Contract Management Certificate Program
Program Features
Overview
The Contract Management certificate is a fully online program. It presents both a theoretical and practical problem-solving approach to contract management. Participants will learn about a contract manager’s responsibilities prior to contract award, the communication process in the contract management network, post-award surveillance tools, contract modifications, correcting contractual problems and processing terminations, cancellations, and claims.
Benefits:
- Increase on-the-job effectiveness
- Develop greater problem-solving skills
- Expanded knowledge of technological advances
- Network with other industry professionals
- Develop a promotional hiring edge for career advancement
- Take online classes at home or the office
Employer Benefits:
- Increased production and reduced inventory
- Improved product quality and customer satisfaction
- Reduced purchasing costs, scheduling conflicts, and manufacturing waste
Audience
This program is designed for those involved in any stage of the contract writing, reviewing, implementation or administration process, including:
- Those who administer contracts but have had little or no industry specific training
- Current contract administrators
- Project, facilities, materials, and purchasing managers
- Supervisors and first-level managers
Format
The program is comprised of four online courses for a total of 64 hours and 6.4 continuing education units (CEUs). It is recommended to start the program with the “Fundamentals of Contracts” course.
Course Offerings
This certificate program consists of four courses designed to be taken in the order listed.
Fundamentals of Contracts (CADM 001)
1.6 CEUs
Gain a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of contract and purchasing management. Topics include: contract terms, conditions, content, pricing arrangements, contractual vehicles, the differences between contracts for supplies and services, how public and private contracts differ; and how to write a contract administration plan to meet the customer’s cost, schedule and performance requirements.
The Contract Manager’s Role Prior to Contract Award (CADM 002)
1.6 CEUs
The communication process between the customer, contractor, buyer and contract manager is essential. Learn how to better assist customers in developing clear, concise specifications and statements of work. Investigate the contract manager’s role in solicitation preparation, market analysis, stakeholder coordination, pricing, appropriate contract type selection and contract negotiation. Learn what should and should not be done during the implementation of the contract and how to coordinate the transition from pre-award to post-award to assure project success.
Managing the Post-Award Process (CADM 003)
1.6 CEUs
During the post-award process contract managers often need to put the administration plan into action, make contract modifications, communicate techniques between parties, interface with subcontractors and ultimately guide a contract to completion. Achieve an understanding of official notification, issuing contract addenda, renewals, modifications, extensions and change orders. Learn to verify the compilation of all administrative and technical requirements, organize coordination meetings, establish effective communication procedures and act as a conduit from the supplier to the end user.
Monitoring the Contract/Contractor Performance – Problem Resolution (CADM 004)
1.6 CEUs
Contract managers require effective problem-solving skills to resolve contractual problems such as contractor delivery, quality, payments and the processing of terminations, cancellations and claims. Gain the skills needed to document activities, establish a contract file, determine acceptable timelines and utilize quality assurance and termination procedures. Topics include how to: process claims, close out the contract, renegotiate terms and conditions after the contract is in place and communicate contractor performance issues.
Costs
$1,596
Prices are subject to change; please confirm program pricing before your cohort begins.
NCMA Association Members
Members of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) may apply for a 10% discount. To receive the discount, participants must provide proof of NCMA membership at the time of registration.
Sacramento State Alumni
Sacramento State Alumni may apply for a 15% discount. To receive discount, participants must provide proof of graduation at time of registration.
How to Enroll
Upcoming Dates
Current schedules will be posted once available.
Basic Requirements
Students are expected to have a thorough knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation and be able to clearly communicate orally and in writing. Students must have basic computer skills, a working email address, and access to a computer with internet.
If you live outside of California, see if Sacramento State has secured authorization or exemption to enroll students from your state in its online programs.
Submission Steps
Registration for our spring 2026 cohort is now closed. To join our interest list for the next cohort, please contact the program coordinator, Tiffany Vrattos.
FAQ
Is there an application required for this program?
No. Once registration is open, students will be able to follow the instructions and link provided to complete their enrollment.
Do I need to be enrolled at Sacramento State to participate in this certificate program?
No. Our program is open to the public. Participants do not have to be admitted to Sac State to enroll.
Do I need to pay for the whole program up front?
No. Students may pay per class, but please note that payment is due at the time of registration. Spots in subsequent courses of the program will be secured, even if students are paying on a per-class basis.
When do the classes meet?
Each course is completely online in an asynchronous format. There are no virtual or in-person meetings required for any of the courses.
Does this program prepare me for a NCMA certification?
Our Contract Management Certificate Program provides foundational knowledge of the Contract Management field. It was not developed to specifically meet the competencies required by NCMA certifications. The NCMA certificates are more specific as indicated by the eligibility requirements to take the exam for each one of the certificates. Please note education, hours, and other eligibility requirements listed on NCMA’s website.
