The Virginia Public Sector Leader (VPSL) – at all levels – is a leadership development certificate program of Virginia Tech’s School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA).

The VPSL learning continuum is designed with participant professional experience in mind. Faculty-developed curricula addresses state agency-identified needs, and utilizes trusted and researched assessment instruments, experienced and degreed human development professionals and trainers, and validated program materials.

The curricula include developmental interventions across 5 key leadership dimensions.

All VPSL levels share the same 5 components:

  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Management Functions
  • Leadership and Decision-Making
  • Team Building and Influence
  • Strategic Process

However, the learning pillars are addressed in differing approaches, based on participant professional experience.

Andragogical learning models are deployed using self-directed readings, seminar/lecture settings, and individual presentation-making, and small-group work. Specific agency issues and agency documents are frequently used as part of the program goal: relevancy to the learning partner agency.