Top 11 Supply Chain Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important tool for supply chain specialists to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field. They can help job seekers stand out from other candidates by providing proof of their expertise in areas such as logistics, inventory management, and supply chain management. Certifications also make it easier for employers to assess a candidate’s qualifications and skills, which can be especially helpful when evaluating remote or international candidates. In addition, certifications can help supply chain specialists stay current on industry trends, ensuring that their knowledge is up-to-date. Finally, certifications provide a valuable networking opportunity for professionals in the field. It can be a great way to connect with other experts and build relationships with companies that may have career opportunities available.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Supply Chain Specialists and explains how they can contribute to a supply chain specialist's career by providing additional skills and knowledge.

What are Supply Chain Specialist Certifications?

Supply chain specialist certification is a credential that is awarded to professionals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge in the field of supply chain management. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's expertise in the areas of supply chain planning and operations, inventory management, logistics, procurement, and quality control. It also serves as a way for employers to ensure they are hiring qualified individuals with the right skillset and experience.

The certification helps demonstrate an individual’s commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest practices in supply chain management and can be used as proof of their knowledge. This can be beneficial for job seekers who want to stand out from other applicants and make themselves more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, it can help those already working in the field gain recognition for their expertise and progress their career by giving them an edge over others when applying for promotions or higher positions.

Finally, having supply chain specialist certification can give an individual access to additional educational opportunities such as seminars and workshops that may not otherwise be available. These events provide important networking opportunities that can help build professional relationships and lead to new career advancement opportunities.

Pro Tip: When considering a supply chain specialist certification, make sure to research the reputation of the certifying body and ensure that the certification is widely recognized and respected in the industry. Additionally, look for certifications that offer continuing education opportunities to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

Related: What does a Supply Chain Specialist do?

Top 11 Supply Chain Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Supply Chain Specialists 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 an internationally recognized certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage global supply chain activities. The CSCP designation is a mark of excellence in the field of supply chain management and is highly sought after by employers.

The CSCP program consists of three components: an online learning system, an exam, and a professional development program. The online learning system includes self-paced modules covering topics such as supply chain design and planning, inventory management, procurement and sourcing, production operations, logistics and transportation, customer service management, quality control, risk management and more.

It typically takes between six months to two years to complete the CSCP program depending on the individual’s experience level in the field. To get certified as a CSCP professional you must pass a comprehensive exam administered by APICS. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover all aspects of supply chain management.

The cost for the CSCP certification program varies depending on your country of residence but generally ranges from $1,000-3,000 USD for the entire program including registration fees for the exam.

2. 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 individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of supply chain management. The CSCM designation is awarded to those who successfully complete the CSCMP’s two-part examination process, which consists of a written exam and an oral exam.

In order to be eligible for the CSCM designation, applicants must meet certain criteria including having a minimum of three years of experience in the field of supply chain management, as well as completing an approved educational program or coursework. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to continuing education by participating in professional development activities such as attending conferences and seminars.

The written exam portion of the CSCM certification process consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as logistics, operations management, global supply chain management, and strategic sourcing. The oral exam portion includes a series of questions related to case studies that assess the applicant’s ability to analyze and solve complex supply chain problems. Both exams must be completed within one year in order for an individual to receive the CSCM designation.

The cost for taking the CSCM certification exams varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of CSCMP. For members, it costs $450 for both parts; for nonmembers it costs $600 for both parts.

Overall, obtaining your CSCM certification requires dedication and hard work but can be incredibly rewarding if you are looking to advance your career in supply chain management.

3. 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 professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills required to excel in the field of supply chain management. The CPSM credential is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise, enhance their credibility, and advance their careers.

To be eligible for the CPSM, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in the supply chain field and a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also pass three exams administered by ISM: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Professional Practices in Supply Management, and Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Relationship Management.

It typically takes approximately 6-12 months to complete all three exams required for the CPSM certification. During this time, applicants should take advantage of ISM’s study materials and resources to prepare for each exam. ISM also offers online courses and webinars that can be used as part of an overall study plan.

The cost to become certified is $1,295 USD for members ($1,595 USD for non-members), which includes registration fees for all three exams as well as access to online study materials. Additional costs may apply if additional study materials are purchased or if an applicant chooses to attend any live training sessions offered by ISM.

4. International Purchasing and Supply Education and Research Association (IPSERA) Certified International Purchasing and Supply Executive (CIPSE)

The International Purchasing and Supply Education and Research Association (IPSERA) Certified International Purchasing and Supply Executive (CIPSE) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals working in the field of international purchasing and supply. It is designed to provide an independent assessment of the qualifications, experience, and competencies of those who work in this field.

To obtain the CIPSE certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass a written exam, and demonstrate their knowledge through a portfolio review. The educational requirements include having at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field such as business administration, logistics, or supply chain management. Applicants must also have at least two years of relevant work experience in international purchasing and supply.

The written exam covers topics such as international trade regulations, global sourcing strategies, supplier selection criteria, contract law, negotiation techniques, risk management principles, quality assurance methods, inventory control systems, financial analysis tools for decision making in purchasing and supply management.

The portfolio review requires applicants to submit documents that demonstrate their knowledge of purchasing and supply management principles. This includes resumes showing their work experience; copies of diplomas or certificates from previous courses taken; samples of contracts they have negotiated; reports on projects they have completed; letters from former employers attesting to their performance; etc.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all the requirements for obtaining the CIPSE certification. The cost varies depending on the country where you are taking the exam but it typically ranges between $500 - $1000 USD.

5. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply is a professional qualification designed to help supply chain professionals develop their skills and knowledge. It is suitable for those who are already working in the field, as well as those who are looking to move into the profession. The course covers topics such as strategic procurement, contract management, supplier selection and development, risk management, sustainability and ethical sourcing.

The course takes approximately 18 months to complete and consists of six modules:

• Introduction to Procurement & Supply
• Strategic Procurement
• Contract Management
• Supplier Selection & Development
• Risk Management
• Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing.

To get the CIPS Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply you must first have achieved the CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement & Supply or an equivalent qualification. You will then need to pass all six modules with a minimum grade of C or above. You can study online or through a CIPS-accredited centre.

The cost of the CIPS Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply varies depending on how you choose to study it but typically ranges from £2,400 - £3,000 for online courses and up to £4,500 for classroom-based courses.

6. American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L) Certified Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution Professional (CLTD-P)

The American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L) Certified Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution Professional (CLTD-P) is a certification program for logistics, transportation and distribution professionals. It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their profession. The CLTD-P certification program is based on the AST&L's Logistics Body of Knowledge (LBOK), which provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the fundamentals of logistics, transportation and distribution.

To become certified as a CLTD-P, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, warehousing and inventory control, transportation operations, customer service and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that must be completed within three hours. In order to prepare for the exam, individuals can take advantage of various study materials offered by AST&L such as practice exams and online courses.

The cost of the CLTD-P certification depends on the type of study materials used to prepare for the exam. The cost ranges from $600-$1200 depending on whether you choose self-study materials or instructor-led courses. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $200 for the application process.

In total, it typically takes about 6 months to complete all requirements associated with obtaining this certification.

7. Global Supplier Quality Professional Certification Program

The Global Supplier Quality Professional (GSQP) Certification Program is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize and reward professionals who demonstrate excellence in the field of supplier quality. The program is administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), an international organization dedicated to advancing quality principles and practices.

The GSQP certification is open to anyone with at least three years of experience in the supplier quality field, including those with a bachelor’s degree or higher. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as supplier selection, performance evaluation, auditing, and corrective action. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get the GSQP certification, applicants must first register for the exam through ASQ’s website. They then need to pay a fee of $395 USD before they can take the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from ASQ.

The cost of the GSQP certification program varies depending on how many exams you take and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for all three exams plus any additional fees associated with registering for them.

8. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes and increase their productivity.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is typically offered by a number of different organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). The certification requires individuals to have a basic understanding of Lean Six Sigma principles, as well as experience with process improvement initiatives.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete, depending on the organization offering it. In order to get certified, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as problem solving, process improvement, data analysis, project management, and more.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register with an organization offering the certification program. Once registered, they will be provided with course materials and exams to complete. Upon successful completion of all requirements, individuals will receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD for self-paced online courses or up to $4,000 USD for instructor-led courses.

9. APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by APICS, the Association for Supply Chain Management. The CLTD certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage logistics, transportation, and distribution operations within an organization.

The CLTD certification is earned through a combination of formal education, professional experience, and successful completion of an exam. To be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have at least two years of relevant work experience or one year of experience plus a relevant degree or certificate. Candidates must also complete a series of courses offered by APICS or an approved provider.

The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as supply chain management strategies; inventory management; transportation; warehousing; global logistics; customer service; reverse logistics; and sustainability. The exam takes three hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person at an authorized testing center.

The cost for the CLTD certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member. For non-members, the total cost is $1,095 USD (or $895 USD if you register early). This includes access to the online study materials ($495 USD), registration fee ($200 USD), and exam fee ($400 USD). For members, the total cost is $795 USD (or $695 USD if you register early). This includes access to the online study materials ($295 USD), registration fee ($100 USD), and exam fee ($400 USD).

Once all requirements have been met, candidates will receive their official CLTD designation within four weeks after taking the exam.

10. Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional Certification

Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized professional credential in project management. It demonstrates an individual’s expertise and knowledge of the principles and practices of effective project management. The PMP certification is designed to assess an individual’s ability to effectively manage projects, while also demonstrating their commitment to the profession.

In order to obtain the PMP certification, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having at least 3-5 years of professional project management experience and 35 hours of formal project management education or training. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the five process groups and 10 knowledge areas of project management as outlined in the PMBOK Guide.

The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost for taking the exam is $405 for members of the Project Management Institute and $555 for non-members. Once an individual passes the exam, they will receive their PMP certification within six weeks.

The cost associated with obtaining the PMP certification includes application fees, exam fees, study materials, and other related costs such as travel expenses if applicable. Depending on how much time you have available to prepare for the exam and how many resources you use to do so, these costs can vary significantly from person to person.

11. Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport's Certificate in Logistics & Transport

The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT) Certificate in Logistics & Transport is a professional qualification that provides an understanding of the principles and practices of logistics and transport. It is designed to help those who are looking to develop their knowledge and skills in the field, as well as those who are looking to gain recognition for their expertise in the industry.

The CILT Certificate in Logistics & Transport consists of four modules: Introduction to Logistics & Transport; Supply Chain Management; Freight Forwarding; and Transport Economics. Each module consists of a series of lectures, tutorials, case studies, and assessments. The course is usually completed within six months, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances.

In order to obtain the CILT Certificate in Logistics & Transport, applicants must have at least two years’ experience working in a related field or have completed an approved training program. Applicants must also pass an online assessment that tests their knowledge and understanding of the topics covered in the course.

The cost of obtaining the CILT Certificate in Logistics & Transport varies depending on location and other factors such as whether you choose to study online or attend classroom-based sessions. Generally speaking, it costs around £1,000-£2,000 ($1,300-$2,600).

Do You Really Need a Supply Chain Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on several factors. First, what is your current job and educational background? If you are already in a supply chain management role, or have a related degree, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain a Supply Chain Specialist Certificate. However, if you are looking to move into a supply chain management position or want to increase your knowledge in the area, then obtaining such a certification could be beneficial.

A Supply Chain Specialist Certificate can provide the skills and knowledge that employers look for when hiring for supply chain positions. It can also help demonstrate your commitment to the field and demonstrate your understanding of key concepts and processes related to the industry. Additionally, some organizations may require that applicants possess this type of certification before being considered for employment.

Overall, obtaining a Supply Chain Specialist Certificate may be beneficial depending on your current level of education and experience in the field. It can provide an edge over other applicants in terms of showing both knowledge and commitment to the profession. However, if you do not feel the need to obtain such certification at this time, it is still possible to pursue success within the field without one.

Related: Supply Chain Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Supply Chain Specialist Certifications

1. What is a Supply Chain Specialist Certification?

A Supply Chain Specialist Certification is a credential that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in supply chain management. It demonstrates a mastery of the end-to-end supply chain process, from procurement and inventory management to logistics and warehousing.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Supply Chain Specialist Certification?

The main benefit of obtaining a Supply Chain Specialist Certification is gaining recognition for your expertise in the field. This credential can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for new jobs or promotions, as well as demonstrate your commitment to professional development. Additionally, it may open up new opportunities within the industry, such as consulting or teaching roles.

3. Who should obtain a Supply Chain Specialist Certification?

Supply Chain Specialists who want to expand their knowledge base and demonstrate their expertise should consider obtaining a Supply Chain Specialist Certification. This certification is also beneficial for those who are looking to enter the field, as it can give them an edge over other applicants with no formal training in supply chain management.

4. What are the requirements for obtaining a Supply Chain Specialist Certification?

Requirements vary depending on the certifying organization, but typically include passing an exam and completing relevant coursework or workshops related to supply chain management topics such as inventory control, logistics planning, and customer service operations.

5. How long does it take to become certified?

The timeline varies depending on the certifying organization, but generally it takes about 3-6 months to complete all requirements for obtaining certification after registering for classes or exams.