Essential Information
Business and government institutions may require contract managers to be certified since contracts have both financial and legal ramifications if not handled correctly. Requirements for admission in to a contract management certificate program may include a high school education for undergraduate study and an undergraduate or graduate degree for the advanced program. Students study numerous topics, including global contracts and contract modification.
Contract Manager Undergraduate Certificate
Contract managers oversee binding legal agreements involving sales, shipments and purchases within an association. The curricula of contract management certificate programs are often aligned with standards set by the National Contract Management Association. Lessons discuss global outsourcing and international contracting. Contract management programs are suitable for those new to the field and those who are experienced and wish to either advance or improve their knowledge. Coursework might apply toward both certification and recertification, depending on the institution. Course topics may include:
- Business principles
- Contract administration
- Proposal writing
- International accounting
- Contract law
Contract Manager Graduate Certificate
Contract manager graduate certificate programs focus on contract or surveillance tools as well as contract troubleshooting and modification. Some schools allow students to apply graduate certificate course credits toward a Master of Business Administration program. General managers, line agency managers, administrative agency managers and those already employed as contract and procurement managers might benefit from earning a contract management graduate certificate. Instructors teach students how to solicit and propose a contract and manage cash flow. Coursework commonly includes:
- Public procurement
- Program evaluation
- Project management
- Dispute resolution
- Contract management regulations and legal aspects
Employment Outlook and Salary Info
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of employment for administrative services managers, which includes contract managers, could rise 6% between 2019 and 2029. This rate of growth is considered faster than average for occupations nationwide (www.bls.gov). The BLS also reported that as of 2019, the median salary for administrative service managers was $96,940.
Continuing Education Information
After earning a contract management certificate, applicants can pursue certification. The National Contract Management Association offers contract management certification. Candidates need to have at least five years of experience, business training, and knowledge of contract manager competencies.
In contract manager certification programs, students learn about methodologies and ethics involved in contracting, ways to create contracts, and how to negotiate or modify terms. These graduate and undergraduate programs are designed to build upon skills learned previously and allow for career advancement and certification.
