vcc.ca
APSM 2206: Automotive Procurement, Contracts & Supply Management
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Auto Parts & Service Mgmt
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course, students will explore the nuances of procurement, contracts, and supply management, specifically within the automotive parts industry. Emphasis will be placed on strategic sourcing decisions, recognizing the often-overlooked costs of outsourcing, evaluating centralized versus decentralized purchasing approaches, and making tactical supply chain choices. Students will also learn advanced supplier selection methods, including how to implement Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) systems, zero-emissions transportation alternatives, and leverage technology solutions pertinent to automotive components. In addition, they will develop expertise in acceptance sampling plans and negotiation strategies, while staying attuned to the legal, ethical, and sustainable considerations critical to contemporary automotive parts procurement.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Discuss the role of procurement plans, supplier acquisition and management, and contract management.
- Explain the basics of procurement and why it matters, including rules, ethics, and being environmentally friendly.
- Analyze sourcing options in a supply chain, including ways to use vendor-managed inventory (VMI) and low-emission transportation options.
- Create and use supplier plans while thinking about hidden costs and how VMI tools can help.
- Compare different ways of managing purchasing (centralized vs. decentralized) and make smart decisions using strategy and technology.
- Implement methods like Weighted Factor and AHP to choose the best suppliers.
- Apply quality checks for incoming goods using sampling methods based on official standards.
- Develop skills in negotiation techniques and running auctions, while following legal rules, ethical guidelines, and sustainability practices.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 45
Total Hours: 45
Total Hours: 45
Instructional Strategies
Lectures, groupwork, case studies.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
20 |
4 quizzes 5% each |
|
Assignments |
40 |
8 assignments 5% each |
|
Midterm Exam |
10 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
|
Course topics
- Introduction to Procurement and Purchasing Management Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Selection Supplier Relationship Management Contract Management and Negotiation Ethical and Sustainable Procurement Practices Procurement and Supply Chains within, to, and from Indigenous businesses E-Procurement and Technology in Purchasing Supplier Performance Measurement and Evaluation
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.