# Federal Classification Principles Course (Self-Paced)

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/federal-classification-principles-course-self-paced>

## Overview

Learn how to apply the basic principles needed to classify and analyze General Schedule (GS) positions. Study in-depth the fundamental principles and procedures associated with federal classification, and practice using what you learn with classification projects. Improve the analytical skills you need to ask good questions about position duties and design.

## What you'll learn

- Discuss the relationship between classification, equal pay, merit systems principles, and prohibited personnel practices.
- Describe the legal basis, structure, and primary reference tools of the General Schedule system.
- Explain and apply procedures used to classify federal positions using the Factor Evaluation System.
- Explain and apply procedures used to classify federal positions using the narrative system standards.
- Describe and discuss the standards used to classify General Schedule leader, supervisory, and managerial positions.
- Explain and apply the procedures learned in each of the modules to actual position descriptions

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: The General Schedule (GS) System & Primary References

- Trace how classification history shaped today’s GS structure and grade definitions.
- Differentiate the two GS approaches: quantitative FES vs. non-quantitative narrative.
- Identify core references (Introduction to PCS, Classifier’s Handbook, Occupational Groups & Families, Digest).
- Review GS building blocks (occupational groups, series, grades, factors) and the classifier’s toolkit.

#### Module 2: FES, Job Family Standards, and Classification Guides

- Apply the FES framework: nine factors, factor-level descriptions, and the grade conversion table.
- Follow step-by-step FES procedures: select series, compare factors, assign points, total, and document.
- Use Job Family Standards to evaluate multiple related series efficiently.
- Leverage classification guides and PD cover-sheet requirements to support determinations.

#### Module 3: The Narrative System

- Classify positions by “best fit” against narrative grade-level criteria (no point values).
- Decide when narrative evaluation is appropriate vs. FES, based on occupation and standards.
- Document rationale linking duties to narrative levels and precedent for defensible results.

#### Module 4: Introduction to GS Leaders, Supervisors, and Managers

- Distinguish work leaders, team leaders, supervisors, and managers across the GS continuum.
- Understand how leader/supervisory coverage connects to evaluation guides (e.g., GSLGEG, GSSG).
- Relate scope, complexity, and delegated authorities to titles, series, and grades.

#### Module 5: Guiding Principles for Federal Classification

- Reinforce Merit System Principles and avoid Prohibited Personnel Practices in all decisions.
- Promote equity, consistency, and legal sufficiency across organizations.
- Recognize “factors not considered” for grade decisions and apply non-classification remedies.

#### Module 6: Putting It All Together

- Integrate GS references, FES, narrative methods, and leader/supervisory guidance in a capstone case.
- Write PDs and evaluation statements that align with standards and withstand review.
- Produce complete classification packages with clear documentation and QA checks.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $1699