lessons for the sourcer's apprentice

In its broadest definition, supply chain management covers all things associated with the planning, sourcing, making and moving (and perhaps return) of a product. Boston University's Corporate Education Center now offers a certification program that focuses on the second of these processes: sourcing or purchasing.

Designed for associate buyers and others seeking professional development in the supply chain field, BU's new Purchasing Management Certificate program includes three required courses: "Essentials of Purchasing," "Improving Your Purchasing Negotiating Skills" and "The Legal Aspects of Purchasing." Participants select three other courses from a group of five electives to complete the program.

The school says the program is also appropriate for production and inventory control personnel; transportation, distribution and non-purchasing executives; procurement managers; and engineers and managers with a purchasing-supplier interface. A minimum of one year of experience is desirable but not necessary.

For more information, visit www.butrain.com.