CIPS Level 4 Diploma
What is CIPS Level 4?
The CIPS Level 4 Diploma is equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree. It is essential learning for anyone in the procurement, purchasing or supply chain profession. CIPS Level 4 Diploma provides comprehensive coverage of all of competences required for excellence in procurement. 95% of CIPS students say CIPS qualifications are recognised as the industry standard.
This is the highest CIPS entry level when working towards your MCIPS. As a student you are required to complete 60 credits to achieve the Diploma qualification.
What are the CIPS Level 4 entry requirements?
If you are a more experienced person, with 2 years relevant experience in a business environment or a graduate, you can start your CIPS journey here. As a ‘Centre of Excellence’ CIPS Study Centre we will help you develop the skills, knowledge and competencies employers are looking for. The CIPS Diploma together with CIPS Levels Advanced and Professional Diplomas is the most common route to reach full membership status (MCIPS).
Qualifications in procurement or related areas are also considered. The entry requirement is successful completion of CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate. Alternatively, 2 years relevant business experience OR two A-level qualifications.
How is CIPS Level 4 assessed?
Your CIPS Level 4 Diploma exams will be computer-based examinations. These will be taken at either a CIPS online regional examination centre or by a remote exam at a study centre of your choice. The 6 credit modules are assessed via a 1.5 hour ‘objective response’ exam. The 12 credit modules are assessed via a 3 hour ‘constructed response’ exam.
A constructed response (CR) requires you to create an essay or case study.
An objective response (OR) is a multiple choice format.
CIPS Level 4 Timetables
CIPS Level 4 Timetables
How is CIPS Level 4 structured?
How is CIPS Level 4 structured?
Eight CORE modules make up the required 60 credits
1. CORE Scope of Influence of Procurement & Supply (12 Credits)
- Understand added value strategies that can be achieved through procurement and supply
- Understand the key steps when procuring goods & services
- Understand and analyse the key aspects of organisational infrastructure which shape the scope of procurement
- Understand and analyse the need for compliance with requirements when undertaking procurement activities in different sectors
2. CORE Defining Business Needs (6 Credits)
- Understand how to devise a business case when sourcing
- Understand market management in procurement & supply
- Understand the use of specifications in procurement & supply
3. CORE Commercial Contracting (6 Credits)
- Understand the legal issues that relate to the formation of contracts
- Understand specifications and key performance indicators that are included in contracts and key clauses when contracting with suppliers
- Understand the key clauses that are included in formal contracts
4. CORE Ethical & Responsible Sourcing (6 credits)
- Understand options for sourcing from suppliers
- Understand sourcing processes and the analysis of potential external suppliers
- Understand compliance issues when sourcing
- Understand ethical & responsible sourcing
5. CORE Commercial Negotiation (6 Credits)
- Understand Key approaches and strategies in the negotiation of commercial agreements with suppliers
- Understand how to prepare for negotiations, stages of negotiation
- Understand how commercial negotiations should be undertaken
6. CORE Supplier Relationships (6 Credits)
- Understand the dynamics of relationships in supply chains and when to partner
- Understand processes and procedures for successful working with stakeholders and concept of partnering
7. CORE Whole Life Asset Management (6 Credits)
- Understand the methods for the storage and movement of inventory (stock)
- Understand the key elements of inventory control and the concept of through life cost
8. CORE Procurement & Supply in Practice (12 Credits)
- Demonstrate the application of the procurement cycle
- Demonstrate the application of the key stages of the sourcing process, the application of whole life asset management
- Demonstrate the application of ethical and responsible sourcing in the organisation
CIPS Level 4 FAQs
Choose a Study Option
We offer our students the flexibility of traditional Classroom lessons, Interactive Distance Learning, and our new ‘Virtual Live’ Classroom programme.
