The online Master of Science (M.S.) in acquisition and contract management program from Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech) opens doors to a variety of professional roles. The curriculum prepares graduates to handle complex contract negotiations and procurement processes across various industries.
This article explores some of the most promising career paths available to graduates, focusing on job duties, salary expectations, growth outlook and potential for advancement. The salary information provided below is current as of May 2025, but actual salaries will vary depending on job location, experience level and other factors.
Purchasing Manager
Purchasing managers ensure that a company obtains essential supplies and services. Responsibilities include evaluating suppliers, negotiating contracts and managing budgets. They must possess a strong understanding of market trends and supply chain management. This role often requires the ability to analyze data, make sound decisions and lead a team.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for purchasing managers is $79,830. Those seeking advancement can pursue opportunities in higher levels of organizational leadership, possibly as directors of purchasing.
Contract Administrator
Contract administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of contracts, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions. Job duties include monitoring contract performance, resolving disputes and maintaining contract documentation. This role requires attention to detail, strong organizational abilities and a thorough understanding of contract law.
The annual salary averages $75,795, but contract administrators may see their pay increase as they take on greater volumes of contract work. The ability to work within business law is a core topic in acquisition and contract management programs.
Contract Specialist
Contract specialists negotiate and administer government or private-sector contracts. Responsibilities include developing contract proposals, evaluating bids and establishing compliance with regulations. These positions often require an understanding of procurement policies and contract law.
According to Indeed, the average annual wage for contract specialists is $86,927. The upward movement for this role would be to more senior contract specialist positions and positions of higher responsibility within the contracting department.
Procurement Manager
Procurement managers oversee the procurement process, developing strategies to optimize cost and efficiency. They manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts and enforce quality control. The role requires analytical thinking, negotiation abilities and an understanding of supply chain practices.
Indeed shows an average annual salary of $99,940 for procurement managers. There is a strong relationship between procurement and supply chain, making related coursework especially useful.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers coordinate the movement of products and services from production to end users. Duties involve planning, directing and coordinating purchasing, warehousing, distribution, forecasting and customer service. They work to optimize costs, minimize delays and improve efficiency. This role requires analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
A master’s degree in acquisition and contracts management provides an individual with relevant supply chain experience. The annual salary is approximately $88,306, with BLS predicting job growth of 19% through 2033.
Legal Contract Manager
Legal contract managers handle the legal aspects of contracts, mitigating risk and ensuring compliance. They are responsible for reviewing, drafting and negotiating contracts, as well as providing legal advice to the organization. This position requires a solid understanding of contract law and risk management.
This position can become a highly sought-after role within organizations that handle lucrative contracts, with contract managers earning an average salary of $82,289 per year. Contractual law training plays a large part in acquisition and contract management programs, especially as it relates to this role.
Pursue Acquisition and Contract Management Jobs With a Florida Tech Online Degree
The M.S. in acquisition and contract management online program from Florida Tech provides a foundation for rewarding careers. Graduates are equipped with strong growth potential and opportunities for competitive salaries.
In addition to foundational topics in contract management and acquisition, program courses cover valuable concepts like government contract law, researching contract management issues and trends, and advanced procurement and contract management. As a result, students graduate ready to shape organizational success through strategic procurement and contract management.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online M.S. in acquisition and contract management program.
