CIPS Qualifications

CIPS stands for the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, the leading global professional body for procurement and supply chain management.

CIPS provides internationally recognised qualifications that help individuals and organisations build professional skills in sourcing, contract management, negotiation, risk reduction, and ethical procurement.

When you study CIPS online with us, you'll develop strategic procurement expertise, gain a competitive edge in the job market, and progress toward becoming an MCIPS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply), a highly respected professional accolade in the industry.

Whether you're just starting out or advancing your procurement career, our online CIPS qualifications offer you the flexibility to study at your own pace, on your own terms. 

The cost of a CIPS course will depend on the level you choose, how you choose to study, and the provider of your qualification. 

When you study with us, we offer you the flexibility to pay for your course over time – so you can get started right away! 

With a CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate, you could move into roles like:

• Assistant Buyer
• Procurement Coordinator
• Inventory Planner
• Contract Analyst

With a CIPS Level 4 Diploma, you can step into mid-level professional roles such as:

• Buyer or Senior Buyer
• Procurement Executive
• Supply Chain Analyst
• Contracts Manager

With a CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma, you could progress into strategic roles like:

• Category Manager
• Supply Chain Manager
• Senior Procurement Specialist
• Sourcing Manager

For more information, contact our Course Advisors today. 

There are five levels of CIPS qualifications, designed to support your career at every stage, from beginner to senior strategic roles. Choosing the right level depends on your experience, education, and professional goals.

If you're new to procurement and supply, you’ll likely start at CIPS Level 2 or Level 3. If you’re 18+ with two A Levels (or equivalent) or 21+ with two years of business experience, you can begin at Level 4, which is the most advanced starting point.

CIPS Level 2 Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations

This entry-level qualification is ideal for beginners with little or no prior experience.
It suits roles like Administrative Assistant, Contracts Administrator, Stock Controller, or Merchandiser.

You’ll gain a strong understanding of key transactional procurement processes and terminology.

CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations

This online course is perfect if you already have some junior procurement or admin experience, focusing on the skills needed to carry out operational procurement tasks effectively and qualifying you for roles like Assistant Buyer, Contract Analyst, or Inventory Planner. 

CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply

Level 4 is the most advanced CIPS qualification you can start with directly. It’s ideal if you’re working or aiming for roles like Buyer, Contract Officer, or Procurement Executive. You’ll learn how to manage procurement processes and advise stakeholders across the business.

CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply

This is your next step after completing Level 4. It prepares you for more senior roles such as Senior Buyer, Contract Manager, or Supply Chain Manager and develops your strategic thinking, supplier relationship management, and leadership skills.

CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply

This is the final and most prestigious qualification in the CIPS pathway.
It’s designed for experienced professionals in roles like Head of Procurement, Senior Procurement Manager, or Operations Manager.

When you study CIPS Level 3, 4 or 5 online with us, you can study flexibly at your own pace. Whether you're just starting out or looking to progress to senior leadership, we’ll help you build a successful career in procurement and supply chain management.

Studying a CIPS qualification offers you the essential skills and knowledge to succeed in procurement and supply chain management.

As you progress, you’ll learn how to evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and manage procurement risks. CIPS qualifications also teach you how to align procurement strategies with wider business goals – an essential skill for any modern organisation.

At more advanced levels, you'll develop leadership abilities, understand global supply chain challenges, and explore topics like sustainable and ethical procurement, supply chain innovation, and commercial negotiation strategies.

Whether you're just starting out or aiming for senior roles, our online CIPS courses give you the tools to progress in a competitive, high-demand industry – at your own pace. 

Simply enrol online or contact our CIPS Advisors! 

They’ll talk through your experience, education and ambitions to make sure you’re choosing the right course, then get you enrolled with an interest-free payment plan. You can also verify that your course is budget-friendly when you use our handy affordability calculator. 

If you have any disabilities which you think might affect your studies or assessments, please tell your Course Advisor before you enrol so we can advise you on whether reasonable adjustments can be made to accommodate your needs.