In the age of the Web, education is often as close as your keyboard. One current example is the Senior Professional in Supply Management (SPSM) certification program offered by online education provider Next Level Purchasing. The program focuses on practical strategies for purchasing professionals.

Earning the certification is a three-step process: applicants must complete Next Level Purchasing's six online courses; take the online SPSM exam; and submit a purchasing certificate application. The courses, which must be taken in order, cover the following topics: Mastering Purchasing Fundamentals, Microsoft Excel for Purchasing Professionals, Supply Management Contract Writing, Microsoft Project for Purchasing Professionals, 14 Purchasing Best Practices, and Savings Strategy Development.

More information is available at www.nextlevelpurchasing.com.