Originally published on 9 January 2018 during a review of the CIPS qualification structure. The guidance below relates to that particular review. Learners affected by any current or future qualification changes should check the latest information from CIPS and speak to their SRSCC tutor.
If you have received information from CIPS about changes to its qualifications, there is no need to panic.
From time to time, the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply reviews its qualifications to ensure that they continue to reflect professional practice, employer requirements and developments across procurement and supply.
In January 2018, CIPS was undertaking one of these reviews. Understandably, learners studying at the time wanted to know whether the changes would affect the modules they had completed or their progress towards a qualification.
What did the 2018 changes mean for existing learners?
The key message at the time was that learners should continue studying as planned.
The revised qualifications were being introduced gradually, allowing CIPS, study centres and training providers to manage the transition without unnecessarily disrupting learners.
SRSCC worked closely with CIPS to understand the proposed changes and ensure that students received the correct information for their qualification level and stage of study.
Achievements completed under the qualification structure in place at the time remained recognised, with transitional arrangements used to help learners continue their route through CIPS.
There was therefore no need for students to delay their studies while waiting for the review to conclude.
How were learners kept informed?
CIPS communicated relevant updates to registered students through channels including MyCIPS and its student communications.
Learners were encouraged to:
- Keep the contact details in their MyCIPS account up to date.
- Read communications and newsletters sent by CIPS.
- Check which syllabus and qualification structure applied to them.
- Speak to their SRSCC tutor if they were unsure about a module or assessment.
SRSCC tutors were available to explain the changes and help each learner understand how the transition related to their individual study plan.
Why does CIPS review its qualifications?
Procurement and supply are continually evolving professions. Changes in technology, legislation, sustainability, risk, global supply chains and commercial practice all influence the knowledge and skills expected of professionals.
Regular qualification reviews help ensure that course content remains relevant and that CIPS qualifications continue to be valued by learners, employers and the wider profession.
Although syllabus changes can initially create uncertainty, their purpose is to strengthen the qualifications and ensure that they continue to prepare learners for the realities of the workplace.
Keep calm and carry on
The advice to SRSCC learners in 2018 was simple: continue studying with confidence.
The qualification review was not a reason to postpone professional development. Learners could continue working towards their goals knowing that SRSCC would provide guidance throughout the transition.
As Susan Rashid explained at the time:
“If you want to be a procurement professional, keep studying, and we’ll get you there.”
Current guidance for CIPS learners
The qualification review discussed in this article has long since concluded, and the CIPS syllabus and qualification structure have continued to develop.
SRSCC currently delivers qualifications across the following stages:
- CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations.
- CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
- CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
- CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
Anyone beginning or returning to CIPS study can read the guide to choosing the right CIPS qualification level.
You can also use the CIPS Level and Path Finder to explore which route may be most appropriate for your experience and career goals.
Existing learners who receive information about module, syllabus or assessment changes should follow the specific guidance provided by CIPS and contact their tutor before making changes to their study plan.
To explore current CIPS courses and study options, or to ask a question about your qualification, please contact the SRSCC team.
