Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

  • 6 Months
  • 300 Course Hours
  • $2,445

Overview

Train for a Career in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

The Purchasing and Supply Chain Management program will show you the integrated approach to planning, acquisition, flow, and distribution, from raw materials to finished products. Topics such as developing a corporate culture, working successfully with teams, developing and implementing successful people management strategies, and workflow and performance management will be explored in this program. You'll also learn what makes a successful entrepreneur, and you'll develop an understanding of the basics of marketing management and the strategies involved in developing a marketing plan. The art of negotiation is covered in great detail, giving you a foundation for negotiating with great awareness and effectiveness.

"I found each section within the overall course to be very educational. I am already able to apply several concepts in my newly obtained role as Strategic Sourcing Coordinator in Supply Chain. The facilitator was very timely in grading my assignments. Students support was also very responsive and helpful. Thank you." - L.A.

What you will learn

  • Be familiar with the basics of purchasing and the purchasing environment in the private sector
  • Gain an understanding of the various approaches, tools, and strategies used in negotiations
  • Learn the fundamentals of the budgeting process and managing the process in an organization
  • Become aware of the basic subjects in the field of price and cost analysis from a purchasing and production perspective

How you will benefit

  • Develop a deep understanding of the art of negotiation, which will help you in creating contracts with clients and potential employers
  • Learn the communication skills necessary to be an effective project and supply chain manager
  • Gain valuable project management experience and work toward receiving your PMI credential
  • Know how to efficiently manage both projects and people, which will enable you to thrive in any professional managerial setting

How this course is taught

  • This is a non-credit program offered in partnership with ed2go.  You do not have to be admitted to the university to enroll in this program. 
  • This is an open enrollment program, which means you can enroll and start at any time.  There are no set start and end dates. 
  • This course is entirely online and can be completed at a pace and time that is convenient for you.  There are not set times you must attend classes.  
  • You will have 6-months from the date of enrollment to complete this program.  

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this course. However, basic computer skills, including the ability to navigate the Internet and use email, are required. This course is intended for anyone currently working in, or planning to work in, procurement management, supply management, a purchasing department, or any other area involved with procurement or supply.


Job Outlook

Because of advancements in digital technology and an increased focus on supply chain risk and globalization, supply chains are expanding in scope and the need for top talent has increased with it, and companies are having to pay more for the right people.
 
Earn $95,000+ Annually
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, The median annual salary for purchasing managers is approximately $95,070. Salaries vary widely, however, depending on factors like location, education, and experience.
 
Expected 7% Job Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for purchasing managers is projected to grow by 7% from 2010 to 2020.

 

Requirements

Hardware Requirements:

  • This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

  • PC: Windows XP or later.
  • Mac: OS X Snow Leopard 10.6 or later.
  • Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
  • QuickTime. Click here to download QuickTime.
  • Adobe Flash Player. Click here to download the Flash Player.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to download the Acrobat Reader.
  • Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

  • Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

  • The Essential Manager's Handbook
  • Essentials of Supply Chain Management

 

Curriculum

 
Essentials of Purchasing and the Supply Chain Process
Understand the fundamentals of purchasing for an organization. Learn how to read financial statements and how global sourcing works. Discuss the regulatory agencies associating with purchasing for supply chain. You'll also cover everything you need to know about the acquisition of good and services, quantity and demand, and the planning process involved in placing a large order.
 
Management and Budgeting Essentials
Learn what it takes to successfully manage a team of people. The lesson will cover how to communicate within different company cultures and teach you the best practices for creating strategies, decision making, and accountability. Afterwards, you'll learn about the basics of budgeting, production planning, and how to take inventory and create a sample budget.
 
The Procurement Process and Supplier Contracting
Receive an overview of the procurement process, including elements of supplier selection, supplier evaluation, and the bidding process. After that, the lesson will discuss supplier contracting, including general contract principles, contract drafting, and different types of purchasing contracts.
 
Communication and Negotiation Strategies
Master the art of persuasive communication. In this section of the course, you'll be taught how to know your audience, organize your argument, and how to effectively place evidence and emotion in your persuasive thought. You'll also cover powerful negotiating strategies that play to different personality types and situations.
 
Price and Cost Analysis
Take a deep dive into price and cost analysis. You'll learn about pricing evaluation, how to research and use data to create a price estimate, and how to factor in timing and outsourcing.
 
Legal Aspects of Contracts
Understand what a contract is and how you, vendors, clients, and coworkers will be held legally responsible for one. Discuss the elements of a contract, duties and obligations of a contracted deal, and when to seek legal representation.

 

Instructor

Katherine Squires Pang
Katherine Squires Pang, J.D., LL.M., M.Ed has practiced law with since 1983. She has served as an adjunct faculty member in the Graduate School of Management at the University of Texas, Dallas, and has been an adjunct faculty member of many universities, including New York University and the University of California, Irvine. She received her B.A. in 1980 from Clark University, her J.D. from the University of Dayton Law School in 1982, her LL.M in Taxation from Georgetown University Law School in 1983, and her M.Ed from the University of Texas in 2001.

 

Rose Roberts
Rose Roberts has 20 years of experience helping organizations develop purchasing strategies and implement process improvements. Through her leadership and coaching, Rose has helped purchasing departments and executive teams recognize the value of formulating strategies, employing methodologies, and measuring results. She has broad experience working with OEM's in a variety of industries, both foreign and domestic. Supplier selection and qualification, global sourcing strategies, cost reduction techniques, cross-functional development, and utilization of metrics have been key focus areas, allowing organizations she's worked with earn world-class distinction. Rose has earned and maintained C.P.M. designation since 1995 and has a B.B.A from the University of Texas. Professional affiliations include Institute for Supply Chain Management, Dresser Purchasing Council, and Female Executive Mentorship Program.

 

FAQs

WHAT DOES A PURCHASING AND SUPPLY CHAIN AGENT DO? 
Purchasing agents and buyers consider price, quality, availability, reliability, and technical support when choosing suppliers and merchandise. Buyers and purchasing agents buy products and services for organizations to use or resell. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and review the quality of product.
 
WHAT TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT DO PURCHASING AND SUPPLY CHAIN AGENTS WORK?
Purchasing agents typically work in an office environment. The work may involve extensive reading of either paper documents or electronic documents on a computer monitor and sitting for extended hours. Travel is not typically required for purchasing agents but may be necessary to meet with vendors and monitor supply chains. Most purchasing agents work full time and can find positions in nearly any industry.
 
DO I HAVE TO BE ADDMITTED TO MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY TO ENROLL IN THIS PROGRAM?
No, you do not have to be an admitted student to Mississippi State University to enroll in this program.  Our online non-credit advanced career training programs are open to all. 
 
WHEN CAN I START THE COURSE?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
 
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THIS COURSE? 
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive nine (6) months to complete the course.
 
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO COMPLETE MY COURSE WITHIN THE TIME FRAME PROVIDED? 
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
 
WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT WILL I RECEIVE?  
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will also be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
 
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COMPLETE THE COURSE? 
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion from Mississippi State University Extension.
 
AM I GUARANTEED A JOB?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
 
CAN I GET FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?  
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some cases, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available, to learn more go tohttps://www.ed2go.com/career/financial-assistance
 
HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE?  
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-662-325-5002 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Request More Info" form.

 

Overview

Train for a Career in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

The Purchasing and Supply Chain Management program will show you the integrated approach to planning, acquisition, flow, and distribution, from raw materials to finished products. Topics such as developing a corporate culture, working successfully with teams, developing and implementing successful people management strategies, and workflow and performance management will be explored in this program. You'll also learn what makes a successful entrepreneur, and you'll develop an understanding of the basics of marketing management and the strategies involved in developing a marketing plan. The art of negotiation is covered in great detail, giving you a foundation for negotiating with great awareness and effectiveness.

"I found each section within the overall course to be very educational. I am already able to apply several concepts in my newly obtained role as Strategic Sourcing Coordinator in Supply Chain. The facilitator was very timely in grading my assignments. Students support was also very responsive and helpful. Thank you." - L.A.

What you will learn

  • Be familiar with the basics of purchasing and the purchasing environment in the private sector
  • Gain an understanding of the various approaches, tools, and strategies used in negotiations
  • Learn the fundamentals of the budgeting process and managing the process in an organization
  • Become aware of the basic subjects in the field of price and cost analysis from a purchasing and production perspective

How you will benefit

  • Develop a deep understanding of the art of negotiation, which will help you in creating contracts with clients and potential employers
  • Learn the communication skills necessary to be an effective project and supply chain manager
  • Gain valuable project management experience and work toward receiving your PMI credential
  • Know how to efficiently manage both projects and people, which will enable you to thrive in any professional managerial setting

How this course is taught

  • This is a non-credit program offered in partnership with ed2go.  You do not have to be admitted to the university to enroll in this program. 
  • This is an open enrollment program, which means you can enroll and start at any time.  There are no set start and end dates. 
  • This course is entirely online and can be completed at a pace and time that is convenient for you.  There are not set times you must attend classes.  
  • You will have 6-months from the date of enrollment to complete this program.  

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this course. However, basic computer skills, including the ability to navigate the Internet and use email, are required. This course is intended for anyone currently working in, or planning to work in, procurement management, supply management, a purchasing department, or any other area involved with procurement or supply.


Job Outlook

Because of advancements in digital technology and an increased focus on supply chain risk and globalization, supply chains are expanding in scope and the need for top talent has increased with it, and companies are having to pay more for the right people.
 
Earn $95,000+ Annually
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, The median annual salary for purchasing managers is approximately $95,070. Salaries vary widely, however, depending on factors like location, education, and experience.
 
Expected 7% Job Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for purchasing managers is projected to grow by 7% from 2010 to 2020.

 

Requirements

Hardware Requirements:

  • This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

  • PC: Windows XP or later.
  • Mac: OS X Snow Leopard 10.6 or later.
  • Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
  • QuickTime. Click here to download QuickTime.
  • Adobe Flash Player. Click here to download the Flash Player.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to download the Acrobat Reader.
  • Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

  • Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

  • The Essential Manager's Handbook
  • Essentials of Supply Chain Management

 

Curriculum

 
Essentials of Purchasing and the Supply Chain Process
Understand the fundamentals of purchasing for an organization. Learn how to read financial statements and how global sourcing works. Discuss the regulatory agencies associating with purchasing for supply chain. You'll also cover everything you need to know about the acquisition of good and services, quantity and demand, and the planning process involved in placing a large order.
 
Management and Budgeting Essentials
Learn what it takes to successfully manage a team of people. The lesson will cover how to communicate within different company cultures and teach you the best practices for creating strategies, decision making, and accountability. Afterwards, you'll learn about the basics of budgeting, production planning, and how to take inventory and create a sample budget.
 
The Procurement Process and Supplier Contracting
Receive an overview of the procurement process, including elements of supplier selection, supplier evaluation, and the bidding process. After that, the lesson will discuss supplier contracting, including general contract principles, contract drafting, and different types of purchasing contracts.
 
Communication and Negotiation Strategies
Master the art of persuasive communication. In this section of the course, you'll be taught how to know your audience, organize your argument, and how to effectively place evidence and emotion in your persuasive thought. You'll also cover powerful negotiating strategies that play to different personality types and situations.
 
Price and Cost Analysis
Take a deep dive into price and cost analysis. You'll learn about pricing evaluation, how to research and use data to create a price estimate, and how to factor in timing and outsourcing.
 
Legal Aspects of Contracts
Understand what a contract is and how you, vendors, clients, and coworkers will be held legally responsible for one. Discuss the elements of a contract, duties and obligations of a contracted deal, and when to seek legal representation.

 

Instructor

Katherine Squires Pang
Katherine Squires Pang, J.D., LL.M., M.Ed has practiced law with since 1983. She has served as an adjunct faculty member in the Graduate School of Management at the University of Texas, Dallas, and has been an adjunct faculty member of many universities, including New York University and the University of California, Irvine. She received her B.A. in 1980 from Clark University, her J.D. from the University of Dayton Law School in 1982, her LL.M in Taxation from Georgetown University Law School in 1983, and her M.Ed from the University of Texas in 2001.

 

Rose Roberts
Rose Roberts has 20 years of experience helping organizations develop purchasing strategies and implement process improvements. Through her leadership and coaching, Rose has helped purchasing departments and executive teams recognize the value of formulating strategies, employing methodologies, and measuring results. She has broad experience working with OEM's in a variety of industries, both foreign and domestic. Supplier selection and qualification, global sourcing strategies, cost reduction techniques, cross-functional development, and utilization of metrics have been key focus areas, allowing organizations she's worked with earn world-class distinction. Rose has earned and maintained C.P.M. designation since 1995 and has a B.B.A from the University of Texas. Professional affiliations include Institute for Supply Chain Management, Dresser Purchasing Council, and Female Executive Mentorship Program.

 

FAQs

WHAT DOES A PURCHASING AND SUPPLY CHAIN AGENT DO? 
Purchasing agents and buyers consider price, quality, availability, reliability, and technical support when choosing suppliers and merchandise. Buyers and purchasing agents buy products and services for organizations to use or resell. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and review the quality of product.
 
WHAT TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT DO PURCHASING AND SUPPLY CHAIN AGENTS WORK?
Purchasing agents typically work in an office environment. The work may involve extensive reading of either paper documents or electronic documents on a computer monitor and sitting for extended hours. Travel is not typically required for purchasing agents but may be necessary to meet with vendors and monitor supply chains. Most purchasing agents work full time and can find positions in nearly any industry.
 
DO I HAVE TO BE ADDMITTED TO MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY TO ENROLL IN THIS PROGRAM?
No, you do not have to be an admitted student to Mississippi State University to enroll in this program.  Our online non-credit advanced career training programs are open to all. 
 
WHEN CAN I START THE COURSE?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
 
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THIS COURSE? 
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive nine (6) months to complete the course.
 
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO COMPLETE MY COURSE WITHIN THE TIME FRAME PROVIDED? 
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
 
WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT WILL I RECEIVE?  
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will also be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
 
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COMPLETE THE COURSE? 
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion from Mississippi State University Extension.
 
AM I GUARANTEED A JOB?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
 
CAN I GET FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?  
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some cases, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available, to learn more go tohttps://www.ed2go.com/career/financial-assistance
 
HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE?  
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-662-325-5002 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Request More Info" form.

 

Registration Information

WIOA Approved

This is a Mississippi WIOA approved program.  Those interested in seeing if they qualify to use WIOA funding to pay for this training should contact their local MS WIN Job Center. 

The Purchasing and Supply Chain Management program is 100% online and allows you to enroll at any time.  After enrolling you will have 6-months to complete the program at a pace that is convenient for you.  You can get started today by clicking the "Enroll Now" button below and completing your registration at our partner ed2go site.