Top 10 Purchasing Analyst Certifications

Certifications for a purchasing analyst can be an important way to demonstrate expertise in the field and stand out from other candidates. Certifications provide evidence of knowledge and experience in a specific area, which can help employers make informed hiring decisions. They also serve as a badge of honor that reflects the professional’s commitment to their career. In addition, certifications may provide access to exclusive job opportunities or increased earning potential. Finally, certifications are often required for certain positions or roles, so having them can be essential for getting hired.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Purchasing Analysts and explain how they can help enhance a Purchasing Analyst's career.

What are Purchasing Analyst Certifications?

Purchasing analyst certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field of purchasing and procurement. It is awarded by a number of organizations, including the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS), and the National Association of Purchasing Managers (NAPM).

The certification program typically requires applicants to have significant experience or education in the areas of purchasing and procurement, such as a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or Accounting. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate knowledge in several core competencies related to purchasing and supply chain management. Once an applicant has met all requirements, they are eligible to take an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in the area. Upon successful completion of the exam, they become certified as a purchasing analyst.

Having a purchasing analyst certification can be advantageous for those seeking employment or advancement opportunities within the field of purchasing and procurement. It shows potential employers that an individual is highly qualified and knowledgeable about all aspects of this profession. Additionally, it can open up new job opportunities, as many organizations prefer to hire individuals who have demonstrated mastery in this area through professional certifications. Certified purchasers may also receive higher salaries than those without certifications due to their specialized knowledge and skillset.

Pro Tip: When considering purchasing analyst certification, look for courses that are accredited by recognized organizations such as the Institute of Certified Financial Planners (ICFP) or the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute. These certifications provide assurance that the course material is up-to-date and relevant to the industry. Additionally, look for courses with a good reputation in the marketplace and an established track record of successful graduates.

Related: What does a Purchasing Analyst do?

Top 10 Purchasing Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Purchasing Analysts today.

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to demonstrate a mastery of supply management principles and practices, as well as an understanding of the global business environment. The CPSM certification provides a comprehensive framework for developing and managing effective supply chain strategies.

The certification process consists of three parts: passing the required exams, completing an approved educational program, and meeting experience requirements. To become certified, applicants must pass three exams: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Strategic Sourcing and Negotiations, and Global Operations & Supply Chain Management. Each exam requires approximately four hours to complete.

Applicants must also complete an approved educational program in supply management from one of ISM’s accredited universities or colleges. This program typically takes two years to complete. Once applicants have completed their coursework and passed all three exams, they must meet experience requirements by accumulating at least five years of professional supply management experience.

The cost of the CPSM certification process varies depending on the number of exams taken and whether or not you are taking courses at an accredited university or college. Generally speaking, it costs about $2,000-$3,000 for the entire process including exam fees and course materials.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in purchasing and supply management.

The CPM program requires candidates to pass a comprehensive examination that tests their knowledge of purchasing and supply management principles, practices, and techniques. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CPM program, candidates must have a minimum of five years of full-time experience in purchasing or supply management, including at least two years of supervisory experience. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development and ethical behavior.

The cost of the CPM program varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For ISM members, the cost is $495; for non-members, it is $745.

3. Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)

A Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) is a designation given to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in public procurement. The CPPO certification is awarded by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC), which is an independent, non-profit organization that sets standards for the public procurement profession.

In order to become a CPPO, an individual must complete an approved education program, pass a comprehensive examination, and submit evidence of professional experience in public procurement. The UPPCC requires applicants to have at least three years of full-time experience in public procurement or related fields.

The process of becoming a CPPO typically takes between six months and one year from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete the necessary coursework and examinations, as well as provide evidence of their professional experience.

The cost for the CPPO certification varies depending on the specific requirements of each applicant’s situation. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 for all fees associated with the application process.

Overall, becoming a CPPO is an important step for those looking to advance their careers in public procurement and demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field.

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage global supply chain activities.

The CSCP program takes an average of three months to complete, depending on the individual’s learning style and availability. To get certified, candidates must first pass an online exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as supply chain management strategies, customer service, operations, inventory management, logistics, and technology. After passing the exam, candidates must also complete a professional development program that includes a series of courses and workshops.

The cost of the CSCP certification varies depending on whether you are an ASCM member or not. For non-members, it costs $995 USD; for members, it costs $795 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees for course materials or other related expenses.

5. American Purchasing Society’s Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP)

The Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP) is a certification offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in purchasing and supply chain management. The CPP certification is awarded to those who demonstrate knowledge, skill, and experience in the field of purchasing and supply chain management.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of professional experience in purchasing or supply chain management. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of purchasing and supply chain management principles. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be taken within six months of applying for certification.

Once an applicant has met all the requirements for certification, they will receive their CPP certificate from APS. The cost of the exam varies depending on the type of membership you have with APS; however, it typically ranges from $250-$500 USD.

In addition to receiving recognition as a Certified Professional Purchaser, CPP holders are also eligible to receive discounts on products and services related to purchasing and supply chain management from many organizations.

6. Institute for Supply Management’s Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD)

The Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the area of supplier diversity. The CPSD program is designed to help organizations create and maintain a diverse supply chain that reflects their commitment to social responsibility, sustainability, and economic development.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements which include having at least five years of experience in supplier diversity management or related fields. Once these requirements are met, applicants must complete an online application and submit it to ISM for review. Upon approval, applicants will be required to pass an exam which consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as supplier diversity strategies, processes, best practices and compliance regulations.

The cost for the CPSD program varies depending on the type of membership you select with ISM. For non-members the cost is $1,250 and includes access to online study materials and practice exams. For members the cost is $1,000 which also includes access to online study materials and practice exams. The exam typically takes 3 hours to complete and can be taken at any approved testing center around the world or online using ProctorU software.

7. Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply’s Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Diploma (CIPSD)

The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Diploma (CIPSD) is a professional qualification that provides recognition of the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to work in the procurement and supply chain industry. It is an internationally-recognised qualification that is awarded by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).

The CIPSD takes approximately 12 months to complete. To get the diploma, you must first complete three core modules: Introduction to Procurement & Supply Chain Management, Strategic Sourcing & Contract Management, and Professional Practice in Procurement & Supply Chain Management. After completing these core modules, you can then choose from a range of elective modules that are tailored to your individual needs.

In order to be eligible for the CIPSD, you must have at least two years’ experience working in procurement or supply chain management. You must also pass an online assessment before being accepted onto the course.

The cost of the CIPSD depends on where you are studying it. The cost typically ranges from £1,500 - £3,000 depending on where you study it and how many modules you take.

8. National Association of Purchasing Management’s Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

The Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Purchasing Management (NAPM). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in purchasing, supply chain management, and related fields.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as procurement principles and practices, supply chain management, negotiation strategies, supplier selection and evaluation, cost analysis, inventory control systems, legal aspects of purchasing, and more.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CPP program. Applicants must first submit an application to NAPM along with proof of their educational background or work experience in the field. Once approved for the program, applicants must register for the exam and pay a fee for it. The fee varies depending on whether the applicant is a member or non-member of NAPM. After completing the exam successfully, applicants will receive their CPP certification from NAPM.

The cost of becoming a CPP depends on whether you are a member or non-member of NAPM. For members, the fee is $450; for non-members it is $750.

9. International Association for Contract & Commercial Management’s Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM)

The Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM) is a professional certification offered by the International Association for Contract & Commercial Management (IACCM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage contracts and commercial relationships. The CCCM certification is based on IACCM’s body of knowledge, which covers topics such as contract law, negotiation, risk management, dispute resolution, and compliance.

To become certified as a CCCM, applicants must pass an online exam that measures their understanding of the IACCM body of knowledge. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Candidates must score at least 70% in order to pass the exam.

The cost of becoming a CCCM varies depending on whether you are an IACCM member or non-member. For members, the cost is $495 USD; for non-members it is $595 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam and one year of membership in IACCM.

Once you have passed the exam and paid your fees, you will receive a digital certificate confirming your status as a Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM). You will also be listed in IACCM’s directory of certified professionals.

10. Global Business Accreditation Council’s Global Business Accreditation in Purchasing & Supply Chain Management (GBAC-PSCM).

The Global Business Accreditation Council’s Global Business Accreditation in Purchasing & Supply Chain Management (GBAC-PSCM) is an accreditation program that recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in the purchasing and supply chain management practices. The program is designed to help organizations improve their competitive advantage by providing a comprehensive assessment of their purchasing and supply chain management processes.

The GBAC-PSCM accreditation process typically takes three to six months to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the organization's operations. The process includes an extensive review of the organization's policies, procedures, and practices related to purchasing and supply chain management. This review includes interviews with key personnel, as well as a detailed analysis of the organization's financial records. Once all requirements are met, the organization will receive its official accreditation from the GBAC-PSCM.

To get started on the process for obtaining GBAC-PSCM accreditation, organizations must first submit an application package which includes a detailed description of their current purchasing and supply chain management processes. Once this application is reviewed and accepted by the GBAC-PSCM team, they will provide guidance on how to prepare for their assessment visit. During this visit, assessors will evaluate all aspects of the organization's purchasing and supply chain management processes including compliance with applicable laws and regulations, supplier selection criteria, contract negotiation strategies, performance monitoring systems, risk management strategies, quality assurance measures, and more.

The cost of obtaining GBAC-PSCM accreditation varies depending on several factors such as size of organization and scope of services requested. Generally speaking however, most organizations can expect to pay anywhere between $5K-$50K for this type of accreditation program.

Do You Really Need a Purchasing Analyst Certificate?

When it comes to the question of whether or not you need a purchasing analyst certificate, the answer is that it depends on your career goals. If you are looking to advance in a purchasing role within an organization, then having a purchasing analyst certificate can be very beneficial. It can give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Additionally, having this certification can help you stand out among peers in the same field and provide proof of knowledge and skillset in purchasing analysis.

At the same time, if you already have experience in the industry and do not plan on advancing further within the purchasing field, then earning a certificate may not be necessary. It is important to consider the costs associated with obtaining a certificate (both financially and in terms of time) before making a decision.

Ultimately, whether or not you need to obtain a purchasing analyst certificate depends on your individual career goals and objectives. If you feel that it would be beneficial for your current or future career prospects, then getting certified could be worthwhile investment.

Related: Purchasing Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Purchasing Analyst Certifications

Q1. What certifications are available for purchasing analysts?

A1. The most popular certifications for purchasing analysts include Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM), Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), and Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM).

Q2. What is the cost of obtaining a purchasing analyst certification?

A2. The cost of obtaining a purchasing analyst certification can vary depending on the specific certification and provider, but typically range from $500 to $3,000 USD.

Q3. How long does it take to get certified as a purchasing analyst?

A3. Depending on the certification, it can take from six months to two years to obtain a purchasing analyst certification.

Q4. What kind of experience do I need to become a certified purchasing analyst?

A4. To become a certified purchasing analyst, you must have at least two years of relevant work experience in the field of procurement or supply chain management.

Q5. Do I need to renew my purchasing analyst certification?

A5. Yes, most certifications require renewal every three years in order to maintain their validity and accuracy in the industry.