The Art of Management

• Content written in clear, friendly, accessible language geared to real-world examples.
• Downloadable workbook to engage learner in critical thinking as they apply course concepts to their work as a manager.
• Content developed with research-based standards in mind, including attributions.
• Connection to a participant’s specific organization is achieved through periodic structured conversations with their manager.  Material developed for this course will assist managers in preparing for productive conversations with course participants.
• Online assessment with individualized report about the participant’s thinking style, behavioral traits, and occupational interests.
• A suggested reading list is included for participants and managers who wish to further their education and understanding.

The Art of Management Topical Outline 

• Module 2A: What is management? 
• Module 2B: Focusing your attention 
• Module 2C: Your attitude  

• Module 3A: Three Levels of Skills
• Module 3B: Metrics 
• Module 3C: Setting standards of work and managerial control
• Module 3D: The relationship between management and job performance 
• Module 3E: Building and maintaining a team 
• Module 3F: Leading change

• Module 4A: Leadership
• Module 4B: Approachability, mentoring, and going to bat for your team 
• Module 4C: Motivating people; Managing more experienced people  
• Module 4D: Encouraging creativity and Innovation
• Module 4E: Ethics for managers 

Module 5: The Manager’s Authority  

• Module 5A: Making better decisions 
• Module 5B: Coaching 
• Module 5C: The role of policy 
• Module 5D: Fact-based management 
• Module 5E: Legal concerns of managing people 
• Module 5F: Friends at work 
• Module 5G: Continuing your own development 

Module 6: Management Toolbox  

1. 5 Whys root cause analysis  
2. VAE projects 
3. Writing better email  
4. Giving directions using the SMART criteria 
5. Conflict mediation technique 
6. Asking persuasively 
7. The 5S system 
8. Active listening 
9. Running a team meeting; cover one metric; cover one policy 
10. Time management - Eisenhower matrix 
11. Stop-start-continue   

Module 7: PXT Select debrief 

Post-course assessment 

Is The Art of Management right for new and aspiring managers?

Yes!  This program is designed to give new managers the clarity and confidence they need to succeed.  For those considering leadership, it offers a practical look at the role to help them decide if management is the right next step.

Would more established managers benefit from The Art of Management?

Absolutely.  Research shows that 60% of new managers receive no formal training.  Over time, these leaders risk becoming entrenched in habits that may not be fully effective.  And even those who have received prior training sometimes find that standard programs fail to connect theory with the practical skills needed for long-term success.  The Art of Management bridges that gap.

Does The Art of Management address the critical shift from peer to manager?

Yes. Transitioning from team member to team leader is uniquely challenging. The Art of Management explicitly recognizes this hurdle and provides comprehensive guidance across multiple modules to help new managers establish authority while maintaining professional relationships.

What will I learn about in this course?

A topical outline is available under the Course Topics accordion on this page.

Can I skip around the course content, or do I have to complete it in sequence?

You are welcome to explore the course content in any order you like.  The program is fully flexible, allowing you to prioritize the topics and modules that are most relevant to your immediate needs.

How long does it take to complete the course?

Millersville University provides participants with six months of access to complete the program. Designed as a flexible online course for busy professionals, The Art of Management allows you to learn at your own pace.  Depending on how much time you can devote each week, completion can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.  At the end of the course, your online workbook, certificate of completion,  and individualized PXT Select report are yours to keep.

How do I obtain a certificate of completion from Millersville University?

After completing the course modules, the PXT Select assessment, and the management toolbox activities, you will take a final post-course assessment.  Completing this final assessment prompts the university to send your official certificate of completion.

What is the value of completing the workbook exercises at the end of each module?

The workbook is where the course material truly comes to life.  We estimate that roughly half of what you gain from this course comes from reflecting on the video content and connecting it to your own professional experiences.  The workbook exercises provide a structured framework to help you do exactly that, and we strongly encourage completing them as you go.

What is the value of checking in with your own manager?

At the end of each major section, your workbook suggests questions to start a conversation with your manager about what you’re learning in this course. These check-ins allow your manager to contextualize the course concepts within your specific organization and industry.  While we recognize that scheduling these discussions depends on your manager's availability, we encourage you to do so.

What is the PXT Select assessment?

The PXT Select assessment gives you an objective view of your strengths as a manager, including your thinking skills, behaviors, and occupational interests.  Instructions on accessing the PXT Select assessment appear in Module 1: Start Here under Course Content.

What if I have questions about the course or logistics?

If you have questions about this program or logistics, please contact Hope M. Schmids, Director, Workforce Development Program at 717-871-7642 or Hope.Schmids@millersville.edu.