Our courses are designed to strengthen the acquisition competencies of federal acquisition and contract management professionals, including managers, supervisors, and administrative personnel.
This prepares federal acquisition professionals to understand and operate under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), the most significant reform of the Federal Acquisition Regulation since 1984. Participants learn what changed, why it changed, and how to apply the modernized FAR and Strategic Acquisition Guidance (SAG) framework to their day-to-day acquisition responsibilities.
Learn how to execute streamlined procurement actions within federal simplified acquisition thresholds, including micro‑purchases and GSA schedules.
Sharpen your understanding of business, finance, and budgeting as a federal contracts or COR professional. Learn key competencies to communicate and collaborate effectively with financial and budget personnel.
Gain foundational knowledge in supply chain management tailored for contracting professionals. Learn key principles of procurement, supplier management, logistics, and risk mitigation in the contracting context.
Understand procurement ethics laws, conflict-of-interest rules, whistleblower standards, and enforcement mechanisms essential to federal contracts.
Learn how to write effective performance-based statements of work (PWS) and quality assurance plans to ensure contract clarity, compliance, and performance accountability.
Learn the legal foundations of government contracting through analysis of key laws, regulations, and case examples related to procurement, performance, and disputes.
Explore federal acquisition from pre-solicitation through post-award administration. Understand how to shape competitive and ethical business arrangements aligned with FAR and DFARS.
Master the essentials of managing contracts post‑award, including monitoring performance, resolving issues, and ensuring compliance.
These courses are designed for both DoD and Non-DoD students aiming to fulfill their Continued Learning Requirements. For DoD personnel, it meets the requirement of 80 hours of Continuous Learning (CL) every two years, as outlined in DoDI 5000.66. For Non-DoD students, the requirement is 80 credits from May 1, 2022, to April 30, 2024, and 100 credits starting May 1, 2024.
This comprehensive program encompasses all of the core training requirements for federal Contracting Officer certification under both the civilian FAC-C (Professional) program and the Department of Defense DAWIA Contracting certification. It is a structured learning pathway that guides participants through the entire acquisition lifecycle, from foundational concepts and pre-award planning to contract award, administration, and closeout, aligning with the competencies outlined in the DAU/FAI Contracting Training Model. Over a series of courses and practical exercises, participants build the knowledge and skills needed to manage government contracts.
This course provides an overview of the federal acquisition process, introduces the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and agency supplements, and teaches how to research and interpret these regulations. Participants gain a broad understanding of the contracting lifecycle from planning through closeout, while also learning foundational professional skills (such as communication, ethics, and teamwork) that are critical for success in any contracting role.
In this course, participants learn how to shape and define government requirements in collaboration with program offices, conduct thorough market research, and develop effective acquisition strategies. The curriculum covers key pre-award processes such as acquisition planning, crafting performance-based work statements or statements of work, and developing solicitations (e.g., Requests for Proposals) that attract best-value offers while adhering to federal regulations.
This course provides an in-depth look at how the government evaluates offers and makes award decisions, while also considering the contractor’s viewpoint during negotiations and award. Participants will learn how to conduct cost or price analyses of proposals, assess contractor responsibility and risk, and apply source selection techniques to determine the best value for the government. The curriculum addresses the preparation for and conduct of contract negotiations – including developing negotiation objectives and strategies – and the proper documentation of the award decision.
This course provides both government and industry perspectives on contract administration and performance management. Students will build a toolkit of essential skills for ensuring that contractors deliver products and services in accordance with contract requirements, and for taking appropriate action when performance issues or changes occur. Key topics include conducting post-award orientations, monitoring contractor performance and quality, handling contract modifications (both within scope changes and supplemental agreements), and managing government-furnished property and payments.
The FAC-C/DAWIA Contracting Certification Preparation Course is designed to help participants strengthen their readiness for the closed-book Contracting Certification exam. Through a structured blend of pre-assessment, targeted content review, discussions, and practice quizzes, you’ll build familiarity with exam topics while identifying areas that need additional focus. The course concludes with a post-assessment that mirrors the format and rigor of the actual exam, providing valuable insight into your preparedness.
This course provides federal acquisition professionals with a foundational understanding of the competitive source selection process under FAR Part 15, from acquisition planning and solicitation development through proposal evaluation and award. Participants develop the skills and judgment needed to conduct best value source selections, document findings, and make defensible award decisions.
This course provides federal acquisition professionals with practical guidance on applying Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) under FAR Part 13 to plan, compete, award, and administer procurements below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. Participants develop the knowledge and judgment needed to execute simplified acquisitions with efficiency, competition, and full regulatory compliance.
This course equips federal contracting professionals with the analytical skills and regulatory knowledge needed to evaluate contractor cost proposals and determine fair and reasonable prices under FAR Part 15 and TINA requirements. Participants develop proficiency in cost and price analysis techniques, profit and fee determination, and the documentation practices that support defensible pricing decisions across a wide range of federal contract types.
This course provides acquisition professionals and program managers with a foundational understanding of the Defense Acquisition System and the systems acquisition management process, covering the policies, pathways, and key roles involved in planning and executing successful defense acquisition programs. Participants develop the knowledge needed to navigate the Adaptive Acquisition Framework and apply core acquisition management concepts to realistic program scenarios.
This course equips experienced federal contracting professionals with advanced negotiation strategies, contractor financial analysis skills, and deal-structuring techniques to achieve best-value outcomes for the Government. Participants develop the judgment, tools, and practical confidence to lead negotiations across a range of complex federal acquisition scenarios.
This course prepares federal contracting professionals to plan and execute acquisition operations in contingency, humanitarian, and disaster relief environments, applying FAR, DFARS, and applicable DoD policy in high-tempo and austere operating conditions. Participants develop the judgment and practical skills needed to support joint force missions through responsive, compliant, and accountable contingency contracting.
This course prepares contracting professionals to plan and execute acquisition operations across the full spectrum of contingency environments, including combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief missions. Participants develop the regulatory knowledge, operational judgment, and applied skills needed to provide responsive contracting support to the joint force under austere and high-tempo conditions.
This course prepares experienced contracting professionals to lead and manage acquisition operations in complex, joint, and combined contingency environments, applying advanced contracting authorities, theater acquisition strategy, and operational decision-making skills. Participants develop the leadership capability and technical proficiency needed to execute high-stakes contracting missions with integrity, efficiency, and compliance in austere and deployed settings.
Receive instruction from subject‑matter experts who bring proven government experience.
Courses that are regularly updated based on feedback and industry developments, ensuring versions are mapped to federal competencies.
The instructor was wonderful and so knowledgeable. The course materials were extremely relevant to what my job is. I feel like I can be better because of this class.
— 2025 student
Directly addressing the day-to-day challenges of federal employees.
Your trusted training partner, equipping public service professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in their roles and drive meaningful impact.
Traditional federal government training and procurement practices often inhibit agencies’ ability to effectively acquire and implement modern IT and digital services because they lag behind the rapidly changing technology and markets. Timely, relevant, and continuous training for acquisition professionals is the key to keeping pace. In recognition of this urgent need, the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) — in cooperation with US Digital Services (USDS) — established an immersive six-month training and development program called the Digital IT Acquisition Program (DITAP).
Traditional federal government training and procurement practices often inhibit agencies’ ability to effectively acquire and implement modern IT and digital services because they lag behind the rapidly changing technology and markets. Timely, relevant, and continuous training for acquisition professionals is the key to keeping pace. In recognition of this urgent need, the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) — in cooperation with US Digital Services (USDS) — established an immersive five-month training and development program called the Digital IT Acquisition Program (DITAP).
Gain foundational knowledge and skills to perform the duties of a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) effectively.
Develop the knowledge and skills required to effectively perform the responsibilities of a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).
Enhance your skills as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) by mastering acquisition planning, contract management, and performance evaluation.
Get up to speed on federal contracting procedures, responsibilities, and supervisory roles as a COR or project official.
The FAC-P/PM Entry-Level certification provides a strong foundation in managing federal projects across acquisition, contracting, financial, and leadership disciplines. Designed for those with at least one year of project management experience within the last five years, it equips participants to plan, execute, and support projects that align with agency missions and federal standards.
This course prepares entry-level program and project managers to navigate the full federal contracting process, from acquisition planning to contract closeout. Participants learn how the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) guides fair and effective procurement, and how to collaborate with Contracting Officers and specialists to achieve mission success.
This course provides entry-level program and project managers with a solid foundation in financial and business management for federal projects. Participants learn to develop cost estimates, build business cases, apply budgeting principles, and use Earned Value Management to track performance and support informed decision making.
This course helps new federal project and program managers develop the leadership and interpersonal skills needed to guide teams effectively. Participants learn to communicate clearly, influence without authority, manage conflict and change, and lead with integrity to achieve successful project outcomes.
The Entry Level FAC-P/PM certificate provides federal professionals with essential knowledge of the project and program management life cycle, contracting fundamentals, cost and financial principles, and leadership skills required in the acquisition environment. This program builds the foundation needed to contribute effectively to federal projects, PMOs, and Integrated Project Teams.
Gain a foundational understanding of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its application in federal procurement processes.
Understand how to obligate and manage appropriated funds in compliance with FAR and the GAO’s “Red Book,” with a focus on acquisition contexts.
Since 1921, Graduate School USA has partnered with over 125 federal agencies and trained more than one million federal employees. Led by instructors with deep, real-world knowledge of federal regulations, policies, and practices, our private group programs are practical, mission-driven, and tailored to your agency’s objectives. We offer expertise across key federal domains—including human resources, financial management, acquisition and contracting, leadership, and more—to deliver training where and how your team needs it.
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Our alumni consistently commend the expertise of our instructors and the real-world relevance of our programs. Their feedback highlights how Graduate School USA training has advanced their skills, supported their agencies’ missions, and fostered long-term professional growth.
This class was very interesting and informative. I will be recommending it to my colleagues and using the material in my work. It gave a wonderful overview of all things contracting without getting bogged down in trivial details. Anna was absolutely wonderful! So knowledgeable and able to keep the material interesting throughout the entire three-day class!
Ellie M.
First time taking the full (40-hr) formal training course. The material was detailed, and the class had very experienced CORs who brought valuable insight and experience to the discussion. I enjoyed the course. It is a lot of information to cover, but the general review seemed to cover all the relevant information needed to be a successful COR.
Sharlene W.
My overall experience was wonderfully informative.
Michael S.
My overall experience was wonderfully informative.
Michael S.
A great course. Wonderful refresher on the pertinent information. Very knowledgeable instructor. Kept the participants engaged.
Erneisha B.
Highly recommend this and other COR classes that I have attended at Graduate School USA. The instructor was very thorough and had a vast knowledge of the FAR and contracting across the board.
Brandon P.
Great! Highly recommend that CORs routinely take this class to stay informed of recent updates and to refresh their knowledge of their COR duties. Jeff kept the class interesting and kept us engaged in the material.
Kimie E.
The information I received today has made me want to further my training and gain knowledge for my position. The instructor took the time to listen and answer. He shared situations similar to the questions I had.
Denise Young Bird
Great class, I enjoyed the instructor and the class. Mr. Jeff was informative, relatable, and easy to follow.
L. W.
The instructor was knowledgeable, engaging, and well-informed about past and current occurrences in the acquisition community. He provided realistic examples that we all could relate to.
Edna R.
Jeff was an awesome instructor, he provided the perfect mix of learned experiences and teaching. The materials were easy to follow along with, and I enjoyed the online environment.
E. B.
I absolutely gained knowledge in all phases of the contracting process. Jeff's extensive knowledge of contracting really came through, and I thoroughly enjoyed the real-life applications of his contracting experience. Great experience with the course, and Graduate School USA personnel did a great job with making the portal easy to navigate.
Brandon Pridgen
I will be recommending this course to the rest of my CORs that I manage in my directorate. Instructor is knowledgeable on the topic and was very detailed and able to use real life examples to help us understand more. Class content and materials provided for the class helped to follow along with the instructor. Overall, a great course!
Tina H.
Very interesting course and great instructor! Melanie Dooley provided good examples and real situations pertinent to what we covered during class.
Chris B.
Anna is an excellent instructor and made the course informative, interesting, and fun!
John Seger
Graduate School is where you rise and where your resilience deepens, and your potential expands beyond limits. It's not just a place to learn, it's where you become the most powerful, intellectual version of yourself!
Tina Cooper
Excellent content - easy to ready modules and addressing important, including new information; exercises and knowledge checks very well structured. Excellent description of the roles of the CO, COR, Contractors.
Rosaly C.
I liked that the class was small (only two participants). It allowed us to go at an accelerated pace and to discuss subjects specific to our agencies when desired. The instructor has extensive knowledge of the subject matter and is able to answer both common and arcane questions regarding acquisition.
Anne S.
Steven Potts is very knowledgeable and can provide a lot of real world examples.
Anne S.
This was one of the better classes I have taken, thank you! The instructor was very knowledgeable and engaging with the class.
Dwayne T.
This was my first time exposed to this information, and the course made it relatively easy to learn. Class content is easy to follow and understand and the instructor is very knowledgeable.
JEFFREY TURNER
Great experience. Instructor was outstanding. Very knowledgeable.
Michelle W.
I don't need to take this class again, but I would just to absorb more knowledge from the instructor. He was a wealth of knowledge and spoke very well! Well experienced and had an exciting career to speak on that gave him endless examples to use during training. Loved this class! It's very useful to me as a COR 1.
Evie James
The instructor was excellent and knowledgeable. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and would definitely recommend it to my colleagues.
April Royal
First time taking the full (40-hr) formal training course. The material was detailed, and the class had very experienced CORs who brought valuable insight and experience to the discussion. I enjoyed the course. It is a lot of information to cover, but the general review seemed to cover all the relevant information needed to be a successful COR.
Sharlene W.
I enjoyed the course and appreciated Melanie's time and effort. Melanie is an excellent instructor and deeply knowledgeable on the subject matter. She made sometimes dry material interesting and engaging.
Erin N.
Thank you Steve for providing me with all the information (new/old). This was the best instructor lead course that I've taken in years.
Andrea Willis
This course delivered valuable information and strengthened my understanding of performance-based acquisitions and PWS development. The small class size allowed for individualized attention and practical discussion, which was appreciated. The instructor was highly knowledgeable about the PWS process and related contracting principles. Her expertise in the subject matter was clear, and she demonstrated flexibility in adjusting the class content and pace to meet the needs of a very small group.
Sarah W.
Instructor, Melanie Dooley, was highly knowledgeable. This course was very informative and helped prepare for successful COR duties.
Joshua E.
Instructor, Melanie Dooley, was highly knowledgeable. This course was very informative and helped prepare for successful COR duties.
Joshua E.
I enjoyed the class as it gave me more information on certain items that I have faced as a COR. The instructor, Joseph Common, was very knowledgeable about the course content and used real life examples to make things more interesting.
Kimberly S.
Bruce had great energy and clear knowledge of this process.
Danielle B.
OUTSTANDING largely due to the course material and how knowledgeable the instructor (Anna) was with the content. I will definitely recommend this course to my colleagues and hope to have another course where Anna is the instructor in the future!
April Royal
Instructor was great. Very willing to explain and help throughout the course.
Jefferey S.
I felt it was an excellent course and enables me to better understand the back end of information I feel I need to effectively translate my user's needs and language for their issues they submit.
Patricia H.
Completing the Simplified Acquisition Procedures course with Graduate School USA has been an invaluable experience. This course has strengthened my foundation in procurement and increased my confidence as I grow in this career field. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to build or refine their knowledge of federal acquisition procedures.
Genine Washington
Great class and great instructor. You never know who will be teaching a class when you sign up, so it is a little nerve-wracking when you log in on the first day (especially for a 5-day class). It was so good to have an instructor who made the days go by so quickly, and you felt like you actually learned something each day. I highly recommend the class. And hopefully Robin will be your instructor.
Charles Hardy
The instructor provided clear clarification of the course's information and delivered with a fair amount of valuable information which made the subjects easier to understand. Her assurance of our gained understanding was highly appreciated. Overall experience was very satisfying.
Tina H.
Jeffrey presented the information in digestible sizes. He encouraged and engaged with students and consistently provided ample opportunities to question and discuss. Instructor/student ratio was great. Student engagement was the best. Student experiences were the most beneficial across the board.
Robert M.
Instructor made a dry topic interesting, helped relate textbox info to our Agency. Great refresher course on what CORs do so I can better help them with issues in our accounting system.
Ann K.
Great class and great instructor. You never know who will be teaching a class when you sign up, so it is a little nerve-wracking when you log in on the first day (especially for a 5-day class). It was so good to have an instructor who made the days go by so quickly, and you felt like you actually learned something each day. I highly recommend the class. And hopefully Robin will be your instructor.
Charles Hardy
Instructor had good presentations and kept us focused. Good to have this information in one readable source.
Raymon T.
Thank you so much to Mr. Hysen. I will take any class that he teaches.
Katrina Foster
Very go to know and learn. Found the instructor very good at his job. Had fun learning.
Frank P.
The instructor was engaging and energetic. Good mix of course material with practical, real-life experience. Good use of three days.
Andrew S.
Great intro to the basics of government contracting. This course was very helpful to me as a financial manager. The instructor had extensive knowledge, engaged the entire class, and solicited input from everyone. Overall, a good facility that was a relaxed environment for a challenging course.
Jason B.
This 3-day course was great! Very helpful. Content was informational and will be useful when applying to a specific job. My instructor, Melanie, was very thorough and informative.
Julia N.
I truly found this course to be informative and the instructor was amazing. I enjoyed the experience and look forward to another course with Graduate School.
Veronica Bustamante
Our Federal Acquisition & Contracting Training are rated 4.9 stars by 85 students
First time taking the full (40-hr) formal training course. The material was detailed, and the class had very experienced CORs who brought valuable insight and experience to the discussion. I enjoyed the course. It is a lot of information to cover, but the general review seemed to cover all the relevant information needed to be a successful COR.
My overall experience was wonderfully informative.
A great course. Wonderful refresher on the pertinent information. Very knowledgeable instructor. Kept the participants engaged.
Highly recommend this and other COR classes that I have attended at Graduate School USA. The instructor was very thorough and had a vast knowledge of the FAR and contracting across the board.
Great class, I enjoyed the instructor and the class. Mr. Jeff was informative, relatable, and easy to follow.
The information I received today has made me want to further my training and gain knowledge for my position. The instructor took the time to listen and answer. He shared situations similar to the questions I had.
Great! Highly recommend that CORs routinely take this class to stay informed of recent updates and to refresh their knowledge of their COR duties. Jeff kept the class interesting and kept us engaged in the material.
The instructor was knowledgeable, engaging, and well-informed about past and current occurrences in the acquisition community. He provided realistic examples that we all could relate to.
Jeff was an awesome instructor, he provided the perfect mix of learned experiences and teaching. The materials were easy to follow along with, and I enjoyed the online environment.
I absolutely gained knowledge in all phases of the contracting process. Jeff's extensive knowledge of contracting really came through, and I thoroughly enjoyed the real-life applications of his contracting experience. Great experience with the course, and Graduate School USA personnel did a great job with making the portal easy to navigate.
Very interesting course and great instructor! Melanie Dooley provided good examples and real situations pertinent to what we covered during class.
I will be recommending this course to the rest of my CORs that I manage in my directorate. Instructor is knowledgeable on the topic and was very detailed and able to use real life examples to help us understand more. Class content and materials provided for the class helped to follow along with the instructor. Overall, a great course!
OUTSTANDING largely due to the course material and how knowledgeable the instructor (Anna) was with the content. I will definitely recommend this course to my colleagues and hope to have another course where Anna is the instructor in the future!
Anna is an excellent instructor and made the course informative, interesting, and fun!
I enjoyed the class as it gave me more information on certain items that I have faced as a COR. The instructor, Joseph Common, was very knowledgeable about the course content and used real life examples to make things more interesting.
Bruce had great energy and clear knowledge of this process.
Instructor, Melanie Dooley, was highly knowledgeable. This course was very informative and helped prepare for successful COR duties.
This course delivered valuable information and strengthened my understanding of performance-based acquisitions and PWS development. The small class size allowed for individualized attention and practical discussion, which was appreciated. The instructor was highly knowledgeable about the PWS process and related contracting principles. Her expertise in the subject matter was clear, and she demonstrated flexibility in adjusting the class content and pace to meet the needs of a very small group.
Thank you Steve for providing me with all the information (new/old). This was the best instructor lead course that I've taken in years.
I enjoyed the course and appreciated Melanie's time and effort. Melanie is an excellent instructor and deeply knowledgeable on the subject matter. She made sometimes dry material interesting and engaging.
This class was very interesting and informative. I will be recommending it to my colleagues and using the material in my work. It gave a wonderful overview of all things contracting without getting bogged down in trivial details. Anna was absolutely wonderful! So knowledgeable and able to keep the material interesting throughout the entire three-day class!
The instructor was excellent and knowledgeable. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and would definitely recommend it to my colleagues.
I don't need to take this class again, but I would just to absorb more knowledge from the instructor. He was a wealth of knowledge and spoke very well! Well experienced and had an exciting career to speak on that gave him endless examples to use during training. Loved this class! It's very useful to me as a COR 1.
Steven Potts is very knowledgeable and can provide a lot of real world examples.
This was my first time exposed to this information, and the course made it relatively easy to learn. Class content is easy to follow and understand and the instructor is very knowledgeable.
Showing 25 of 45 reviews
Attend courses in-person in Washington, DC or live online. Engage with expert instructors, ask questions, and get feedback on your exercises and projects.
Get face-to-face interaction with an instructor and other students when you learn at our DC campus. Courses are hands-on with a computer and software provided.
Get the same interactivity and access to the instructor as in-person students. There are no extra fees and we’ll work with you to ensure your remote setup is perfect.
All times are listed in Eastern Time unless otherwise specified.
| March 2026 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
March 30–31
Monday to Tuesday
9–4:30pm
|
$1,050
2 Days
|
Understand how to obligate and manage appropriated funds in compliance with FAR and the GAO’s “Red Book,” with a focus on acquisition contexts. |
|
| April 2026 | |||
|
April 6
Monday
9–4:30pm
|
$900
1 Day
|
Gain foundational knowledge and skills to perform the duties of a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) effectively. |
|
|
April 13–July 21
Weekdays
9–5pm
|
$6,599
17 Days
|
Sharpen your understanding of business, finance, and budgeting as a federal contracts or COR professional. Learn key competencies to communicate and collaborate effectively with financial and budget personnel. |
|
|
April 20–22
Monday to Wednesday
9–4:30pm
|
$1,200
3 Days
|
Learn how to write effective performance-based statements of work (PWS) and quality assurance plans to ensure contract clarity, compliance, and performance accountability. |
|
|
April 27–May 1
Monday to Friday
9–4:30pm
|
$1,900
5 Days
|
Develop the knowledge and skills required to effectively perform the responsibilities of a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). |
|
Showing 5 of 46 courses
