PDS offers four certificate programs to develop the professional and leadership skills of state employees. Whether you’re just starting your career or stepping into a management role, these programs provide structured learning to support your growth. More information on individual courses including descriptions, delivery, and cost can be found in the instructor-led and on-demand portions of the catalog.
PDS Certificate Series
The Talent Development Certificate (TDC) equips employees with foundational skills to thrive in public service employment. The certificate focuses on how your individual contributions impact team success and the importance of service excellence as a state employee.
Who? For all State employees, especially for employees new to the public sector
The following courses were previously included in the certificate program but were discontinued effective July 1, 2026.
If you have already completed one or more of these courses, they will continue to count toward your certificate. If you have not completed a discontinued course, you will not be required to take it. Current participants will automatically follow the updated certificate program requirements.
Inclusive Leadership and Belonging in the Workplace (Formerly Cultural Competency)
The Advanced Talent Development Certificate (ATDC) builds upon foundational competencies in communication, organization, and personal accountability. This certificate prepares participants to navigate workplace dynamics, contribute to team success, and develop habits that lead to long-term career success.
Who? For all State employees, especially for employees who have been in the public sector for 2 or more years.
The following courses were previously included in the certificate program but were discontinued effective July 1, 2026.
If you have already completed one or more of these courses, they will continue to count toward your certificate. If you have not completed a discontinued course, you will not be required to take it. Current participants will automatically follow the updated certificate program requirements.
Advanced Principles of Communication Part 1: Authenticity
Advanced Principles of Communication Part 2: Coaching
The Leadership Capacity Building Development Certificate (LCBDC) equips emerging state leaders with the foundational communication, supervision, and team-building skills necessary to effectively guide and influence teams within Iowa state government.
Who? For for State employees who are interested in developing leadership skills or who are new to leadership positions
The Management Development Certificate (MDC) empowers supervisors with essential leadership competencies to effectively lead teams, resolve conflicts, uphold organizational integrity, and drive continuous improvement within the workplace.
Who? For State employees who are classified as a manager or supervisor
This course is undergoing updates and will be available in the coming weeks.
As of FY26, Creative Thinking is no longer required for the MDC.
Enrollment
To enroll in a certificate program:
Click on the enroll buttons above or visit Workday Learning and search for the certificate program you wish to enroll in. Enroll in the certificate program.
Register for each course in the program based on your availability.
All course work for a series must be completed within a five-year period. Once completed, employees receive a certificated signed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, DAS director, and your department’s director.
Certificate process
Enroll in the certificate program in Workday Learning
Sign up for each course in the program per your availability
Once complete, we will prepare your certificate
You will receive the certificate signed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, DAS director, and your department's director.
Special notes
All course work for a series must be completed within a (5) five-year period.
Courses may be taken in any order.
Past certificate series
The PDC, APDC, LDC, and ALDC are no longer being offered after July 1, 2020. If you began one of these series prior to this date, your certificate will be honored as long as all course work is completed within the 5-year period.
I love these certificate series classes. I'm learning a lot and I love the networking they provide. These classes have not only benefited me professional, but I've been able to use concepts in my personal life as well. That is what I love about these courses-they teach important life skills that you can use in all aspects of your life.
