# CON1100: Contract Foundational Skills (Self-Paced)

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/con1100-contract-foundational-skills-self-paced>

## Overview

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.

Throughout this course, students become familiar with the key elements of government contracts and the guiding principles of federal procurement. They will explore how solicitations and contracts are structured, learn basic contracting terminology, and understand the roles of various acquisition team members. The program ensures new contracting professionals are well-prepared to progress to more advanced topics in pre-award and post-award contract management, forming the necessary base of knowledge required for subsequent courses in the certification program.

## What you'll learn

- Outline the stages of the federal contracting lifecycle and identify the essential elements and legal framework of a government contracts.
- Research and navigate the FAR and agency-specific FAR supplements effectively, and interpret regulations to ensure procurement actions comply with applicable rules.
- Apply fundamental market research techniques and understand competition requirements to support fair and reasonable pricing decisions in acquisitions.
- Identify the components of solicitations and contracts (including the Uniform Contract Format) and understand how requirements are translated into clear contract documents.
- Demonstrate awareness of ethical standards and professional integrity in contracting, and recognize the importance of effective communication and teamwork in the acquisition process.

## Curriculum

#### Overview of Federal Acquisition

- Laws, regulations, and the purpose of the Federal Acquisition System
- Introduction to procurement ethics and integrity

#### Contracting Lifecycle Stages

- Orientation to the pre-award, award, and post-award phases of contracting
- Emphasis on how each phase interrelates

#### Regulatory Framework (FAR)

- Structure of the FAR and agency supplements
- How to locate, read, and interpret regulations and guidance relevant to solicitations and contracts

#### Solicitation and Contract Structure

- Understanding the Uniform Contract Format and the key sections of solicitations/contracts
- Basic elements such as Statements of Work (SOW), Performance Work Statements (PWS), clauses, and provisions

#### Acquisition Team Roles & Soft Skills

- Roles of contracting officers, contract specialists, CORs, and program officials
- Fundamentals of communication, documentation, and ethical conduct in the contracting profession

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $1995