The Level I program management certification requires individuals to complete assignments in four categories: weapons systems, services, business management systems/information technology and international acquisition. A Level I student takes part in activities that involve weapons, space or network systems and conduct financial and basic logistic tasks. He helps with the acquisition planning, performance evaluations and risk assessments. He also participates in diverse business management international activities.
A Level I student must complete courses in system acquisition management fundamentals, cost analysis, earned value management and systems planning, and research and development. At least a bachelor's degree in business administration, systems management or engineering is preferred for Level I certification. Candidates must also have a least one year of acquisition experience.
Like Level I, the Level II program management certification requires students to complete tasks in weapons systems, services, business management systems/information technology and international acquisition. A Level II individual completes systems engineering tasks, develops risk and opportunity programs and carries out technical evaluations. She conducts acquisition planning activities and oversees business tasks and systems at the enterprise level. She also takes part in cooperative development and system acquisition with ally countries.
A Level II individual must complete courses in intermediate systems acquisition, program management tools, basic software acquisition management and mission-support planning. A master's degree in business administration, systems management, engineering or a related area is preferred for Level II certification. Individuals must have at least two years of acquisition experience with a minimum of one year in program management. An additional two years' experience in acquisition is preferred.
The Level III program management certification requires individuals to complete assignments in weapons systems, services and business management/information technology. A Level III student directs activities related to financial management, systems engineering, communications, risk management and coordination of contracts. He collaborates with procurement contracting professionals regarding socioeconomic business issues. He also manages planning and performance, management of investments and the incorporation of changes of the acquisition organization and its related systems and offices.
A Level III individual must complete courses in program management office and planning, research, engineering and development of intermediate systems. Additional training courses include economic analysis, intermediate acquisition logistics, skills of program managers and configuration management. A minimum of 24 semester hours in business, accounting, economics, law, finance, marketing and organization and management is preferred for Level III certification. Candidates must have at least four years of acquisition experience, with a minimum of two years in a program office or related entity and one year in a program management job.