Certified Labor Relations Professional Certification

•    IS THE CLRP RIGHT FOR YOU?

  We offer two Certified Labor Relations programs designed to help you at different stages of your career. If you are not sure which one is right for you, ask yourself the following questions.

  Click on each true statement about yourself. The column with the most check marks will be the program best suited to meet your needs.

  Certified Labor Relations Professional

  Not in labor relations but want to learn about the function

  New to a labor relations role with less than 4 years experience

  Responsible for your locations or business' grievance process

  Responsible for your locations or business' discipline process

  Providing labor advice and counsel to supervisors and managers

  Want to strengthen your labor contract administration skills

  If you have more check marks in this column, you are in the right place!

  Continue below to learn more about the CLRP program.

  Certified Labor Relations Leader

  In a leadership, managerial or supervisory role

  Have more than 5 years of labor relations experience

  Accountable for your location or organizations labor function

  Accountable for contract negotiations or chair your negotiations

  Accountable for and/or advocate for the Company at arbitration

  A subject matter expert and want to strengthen your skill set

  If you have more check marks in this column, the CLRL is the program for you.

  Take me to the CLRL program

   

KEY BENEFITS OF BEING A CERTIFIED LABOR RELATIONS PROFESSIONAL

The Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP) is a comprehensive training program designed to equip newly hired or aspiring labor relations professionals with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and tools required to excel in a role that has labor relations accountability. This program provides a solid foundation in labor relations principles, strategies, and best practices, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of a unionized environment.

 

IN-DEPTH CURRICULUM: LABOR RELATIONS FOR HR PROFESSIONALS

MODULE 1: Framework for Understanding Labor Relations

The training program begins by providing participants with a comprehensive overview of labor relations, including its historical context, key stakeholders, the objectives of US labor relations, and the legal framework. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles that underpin US labor relations, laying the groundwork for further learning.

MODULE 2: Managing in a Unionized Organization

Participants will learn the key concepts and responsibilities of working in an organization where employees are represented by a union. They will develop essential skills in contract administration and utilizing disciplinary processes.

MODULE 3: Dispute Resolution and the Fundamentals of Labor Arbitration

This module will equip participants with the skills necessary to effectively handle employee grievances and determine when cases should be taken to arbitration. They will develop a foundational understanding of the labor arbitration process, the legal landscape of labor arbitration and key factors to consider when selecting an arbitrator.

MODULE 4: Introduction to Negotiating Labor Management Agreements

Participants will learn what it takes to be successful in bargaining a union contract. Topics include the theory behind bargaining, the two most common bargaining styles, and the steps required to succeed at the bargaining table. We also will discuss various union and company tactics that are employed both at the bargaining table and in sidebar discussions.

MODULE 5: Interpersonal Skills

Building strong relationships and maintaining effective communication with stakeholders is vital in labor relations. This module will focus on developing participants' communication skills, including active listening, minimizing bias, building influence and special considerations when communicating with executives. They will hone their critical thinking skills and learn to foster trust, engage in constructive dialogue, and promote positive labor-management relationships.

MODULE 6: Applying the Learnings

Practice and feedback is essential for real learning to occur. Participants will use all of the concepts covered throughout the course to work through challenging case studies. They will have an opportunity to reflect on their learning, clarify their understanding of and ability to apply concepts and identify key takeaways.

Included: Participants will receive a set of note-taking guides/manuals, a Planning and Goal Setting workbook, and links to myriad valuable resources.

 

WHY CERTIFY?

Professional credentials are more important today than ever before. Earning your professional certification from MSU's School of human resources & labor relations, one of the best and most respected Human Resources/Labor Relations Schools in the country, demonstrates mastery of content and commitment to the field of labor relations.

Stay up to date in this ever-changing field through biannual recertification. MSU's recertification program provides recognition and validation for lifelong learning and professional development in which HR professionals regularly engage.

 

THE CLRP DESIGNATION

Individuals who successfully complete the course, take part in discussions and exercises, and pass the required comprehensive examination will be recognized by Michigan State University's School of Human Resources & Labor Relations as a Certified Labor Relations Professional. They are entitled then to use the designation CLRP after their name.

Certifications are valid until December 31, 2026. To maintain your credentials, you will need to recertify before the end of the second year. Learn how to maintain your certifications.

 

ADDITIONAL LABOR PROGRAMS

 

• Register
• Instructors
• Policies
• Recertification

Questions? We would be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding this or any of our training programs. Please contact Director of Professional Development, Melanie Zaremba at mzaremba@msu.edu.