Government Contract Management Training Programs
Government contract managers may work with federal, state and local government agencies to oversee their business contracts. Read about certificate and degree programs that you could pursue to gain training in government contract management, what course topics you'd study, and job options related to government contract management.
Where Can I Find Training?
You can find specialized government contract management degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including the Bachelor of Science in Government Contract Management and Master of Public Policy in Federal Acquisition, as well as certificate programs. As a working professional, you could take short-term online and on-campus individual courses, seminars, workshops, certificate and executive education programs in this field. Nonprofit and for-profit educational institutions as well as private entities offer these programs.
Some training programs or professional certifications are offered or endorsed by professional associations like the National Contract Management Association or government entities like the Defense Acquisition University. Government contract management training generally cover topics such as:
- Contract administration
- Cost analysis
- Purchasing
- Contract law
- Financial management
- Negotiation
| Training Levels | Undergraduate certificates, bachelor's and master's degrees |
| Training Topics | Public contracting, small business, government agency contracts |
| Career Options | Subcontractor, contract analyst, acquisition manager, contract administrator |
| Median Salary (2018) | $96,180 (Administrative Services Managers) |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 10% growth (Administrative Services Managers) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
What Are Government Contract Management Training Programs?
Government contract training programs provide instruction on the public contracting process to non-government professionals and government officials. With a range of programs available to individuals and organizations interested in doing business with the government, you could select one targeted to contract managers or small business owners. As a government employee, you might be expected to obtain training and certifications that will help you manage contracts for your agency.
What Jobs Can I Find?
Training in government contract management can prepare you for a variety of careers. For example, with a bachelor's degree you can find entry-level purchasing and administrative service management positions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted a 5% increase in employment for purchasing managers between 2016 and 2026, while administrative service mangers would see an 10% increase over the same period (www.bls.gov). Other jobs you can apply your training to include:
- Contract administrator
- Acquisition manager
- Contracts manager
- Subcontractor
- Contract analyst