Online Certified Purchasing Manager Courses and Classes

Aspiring purchasing managers may choose from a number of online certificate programs in the field. These accredited programs, in addition to optional review classes, prepare students for state certification as purchasing managers.

Overview of Online Certified Purchasing Manager Courses

Most certified purchasing manager programs available online are designed for students with no experience in the field. Learning options range from one block class to a multi-course program. These programs result in Certificates of Completion; however, students do not receive certification upon graduation. They must instead pass a state test to earn certification and become eligible for employment as purchasing managers.
In addition to certificate programs, there are also review classes available online that help to prepare experienced students for their state's certification exam. Schooled and certified individuals are prepared for entry-level jobs in the purchasing field and can work their way up to managerial roles.

Course Requirements

Programs require that enrollees have a dependable Internet connection and a personal e-mail address. Image and word processing software may also be necessary, although requirements vary by school and may or may not be provided for the cost of tuition. Some purchasing manage certificate programs use software that only works on a PC.

List of Online Certified Purchasing Manager Courses

Fundamentals of Purchasing Management Course

This class is the first component of all online purchasing manager programs--and in some cases, it is the one block class that makes up the program in its entirety. Students are introduced to purchasing and market theory, profit objectives, negotiation technique and quality control. Business ethics may also be covered. Texts are generally provided.

Understanding Supply Chains Course

Students take this course near the beginning of their certificate program. It focuses on analysis of international and local supply chains with topics in material management and transaction operations as well as the development of supply and demand. Some programs include advanced supply chain classes that look at finance and risk management. Prospective purchasing managers may work with real-world mock-ups to ensure understanding.

Price and Cost Analysis Course

The focus of this class is cost effectiveness and the regulation of material pricing. Students learn about the acquisition process, cost evaluation, strategic planning and price development. This course is among the first to be offered in an online purchasing manager program because it covers skills essential to the specialty.

Negotiation Tactics Course

Negotiation is at the heart of purchasing, and some programs devote more than one class to this topic. Coursework covers strategizing techniques, organizational tools and situation analysis. Communication skills, style and attitude are emphasized. The class is taught through self-study with reading materials, lecture format and also negotiation role-playing; online delivery methods vary. Students take this near the middle of a program.

Legal Issues and Purchasing Regulations Course

Offered toward the end of a purchasing management certificate program, this class covers the legal and contractual obligations of the purchasing manager. Federal and international regulations are discussed in addition to customer rights, contract breach repercussions, government contracts and legal representation. Programs may break down this class into two or three courses covering in-depth legal regulations related to purchasing in order to best prepare students to become certified.