Office Staff Development Program
Participant FAQ
What is the Professional Development Institute?
The Professional Development Institute is a center dedicated to providing tailored training programs to foster career growth for targeted staff groups and to support
Duke's staffing needs. The goals of the Institute include improving retention and strengthening workforce commitment, developing the skills and capabilities of staff, and
supporting Duke's commitment to diversity.
Why were office staff jobs chosen as a program of the Institute, and what is the goal of the program?
The continuing demand for skilled and committed office staff to handle critical administration responsibilities is reflected in Duke's weekly job vacancy listing. At the present time,
there are a large number of vacancies listed for these types of positions. The number of vacancies in office staff positions has consistently remained at a high level, with an
increase in turnover often experienced during the summer just prior to the new academic year. Duke frequently finds itself competing in the local market to attract well-qualified
and experienced staff for these key positions.
These job levels were also targeted because they span across the university and health system and because short-term, intensive training would help qualify participants for
higher-level jobs. The goal of the office staff development program is to provide participants with the necessary competencies to transition successfully within Duke from job
level 2-5, B1 and B2 into advanced job opportunities.
What topics will be included in the training?
For a curriculum for the Office Staff Development Program, click here.
During the second 24 weeks of the program, participants will take courses as well as engage in internship experiences.
Who will teach the classes?
Duke and Durham Technical Community College instructors will teach classes.
How long will it take to complete the program?
The class begins December 1, 2008. The program will take 44 weeks to complete. Selected individuals will participate in training and internship opportunities during the 44-week period. This time will be structured
from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm three days per week plus 1 monthly 8:30 am - 5:00 pm session. This one day session will be held the second Monday of each month.
- During the 44-week period, participants may be released from their regular work schedule to cover training time. Some training time may be outside a participant's normal work schedule.
- Participants will be paid for training time per week.
- Wages will be paid by the department to the participant. PDI will reimburse a department for ½ the training time.
Will participants get paid for hours spent in training?
Yes, participants will be paid for time spent in training. PDI will reimburse the department for 50% of the training time.
Where will the classes be held?
Classes will be held in a convenient location on campus that allows for adequate parking.
How does someone qualify for this program?
The following are requirements for selection into the program:
- Full-time Duke staff with minimum of two years of continuous service with satisfactory performance and no disciplinary actions
- Currently working in a level 2-5, B1 or B2 administrative/clerical position
- Completion of a computer skills assessment
- High school diploma or GED
- Recommendation from current manager
- Recommendation by Professional Development Institute Selection Committee, including a committee interview.
- Commitment to remain at Duke for a minimum of 18 months after graduation from the program
What types of jobs will graduates qualify for upon completion of the program? Will graduates be guaranteed a promotion or new job once they complete the program?
Although graduates are not guaranteed a promotion or new job upon completion of the program, they will possess the necessary skills to qualify for jobs at Duke in levels 6-8,
B3 and C1 such as staff assistant and staff specialist. Participants will work closely with a recruiter in Human Resources for placement in a new position consistent with their training.
Will participants have to pay back any of the financial support provided to staff by Duke?
In return for the financial assistance provided for training, participants must agree to work at Duke for 18 months after completion of the program. If participants drop out of the
program or leave Duke prior to fulfilling their 18-month commitment, they will be required to repay a portion of the educational costs for instruction, books and supplies.
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