U.S. Federal Contracting Fundamentals Certificate Program

Gain essential knowledge of the U.S. federal contracting process—from acquisition planning to compliance—with this foundational certificate program. Earn 10.0 CPE/CLP credits.

Explore the Upcoming Sessions

Register for August 2026 Session

Register for October 2026 Session

Summary of Program

The U.S. Federal Contracting Fundamentals Certificate Program offers a comprehensive introduction to the federal acquisition process. Designed for professionals new to government contracting or seeking a structured refresher, this program explores the full lifecycle of federal contracts—from acquisition planning and contract formation to cost analysis, compliance, and emerging policy issues. Through real-world scenarios, regulatory references, and interactive discussions, you will gain the foundational knowledge and practical tools needed to navigate the complexities of federal procurement with confidence.

A certificate of completion and shareable digital badge are awarded at the end of the program.

Who Should Take the U.S. Federal Contracting Fundamentals Certificate Program?

Acquisition professionals working in or with the federal government
Contract specialists, officers, and administrators
Procurement and supply chain professionals supporting government contracts
Finance, pricing, and compliance analysts
Industry professionals seeking to understand how to do business with the U.S. government

Prerequisites

Familiarity with business operations or procurement processes
Ideal for professionals with 0–3 years of experience in acquisition, pricing, or compliance roles

What You'll Learn

Understand the structure, rules, and key players in the U.S. federal acquisition system
Navigate the FAR and related regulations to support compliant contracting
Explain how federal contracts are funded, formed, and administered
Conduct market research and apply source selection strategies
Differentiate between contract types and pricing models
Apply cost and price analysis techniques in accordance with FAR Part 15
Understand indirect cost rates, cost allowability, and CAS requirements
Identify and respond to current issues in federal contracting, including cybersecurity, supply chain risk, and small business participation

Certificate Program Overview

Day 1: US Federal Acquisition System and Rules

Basics of U.S. Federal Contracting
Compliance
Contract administration
Acquisition planning

Day 2: How U.S. Federal Contracts are Made

Appropriations, budgets, and funding
Acquisition team
Market research
Contract life cycle
Source selection
Negotiations
Contract types

Day 3: U.S. Federal Cost and Price Analysis

Fair and reasonable pricing
Cost vs. price analysis
Contract types for pricing and accounting
Accounting requirements
Indirect rate pools and allocations
Cost Accounting Standards

Day 4: Hot Topics in U.S. Federal Contracting

Small business
Personnel
Supply chain risk management
Cybersecurity
Competition
Buy American

CMBOK Competencies

1.4 Regulatory Compliance
2.0 Pre-Award
3.0 Award

Pricing

$950 member | $1200 non-member

Membership + Certificate Course Bundle: $1100

Take advantage of this bundle and save on course fees and become a member of NCMA.
Membership is activated on the first day of the month after payment/purchase.

2026 Schedule

Virtual classes meet over four days for 2.5 hours each day.

Session	Dates	Time (EST)
August	Aug 3 – Aug 6, 2026	2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
October	Oct 5 – Oct 8, 2026	2:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Group Registration

To register a group of any size, contact [email protected] for assistance. Discounts are available for groups of 5 or more for the same calendar year.