Top 11 Supply Chain Manager Certifications

Certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence and knowledge in the supply chain field. Having a certification shows employers that you have the technical skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in a supply chain management role. It also demonstrates that you are organized, detail-oriented, and have good problem-solving abilities, which are all essential traits for any manager. Certifications provide an objective measure of your qualifications, allowing employers to quickly assess your potential value as an employee. Ultimately, certifications can help you stand out from other candidates who do not have them and increase your chances of success in the job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Supply Chain Managers, outlining how they can help to further one's career in the field.

What are Supply Chain Manager Certifications?

Supply chain manager certification is a professional credential that is designed to verify the knowledge and skills of supply chain managers. It is offered by a variety of organizations, such as the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS), the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), and the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The certification can help supply chain managers demonstrate their expertise in areas such as inventory management, supply chain planning, logistics, sourcing, procurement, lean manufacturing, quality control, and customer service.

The certification helps employers evaluate potential candidates for a position in supply chain management. It also serves as proof that an individual has obtained the necessary knowledge and skills to manage operations efficiently and effectively. Additionally, it may provide access to exclusive job postings or discounts on industry-related services. Furthermore, having this certification may lead to increased job offers from employers who are looking for experienced professionals with specialized knowledge in the field of supply chain management. Lastly, it allows holders to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field.

Pro Tip: When considering a supply chain manager certification, look for an accredited program that offers comprehensive training in the latest industry trends and technologies. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on experience and provide opportunities to network with industry professionals.

Related: What does a Supply Chain Manager do?

Top 11 Supply Chain Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Supply Chain Managers today.

1. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a globally recognized certification that recognizes professionals who have the knowledge and skills to manage the global supply chain. The CSCP program focuses on end-to-end supply chain management, from strategic design to tactical execution. It provides a comprehensive approach to supply chain management, covering topics such as customer relations, global logistics, information technology, inventory management, production planning, procurement, quality assurance and warehouse operations.

To become an APICS CSCP certified professional, you must complete a three-part program that includes an online course of study (self-study or instructor-led), an exam and a one-year membership in APICS. The self-study option takes approximately 150 hours to complete and can be done at your own pace. The instructor-led option usually consists of 12 sessions over 6 weeks and requires attendance at each session.

The cost of the APICS CSCP certification program depends on the type of delivery chosen (online self-study or instructor-led). The cost for the online self-study program is $1,295 USD for members ($1,595 USD for nonmembers) plus applicable taxes; the cost for the instructor-led program is $2,195 USD for members ($2,495 USD for nonmembers) plus applicable taxes.

In addition to the course fees there is also an exam fee of $695 USD for members ($895 USD for nonmembers) plus applicable taxes which must be paid when registering for the exam.

2. APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD)

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). The CLTD certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of a comprehensive body of knowledge in logistics, transportation, and distribution.

The CLTD certification is intended for individuals who are involved in the planning, implementation, and control of the physical flow of materials, services, and related information from point-of-origin to point-of-consumption. This includes activities such as inventory management, warehousing operations, order fulfillment, global supply chain management, transportation management systems and processes.

In order to obtain the CLTD certification one must complete an application process that includes passing an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as: Inventory Management & Warehousing; Transportation; Global Logistics Considerations; Reverse Logistics & Sustainability; Planning & Execution; and Technology & Automation.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through ProctorU. The cost for taking the exam is $695 USD for members of ASCM or $895 USD for non-members. After successfully completing the exam you will receive your official CLTD designation within 4 weeks.

3. Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM)

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of supply chain professionals. The CSCM certification is the highest level of recognition for supply chain management professionals and provides evidence of their expertise in the field.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination. To be eligible, applicants must have at least five years of experience in supply chain management or related fields, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The CSCM examination consists of four sections: Supply Chain Strategy & Management; Logistics & Distribution; Operations & Production; and Sourcing & Procurement. Each section contains multiple-choice questions that test the applicant’s knowledge in each area. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any Prometric testing center.

The cost for the CSCM certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of CSCMP. For members, the cost is $495 USD and for non-members, it is $595 USD. This fee includes the cost of the exam and all associated materials such as study guides and practice exams.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every three years to ensure they remain up-to-date with industry developments and best practices.

4. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a globally recognized professional certification that demonstrates mastery of the supply management body of knowledge. It is designed to help supply chain professionals demonstrate their expertise and advance their careers.

To become a CPSM, an individual must have at least three years of full-time experience in supply management and pass three examinations: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Strategic Sourcing and Negotiation, and Logistics & Distribution. The exams are offered online or in a classroom setting.

It typically takes 6-9 months to complete the program, depending on how quickly you can study for the exams. The cost of the program varies based on whether you take the exams online or in a classroom setting. Online exams cost $395 each while classroom exams cost $495 each. The total cost of the program can range from $1,185 to $1,485 depending on which option you choose.

5. International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI) Professional Certificate in Supply Chain Management

The International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI) Professional Certificate in Supply Chain Management is a comprehensive program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful supply chain management. The program covers topics such as supply chain strategy, global sourcing, logistics, inventory management, customer service, and more. It is designed to help professionals develop their understanding of the principles and practices of supply chain management.

The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Supply Chain Management, Advanced Supply Chain Management, Global Sourcing & Logistics Management, and Customer Service & Inventory Management. Each course is completed online at your own pace over a period of 8 weeks. Upon successful completion of all four courses, you will receive your IPSCMI Professional Certificate in Supply Chain Management.

To get the IPSCMI Professional Certificate in Supply Chain Management, you must first register for the program on the IPSCMI website. After registration is complete, you will be given access to the online learning platform where you can begin taking the four courses that make up the program. Once all four courses are successfully completed within 8 weeks, you will receive your certificate via email or post.

The cost of the IPSCMI Professional Certificate in Supply Chain Management is $2195 USD for international students and $1495 USD for US-based students.

6. International Trade Council's Global Certification Program for Logistics & Supply Chain Managers

The International Trade Council’s Global Certification Program for Logistics & Supply Chain Managers is an industry-recognized certification designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage logistics and supply chain operations. The program is designed to help individuals develop their understanding of global trade, logistics, and supply chain management.

The program takes approximately 6 months to complete and consists of three main components: 1) Online Learning Modules, 2) On-the-Job Training, and 3) Final Exam. The Online Learning Modules cover topics such as global trade regulations, risk management, customs compliance, transportation management, and inventory control. During the On-the-Job Training component, participants are required to complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised work experience in a logistics or supply chain environment. Finally, the Final Exam assesses the participant’s knowledge of all topics covered during the program.

To obtain this certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including a minimum age of 18 years old; a high school diploma or equivalent; at least two years of professional experience in logistics or supply chain management; and proficiency in English language. Applicants must also submit an application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education/experience and payment for the certification fee.

The cost for the Global Certification Program for Logistics & Supply Chain Managers is $2,500 USD which includes all course materials and exam fees.

7. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. The certification is designed to help individuals understand the principles of Lean Six Sigma, apply them to their work environment, and improve their organization’s overall performance.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes around 40 hours of training or study to complete. This includes classroom instruction, online courses, and self-study. During this time, individuals learn about the principles of Lean Six Sigma, how to use it in a variety of business processes, and how to lead projects using the methodology.

Individuals can obtain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification through various providers. The cost of obtaining the certification varies depending on the provider and type of training offered. Generally speaking, obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification will cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 USD.

Once an individual has completed their training and passed the required exam, they will be issued a certificate that is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years have passed, individuals must renew their certification by completing additional training or passing another exam.

8. Project Management Institute's Project Management Professional (PMP®) Certification

The Project Management Institute's Project Management Professional (PMP®) Certification is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the field of project management. It is the most sought-after certification for project managers and is highly valued by employers.

To obtain the PMP® Certification, individuals must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, pass an exam, and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have either:

• A four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience, or
• A high school diploma or equivalent with at least five years of project management experience.

Applicants must also complete 35 hours of project management education prior to taking the exam.

The PMP® Exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that test a candidate’s knowledge across five domains: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members. The exam results are available immediately after completion.

Once certified, PMPs are required to earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years in order to maintain their certification status. PDUs can be earned through activities such as attending workshops or conferences or completing online courses related to project management topics.

9. American Society of Transportation and Logistics' Transportation & Logistics Certification Program

The American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L) Transportation & Logistics Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of transportation and logistics professionals. The program is intended to provide employers with an objective measure of a candidate’s qualifications for positions in the field.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam covers topics such as supply chain management, logistics operations, transportation regulations, and customer service. The oral exam focuses on problem solving and communication skills. It takes approximately six months to complete both exams.

To get certified, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements including at least three years of experience in the field or completion of a degree program related to transportation or logistics. You then need to submit an application along with payment for the certification fee, which is currently $495 plus any applicable taxes. After submitting your application, you will be notified when it has been approved and can begin the process of taking the exams.

Once you have completed both exams successfully, you will receive your official AST&L Transportation & Logistics Certification certificate within 4-6 weeks after passing your final examination.

10. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply's Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Diploma

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Diploma is a professional qualification designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to become successful procurement and supply chain professionals. The diploma provides an internationally-recognised qualification that demonstrates a high level of competence in the field.

The CIPS Diploma consists of three levels, each taking approximately 8 months to complete. Level 3 is the highest level and requires candidates to have already achieved one of the lower two levels before they can progress.

To get the CIPS Diploma, you must first register with CIPS as a student member, then choose which diploma level you want to study for. You will then need to select an approved learning provider who will provide you with the course materials and assessments needed for your chosen diploma level.

The cost of the CIPS Diploma varies depending on which diploma level you are studying for and which learning provider you choose. Generally speaking, it costs between £1,000 - £2,500 per level plus any additional fees charged by your chosen learning provider.

11. National Association of Purchasing Managers' Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

The National Association of Purchasing Managers' Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the field of purchasing and supply chain management. The CPM designation is highly respected in the industry and is recognized as a mark of excellence.

The CPM certification process involves passing a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge and understanding of purchasing principles, practices, and procedures. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as procurement, inventory control, cost analysis, contract negotiation, supplier selection, supplier relationship management, logistics management, and more.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CPM exam. Candidates should plan on dedicating a significant amount of time to studying for the exam in order to be successful. Resources such as study guides, practice exams, and online courses are available to help candidates prepare for the exam.

In order to become certified as a CPM, candidates must submit an application along with their official transcripts from an accredited college or university showing completion of at least three years full-time experience in purchasing or related fields. Once approved by NAPM's Board of Directors, candidates can register for the exam through Prometric Testing Centers located throughout the United States and Canada.

The cost for taking the CPM Exam is $395 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee covers both registration and administration costs associated with taking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Supply Chain Manager Certificate?

When considering whether or not to pursue a supply chain manager certificate, there are many factors to consider. The primary benefit of obtaining a certificate is that it can provide an individual with the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful supply chain manager. Additionally, the certification may also be seen as evidence of an individual’s commitment and dedication to the profession.

For those who already possess a degree in a related field, such as business administration, operations management or logistics, obtaining a supply chain manager certification may be beneficial in terms of career advancement. In addition to providing additional knowledge and skills which could potentially increase job opportunities or salaries, having this type of certification may also demonstrate that an individual has taken the time and effort to further their education in order to remain competitive in the job market.

On the other hand, for those who do not possess any prior experience or education related to supply chain management, obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. Depending on the organization or industry one wishes to work for, some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience or education in related fields rather than those with only certificates. Furthermore, depending on where one lives and works, certain certifications may not even be recognized by employers. Thus it is important to research what kind of certifications are accepted by potential employers before making any decisions about pursuing them.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs a supply chain manager certificate depends largely on their specific situation and goals. Those who already possess related qualifications or experience may benefit from obtaining such certification while those who do not may find that they can get by without it. Ultimately it is up to each individual person to weigh the pros and cons before making any decisions about pursuing such certifications.

Related: Supply Chain Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Supply Chain Manager Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Supply Chain Manager?

Answer: Generally, you need a combination of education and experience in order to become a supply chain manager. Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, or supply chain management. Some employers may also require professional certifications such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification from the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM).

2. What is the difference between Supply Chain Management Certifications?

Answer: There are several different certifications available in the field of supply chain management. The most popular certifications are offered by ASCM and include the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified Inventory Manager (CIM), and Certified Logistics Professional (CLP). Each certification focuses on different aspects of supply chain management, so it is important to research each one thoroughly before deciding which one is right for you.

3. How long does it take to complete a Supply Chain Management Certification?

Answer: The length of time required to complete a certification will vary depending on the specific certification program and your level of experience. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within six months to one year with full-time study.

4. How much does it cost to get certified in Supply Chain Management?

Answer: Again, this will depend on which program you choose and what type of payment plan you select. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500 - $2000 USD depending on the course material and exam fees.

5. Are there any online courses available for Supply Chain Management Certifications?

Answer: Yes! Many organizations offer online courses that can help prepare candidates for their certification exams as well as provide continuing education after they have achieved their certifications.