University of Illinois - Springfield
Certified Public Manager®
Program of Illinois
Handbook for
Candidates and their Agencies
[2015]
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Table of Contents
Welcome………………………………………………………………………………...2
Administration……………………………………………………………………….…..3
Mission and Objectives..………………………………………………………………4
Frequently Asked Questions……………………………..…………….………….5-11
Competency Based Learning………………………………………….…………12-15
Program Requirements Overview Example…………………..…..……………16-17
Policies………………………………………………………………….…………..18-21
.
CPM Candidate Application Form……..………………………………………...22-26
Independent Study Application Form – Worksheet……..………………….….27-32
Course Planning and Progress Worksheet….…….……………………………33-35
Professional Development Learning Portfolio…….………………………….…36-43
Capstone Project……………………………………….….……..………..………44-52
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
WELCOME
To
The Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois Handbook
You will find in the handbook most of the answers to your questions about
CPMPI. If after you have reviewed the handbook your questions have not been
answered, please contact the CPMPI Office and we are here to help you use the
program to your best advantage.
Although we administer the CPM Program, keeping track of your progress in
it and making decisions about classes is a shared responsibility. We can only
provide you with an updated transcript once a year. Please use the materials
you’ve been given to keep track of any training you receive during a fiscal year,
and use that to check the accuracy of the transcript which you’ll receive each
summer. Use the handbook as well to refresh your memory on program
requirements, policies, and compare your progress against those requirements.
We hope your experience with the Certified Public Manager Program
energizes you and enhances your ability to be successful and to make a
difference.
Lorena Johnson, M.A., M.P.A.
Director of the Certified Public Manager Program of Illinois
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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THE CERTIFIED PUBLIC MANAGER®
PROGRAM OF ILLINOIS
Administered by:
Center for State Policy and Leadership
Institute for Legal, Legislative and Policy Studies
University of Illinois – Springfield
One University Plaza MS PAC 454
Springfield, IL 62703-5407
Phone: 217 206-6079
Fax: 217 206 - 7397
http://cspl.uis.edu/

The Certified Public Manager Program of Illinois (CPMPI) is a 300 hour
nationally accredited comprehensive management development program
specifically for managers in non-profit organizations, state, local, and federal
government.

CPMPI program recognizes the unique demands and challenges of the public
management profession. It focuses on developing competencies necessary
for high individual, team, and organizational performance.

CPMPI program is targeted at directors, managers, and supervisors as well
as those who manage projects and programs. In addition, individuals with
public sector leadership aspirations who have demonstrated leadership
potential can benefit from this program.

A candidate is awarded the Certified Public Manager designation upon
completion of the CPMPI. This designation is recognized throughout the
United States.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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THE CERTIFIED PUBLIC MANAGER® PROGRAM OF ILLINOIS
Our Mission
The mission of the Certified Public Manager Program of Illinois is to contribute to
the effectiveness of the public services in the State of Illinois by offering a
professional development program that provides public manager professionals
with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to manage in the public
sector of the 21st century.
The Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois Objectives:





Supporting the unique professional development needs of Illinois public
managers in the 21st Century;
Promoting leadership development in the practice of public management
through high educational and ethical standards;
Providing a dynamic learning environment that facilitates the emergence of
new and innovative ideas, approaches, and practices in the field of public
administration;
Building collaborative partnerships across the nonprofit organizations, state,
local and federal government agencies and organizations;
Serving as the resource for professional development training and
education for the public sector in the State of Illinois.
Our Values
CPM
Our Vision
The CPM is the most highly valued public manager professional development
credential in the State of Illinois
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Certified Public Manager ®Program?
The Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois (CPMPI) is a nationallyaccredited comprehensive statewide management development program
specifically for managers in federal, state, and local government. The CPMPI
program consists of three levels, totaling 300 hours of training. Like CPM
programs in other states, it recognizes the public management profession and its
unique demands and challenges as well as your professional commitment and
achievement. The program is administered by the University of Illinois at
Springfield.
Who can enroll in CPMPI classes?
Supervisors, directors, administrators, and managers working at any level of
government or non-profit management can participate in courses. It is not
necessary to enroll in the CPMPI program to attend classes. Most are one-day or
ten-hour classes.
Where will classes be offered?
CPM participants now have the option of obtaining the CPM Certification online.
In addition, CPM trainings are also held throughout the State of Illinois and on the
UIS campus. We are also excited to announce the availability of CPM web
conferencing. Most of the CPMPI courses have web conferencing availability.
With Blackboard Collaborate Live!, our web conferencing system, participants
are connected online to a live CPMPI training. Blackboard Collaborate allows
users with different Internet connection speeds to collaborate online. Blackboard
Collaborate software is especially useful in providing audio exchanges, the
sharing of desktop computer applications, text-based chatting, and interactive
whiteboards. For more information about CPM courses via Blackboard
Collaborate please contact Lorena Johnson at (217) 206 - 6079 or
ljohn04s@uis.edu .
CPMPI classes also can be offered for individual agencies or government units
upon request.
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Who will teach?
All classes are taught by University of Illinois faculty or experienced public
manager practitioners.
What are the requirements for certification?
The CPMPI program consists of 300 hours in three levels. You must complete all
levels to be to obtain the CPM Certification. Level III is open only to those people
who have completed Levels I and II. The requirements are:
Level I
Number of Trainings
Effective
Supervision
5
Number of CPM
Hours
60
Number of Training
Days
6
We suggest you begin with CPM 100 Leadership and Management: A SelfAssessment. This class gives you both an understanding of your strengths as a
manager and an overview of the program. Upon completion of Level I you will
receive a certificate in Effective Supervision. (For more information on the
trainings offered pages 18 – 33.
Level II
Effective Leadership and
Management Trainings
Number of
Trainings
14
Number of CPM
Hours
140
Number of Training
Days
14
Level II focuses on the seven CPMPI core competencies. These core
competencies reflect the essential knowledge, skills and attributes needed to
remain effective and leaders and managers in the 21st Century. For more
information see pages 18 – 33.
Level III
Leadership Seminar
Capstone Project
Credit for Prior Learning
Learning Portfolio
Number of
Trainings
1
Number of CPM Hours
10
Up to 50
Up to 30
Up to 50
Number of
Training Days
1
0
0
0
Level III focuses on reflection and application. Candidates are required to
complete the following training and projects:
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois Learning Portfolio:
The learning portfolio is a collection of your learning drawn from your work in the
IACAA CPM trainings. It provides reflection and documentation of your efforts
and professional development. The portfolio is a compilation of materials that
exemplifies your knowledge, skills and experiences. It provides insight into your
approach to leadership and management and your work ethic. All in all, it is a
representation of your professional development. For more information about the
CPM Learning Portfolio please go to pages 34 – 41 of this handbook.
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois Capstone Project:
Capstone Project is the culminating written work for the CPMPI Program and it is
offered to participants who have completed 100 hours in the CPM Program. The
purpose of the capstone project is for participants to apply what they have
learned in the program to an issue, problem or situation. The Capstone Project
is an independently conducted activity which enables candidates to further
explore a matter of interest or benefit to his or her organization. For more
information about the Capstone Project please go to pages 42 – 50 of this
handbook.
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois Leadership Seminar:
In this seminar Candidates examine the concept of public leadership, integrating
ideas, knowledge, skills, and experiences from the CPMPI trainings to inform
participants’ discussions and activities. Candidates will reflect on what they
have learned and how they will apply what they have learned to improve their
work and their organizations.
Can I get CPM credit for prior learning?
Absolutely! The CPM is a professional development certification and as such
supports the ongoing growth and development of public managers. We know
that in your capacity as a professional you value learning and have sought
numerous opportunities to learn more about leadership and management. So we
want you to be able to count those experiences toward the CPM. You can obtain
up to 40 hours of credit for prior learning. You must first request approval for any
credit for prior trainings. For more information about credit for prior learning refer
to the CPL Guidelines and Forms located on the CPM website.
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If there is a topic/subject that I am interested in but is not list in the CPM
roster of trainings can I take independent study training?
Independent Study with CPM faculty supervision. A candidate who has
completed at least 100 CPM hours towards the CPM Certification may request
approval for independent study. For more information please go to pages 25 –
30 in this handbook.
Why should I enroll in the program?
 Opportunity to explore the knowledge and skills of effective and successful
management practices with practitioners and experts in the field of public
management;
 Enhancing leadership abilities by identifying your areas of strength and
areas of growth and development;
 Networking and exploring what works with other professional public
managers and learning from and with representatives of other nonprofit and
governmental agencies across the state and nationally;
 Applying to your work the latest ideas and best practices in the field of
public administration;
 Advancing your professional growth and development by having access to
University of Illinois at Springfield’s rich resources and leading experts in the
field of public administration.
What is the total cost of the program?
For CPMPI candidates the cost for the program is $3300 or $150 each day of
training. However, if you are not a candidate for the CPM Certificate the cost is
$200.00 for each day of training.
There is a one time $50.00 application fee to apply as a candidate for the CPM
Certification. The total cost of the 300 hour program, including the application
and project fees, is approximately $3350.
How long does it take to become certified?
On average, it takes 12 – 18 months to complete the program. You can work at
your own rate, taking classes as your work and personal schedules permit. Some
students finish in as short a period as 12 months; others have taken up to two
years to complete the program. The program requires that you make progress
every year, but there is no limit on the time necessary to complete the program.
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What are the benefits of getting a CPM?
Candidates in the CPMPI program report that they receive useful, work-based
tools, skills and knowledge from the CPM classes. They also report that they
meet and talk to a variety of public managers, and learn from them. The real
benefit of participating is that, if you apply what you learn in the classroom, you
will become a better manager, have a more satisfying work-life, and a more
productive and happier workforce.
How do I begin?
To begin, complete the application and return it to the CPMPI office. The
application can be downloaded from the CPMPI website
http://cspl.uis.edu/ILAPS/CPMPI/ or you may reproduce the form that appears on
pages 22 - 24 of this handbook. Once the application is approved, you will be
notified of your acceptance and guided on the next steps to take.
How do I register for classes?
Open enrollment classes are those open to CPMPI candidates and the general
public. The registration process for such classes is through the CPMPI Office.
Open enrollment classes are publicized in periodic brochures as well as the
CPMPI website http://cspl.uis.edu/illaps/CPMPI/index.htm. Registration
procedures are outlined in each brochure and on the website.
What if I need to cancel from an open enrollment class?
Notice of cancellation must be made to the CPMPI Program Office. The CPMPI
cancellation policy states: If you are unable to attend a class, you are welcome to
send a substitute. If you must cancel and do so up to ten business days prior to
the class, you will receive a full refund minus a $30 administrative fee. If you
cancel less than ten business days prior to the class, or do not participate, you
are responsible for the entire fee. Exceptions to this policy are made by CPMPI
staff on a case-by-case basis.
What classes should I take to start the CPMPI Program?
You can with any of the trainings in Levels I – II. However, you must take CPM
100 Leadership and Management: A Self-Assessment within one year of
applying for the program. This class gives you an understanding of your
strengths as a manager and an overview of the program.
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How do I move to Level II?
You may take Level II classes while still a Level I candidate. However, in order
to be considered a Level II candidate you must complete the following Level I
trainings:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
CPM 100 Leadership and Management Self-Assessment
CPM 101 Introduction to Effective Supervision: A Seminar 10hrs x 2 days
CPM 110 Team Building and Team Management
CPM 120 Succession/Orientation Planning, and Mentoring
CPM 130 Conflict Management
What are the requirements for Level II?
Level II consist of the 14 trainings which focus on the core CPM competencies.
CPM Candidates are free to choose among the core training areas.
What is Level III?
Level III reflects the culmination of your time in the CPM Program, focusing on
what you have learned and how you are going to apply what you have learned to
improve your work and organization.
What is the Capstone Project?
The capstone experience is an interactive project specifically designed by each
CPM candidate to demonstrate a synthesis of the knowledge, skills and aptitudes
acquired in the CPM Program. The Capstone Project provides the CPM
candidate with the opportunity to apply what they have learned to improve or
strengthen their program or organization and to utilize skills of observation and
analysis as demonstrated in a formal project paper.
When do I begin the Capstone Project?
Candidates must have a minimum of 100 CPM hours before beginning work on
your project.
Are all classes in Springfield?
No, the CPMPI can provide the program at any site and we are eager to offer the
program in other places if there is sufficient interest. Also, you have the option
of obtaining the CPM certification online. Visit the CPMPI website for more
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
information and let the CPMPI Office know of your interest in completing the
program online.
How do I get more information?
Please contact:
Certified Public Manager ® Program of Illinois
University of Illinois at Springfield
One University Plaza MS PAC 454
Springfield, IL 62703-5407
Phone: 217 206-6079
Fax: 217 206-7397
Web site: http://cspl.uis.edu/illaps/CPMPI/index.htm
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Certified Public Manager ® Program of Illinois Model
Competency-Based Learning
Increasingly, public manager professionals operate in an ever changing
multidisciplinary work environment, where they are required to work across a
variety of tasks and situations, and expected to perform numerous roles. In this
knowledge and skill intensive environment, human capital is recognized in the
form of competencies.
The Certified Public Manager ® Program of Illinois (CPMPI) uses a
Competency-Based approach to teaching and learning. This approach to
professional development is designed to provide the public manager professional
with the essential and core knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to a
successful public manager in the 21st century.
What is Competency-Based Learning (CBL)?
Competency-Based Learning or CBL is a learner-centered approach to
professional development training focusing on the standards of performance
crucial to being an effective manager in the public sector workplace. CPMPI
Competency-Based Learning is guided by four basic principles:
 Validation: Central to CBL is the inclusion of existing knowledge and skill
sets emerging and seasoned public managers bring to the learning process
and environment.
 Preparation: CBL focuses on those knowledge, skills and attitudes core to
the public manager professional of the 21st century.
 Reflection: CBL facilitates the active process of witnessing one’s own
learning process in order to learn from and through the experience.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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
Integration: CBL captures and connects learning to authentic work
experiences, creating usable and relevant knowledge that is a resource for
growth and development both in the classroom and throughout professional
life.
What are the CPMPI Core Content Competency Areas?
The CPMPI has eight core competency areas. They are as follows:

Ethics and Leadership: The knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding: the
importance of reflective practice in leadership development; understanding
the importance of leadership in the development and articulation of
organizational vision; understanding the role of leadership in the
development of an ethical organizational climate and culture; the importance
of ethical standards in leadership; the nature of effective leadership in the
public sector; public sector leadership in the 21st Century.

Effective Supervision: The knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding:
Staff’s understanding of what is expected of them; staff performing their
work effectively and efficiently; staff understanding how their role
contributes to the overall performance and success of their organization;
staff understanding the policies and procedures that govern their
employment position and the workplace; access to systems and resources
that support staff in their work; ensuring staff are treated fairly and
equitable; building a cohesive, productive and effective work team.

Cultural Competency: The knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding: the
Integration of cultural knowledge into the practice methods of a system,
agency, or its professionals; ways staff can work effectively in cross cultural
teams and situations; the integration of cultural knowledge about individuals
and groups of people into specific practices and policies applied to
appropriate cultural settings and situations; the creation of a culturally
inclusive workplace environment.

Building Effective Partnerships: The knowledge, skills, and attitudes
regarding: Methods and strategies of building effective partnerships
internally and externally; the importance of a shared vision for the
partnership and setting clear expectations for what both partners want to
achieve; understanding the process and structure of collaboration; and, the
development of systems to monitor the progress of the partnerships relative
to organizational objectives.

Human Resource Management: Productivity and Quality Improvement:
The knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding: Relationship between the
value an organization’s places upon its human capital/resources to the
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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results an organization is working to achieve; aligning the primary functions
of HR: recruiting/hiring and training the best employees, productivity and
performance issues, personnel and management practices connection with
various regulations, to organizational vision, mission, and success.

Program/Project Management: Problem Analysis and Problem Solving
The knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding: Planning, organizing, staffing,
managing, and leading programs or projects from start to finish; program
design and development; the development of program/project budgets and
the ways costs are tracked for programs and specific projects; how to use
indicators and established instruments to document program performance
and outcomes.

Organizational Management The knowledge, skills and attitudes
regarding: Processes, methods and structures that improve organizational
effectiveness and capability; understanding the relationship among
organizational vision, mission and purpose, organizational climate, culture
and values, strategic planning, employee performance, and productivity to
organizational success.
Public Policy and Administration: The knowledge, skills and attitudes
regarding: bbody of laws, regulations, decisions and actions of government
that impact a public sector organization’s mission, purpose, and function;
understanding the meaning and purpose of government, bureaucracy,
budgets, governance, and public affairs.

The core competencies areas exemplify the recognized knowledge, skills, and
standards of performance essential to be an effective manager in the public
sector workplace. These core competencies are the cornerstones for the CPMPI
course curriculum. All course offerings have identified competency areas that
inform the development of the learning objectives for each course. Course
performance is evaluated and assessed relative to the identified knowledge,
skills, and attitudes of each core competency, making explicit the standards for
achievement.
What are the benefits to CPMPI Competency-Based Learning?
The CPMPI Competency-Based Learning is a tool that enables you to do the
following:
 Enables you to evaluate your knowledge and skill levels for each of the
core competency areas;
 Partner with your instructors to identify their learning outcomes;
 Provide reflective analysis of their learning process, by actively assessing
and evaluating their progress and identifying areas for improvement and
development;
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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




Transfer and apply new skills and knowledge acquired in the classroom to
authentic work situations and environments;
Build confidence and skills as they succeed in mastering specific learning
competencies;
Produce a tangible product that contains the accumulation and synthesis
of their coursework and professional experience, which they can then use
as a life long resource for professional growth and development;
Create their own connection to knowledge out of the rich materials of their
coursework and professional work;
Gather and present evidence of what they have learned, demonstrate
growth and development overtime, and document how they have used
what they have learned to strengthen their professional work and life.
CPMPI Competency-Based Learning places you in the driver’s seat, guiding and
managing your achievement and success.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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CERTIFIED PUBLIC MANAGER PROGRAM OF ILLINOIS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENT OVERVIEW EXAMPLE
100 Leadership and Management Self-Assessment
10
Number
of
Training
Days
1
101 Introduction to Effective Supervision: A Seminar 10hrs x 2 days
110 Team Building and Team Management
120 Succession/Orientation Planning, and Mentoring
130 Conflict Management
20
10
10
10
2
1
1
1
20
10
10
10
60hrs
6 Days
60hrs.
Level I: Effective Supervision (62 Hours or 6 Training Days)
Level I Total Hours:
Number of
Training
Hours
300
Hours
10
At the end of Level I participants can receive a certificate of completion in Effective Supervision
Number of
Training
Hours
Number
of
Training
Days
200 Leadership: Ethics, Values, and the Public Manager
210 Cultural Competency and the Public Sector Workplace of the 21st Century
220 Outcome Based Program/Project Management
10hrs.
10hrs.
10hrs.
1
1
1
70
80
90
230 Organizational Management and Effectiveness
240 Human Resources Management: Productivity and Quality Improvement
250 Building Effective Partnerships in the Public Sector
260 Contemporary Issues in Public Policy and the Public Manager
10hrs.
10hrs.
10hrs.
10hrs
70hrs.
130 hrs.
1
1
1
1
7 Days
13 Days
Number of
Hours
Number
of
Training
Days
100
110
120
130
130
Total
Hours
Total
Hours
10hrs
1
10hrs
1
10hrs
10hrs
1
1
Level II Core Competencies: Effective Leadership and
Management
(70hrs. or 7 Training Days)
Level II Core Training Total Hours:
Total Program Hours and Days:
Level II: Effective Leadership and Management Core
Competency
(70 hrs. or 7 Days of Training)
Hours
Leadership and Ethics in the Public Sector
201 Models of Ethical and Effective Leadership in the Public Sector: Building
Organizational Trust
202 Leadership in Times of Change
140
Building Successful Partnerships
252 Presenting Yourself to One or Many
253 Community Engagement
150
Cultural Competency and the Public Sector Workplace of the 21st Century
212 Learning Styles and Culture: Creating Effective Work Teams
10hrs
1
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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215 Strategic Approach to Creating a Cultural Inclusive Organization
10hrs
1
160
10hrs
10hrs
1
1
170
Human Resources Management: Productivity and Quality Improvement
241 Employee Engagement
242 Employee Performance Appraisal and Evaluation
Organizational Management and Effectiveness: The Strategic Planning Process and Achieving Goals
235 Annual Reports
236 Board Development and Management
10
10hrs
1
1
237 Strategic Planning
10hrs
1
10hrs
10hrs
1
1
10hrs
10hrs
1
1
180
Program/Project Management: Problem Analysis and Problem Solving
223 Program Evaluation
224 Program Budget
227 Grant Management for Managers
190
Public Policy and The Public Manager
261 The Illinois Legislative Process
262 Policy Analysis for Non-Analysts
264 Advocacy in the Public Sector
Level II Elective Training Total Hours: 70hrs.
Total Program Hours and Days: 200 hrs.
Level III: Practicum (30 hours and 1 Day Seminar)
300 Capstone Project
310 Candidate Leadership Seminar
Level III Elective Training Total Hours:
Number
of Hours
Up to
50hrs
10hrs
60hrs.
200
7 Days
20 Days
200
Total
Hours
Number of
Training
Days
0
Total
Hours
1
1 Day
260
260hrs.
250
Credit for Prior Learning and CPM Learning Portfolio Hours
Credit for Prior Learning (prior approval needed)
CPM Learning Portfolio (U
Up to
30hrs
Up to
50hrs
70hrs
0
290
0
340
0
Additional Credit Hour
Total Program Hours and Days: 21 Days
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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300 –
340 hrs.
THE CERTIFIED PUBLIC MANAGER ® PROGRAM OF
ILLINOIS POLICIES
ADMISSION AND COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Emerging and seasoned supervisors, administrators, and managers working at
any level of government or non-profit management can participate in courses
offerings. It is not necessary to enroll in the CPMPI program to attend classes.
Most are one-day, ten hour trainings.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Candidates in the Certified Public Manager ® Program of Illinois are expected to
attend the entirety of each class for which they enroll.
Those who have unavoidable conflicts may seek to be excused by the instructor.
In no case may instructors grant excused absences for more than one hour (for a
ten-hour class).
EXAMINATION POLICY
The National Certified Public Manager Consortium requires that programs
evaluate whether candidates have learned the material taught in the program.
This can be accomplished through written assignments, projects, or other
assessments methods.
PARTICIPANT EVALUATION AND REPORTING POLICY
All assignments, projects, and learning portfolios are graded on a satisfactory,
improvement needed, and unsatisfactory basis by CPMPI instructors.
Participants are notified, by mail, within 60 days from the date a submission is
received, whether they have received CPM credit. If improvement is needed,
participants are given feedback on what areas could be strengthened to obtain a
satisfactory grade. If unsatisfactory, participants are asked to resubmit. If
unsuccessful on the third attempt, the appropriate courses must be repeated.
All submissions become the property of the CPMPI program office and are not
returned to the sender. Participants should keep a copy for their records.
CPMPI will not report evaluation and assignment results to the candidate's
sponsoring organization unless the candidate has given prior written consent to
such notification. CPMPI recommends that readings, projects, and assignments
be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested or by email.
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COURSE WAIVER POLICY
No course waivers are permitted
INACTIVE STATUS POLICY
Candidates in the Certified Public Manager ® Program of Illinois are expected to
progress steadily toward completion of the program. Candidates who make no
progress in an eighteen month period, without sufficient reason as established by
the Program Director, shall be placed on Inactive Status. Candidates on Inactive
Status who wish to resume participation without starting over in the program may
request in writing to the Program Director that they be granted Active Status.
Such request must provide reason(s) to regard the individual as current in the
subject matter of the CPMPI courses s/he has taken. Candidates on Active
Status who anticipate personal or professional circumstances which may require
postponing CPM activities for as long as eighteen months should so advise the
Program Director. The Program Director may, in turn, advise the participant of
readings or other relevant materials or activities which may assist the participant
in remaining current in the CPM curriculum.
GENERAL APPEALS POLICY
All decisions of the Program Director of the Certified Public Manager Program of
Illinois can be appealed. First appeal is to the Director of the Program, and must
be in writing. If the issue is not resolved to the satisfaction of the candidate and
his or her agency, the decisions of the Director can be appealed to the Director of
The Institute for Legal, Legislative and Policy Studies (ILLAPS). The appeal must
be in writing, and should be directed to the Program Director of the Certified
Public Managers of Illinois Program. The decision of the Director of the Institute
for Legal, legislative and Policy Studies is final.
CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
In compliance with Section 438 of the General Education Provision Act (as
amended) entitled Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and 5
ILCS 140 Illinois Freedom of Information Act, regarding public records, all
materials produced by students in the Certified Public Manager ® Program of
Illinois Program, and all records regarding student performance in the Certified
Public Manager ® Program of Illinois are not open to general public review.
The standards for the examination and/or release of student records as set forth
by the University of Illinois at Springfield apply to all student records of
participants in the Certified Public Manager ® Program of Illinois. CPMPI
administrative staffs employed by the University of Illinois at Springfield have
access to student records in order to maintain those records and manage the
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
program. Copies of all records made at a student's request may be subject to a
reasonable fee to cover copying and mailing costs.
Use of student-produced materials in classes or in other public forums is strictly
prohibited unless specific written permission is given by the student. That
permission must include the names of the materials or documents to be used,
and the specifics of the situation or setting in which they are to be used.
MANAGEMENT ASSESSMENT POLICY
A CPMPI Candidate must take the CPM 100 Leadership and Management: Self
Assessment class within one year of being admitted to the program.
CREDIT FOR PRIOR LEARNING POLICY (CPL)
A CPMPI candidate may count up to 30 hours of professional development
training towards the CPM credit hour requirements. CPMPI candidate must
obtain prior approval and submit the credit for prior learning portfolio. The
portfolio will be reviewed and the candidate will be notified of the number of credit
hours approved. Professional development training taken within the last two
years can count as credit for prior learning. More information about the CPL
policy can be obtain the Credit for Prior Learning Guidelines and Forms
Handbook
INDEPENDENT STUDY
Candidates can also submit Independent Study as credit for prior learning.
Independent Study is structured around topics or subject related to leadership
and management not included in the roster of CPM training. Independent Study
option is facilitated by CPM faculty with expertise in the discipline or area
identified. Candidates can apply up to three independent study opportunities.
CPMPI candidates must obtain prior approval and submit the Independent Study
approval form. More information about the independent study option can be
obtained on page 26 of this handbook.
LEVEL III: CAPSTONE PROJECT
The Capstone Project is the culminating written work for the CPMPI program.
The purpose of the capstone project is to have the CPMPI participant
demonstrate his or her ability to apply the core competencies knowledge, skills
and attitudes acquired in the program of study and to utilize skills of observation
and analysis as demonstrated in a formal project paper. It is written by the
CPMPI participant who has completed Level 1 and Level II program
requirements. The project paper is written as the course requirement for CPMPI
Certification.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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STATEMENT OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
The Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois is dedicated to developing
competent, professional mangers for Illinois's local and state governments and
non-profit organizations. Candidates in, as well as graduates of, the program are
expected to abide by the highest professional standards of ethical conduct.
Minimum standards of acceptable conduct for state and local government
officials are established by 5 ILCS 430 Illinois State Officials and Employee
Ethics Act 10/19/2003. These statutes provide severe penalties for failure to
abide by these standards. Local jurisdictions often adopt ordinances or codes
establishing standards of ethical conduct as well. In addition, various professional
societies have established standards of ethical conduct for their members; they
include national societies established for professions as varied as accounting,
city management, engineering, law enforcement, social work and other
professions whose members are associated with the Certified Public Manager ®
Program of Illinois. It is expected that candidates in, as well as graduates of, the
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois will accept and adhere to the
following code of professional responsibility:

I will become familiar with and adhere to the standards of ethical conduct
established by Illinois Statutes for persons holding a position related to or
similar to mine.

I will become familiar with and adhere to the standards of ethical conduct
established by each of the professional societies to which I am admitted as a
member.

I will not tolerate unethical conduct on the part of others who claim
membership in a professional society of which I am a member; I will take
appropriate action to disclose a violation of ethical standards.

I recognize that unethical conduct on my part or failure to meet my
professional responsibilities as a public manager may result in termination of
my affiliation with the Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Candidate Application
CERTIFIED PUBLIC
MANAGER® PROGRAM OF
ILLINOIS
Personal Information
Name:
Position:
Agency:
Mailing Address**
street
city/state/zip
Business Phone (
FAX ( )
)
Home Phone ( )
E-mail
 Female
 Male
BIRTHDATE:
Month:
Day:
Year:
Heritage
 American Indian
 Asian/Pacific Islander
 African American
 Hispanic
 European American
 Check here if you DO NOT want your name and address printed in the CPMPI Program Directory
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Supervisory Experience
 I currently hold a supervisory position.
 I previously held (a) supervisory position(s).
Work History
Employer
Position
Dates Employed
Duties Performed
Education
Educational Institution
Name and Location
Degree/Diploma
Major/Specialization
Year Obtained
Certificates/Certifications/Licenses
Name or Type of
Certificate/Certification/License
Educational Institution - Association
Year Obtained
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Professional Development Training
May include correspondence, seminars, conferences, workshops, continuing education, formal military
training, clinics, television/radio trainings and courses, etc., taken within the last 3 years.
Title
Short Description
Year Attended
This section should be as detailed as possible. Feel free to attach additional sheets to this form
Volunteer Experience:
May include church, community, politics, and school, include length of time and duties/skills acquired.
Experience
Short Description
Dates
This section should be as detailed as possible. Feel free to attach additional sheets to this form
Independent Learning
Independent research, projects, (e.g. Self-taught computer skills, extensive reading, public writing and/or speaking,
foreign languages, business owner/operator, include length of time, and skills acquired.
Skills
Short Description
Dates
This section should be as detailed as possible. Feel free to attach additional sheets to this form
24
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Recreational Activities
May include acting, theater production, music performance, travel/tours, coaching, organized sports, including
acquired knowledge.
Activities
Short Description
Dates
This section should be as detailed as possible. Feel free to attach additional sheets to this form
Membership in Related Organizations
Activities
Short Description
Dates
This section should be as detailed as possible. Feel free to attach additional sheets to this form
Current Resume
Please attach a current resume to the CPM Candidate application. A current resume must
be attached to in order for the application to be complete.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Write a short essay about your purpose for seeking a CPM Certification:
Please submit this form with a $50.00 check payable to UIS to:
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
1 University Plaza
MS PAC 451
Springfield, IL 62703
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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CPM Independent Study Option
An Independent Study (IS) is a training taken with CPM faculty supervision for
knowledge enhancement beyond the trainings offered in the CPM training
catalog.
A candidate who has completed at least 100 CPM hours towards the CPM
Certification may request to take training through Independent Study.
Requirements and Expectations:
All Independent Study requests must be submitted to and approved by the CPM
Director. The request will also be reviewed by the CPM faculty instructor before
approval is given.
A faculty member must be designated and approved by CPM Director. The
candidate will be notified when the subject matter and the faculty member have
been approved.
The student must submit a written independent learning contract detailing the
expectations and requirements for the completed independent study training,
including the number of CPM credits to be earned and a time-line for completion.
(Please see Independent Study Learning Contract on page). The CPM Director
and the CPM faculty assigned will review the candidate’s request. If there are
changes needed in the candidate’s request the Director or the faculty will work in
collaboration with the candidate to revise the request - learning contract.
Upon approval of the independent study training the candidate will receive the
final learning contract detailing the mutually agreed upon the independent study
requirements and expectations. The candidate is required to sign the learning
contract and forward it to the CPM Director.
The course approval and registration process will be completed within 20 days of
the candidate’s request. Payment for the course is due 7 days before the
independent study begins.
Candidates are expected to develop a meeting schedule with the instructor.
(Please timeline section of the candidate’s learning contract) Students should
expect to spend at least the same amount of time for the Independent Study
training as he/she would spend on a regular CPM training.
Reminder: Approval of the CPM Director must be received prior to
beginning work on the Independent Study Training.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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CPM INDEPENDENT STUDY REQUEST FOR APPROVAL FORM
Address your request for approval to:
CPM Director
Certified Public Manager Program of Illinois
University of Illinois at Springfield
One University Plaza
PAC Room 452
Springfield, IL 62703
Name:
Address:
City/ State/Zip:
Email:
Rational for Independent Study:
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Description of the Independent Study Topic:
4 – 7 Learning Objectives:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
Topic Outline:
Books/Articles, etc.:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Independent Study Assignments – Project:
Goal
Activity
Product/Evaluation
1.
2.
3.
4.
Independent Study Timeline:
Activity
Date
Training Start Date:
First Meeting Instructor:
Training Completion Date:
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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The CPM Director and the CPM faculty assigned will review your request. If
there are changes needed the Director or the faculty will work in collaboration
with you to revise the request - learning contract.
The signature below indicates your request for approval and review of the
independent study training described above:
____________________________
Candidate Signature
__________________________
Date
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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CERTIFIED PUBLIC MANAGER® PROGRAM OF ILLINOIS
COURSE WORKSHEET
Phase
Hours
required
Focus
Level I
Effective Supervision
60 hours
Level II
Effective Leadership and Management
140 hours
Up to 50 hours
Capstone Project
Level III
Leadership Seminar
10 hours
Professional Development Learning
Additional Hours Portfolio
Credit for Prior Learning
Up to 50 hours
Up to 30 hours
Total Hours: 300 – 340 hours
LEVEL I
60 Hours
Focuses on supervisory training and assessment of managerial skills; it concludes with a written project.
Date
Completed
Coursework and Activities
Hours
101 Introduction to Effective Supervision: A Seminar 10hrs x 2 days
110 Team Building and Team Management
120 Succession/Orientation Planning, and Mentoring
130 Conflict Management
Total Number of Hours
LEVEL II 140 Hours
Complete seven required core courses and fifteen elective courses. Complete a take-home review
demonstrating what you have learned.
Required Core Courses
Date
Completed
Hours
200 Leadership: Ethics, Values, and the Public Manager
210 Cultural Competency and the Public Sector Workplace of the 21st
Century.
220 Program/Project Management: Problem Analysis and Problem
Solving
230 Organizational Management and Effectiveness: The Strategic
Planning Process and Achieving Goals
240 Human Resources Management: Productivity and Quality
Improvement
250 Building Effective Partnerships in the Public Sector
260 Contemporary Issues in Public Policy and the Public Manager
Total Number of Hours
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Effective Leadership and Management Electives
Leadership: Ethics, Values, and the Public Manager
Course
Date Completed
1.
2.
Total Number of Hours
Cultural Competency
Course
1.
2.
Date Completed
Hours
Hours
Total Number of Hours
Building Effective Partnerships
Course
1.
2.
Date Completed
Hours
Total Number of Hours
Public Policy
Course
Date Completed
Hours
1.
2.
Total Number of Hours
Organizational Management
Course
1.
2.
Date Completed
Hours
Total Number of Hours
Human Resource Management
Course
1.
2.
Date Completed
Hours
Total Number of Hours
Project/Program Management
Course
1.
2.
Dated Completed
Hours
Total Number of Hours
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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LEVEL III 150Hours
Date
Completed
Required Courses and Activities
Hours
Capstone Project (Up to 50 Hours)
Leadership Seminar (10 Hours)
Total Number of Hours
Credit for Prior Learning [Up to 30 hours]
Course
Date attended
Number of hours
Total Number of Hours
Learning Portfolio [Up to 50 hours]
Required Courses and Activities
Date
Completed
Hours
Learning Portfolio (Up to 50 Hours)
Total Number of Hours
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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CPM Professional Development Learning Portfolio
Purpose of the Portfolio
The learning portfolio is a collection of your learning drawn from your work in the
CPM trainings. It provides reflection and documentation of your efforts and
professional development. The portfolio is a compilation of materials that
exemplifies your knowledge, skills and experiences. It provides insight into your
approach to leadership and management and your work ethic. All in all, it is a
representation of your professional development.
Further, the process of building your portfolio can help you become a more
effective leader and manager by helping you:







Demonstrate you mastery of the training learning outcomes
Provide evidence of how the work on an assignment evolved
Choose which artifacts (e.g., assignments, projects, works samples,
reflection of internship experiences, etc.) best represent you learning in
and outside the classroom choosing artifacts that show improvement in
their competencies and abilities throughout their enrollment in the program
Linking theories with applied learning experiences
Self‐analyze and reflect on you own learning,
Be more proactive in planning and pursuing professional development
goals Demonstrate professional development competencies and
capabilities
Track how you might integrate what you learned to improve your work and
your organization
Goals of the Portfolio Process
Because the portfolio is a purposeful and self‐reflective collection of a
candidate’s work generated during the process of completing the CPM training
course work, each candidate’s portfolio should:

Serve as a translation of candidate’s performance standards and learning
outcomes through the demonstration of authentic artifacts (e.g., examples
that illustrate what the student has learned and can do).
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013


Provide an integrated performance‐based picture of how well the
candidate has performed throughout the program and how the candidate
can communicate the results of learning.
Illustrate the candidate’s ability to synthesize her/his learning of the
training content and its application to practice to the candidate’s work.
Learning Portfolio Model
A simple model for the learning portfolio, predicated on three fundamental
components:
1. Reflection
2. Documentation
3. Collaboration
Reflection
Reflection is the practice of stepping back and out to engage in meta-cognitive
appraisal the learning experience. Reflection helps you to focus on the process
of learning through the practice of guided inquiry enabling you, the learner, to
discover, understand, and communicate what, how, when, why you learned and
most importantly, how what you learned can be used in your work.
Documentation
The Learning Portfolio will provide you with templates and guides to assist you in
the development of documents, products, materials, and artifacts that
demonstrate your learning effectiveness. These documents, materials, and data
are called evidence.
Collaboration
Learning and meaningful reflection is best facilitated by actively engaging in
constructive discussion and dialogue with others. Collaboration enables you to
gain a deeper understanding of an issue or concept by the diverse responses
your peers bring to the discussion, reflecting a wide range of perspectives and is
thus is a more complete and comprehensive exploration of a topic.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Guidelines to Developing Your Portfolio
Organization of the Portfolio
You will be provided the CPM Professional Development Learning Portfolio
Workbook upon your acceptance into the program. The workbook will guide you
in the development of your learning portfolio.
Since the portfolio is a reflection of your learning and performance, to some
extent the portfolio contents will be individualized to reflect the candidate’s
personalized learning experience. Yet, since the portfolios will be used to
evaluate candidates’ learning, a format has been prescribed to ensure
appropriate learning artifacts are included, and therefore evaluated in order to
inform the achievement of learning outcomes and professional development.
The portfolio is organized as followed:

Sections:
There are seven sections based on the seven CPM core competencies trainings and program requirements:
1. My Professional Life
2. Leadership and Management
3. Effective Supervision
4. Outcome Based Program Management
5. Financial Management
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
6. Human Resource Management
7. Building Effective Partnerships
At the conclusion of each section candidates are required to complete the
following:
 Learning Self Assessments
The Learning Self- Assessment tool assists you in evaluating your level of
competency in the following seven areas: personal and organizational
integrity; managing work; leading people; developing self; systemic
integration; public service focus; and, change leadership
 Artifacts – Work Samples
Artifact – Work Samples provide evidence of how you applied or used
knowledge and skills obtained in the training to improve your work.
Artifacts you select demonstrate how your understanding of a topic was
advanced and/or represent a new knowledge or skill acquired as a result
of the training content presented. Artifact – Work Samples can be
documents or other work samples/products you created as a result of the
new knowledge and skill obtained in the CPM trainings.

Topics: Sections have 2 – 10 topic content areas. For each topic
candidates are required to include in their portfolio the following items:
 Assignments – Small Projects
Each topic has assignments. You can choose which assignment to
include in the portfolio. The assignment you choose should best reflect
the knowledge and skills acquired in the topic examined and discussed.
 Journal Reflections
A reflective narrative on the learning process that might include the
following elements: achievements in learning; evidence of learning;
assessment of learning; demonstrations about the relevance and
applications of learning to your work. It is a coherent and substantive
reflection on what you learned how you’ve learned, why you’ve learned
and what value your learning has added to your professional
development. You are expected in this section to talk not only about your
strengths and achievements but also your areas of growth and
development.
Remember, the portfolio is 26 – 40 CPM credit hours and consists is evidence of
your writing accomplishments and an important component where deep and
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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lasting learning really occurs. When you simply acquire information or
knowledge, you have activated only a part of your learning potential. Going
beyond knowledge to comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis,
evaluation, and creativity engages you in a richer, fuller, deeper, more lasting
learning experience, and that is what you will have done with your learning
portfolio. When you reflect on your learning, you enhance the meaning of what
you've learned and its relevance to your intellectual, social, personal, and ethical
development. Essentially, what you learn becomes relevant and authentic.
Portfolio Evaluation
Throughout the development of your learning portfolio you will be self-assessing
and reflecting on how well you are learning and growing in the seven areas
described above.
The final evaluation of your learning portfolio is based on a rubrics scale criteria
demonstrating competencies in the following seven areas:
Personal and Organizational Integrity:
 Increasing awareness

Building skills and modeling behaviors related to identifying potential
ethical problems and conflicts of interest

Understanding appropriate workplace behavior
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Managing Work
 Meeting organizational goals through effective planning, prioritizing,
organizing and aligning human, financial, material and information
resources.

Empowering others by delegating clear job expectations; providing
meaningful feedback, mentoring and coaching

Creating a motivational and supportive environment

Measuring performance

Monitoring workloads and documenting performance

Dealing effectively with performance problems
Leading People
 Inspiring others to positive action through a clear vision and mission

Values and promotes a diverse workforce

Encouraging and facilitating collaboration, cooperation, trust and group
identity

Fostering and building commitment and team spirit

Articulating a vision, ideas and facts in a clear and organized way;

Effectively managing emotions and impulses
Developing Self
 Demonstrating commitment to continuous learning

Self-awareness and individual performance planning through feedback,
study and analysis.
Systemic Integration
 Approaching planning, decision-making and implementation from an
enterprise perspective
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013

Understanding internal and external relationships that impact the
organization

Aligning organizational processes, systems and practices with mission,
values, vision and goals
Public Service Focus
 Delivering superior services to the public and internal and external
recipients;

Including customer/client identification expectations, needs and
developing and implementing paradigms, processes and procedures that
exude positive spirit and climate;

Demonstrating agency and personal commitment to quality service
Change Leadership
 Acting as a change agent;

Initiating and supporting change within the organization by implementing
strategies to help others adapt to changes in the work environment,
including personal reactions to change

Emphasizing and fostering creativity and innovation; being proactive
Portfolio Evaluation Process
Upon completion of your CPM training course work candidates’ must submit their
completed portfolio to the CPM Program Director. The portfolio will be reviewed
and evaluated to ensure all information, artifacts, assignments and activities are
complete and that the content of a candidate’s portfolio is clear and
understandable. If the portfolio is lacking any supporting documentation and you
will be advised what is needed and you will have the opportunity to strengthen
and enhance the portfolio.
The portfolio is measured against the criteria indicated below in Portfolio
Evaluation Scale. The CPM Program Director will award or deny CPM credit
hours. Candidates are given copies of the evaluation forms with comments. Once
candidates have submitted portfolios they become the property of the University
of Illinois CPM Program and will be maintained in your file. The CPM Program
encourages candidates to make copies of every document before submitting
them to the institution for assessment.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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The following criteria will be used to evaluate your completed portfolio
Final Portfolio Evaluation Scale
Scale
4
Competencies
Required Items
Concepts
Reflections
Overall Presentation
Personal and Organizational
All required items
Items clearly demonstrate
Reflections illustrate
Items are clearly introduced,
Integrity
are included, with a
that the desired learning
the ability to effectively
well organized, and creatively
Managing Work
significant number
outcomes for the CPM
critique work, and to
displayed, showing
of additions.
trainings have been
suggest constructive
connection between items.
achieved. The participant
practical alternatives.
Leading People
Developing Self
Systemic Integration
has gained a significant
Public Service Focus
understanding of the
Change Leadership
concepts and applications.
3
Personal and Organizational
All required items
Items clearly demonstrate
Reflections illustrate
Items are introduced and
Integrity
are included, with a
most of the desired
the ability to critique
well organized, showing
Managing Work
few additions.
learning outcomes for the
work, and to suggest
connection between items.
CPM trainings. The
constructive practical
participant has gained a
alternatives.
Leading People
Developing Self
Systemic Integration
general understanding of
Public Service Focus
the concepts and
Change Leadership
applications.
2
Personal and Organizational
All required items
Items demonstrate some of
Reflections illustrate an
Items are introduced and
Integrity
are included.
the desired learning
attempt to critique
somewhat organized,
outcomes for the CPM
work, and to suggest
showing some connection
trainings. The participant
alternatives.
between items.
Managing Work
Leading People
Developing Self
has gained some
Systemic Integration
Public Service Focus
understanding of the
Change Leadership
concepts and attempts to
apply them.
1
Personal and Organizational
A significant number
Items do not demonstrate
Reflections illustrate a
Items are not introduced and
Integrity
of required items
basic learning outcomes for
minimal ability to
lack organization.
are missing.
the CPM trainings. The
critique work
Managing Work
Leading People
participant has limited
Developing Self
Systemic Integration
understanding of the
Public Service Focus
Change Leadership
0
Personal and Organizational
concepts
No work submitted
Integrity
Managing Work
Leading People
Developing Self
Systemic Integration
Public Service Focus
Change Leadership
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CPM Capstone Project
Introduction
The capstone experience is an interactive project specifically designed by each
CPM candidate to demonstrate a synthesis of the knowledge, skills and aptitudes
acquired in the CPM Program. The Capstone Project provides the CPM
candidate with the opportunity to apply what they have learned to improve or
strengthen their program or organization and to utilize skills of observation and
analysis as demonstrated in a formal project paper.
The Capstone Project is the culminating written work for the CPM program. It is
written by the CPM Candidate who has completed at least 170 CPM hours. The
Capstone Project paper is written as the course requirement CPM Certification.
The Capstone Project consists of the following elements:
Assessment: This part of the project includes a needs statement with rationale
(sources for this information: literature, population of interest, etc.).
Planning: This part of the project includes: a comprehensive review of the
literature; integration knowledge and information obtained in the CPM trainings;
resources to be used; a realistic budget for the project when applicable; a work
plan with measurable goals and behavioral objectives, timeline, specific activities,
desired outcomes and evaluation plan.
Implementation: This part of the project includes the action part of the project,
with a description of the implementation. Candidates identify the barriers and
opportunities found during the implementation.
Evaluation: A description of how the project will be evaluated over time.
Capstone Project Evaluation: The course instructor, along with the second
reader, determines the mark for the project. There are three choices of assigned
marks: “pass with distinction” “pass” or “fail.” It the project is not completed within
the semester in which it is commenced, then the participant is given an “IP” and
is notified that the project must be completed within two semesters.
Capstone Project Completion: The CPMI Program confers upon the participant
the successful completion of the capstone project and has been given a mark for
the project
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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CPM Capstone Checklist
Capstone Project Components
Deadline Completed
1. Problem or Issue Identified

2. Capstone Project Proposal Submitted

3. Capstone Project Proposal Approved

4. Capstone Project Logic Model or Plan

5. Essay Draft Submitted


6. Essay Draft Approved
7. Lessons Learned

8. Final Capstone Project Submitted

9. Final Capstone Project Approval

10. Capstone Project Presentation Proposal

11. Capstone Project Presentation Approval

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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Capstone Project Proposal
Name:____________________
Date: ____________________
Proposed Project Title: ______________________________________________
In the area below, prepare a clear and concise project proposal ensuring a
discussion of the following: 1) areas of project concern or problem significance;
2) proposed methods or implementation plan; 3) expected outcomes including
application to organizational improvements; 4) work products from completing
this project; 5) relationship of the project to completed CPMPI professional
development opportunities. Participants are requested to limit their proposal
to 500 words.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Capstone Project Essay
This document should consist of 10-15 typed, double-spaced pages (excluding
title page, table of contents and templates) using a 12 pt font. The content of the
essay should contain the following:

Title Page

Abstract

Table of Contents

Main Body
- Description of organization, agency or governmental unit involved: brief
history, mission and services
- Description of problem or issue
- Analysis of core problem or issue
- Description of the Capstone Project
- Description of how the Capstone Project provides a solution or addresses
the problem or issue
- Capstone Project outcomes
- Description of the Capstone Project outcome data and method of data
collection
- Lessons learned (CPMPI professional development and capstone
experience)
- Summary and Conclusion
- Other supportive documents
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
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Capstone Project Logic Model
Date:
Name:
Title:
Outcomes - Impact
What Will Improve or Change? Who Will the Improvement or Change Impact?
Knowledge and Skills, Behavior, Conditions/Situations
Long Term Outcomes
Short Term Outcomes
Outcome Indicators
What Will Change Look Like?
(Percentages – Numbers)
Outputs - Activities
Identify the timeframe and scope of activities (What
do you have to do in order to make it happen and by
when?)
Inputs - Resources
What We Invest
(Time, Staff, Money, Space, etc.)
As an attachment, please discuss the target and non-target populations who benefit from this project /
program. Also identify outcome indicators which will track the plan’s success toward the short term,
intermediate and long term outcomes.
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
Capstone Project Planning Template
Name:
Date:
Project / Program Title:
Action Steps
Assigned to
Timeline
Indicator(s)
Goal 1:
Objective a:
i.
ii.
iii.
Objective b:
Objective c:
Goal 2:
Objective a:
i.
ii.
iii.
Objective b:
Objective c:
Goal 3:
Objective a:
i.
ii.
iii.
Objective b:
Objective c:
Goal 4:
Objective a:
i.
ii.
iii.
Objective b:
Objective c:
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
Capstone Project Presentation Guidelines
Please review materials provided in the training Presenting Yourself to One
and to Many, for additional information and resources in developing your
Capstone Presentation.
Time and Number of Power Point Slides :
 5 – 8 Minutes
 4 – 6 Power Point Slides
Presentation Structure:
 Welcome and Introductions
 Presentation Objectives
 Introduction to Main Presentation
 Title of Capstone Project
 Short description of the Capstone Project
 The Main Presentation (The Message – The Story)
- What is the purpose of your Capstone Project?
- What are the Capstone Project outcomes you are hoping to achieve?
- What impact will or has your Capstone Project achieved in your organization
or community?
- How will you evaluate its success?
 Summary, Conclusion, Next Steps
 How has the CPM Program strengthened your knowledge and skills in the
following competency areas: leadership, program management, human
resources, supervision, cultural competency, and organizational
development?
Capstone Presentation
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
Criteria for Evaluating the Capstone Project
Area
1. Unsatisfactory
2. Satisfactory
Written Project Objectives
No objectives or lacks clear
project objectives
Clear project objectives
to support the design,
analysis and
development of the
project
Project Objectives
Did not meet project
objectives
Did not follow capstone
project essay format
Met project objectives
Project Structure
Impact: Contribution of
project to organization/
community needs
Planning and Organization
Project will have little
impact
Research - Scholarship
Did not adequately review
literature; did not
adequately research local
background and context;
did not employ appropriate,
evidence, or theory-based
methods in project
Project objectives
provide a detailed
framework for the
design, analysis, and
development of the
project.
Exceeded project
objectives
Exceptionally well
structured
Project will have
considerable impact
Appropriately planned
and organized work;
met project milestones
Adequately reviewed
literature; adequately
researched local
background and
context; employed
appropriate, evidence
or theory-based
methods in project
Exceptionally well
organized
Does not adequately
address all sections as
indicated on outline
Adequately addresses
all sections
Organization and
presentation
Poorly organized; sloppy;
tables and graphs not well
constructed
Clearly organized;
adequate tables and
graphs
Writing
Not well written (unclear,
with grammar, punctuation,
and spelling errors
common)
Clearly understandable,
with few, if any,
technical writing errors
Demonstrates complete
command of the
subject matter;
exceptional creativity
or originality and/or
new insights;
publishable
Professional visual
impression; journalquality tables and
graphs
Clear, concise,
professional writing
Minimal content
Interesting, useful
content
Well organized; clearly
and concisely
presented; good visuals
Written Product
Content
Oral presentation
Content
Did not adequately plan
and organize work
Capstone project essay
format adequately
structured
Project will have some
impact
3. Outstanding
Organization and clarity
Poorly organized; not
clearly presented; visuals
poorly constructed
Presentation style
Rambling, distracting,
unprofessional
Concise; projects voice
Exceptionally thorough
review of literature and
assessment of
background and
context; use—or
advanced—state-ofthe-art methods
Outstanding content
Well organized; clearly
presented;
professional-quality
visuals
Engaging, enthusiastic,
confident
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Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013
52
Certified Public Manager® Program of Illinois
Revised: January 30, 2013