IOA Core Courses

About the Courses

IOA Core Courses are provided on a variety of topics and are 3 to 12 hours in length. Core Courses are always virtual and will be provided on a variety of skill levels. We recommend the participants first take the IOA Foundations of the Organizational Ombuds Course or a similar entry-level course.


Course Development: Share your knowledge and expertise!

Presenter talking to group of participants

IOA’s Professional Development Committee (PDC) initiated a new sustainable process for the development of Core Course offerings that are essential to new and experienced organizational ombuds.

Core Courses cover a variety of topics that instructors have unique expertise in. Courses are always virtual, and they can be presented in languages other than English and time zones outside of North America. 

Past Core Courses Topics Include: 

  • Effective Communication
  • Measuring Effectiveness and Value
  • Cultural Understandings, Legal and Ethical Considerations
  • Mediation Theory and Skills for Ombuds
  • Conflict Theory

Become an Instructor 

The Professional Development Committee (PDC) is tasked with identifying qualified instructors and presenters who are willing to share skills and knowledge with ombuds from around the world. The PDC is excited to present its new Core Course Proposal Form which allows anyone to apply to present a Core Course. 

Learn More & Apply