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CIPS Level 4

This is the highest CIPS starting point. It will give you an overview of the procurement function and help you build knowledge in key areas.

CIPS Level 4 Diploma in procurement and supply

The CIPS Level 4 Diploma is essential learning for everyone in the procurement and supply profession.

This course focuses on organisational procedures and processes, including planning, negotiation, risk management and data analysis. On completion, you’ll 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.

Is CIPS Level 4 right for you?

This level is aimed at people looking to build upon existing skills in the field and those who are brand new to it.

This is the highest CIPS starting point and requires a minimum of two A-levels, a CIPS level 3 qualification, or a minimum of two years’ experience in a business environment.

CIPS Course content

    • Understand and analyse the added value that can be achieved through procurement and supply chain management

    • Understand and analyse the key steps when procuring goods or services

    • Understand and analyse the key aspects of organisational infrastructure that shape the scope of a procurement or supply chain function

    • Understand and analyse the need for compliance with requirements when undertaking procurement activities in different sectors

    • Understand how to devise a business case for requirements to be sourced from external suppliers

    • Understand market management in procurement and supply

    • Understand the use of specifications in procurement and supply

    • Understand the legal issues that relate to the formation of contracts

    • Understand the fundamentals of specifications and key performance indicators that are included in contractual arrangements made with suppliers

    • Understand the key clauses that are included in formal contracts

    • Understand options for sourcing requirements from suppliers

    • Understand the key processes that can be applied to the analysis of potential external suppliers

    • Understand ethical and responsible sourcing

    • Understand key approaches in the negotiation of commercial agreements with external organisations

    • Know how to prepare for negotiations with external organisations.

    • Understand how commercial negotiations should be undertaken

    • Understand the dynamics of relationships in supply chains

    • Understand processes and procedures for successful working with stakeholders

    • Understand the concept of partnering

    • Understand methods for the storage and movement of inventory

    • Understand the key elements of effective inventory control

    • Understand the concept of through-life cost

    • Demonstrate the application of the procurement cycle

    • Demonstrate the application of the key stages of the sourcing process

    • Demonstrate the application of whole life asset management

    • Demonstrate the application of ethical and responsible sourcing within an organisation

CIPS Level 4 exams

CIPS Level 4 is assessed with 1 exam per module, which are all computer-based.

6 credit modules are assessed via 1.5 hour Objective Response (multiple choice) exams.

12 credit modules are assessed via 3 hour Contracted Response (written) exams.

FAQ

  • We want to ensure that anyone who wants to study with us can do so.
    • Direct company-funded students can pay in full or 2 or 4 split payments.
    • Self-funding students can spread the fees over 10 instalments.

  • To enrol with us, just get in touch!

  • When you complete CIPS Level 4, you can move on to CIPS Level 5! You can carry on up to Level 6 with us if you’d like to.

  • That depends on which of our study formats you choose. Our CIPS Day Course and CIPS Bespoke course options mean your days and times will vary, so check out their pages for more information.

  • Exams are offered five times per year: in March, May, July, September, and November. They are available in our physical exam centre and online.

Former CIPS Level 4 Student, Norwich (current CIPS Level 5 student)

“The CIPS course in Norwich was great. The different tutors were really good with their specialisms and working with people from other companies was interesting.”

Current CIPS Level 4 Online Student

“The whole experience has been very positive.”