Purchasing Degree Programs for Aspiring Purchasing Managers

Purchasing managers are responsible for buying goods to resell to the public or for buying products for their companies to use. An education in purchasing prepares students to develop continuous improvement strategies and manage supply chain operations and inventory. Currently, few U.S. colleges and universities offer specific degree programs in purchasing, but aspiring purchasing managers might benefit from a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration.

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Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

A 4-year degree in business administration exposes students to most aspects of business, including purchasing, production, management, finance, marketing, sales and advertising. Some programs allow students to choose a particular area of study or concentration. Admission to a bachelor's degree program in business administration typically requires completion of a high school diploma or the equivalent, in addition to submission of SAT or ACT scores.

Program Coursework

Students enrolled in a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) or Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) program who wish to become purchasing managers will likely take several introductory and advanced courses in the following topics:

Purchasing
Purchasing and business management
Marketing management
Supply chain management
Strategic planning
International business
Advertising
Sales
Retailing

Employment Outlook and Salary Info

Jobs in purchasing management were expected to increase by two percent during the 10-year period between 2008 and 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). The BLS also reported that the median salary for a purchasing manager was $89,160 in 2008.

Continuing Education Information

The Institute for Supply Management offers a voluntary Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) credential for bachelor's degree graduates with at least three years of purchasing and supply management experience. C.P.M. applicants also must pass an exam that includes sections on management, the purchasing process, supply environment and value enhancement strategies. Recertification is required every five years, during which a C.P.M. must earn at least 84 continuing education hours.

Master's Degree in Business Administration

Those seeking to obtain mid- to upper-level purchasing management positions are generally encouraged to pursue a master's degree. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with a concentration in supply chain management may prepare one to further his or her career as a purchasing manager. Those with an MBA might have better opportunities as purchasing managers in larger companies or government agencies or offices.

Education Prerequisites

In many cases, a bachelor's degree is required for those who wish to enter an MBA program, though the undergraduate degree does not have to be in business. Prerequisites might include introductory courses in accounting, finance, microeconomics, macroeconomics, management and statistics.

Program Coursework

Program coursework for an MBA program for those seeking to become purchasing managers or advance their careers in this field may include several types of management courses, including: