Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NIH Management Cadre Program (MCP)?

The NIH Management Cadre Program (MCP) was established in 1994 to train and qualify successful and highly motivated NIH employees currently at the GS/GM grades 12, 13, or 14 levels to help meet the future leadership staffing needs of the NIH. The MCP is designed to enhance the career growth and potential of all employees who participate and represents an important component of NIH's efforts to develop highly trained, experienced, and well-qualified candidates for management positions. NIH is committed to ensuring that access to this program is inclusive of women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities.

Who is eligible to participate in the MCP?

The MCP is open to all NIH employees under a career or career conditional full-time appointment for at least one year at the GS/GM grades 12, 13 or 14. Members of the Commissioned Corps are eligible to participate.

How do I apply?

All interested employees are required to submit a complete application package. The application and information guide are NOT available at this time. However, a sample application and information guide is available. Completed applications must be submitted to the appropriate IC Personnel Office by the deadline that appears in the application.

How are participants selected?

Applications are reviewed, ranked, and nominated by a committee within the applicant's IC. Nominations from each IC are forwarded to the Leadership Development Committee (LDC), accompanied by a justification memorandum that lists nominees in priority order and lists the members of the IC nominating committee. Members of the LDC will appoint a Qualifications Review Board to evaluate the applications and to interview all highly qualified applicants. The Board will make the final selection of Management Cadre Program participants.

What is the Leadership Development Committee (LDC)?

The mission of the Leadership Development Committee (LDC) is to implement the initiative to establish an NIH Leadership Base as outlined in the NIH Strategic Plan. The LDC provides direction and guidance for the MCP.

How competitive is selection for the MCP?

The selection process for participation in the MCP is very competitive. The LDC receives around 250 applications for each class; classes are limited to a maximum of 15 participants.

How much time is required to participate in this program?

In order to complete assignments and training requirements, the program requires 20% of a participant's time for a period of 18 months.

What type of financial support/budget will be required?

The cost of the program varies according to participant needs and IC budget; however, a minimum of $3500 is required to begin taking part in this program.

If selected, how will I know what is expected and required?

All selected participants will attend a one-week orientation before the start of the program to address the expectations and requirements for completion of this program.

What are the minimum requirements for completion of the MCP?

Each participant is required to select a formal mentor, complete 80 hours of classroom training in management and leadership, initiate a 30-day detail assignment, develop shadow assignments, and attend monthly brown-bag meetings, seminars, and discussion workshops. Participants are also required to present their objectives and experiences and objectives to the Leadership Development Committee.

Are there positions guaranteed for MCP graduates?

Promotions and job changes are not guaranteed, nor should participants expect the Program to foster these.

What are the benefits of participating in the MCP?

The MCP helps develop the qualities of good leadership and management. The Program ensures that participants are well prepared to compete for managerial/leadership positions.

For more detailed benefits and paricipant feedback, please see Benefits of Partcipation.

Where can I find an overview of the program?

Go to: Information