Online Programs in Government Contract Management

Government contract managers work for manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, wholesalers, and other businesses and organizations. They draft, negotiate, and implement contracts with federal, state, and municipal governments. Online programs in government contract management are available from 2- and 4-year colleges and universities.

Overview of Online Programs in Government Contract Management

Some postsecondary schools offer online government contract management certificate programs and graduate certificate programs. These programs are designed for professionals who want to enter the contract management field and for those who desire continuing education. Online certificate programs are typically available completely online and are usually asynchronous, allowing students to study at their own pace.

Certificate Programs

Students learn government contract management basics, including procurement, pricing, budgeting, and federal contracting laws and regulations. The programs typically prepare students to take certification exams administered by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). Depending on the online certificate program, instructors and students communicate through chat rooms, e-mail, instant messaging, message boards, and voice over Internet protocol (VoIP).

Common Courses

Courses in online government contract management certificate programs prepare students to oversee contracts to sell goods and services to government agencies. Common courses cover the following topics:

• Contract pricing
• Procurement
• Contract management technology
• Contract types
• Creating contracts
• Federal acquisition regulations (FAR)

Graduate Certificate Programs

Individuals who want to study government contracting in-depth may pursue online graduate certificate programs. Students are typically working professionals with varying levels of contracting experience. This program focuses on government contract management administration, contract analysis, and research methods.
Instructors deliver lectures through streaming video and present case studies that students analyze and discuss. Students typically complete online graduate certificate programs at their own pace. Some courses require students to buy textbooks.

Common Courses

Courses focus on the theories, principles, and practices of government contract management. Students learn to plan, write, negotiate, and implement contracts. Typical courses include:

• Cost analysis
• Contract law
• International contracts
• Price analysis
• Subcontracts
• Cost accounting