If you are looking to become a certified professional contracts manager (CPCM), passing the CPCM exam is a requirement. The exam is designed to assess your knowledge and skills in the field of contract management. This certification is issued by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA), a leading professional organization for contract management professionals in the United States.
Exam Objectives:
The CPCM exam covers a wide range of topics related to contract management. The main objectives of the exam include:
- Evaluating contract requirements and ensuring compliance with regulations and policies
- Developing, negotiating, and administering contracts
- Managing contract changes and resolving disputes
- Managing risk and ensuring contract performance
- Understanding the legal and regulatory framework for contract management
- Applying best practices in contract management
The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 3.5 hours. The passing score for the exam is 70%. The exam is delivered through Pearson VUE, a global provider of testing and assessment services. The cost of the exam is $350 for NCMA members and $450 for non-members.
Exam Details:
The CPCM exam is delivered in a computer-based format and is available at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 3.5 hours. The exam is closed-book, which means you are not allowed to use any reference materials during the exam. You will receive your results immediately upon completion of the exam. The passing score for the exam is 70%.
Who Should Take the Exam?
The CPCM exam is designed for contract management professionals who are seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of contract management. This includes individuals who work in government, industry, or the nonprofit sector. The exam is particularly relevant for professionals who are responsible for managing complex contracts or who are involved in the procurement process.
Prerequisites and Qualifications:
To take the CPCM exam, you must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and at least five years of work experience in the field of contract management. Alternatively, you can qualify to take the exam with a high school diploma or equivalent and at least ten years of work experience in the field of contract management. You must also complete NCMA's Contract Management Body of Knowledge (CMBOK) course or an equivalent course from an accredited institution.
Related Books:
To prepare for the CPCM exam, NCMA recommends studying the Contract Management Body of Knowledge (CMBOK), which is the primary reference for the exam. In addition, the following books may be helpful:
- The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
- The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
- The Government Contracts Reference Book
- The Contracting Officer's Representative Guide and Desk Reference
- The Professional Services Contracting Deskbook
Preparing for the CPCM exam requires a significant investment of time and effort. However, with the right study materials and a solid understanding of the exam objectives, you can pass the exam and become a certified professional contracts manager. Good luck!