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About the course
Procurement and supply refers to the process of sourcing,
purchasing, and managing the goods and services an organisation needs to
operate, ensuring they are delivered at the right quality, cost, and time while
maintaining effective supplier relationships. For administrators with buying
responsibilities, enrolling on a Level 3 CIPS course provides the essential
knowledge and practical skills to move beyond routine ordering and make more
informed, value-driven decisions. The course builds confidence in procurement
processes, improves cost control, reduces risk through better compliance, and
enhances efficiency and accuracy in purchasing activities. It also strengthens
communication with suppliers and supports career development through a globally
recognised qualification, enabling admin professionals to contribute more
strategically to organisational success.
The CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate comprises five modules covering an introduction to elements of procurement practice and its relevance to overall Business theory.
On completion of this module, learners will be able to explain administrative processes behind contract development and how to measure contract performance. They will identify how to achieve competitive pricing and be able to describe how effective tendering is achieved.
How is the course delivered and assessed?
Each module is timetabled throughout the year, which allows a flexible schedule to join the programme on the next module in-take. Following your class sessions, there will be an exam at the end of each module. There is an option to apply for the full qualification or apply for individual modules.
Classes are delivered one-day per week, on Wednesdays, on site at the Filton campus. After the exams has been complete, there will be a short break before starting the next module.
The module covered in this schedule:
Procurement & Supply Environments - This module is designed for those who are involved in the procurement and supply function, who must recognise the wider environment in which they work and the impacts that different types of organisations can have on successfully meeting with overall organisational needs.
Ethical Procurement & Supply - The significant impact on reputation and customer perception mean that ethics and responsible procurement should be at the heart of all organisational procurement and supply activity.
Contract Administration - In any organisation, a significant element of the procurement and supply function is based around the contracting process. This module is designed for those involved in the development and subsequent administration and performance monitoring of contracts.
Team Dynamics & Change - Those who work in organisations will be expected to cope with change and must therefore understand the triggers that lead to change, the associated responses and methods to ensure and maintain lasting change.
Socially Responsible Warehousing & Distribution - Warehousing and distribution are key components of organisational success. The transport, storage and handling of products as they move from raw material, through production systems to the final point of sale has been fundamental to economic development for millennia.
What do I need to join (Entry Requirements)
To join the course, you require a good level of Maths & English. You will also need to have an interest in the topics discussed. The study level is equivalent to A-Level and is suitable for those aspiring to begin a career in Procurement, those who are new to the profession, or those already in the profession but without any formal qualifications, who may have practical knowledge but a long gap since formal study.
You will need to register as student members with CIPS.This will allow you to be scheduled for your exams, as well as access resources from CIPS.
What can I do next
On completion of this module, learners will be able to explain administrative processes behind contract development and how to measure contract performance. They will identify how to achieve competitive pricing and be able to describe how effective tendering is achieved.
You can then take the next steps to progression onto Level 4 CIPS Diploma in Procurement & Supply. Making your way through to level 5 and level 6.
