CIPS Level 4 Diploma
Kickstart your career with the most popular starting route to MCIPS Chartered Status
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Updated in 2023 our Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply is the most popular starting point for those who want to achieve MCIPS Chartered Status, a globally recognised procurement and supply professional.
What is CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply?
The Level 4 Diploma is the first step on your journey to achieving the recognised professional standard in procurement and supply, MCIPS Chartered Status. This Ofqual regulated qualification is equivalent to a first year of an undergraduate degree.
What are the entry requirements?
If you have over 2+ years of relevant experience in a business environment, our Level 4 Diploma will be for you. You’ll develop the technical skills, knowledge and competencies employers are looking for. It's based at the same level as a first year of an undergraduate degree course, you will be equipped with skills to apply immediately into your workplace.
How will it be assessed?
All eight modules will be assessed by computer-based exams. We use Constructed Responses (CR) essay style questions and answers and Objective Response (OR) exam formats. The OR exam format means that you will be given a choice of answers to the questions, and you will be expected to determine the correct answer.
Frequently asked questions
Once you sign up as a student member, you’re all set to start your learning journey. Our approach to your learning and exam schedule is completely flexible, simply book your exams when you feel prepared. With five exam opportunities each year, we recommend allowing 12 months to finish all eight modules.
The notional Ofqual Total Qualification Time (TQT) is 600 hrs, this represents the time you might typically take to complete this qualification.
TQT consists of the following:
- Guided learning time is 250 hrs
This includes lectures, tutorials, and practicals, as well as supervised study in learning centres and workshops. If you choose to study on your own, we have lots of CIPS member resources for you that will enhance your studies. - Self-study requirement is 335 hrs
Additionally, we recommend that you also commit to at least 335 SSR hours. This includes wider reading of the subject areas and revision to give yourself the best preparation for successfully achieving the qualification. This can include resources such as the CIPS Intelligence Hub, attending webinars, listening to relevant podcasts and using our online exam resources. - Total exam time is 15hrs
All eight modules will be assessed by computer-based exams. We use Constructed Responses (CR) which are essay style questions and answers and Objective Response (OR) exam formats. The OR exam format means that you will be given a choice of answers to the questions, and you will be expected to determine the correct answer.
- OR exam pass rate 70%
- CR exam pass rate 50%
On successful completion of all eight modules you’ll become a Diploma Member and your next steps will be the CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
Find out more about our exam formats and the resources and policies that will support you.
We have lots of study and exam resources for you to prepare for exams. This includes study guides, eBooks, eLearning and eRevision. As well as links to our Intelligence Hub for knowledge and guidance linked to learning outcomes in the syllabus. There are also lots of freely available exam resources along with sample exam questions and answers and marker reports.
Find your Level 4 Diploma Study Resources
Flexible study options to suit all learning styles
Study on your own
Study our qualifications on your own and at your own pace. We have lots of study resources, guides and social media networks that you can join for some additional support too. If you're choosing to self-study you'll need to book your own exam and manage your learning.
Guided online course
With a 92% pass rate, this guided online course offers a flexible, yet structured study programme designed to keep you motivated and secure exam success.
Choose to buy individual modules or enrol on a full course. Get your 5-day free trial.
Study in a group
Choose to study at one of our approved study centres, either in the classroom or at a distance. Benefit from structured tutor led learning, that will help you prepare for your upcoming exams. You'll join a community of like-minded professionals to share ideas from other industries too.
The syllabus
The qualification has eight compulsory modules worth 60 credits and you’ll need to pass each exam to achieve the award.
What are credits?
Credits are a way of quantifying the number of study hours recommended in the TQT. For each credit you should plan to dedicate 10 hours of study time. E.G for a 6 credit module you should plan for 60 hours studying and taking the exam.
Select a module below for more information:
Useful Links
CIPS qualifications are regulated internationally to ensure we offer a recognised, professional standard in procurement and supply. CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply is a vocationally related professional qualification. Formal recognition is included within the regulatory frameworks of an increasing number of countries such as the UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland), Dubai, Trinidad & Tobago, Bahrain, Botswana and Ghana. Further information on this recognition and the details of corresponding qualifications levels for other international qualifications frameworks are detailed here. The qualification accreditation number is Ref: 603/3294/X.
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