Accredited Certified Public Manager® Programs must consist of a minimum of 300 hours of structured learning activities. There shall be a requirement for participants to complete a public management project, AKA Capstone Project, which includes a written demonstration of participants’ effectiveness in applying the core competencies to their job environment. The program must evaluate knowledge and practical application in all of the competencies.
Each program shall provide opportunities for participants to apply learning in the work environment. Learning outcomes related to core competencies shall be identified in each course or learning activity. The core curriculum shall address all the following core competencies. The bulleted items below are examples.
The Curriculum includes the following competencies:
Personal and Organizational Integrity
Managers must shape organizational ethics, which is demonstrated through generating values, strengthening relationships, and building reputations. Leaders achieve this goal by modeling ethical awareness, confronting integrity gaps, and maintaining a sense of trust.
Managing Work
Work management is a continuous process, where work is strategically aligned to the organizational goals to get things done effectively. By working together, leaders empower others which enables an organization to grow and thrive.
Leading People
Exemplary leadership is a way of being, whether one is leading others or leading one's own life. Leadership can be developed; it is a choice to embrace one's authenticity and empower others to act. Leadership is taking people in a direction with greater influence.
Developing Self
Personal development is a lifelong process that can be described as many things, but at its core, is expanding self-awareness and empathy towards others. Individuals create and live their most authentic lives – unique to them, their dreams, passions, and needs. Ultimately, personal-development can enhance quality of life and increase our satisfaction.
Systemic Integration
Boosting productivity and improving the workflow of an organization is essential for success. Systems integration is a great way to achieve these goals; however, it cannot be achieved without meaningful advocacy and creative innovations, both internally and externally.
Public Service Focus
Public service provides a quality stakeholder experience ice through internal, external, and remote collaboration. It exudes trust and stewardship for the common good through accountability and transparency.
Change Leadership
Change agents promote and support a new way of doing something within the organization by inspiring others through advocacy. Change agents embrace agility to navigate the growing complexity of today's rapidly changing world.
Download NCPMC Competencies Adopted 2_2025.pdf
Each course offered through an accredited CPM program must be competency-based (as of 2/2025).
