The Employee and Labor Relations: Unions and Collective Bargaining course is the 18th of 20 courses developed as part of the Human Resources Certification Program.

In this course, the focus will be on one of the key goals of a labor union, to gain employer recognition as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit. We'll also examine the union-organizing process as prescribed by the National Labor Relations Act, employee rights and employer rights, employer and union unfair labor practices and the details of collective bargaining and its processes. The course ends with a discussion of strikes and picketing and secondary boycotts as well as lockouts.

In topic 1, Labor Relations and Unionization, we'll narrow our focus to the federal laws specifically affecting employment in union environments. The employer can't keep employees from participating in union activities. In topic 2, Unfair Labor Practices, you'll become more familiar with the complex areas of employer and union unfair labor practices.

The employer and the union are required to bargain in good faith. In topic 3, collective bargaining, we'll examine the collective bargaining process, strategies, and concepts such as contract negotiation; mandatory, voluntary, and unlawful bargaining subjects; good faith bargaining; contract costing; and contract administration.

There are only two types of lawful protected strikes - strikes for economic reasons or strikes against employers who have engaged in unfair labor practices. In topic 4, Strikes, Picketing, and Secondary Boycotts, we'll focus on the union's protected concerted activities, including lawful strikes, picketing, and boycotts, as well as lawful employer lockouts.

That’s it! Now, go ahead and push that “Take this course” button and see you on the inside!