High School
In high school, take a college preparatory curriculum that includes courses in business, accounting, finance, mathematics, data science, and computer science (e.g., artificial intelligence, database management). Contract professionals must have strong communication skills, so be sure to take classes in English, speech, writing, and foreign language.
Postsecondary Education
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required to work in contract administration. Typical majors include business administration, finance, accounting, pre-law or paralegal studies, public administration, and supply chain management. Students should also take courses in contract law, business law, and project management. Most programs require the completion of at least one internship.
Certification
Some colleges and universities offer certificate programs in contract administration, business, business management, and emerging areas of technology (e.g., artificial intelligence). For example, the University of California at Los Angeles Extension Program offers an online contract management certificate program. To earn the certificate, students must complete the following classes: Contract Types, Application and Structure; Negotiation Principles and Techniques; Legal Aspects of Commercial Contracting; and International Business Contracting. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.
The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) offers the following certificate programs to contract professionals who would like to expand their knowledge base: Cost and Pricing Fundamentals; Subcontracting Fundamentals; and U.S. Federal Contracting Fundamentals.
Other Education or Training
The NCMA offers a wealth of self-paced and live continuing education opportunities. It also offers a 12-month Contract Management Leadership Development Program and a six-month Executive Leaders Program. Visit https://www.ncmahq.org/Web/Web/Learning/Learning.aspx for more information. Continuing education classes and webinars are also offered by colleges and universities and for-profit, online learning platforms.
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