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CIPS Level 4
(Diploma in Procurement and Supply)

250 Hrs.

Introduction

A step up from the Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations, the Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply is a stepping stone to study on the CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.

The content has been written using the CIPS Procurement and Supply Cycle as its focus, which presents a cyclical process of key steps faced by those procuring goods or services.

The Diploma offers the most common entry route to the profession and should be used by learners to develop a professional ‘tool box’ which learners can apply in the practical environment and further develop at Levels 5 and 6.

This is the highest entry point onto our diploma qualifications. A minimum of at least two A-levels (or international equivalent) or a CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate qualification is required. Alternatively, you will need a minimum of two years’ relevant experience in a business environment.



What Will You Learn?

You will learn about making procurement and supply happen within an organisation, and you will be equipped with an essential range of knowledge and tools that you can apply immediately in your workplace. Learn how to apply practical, theoretical and technical knowledge, gain a clear understanding of procurement and supply and develop the ability to address complex, non-routine problems
 
On completion, you will be able to analyse, interpret and evaluate relevant information and ideas and have an informed awareness of differing perspectives and approaches within the profession. You will also be able to review the effectiveness and appropriateness of methods, actions and results.

Who is it for?

This qualification is the essential toolkit for anyone planning a career in procurement and supply. It is at the same level as the first year of an undergraduate degree course. It’s suitable for those in operational roles or those managing or supervising the procurement and supply function who want to develop their career and work towards MCIPS Chartered Procurement and Supply Professional.
Typical job titles:

  • Buyer

  • Senior buyer

  • Purchasing Executive

  • Procurement Specialist

  • Contracting Officer

  • Supply Chain Analyst

Level Description


To gain this qualification you are required to complete a total number of 60 credits. This is a way of quantifying the required number of study hours.

1 credit is equivalent to 10 hours of study. Each module is given a credit value of 6 or 12 credits.

this leve consists of EIGHT CORE modules make up the required 60 credits

1- (L4M1) Scope and Influence of Procurement and Supply
On completion of this module, learners will be able to identify the key stakeholders in the application of the sourcing process and analyse the procurement cycle, evaluating the influence that procurement and supply has as a source of added value for the organisation..
 
2- (L4M2) Defıning Business Need
On completion of this module, learners will be able to devise a business case for requirements to be externally sourced and will understand the role of market management and competitive forces as they specify goods and services in procurement and supply.
 
3- (L4M3) Commercial Contracting
On completion of this module, learners will be able to describe the key elements and legal aspects of formal commercial contracts, and analyse and interpret the fundamentals of specifications and key performance indicators that are included in contractual arrangements made with suppliers.
 
4- (L4M4) Ethical and Responsible Sourcing
On completion of this module, learners will be able to explain the options and associated processes available for sourcing with external suppliers. They will also examine the legal and ethical impact and the implications of corporate social responsibility, on the final sourcing decision.

5- (L4M5) Commercial Negotiation
On completion of this module learners will be able to identify approaches to successfully achieving negotiated commercial agreements with external organisations.

6- (L4M5) Supplier Relationships
On completion of this module, learners will be able to analyse the dynamics of supplier relationships, examine the processes and procedures for working with stakeholders and appreciate the concept of partnering.

7- (L4M7) Whole Life Asset Management
On completion of this module, learners will be able to explain methods of inventory storage and control and analyse the concept of whole life cost from concept through to disposal.

8- (L4M8) Procurement and Supply In Practice
On completion of this module, learners will be able to demonstrate the practical application of the key elements of the procurement cycle in an integrated manner, within a workplace context.