Format
Each course is 45 hours in length offered in a hybrid classroom and online format. Each course is eight weeks long meeting one night per week for 3 hours (24 hours) with the remainder of the course taught online. Courses will be taught at the WSU Training and Learning Center in Layton.
A Continuing Education WSU Management of Business Contracts certificate is awarded upon completion of three required courses. A bachelor’s degree or two years experience in a related field is required for admission to the program.
Program Description
The WSU Contract Management Certificate Program presents both a theoretical and practical problem-solving approach to contract management. Relevant to both the public and private sectors, topics include the manager’s responsibilities prior to contract award, understanding the communication process in the contract management network, post-award surveillance tools, contract modifications, correcting contractual problems and processing terminations, cancellations and claims.
3 required courses:
Principles of Business Contracts
Gain an overview of the fundamentals of contract management from the development of acquisition requirements, solicitation/proposal, negotiation, contract formation, contract performance, and contract closeout. Learn the basics of what it takes to solicit, procure, negotiate and administer contracts and subcontracts while gaining a broad understanding of business principles to establish long-term relationships with customers, suppliers and other stakeholders. Explore an insider's view of the roles and responsibilities of contract administrators and the various interfaces with program management and other internal disciplines. Learn how to identify the basic differences between contract types and how they are selected to mitigate risk in a contractual environment, as well as exploring the key distinctions between commercial, government and international contracting processes.
Financial Aspects of Business Contracts
Learn how to structure cash flow through financial methods that include invoice timing, pricing, overhead considerations, advance payments, letters of credit and other financial sources. Gain a comprehensive knowledge of accounting systems, budgeting, reporting, auditing and settlements. Enhance the profitability of your business through prudent contracting financial practicesContract Law: Formation and Performance
Gain a working knowledge of stakeholder requirements, negotiation practices, applicable common law, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and other local, state and federal regulations and law that must be adhered to throughout the formation process. Explore contract wording, intent, internal business requirements and practices, risk management, sourcing methods and other factors influencing the formation and drafting process.
Learn the fundamentals of contract law with an emphasis on real world, day-to-day application. Explore all phases of managing a contract successfully through completion of performance including change management, communications, negotiations, contract types, terms and conditions, risks, defaults, terminations, claims and much more. Participate in projects and discussion boards to rapidly enhance knowledge and proficiency in contract management to apply classroom concepts immediately in the workplace.
