management environment.
Required Courses (5): PC 503, 520, 521, 522, and 523.
Elective Courses (3): PC 501, 524, 525, 526, and 528.
Course Descriptions
PC 501 - (3)
Contracting Principles and Administration
Prerequisite: PC 402.
Contract administration topics will be covered
as well as some of the basics necessary for contracts and acquisition personnel.
PC 503 - (3)
Introduction to Project Management
Provides students with the necessary knowledge to manage large
scale and complex projects. Includes structuring teams, identifying needs, specifying
projects, achieving results, and communications.
PC 520 - (3)
Project Schedule, Cost, and Budget Control
Introduces students to a variety of project scheduling and
cost control techniques that are vital for a project to meet its schedule and
cost goals and objectives. Concentrates on the variety of scheduling techniques
(Gantt Chart, Critical Path Method, and Program Evaluation Review Technique)
that can be used to guide and monitor project performance. Activities that are
critical in preparing a realistic schedule will be explored, discussed, and
practiced. Students are then introduced to a variety of budgeting, cost estimating,
and cost control techniques.
PC 521 - (3)
Project Risk Management
Introduces students to various concepts and techniques that
can be used to effectively manage project risk. Exposes students to the various
risks (cost, schedule, technical, quality, managerial, organizational, etc.)
projects confront as they move through the project life cycle. Students learn
a variety of risk identification and management techniques in order to minimize
their impact on project performance.
PC 522 - (3)
Leadership and Human Resources Management
The project environment is complex and presents many managerial
challenges for both the project manager and his/her team. These complexities
and managerial challenges are a direct result of how project teams are formed
and the environment they operate in. This environment is characterized by the
fact that project teams are temporary endeavors, operate under tight time and
cost constraints, staffed by members from different functional organizations,
and have multiple internal and external stakeholders and customers. In some
cases, the project manager and the team may not possess the authority needed
to ensure project success. Because of this complex and challenging environment,
it is essential that both the project manager and members of his/her team understand
what leadership is and how to exercise it within a project environment. This
course will introduce students to a variety of leadership concepts and techniques
that can be utilized to become effective leaders in a project environment.
PC 523 - (3)
The Project Manager and Managing the Project Team
The first part of the course introduces students to the managerial
challenges facing a project team. Various methodologies, tools, and techniques
that a project manager and his/her team can use to meet these challenges will
be explored. The second part of the course introduces students to the variety
of roles that the project manager plays while managing a project. Many challenges
and pressures will be explored.
PC 524 - (3)
Commercial Contracting for Project Managers
In order to be competitive
in today’s worldwide marketplace,
many companies (and to a certain extent government agencies) have gone through
a cycle of downsizing. This downsizing forced many organizations to sell off
or dismantle departments deemed not essential to the core business. Organizations
began to rely on procurement and contracting administrations techniques to obtain
the products and services that were no longer available within the company.
In addition to the changing organizational environment, many of today’s
projects are extremely complex and require the integration of products and
services
not developed or available within an organization. In order to meet project
goals and objectives, project managers and teams have become dependent on contractors
and subcontractors to supply the needed technology or expertise. Therefore,
it has become essential that they develop an understanding of procurement and
contract administration techniques in order to access the needed expertise.
This course will help students understand the important role that contracting
and purchasing plays in the project environment. Students will gain an understanding
of contracting techniques that allow projects to meet or exceed project goals.
Challenges facing a project team in the area of contracting and the legal context
of contracts will also be discussed.
PC 525 - (3)
IT Systems Project Management
With a focus on the IT systems, this course assists participants
in recognizing and acting upon the essential elements in the project management
cycle. Sessions cover market research and analysis, scheduling and time-lining,
budget development and management, performance assessment, benchmarking, and
project evaluation. Leadership and team development skills are emphasized.
PC 526 - (3)
Construction Project Management
This course will provide students with the fundamentals of
project management in construction. Subjects will include contracting, inspections,
cost code system, insurance estimating, subcontracting, and documenting.
PC 528 - (3)
Topics in Project Management
This course is designed as in interactive
presentation of a broad view of project management by focusing on selected topics
of concerns
for the project manager. These topics have been selected from a long list of
potential issues, which confront project managers during stewardship of a project.
Topics include the PM’s office and its organization, quality concerns,
the decision-making process, internal marketing of the project, and other varied
issues of interest.
Graduate Certificate Program in Workforce Development
The Workforce Development Certificate is a professional graduate
certificate (9 credits) for those individuals working as: college administrators
with responsibility for workforce development activities; educators and trainers
in universities and colleges; secondary school educators; human resources professionals;
workforce and economic development practitioners; private sector trainers; proprietary
school personnel; and those interested in pursuing careers in workforce development.
The certificate program prepares students to continue to excel in the workforce
development profession and their respective (or future) leadership position.
The courses are presented via classroom setting, self-directed learning methods
and practicum. Articulation agreements with various graduate degree programs
are being established. The student must have completed a bachelor’s (or
higher) degree.
Course Descriptions
PSWD 589 - (3)
Workforce Development Professional Competencies
This course provides the student with an overview of and introduction
to the competencies necessary for successful workforce development professionals.
Experts and best practices will be used to design and present the knowledge
and skills needed to excel in each competency within the workforce development
arena. The competencies covered include: Knowledge of the Profession; Understanding
Your Customer; Client Development; Small Business Management; Collaboration
and Community; Strategic Planning and Continuous Improvement; and Leadership
and Influence.
PSWD 590 - (3)
Professional Assessment and Development
This course provides the student
with the opportunity to: identify workforce development competencies that the
student has developed and/or enhanced;
compare and contrast current workforce development theories, styles and programs;
acquire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the student’s role as
a workforce development professional; and integrate and apply the student’s
learning to his/her work environment. Extensive reading, research, writing,
and on-line participation will be required.
PSWD 591 - (3)
Practicum: Workforce Development
The most powerful teaching tool is
the application of knowledge. The practicum experience provides the student the
opportunity to combine previous
knowledge and skills with the newly acquired knowledge and skills (from the
prior two courses - Workforce Development Professional Competencies and Professional
Assessment and Development); incorporate this "combined" knowledge
into his/her institution’s workforce development activities (i.e., increased
job responsibilities, new program or partnership development, marketing strategies);
and strengthen the student’s contributions to workforce development (at
the institution and profession levels).
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School of Continuing and Professional Studies