This 8-week graduate certificate program prepares professionals to launch or advance their careers in the federal contracting sector. Students engage with tri-branch lawmaking mechanisms, develop research and data storytelling techniques, and enhance their relationship-building skills. They also gain insights into proposal management and response processes. By the end of the program, students leave with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of the federal government's acquisition and procurement lifecycle.

The curriculum prioritizes four fundamental areas of focus:
Focus Area 1: Federal Policy
Focus Area 2: Market Research and Assessment
Focus Area 3: Business Development and Capture
Focus Area 4: Federal Proposals

Each segment integrates theoretical instruction, facilitated through lectures and case studies. This approach is achieved via engaged discussions, comprehensive workshops, and project-based assignments, fostering a holistic learning environment.

The course kicks off by examining the political dynamics that shape the federal procurement process. This foundational knowledge enables students to grasp the statutory, regulatory, and judicial pathways that influence the federal marketplace.

Next, the course dives into the complex world of federal procurement and acquisition data. Students learn how to locate, analyze, and interpret a wide range of sources—key skills for transforming data into actionable insights that not only streamline daily operations but also inform long-term goals.

In the second half of the course, the focus shifts to the interpersonal elements of government contracting. Here, students learn the importance of building relationships, establishing trust, and understanding timing—all critical components of business development that involve diverse stakeholders and decision-makers, each with their own unique needs and perspectives.

Finally, students conduct an in-depth study of the intricacies of federal proposal management and response. They develop the skills necessary to align compliance requirements with precision in their submissions, persistence in achieving their goals, and creativity in crafting persuasive narratives.

Through hands-on workshops and case studies, students become well-acquainted with the regulations, guidelines, and best practices that govern the federal marketplace, equipping them with the essential skills needed to successfully navigate this challenging field.

Cancellation policy: To receive a full refund, submit a written refund request to cpdtraining@jmu.edu no later than 7 days before the course start date. Cancellations made between 6 and 1 days before the course receive a 50% refund.

Event Cancellation or Rescheduling: If the organizer cancels the event, attendees receive a full refund or the option to transfer their ticket to a future session.

No-Show Policy: No refunds or credits are issued to individuals who fail to appear as scheduled.