100%
Online Coursework
$390
Tuition Cost per Credit
1.5 years
Average Completion*
Master the Business Behind Government Contracting
Government contracts are complex. The professionals responsible for managing them need more than business knowledge — they need the expertise to navigate regulations, manage risk, negotiate effectively, and ensure organizations meet their contractual obligations.
The Master of Science in Acquisition & Contract Management at Athens State University prepares experienced professionals and aspiring leaders to manage the acquisition and contracting process from beginning to end.
Whether you work in government, defense, aerospace, manufacturing, or the private sector, this program can help you develop the specialized knowledge and practical skills needed to advance in one of today’s most complex and important areas of business.
Program Details
Successful contract management requires professionals who understand the entire lifecycle — not just one piece of the process. The Master of Science in Acquisition & Contract Management will help you understand how contracts are developed, negotiated, awarded, administered, and ultimately closed out. You’ll explore the relationship between government requirements and industry capabilities while developing the skills to identify challenges and make sound business decisions. The result is a broader perspective that can help you become a more effective contract professional and organizational leader.
What You’ll Learn
- Analyze acquisition and contracting requirements
- Apply federal acquisition regulations and contracting principles
- Manage contracts throughout their lifecycle
- Evaluate proposals and contractual performance
- Identify and manage contractual and organizational risk
- Develop effective negotiation strategies
- Navigate compliance and regulatory requirements
- Analyze complex business and contracting issues
- Make informed, ethical decisions
- Communicate effectively with government and industry stakeholders
- Apply strategic thinking to acquisition and contract management
Your Career Advantage Starts Here
Government agencies and contractors rely on skilled acquisition and contract professionals to manage billions of dollars in goods and services. Career opportunities can be found across federal, state, and local government as well as private-sector organizations that do business with government agencies.
Explore your career pathways with the Master of Science in Acquisition & Contract Management, including anticipated salaries, annual job growth, and even active job listings through the Career Concourse portal.
$114k
Purchasing Manager Estimated Entry Salary
$150k
Purchasing Manager Estimated Median Salary
Estimated salary and employment information based on labor market data provided by Career Concourse and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual salaries and employment outcomes vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and employer and are not guaranteed upon degree completion.
Admissions & Aid
Athens State University is proud to offer the lowest tuition of any public, four-year university in Alabama, making it possible to earn an advanced degree while keeping your education affordable. Combined with flexible online learning, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities, our Master of Science in Acquisition & Contract Management delivers exceptional value and a strong return on your investment.
Why Choose This Program at Athens State?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re earning your degree. That’s why the Master of Science in Acquisition & Contract Management is offered entirely online, allowing you to complete coursework when it fits your schedule without sacrificing academic quality.
Built for Today’s Professionals
You shouldn’t have to choose between advancing your education and advancing your career. Athens State’s graduate programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible learning options allow you to pursue your master’s degree while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments.
Take Your Career to the Next Level
The world of government acquisition and contracting needs professionals who can navigate complexity, manage risk, and deliver results — particularly in the Huntsville, Alabama job market. Build the specialized expertise employers are looking for and watch your career thrive.
Learn from Experienced Faculty
Our faculty combine academic excellence with real-world business experience, bringing current industry practices into every course. At Athens State, you’re not facing the journey alone — our dedicated, knowledgeable faculty and staff walk alongside you each step of the way, providing personalized guidance and support.
Additional Information
Our Faculty
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*Average completion time varies by student and depends on prior credits
transferred to Athens State and the number of courses taken per semester.
Please consult with your Student Success Coach and faculty advisor for your personalized plan of study.