CIPS Level 4 Procurement and Supply Diploma

The CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply is a globally recognised qualification for professionals aiming to excel in procurement and supply chain management. As the first step towards achieving MCIPS status, this course equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to thrive in the field of procurement.

Whether you’re a Buyer, Senior Buyer, or aspiring procurement professional, this course provides the perfect foundation for advancing your career.

Is This CIPS Course Suitable for Me?

This course is designed for individuals looking to develop their understanding of procurement processes, organisational strategies, and supply chain principles. It’s particularly valuable for:

  • Buyers and Senior Buyers aiming to formalise their experience
  • Professionals aspiring to achieve MCIPS status
  • Individuals transitioning into procurement or supply chain roles

You’ll gain insights into key areas such as risk management, negotiation, and data analysis, ensuring you’re equipped to make strategic contributions to your organisation.

CIPS Level 4: What to Expect

The CIPS Level 4 Diploma covers a wide range of essential topics, including:

  • Organisational procedures and processes.
  • Strategic procurement planning.
  • Risk management in supply chains.
  • Effective negotiation techniques.

By mastering these skills, you’ll become a valuable asset in the procurement and supply chain sector.

Our guarantee

  • Unrivalled support package available

  • Fully flexible study options

  • First class study materials and resources
  • Structured, Constructive Tutor feedback
  • Fully Accredited Professional Qualifications

Course Content

To successfully complete the CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply you must complete all units listed below. The course has been carefully structured to maximise your chances of success, with the units to be completed in the order shown below.

Click each item to expand the unit content.

(6 Credits)

Module Purpose

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.

Module Aims

The development of a business case and the ability to analyse markets are key if an organisation is to successfully work with external suppliers. Similarly, the clear definition of specifications for through-life contracts is crucial to overall business achievement.

This module is designed for those who are expected to analyse, interpret and evaluate information on the different types of markets utilised by procurement and supply. It explores a variety of elements that underpin the development of business cases and specifications, and considers the options that should be explored when procurement and supply personnel are involved in defining requirements.

(6 Credits)

Module Purpose

On completion of this module, learners will be able to describe the key elements and legal aspects of formal commercial contracts, analyse and interpret the fundamentals of specifications and key performance indicators that are included in contractual arrangements made with suppliers.

Module Aims

In any organisation, a significant element of the procurement and supply function is based around the contracting process. If they are to be successful, contracts must be clearly defined, aligned with legal requirements and contain key clauses and terms.

This module is applicable for all procurement and supply professionals as it highlights legal principles that professionals should consider when developing contractual relations.

(6 Credits)

Module Purpose

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 sustainability, encompassing economic, environmental, social and governance factors on the final sourcing decision.

Module Aims

In any organisation, a significant element of procurement and supply activity is based around decisions to internally conduct activity or to source from an external supplier. The selection of the optimal external suppliers is a vital contributor to overall organisational success.

This module enables professionals with roles in procurement and supply to formulate sourcing strategies and selection criteria to ensure that the organisation can make the best choice of external suppliers. It explains options for sourcing and examines the key processes that can be applied to the analysis of potential external suppliers to ensure sourcing arrangements meet sustainable, environmental, social and ethical goals.

(6 Credits)

Module Purpose

On completion of this module learners will be able to identify approaches to successfully achieving negotiated commercial agreements with external organisations.

Module Aims

The creation of formalised agreements is a critical part of the success of any organisation. Those involved in procurement and supply activity will therefore be able to effectively negotiate with stakeholders and understand the methods associated with preparing and carrying out commercial negotiations. It enables the learner to analyse approaches to the negotiation of agreements made with external parties, how to prepare for them and what techniques are available to ensure successful outcomes.

(6 Credits)

Module Purpose

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 explain the concept of partnering.

Module Aims

In any organisation, a significant element of the procurement and supply function is based around decisions to source activity from external suppliers. Once agreements have been made, the relationship established with the supplier is paramount to success.

This module is designed for those with responsibility for managing relationships with suppliers and other stakeholders, and those with the responsibility for establishing and developing formal partnership relationships.

(6 Credits)

Module Purpose

On completion of this module, learners will be able to explain methods of inventory management, inventory analysis and the concept of whole-life asset management cost, from idea through to disposal.

Module Aims

Whole-life asset management takes into account the total cost of a product or service, from idea through to disposal including purchase, hire or lease, maintenance, operation, utilities, training and disposal. It is important for those involved in procurement and supply to take these elements into consideration when assessing options of buying, renting or leasing equipment. Although costly, there are a range of factors organisations assess to determine the approach to inventory, and the management and control of inventory is an important driver for organisational success.

This module is designed for those with responsibility for the whole-life management of assets and enables learners to analyse methods for inventory movement and control and to consider the concept of whole-life asset cost.

L4M1 - Scope and Influence of Procurement and Supply

(12 Credits)

Module Purpose

On completion of this module, learners will be able to identify the key stakeholders through the application of the sourcing process, the analysis of the procurement cycle and the evaluation of the influence procurement and supply has as a source of added value for the organisation.

Module Aims

In any organisation, a significant proportion of costs are accounted for by the purchases of products and/or services, hence organisations see procurement and supply as a key contributor to their value-added strategies. Equally, any organisation will also be managing the supply of products and/or services to their customers, be they internal or those from other external organisations, consumers or the general public.

This module is designed using the CIPS Procurement Cycle as its basis. It will provide those who are interested in developing an informed awareness of different perspectives or approaches within the discipline with an overview of the key stages and compliance requirements associated with procurement and supply. It will serve as an introduction for those who are expected to address complex well-defined procurement and supply problems that are non-routine in nature.

(12 Credits)

Module Aim

On completion of this module, learners will be able to demonstrate the practical application of the procurement cycle in an integrated manner, within a workplace context. This module is designed as a summary module, drawing on the knowledge and skills developed in M1 to M7 and applying these in a work context.

Module Purpose

Procurement is the business function that ensures identification, sourcing, access and management of external resources that an organisation needs or may need to successfully fulfil its strategic objectives. It exists to explore supply market opportunities and to implement resourcing strategies that deliver the best possible supply outcomes to the organisation, its stakeholders and customers. In today’s volatile global trading environments, it is not enough for procurement
and supply professionals to simply know the theory behind their profession; they must also be in a position to confidently and effectively apply that knowledge to the benefit of the whole organisation, its stakeholders and customers.

This module is designed to test the practical application of procurement and supply concepts and ideas within the practical environments in which professionals are expected to perform.

Why Study CIPS With DLC Training?

The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) is a globally recognised professional body, making its qualifications highly sought after by employers worldwide. Studying with DLC offers:

  • A structured pathway to MCIPS status, the gold standard in procurement.
  • Opportunities to connect with a global network of procurement professionals.
  • Practical, hands-on knowledge to enhance your effectiveness in the workplace.
  • Learn at your own pace with flexible online study options.
  • Enhance your professional credibility with an internationally recognised qualification.
  • Access support from experienced tutors and Course Advisors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here at DLC Training, we understand that once you have made the decision to study for a professional qualification you will be keen to begin your studies. That’s why we have made our enrolment process quick and easy.

As soon as you have completed your student enrolment you will receive your log in details for the learning platform and access to your first unit (L4M2). On the platform you will receive access to resources, guidance, and tips you need to succeed with your studies.

As an experienced and trusted CIPS provider, we understand that the sequence in which units are studied can significantly impact student success. That’s why we’ve carefully structured our course to follow this specific order: L4M2, L4M3, L4M4, L4M5, L4M6, L4M7, L4M1, and L4M8. This progression is designed to build knowledge logically and give students the strongest foundation for success throughout their CIPS learning journey.

To achieve your CIPS qualification you will be required to take an exam for each unit of study. There are frequent opportunities for you to take your exams each year, with exam centres in easy to access locations around the world.

We strongly advise against booking any exams before you have enrolled and completed your induction. This ensures you have full access to your study materials, the learning platform, and have had an initial discussion with your tutor to help you feel fully prepared before scheduling any exams.

Achieving MCIPS status is the ultimate aim for many individuals studying CIPS Qualifications. To achieve MCIPS status you need to complete the Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Professional Diploma courses. Our expert course advisors can provide you with all of the information you need to understand what is required of you if you would like to have MCIPS status.

The CIPS Diploma is equivalent to a level 4 Qualification. This is the highest entry point students can begin their CIPS training (In exceptional circumstances CIPS will review applications to begin your training at a higher level). Speak with one of our knowledgeable course advisors to find out which level of CIPS course we recommend you begin your studies.

To ensure our courses are accessible to as many individuals as possible we provide a number of affordable payment options to our students. These options include payment in full and flexible monthly instalments.

Talk to one of our course advisors to decide which payment option works best for your personal circumstances.

The Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Scheme, offered through the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Services (ELCAS), provides funding for current and former armed forces personnel.

The scheme provides funding in three separate financial years for nationally recognised qualifications at Level 3 or above. Funding can be obtained for this qualification; you can head to our ELCAS page to find the full list of approved qualifications available. You can also visit the ELCAS website and search for our parent company, NETWORKTHREESIXTY LTD, or provider ID 13085, for the full list of qualifications available through DLC Training.

Our student success rates are outstanding and we believe this is due to our unrivalled support packages. Every student studying with DLC Training has unlimited 1-2-1 access to our Industry expert Tutors, as well as the complete support of a student mentor who is on hand to offer advice and guidance throughout your distance learning journey.

Yes. As well as being accredited by an industry leading Institute, your course is also regulated and approved by Ofqual, the governing body for Qualifications in the UK. This means you can study any of DLC Trainings professional training courses safe in the knowledge that upon completion of your studies you will receive a certificate of your educational achievement which will be recognised globally.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE
CIPS BROCHURE

Quick Links

Introduction to DLC Training

Student discounts

DLC Training students are eligible to apply for an XO Student Discount Card.

View offers

DLC Training students are eligible to apply for a TOTUM NUS Extra Discount Card.

View offers

If you would like further information on any of our courses – get in touch! Our skilled specialists are available to answer your queries on:

Freephone: 0800 012 6770

Email: info@dlctraining.co.uk