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CIPS Level 6 Profession Diploma · The Pathway to MCIPS

The final step to Chartered procurement status.

The CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma is the strategic qualification for senior procurement leaders pursuing MCIPS Chartered status.

4 core + 3 elective modules

Mixed CR written & OR multi-choice exams

12–18 month study window

The final step to becoming MCIPS

Up to 14 hrs 1-to-1 with KJG

COMPLETE LEVEL 6 PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA

£2,900.00

7
Modules
4+3
CORE + ELECT
CR+OR
EXAM MIX
12-18
MONTHS
  • 4 core modules + 3 electives of your choice from 6
  • Up to 14 hrs one to one tutoring with KJG (FCIPS)
  • Distance / Self-study Programme
  • CR written technique + OR multi-choice exam coaching
  • 1 resit
  • Post-qualification MCIPS application support
  • Pastoral support throughout

86%

Pass rate across all levels

7

Modules, 4 CR + 3 OR

MCIPS

Direct chartered pathway

20+ yrs

Katie’s experience

WHAT’S INCLUDED

The complete Level 6
journey to Chartered

Your enrolment covers everything needed for Level 6 and the step into MCIPS: all four core modules, three electives of your choice, up to 20 hours of one to one time with Katie, live group teaching, exam technique coaching for both CR and OR formats, a resit on every module, and MCIPS application support once you’ve passed.

Materials for all 7 modules

Strategic content aligned to the current CIPS syllabus, 4 core modules plus access to all 6 elective options so you can choose with confidence.

  • Module guides, slide packs & case studies
  • Aligned to current CIPS syllabus
  • 18 months digital access
  • Board-level procurement examples

FCIPS one-to-one coaching

Up to 14 hours of dedicated time with Katie, tailored to your role, your sector and the modules you’re sitting next.

  • Up to 14 hrs 1 to 1 with KJG (FCIPS)
  • Group teaching sessions included
  • Strategic thinking & real-world scenarios
  • Distance / Self-study Programme

Exam technique — CR & OR

Dedicated coaching for both exam formats: strategic Case Response writing for cores, applied OR technique for electives.

  • CR written case-study coaching
  • OR multi-choice question strategy
  • Tutor-marked mock exams
  • 1 resit included per module

MCIPS pathway support

Level 6 is the academic step to Chartered. We go further, guiding you through MCIPS application once you’ve qualified.

  • MCIPS application support post-qualification
  • Experience portfolio guidance
  • Pastoral support
  • 20+ yrs senior procurement perspective
YOUR MODULES

Four strategic cores, three specialist electives.

Level 6 mirrors the reality of senior procurement leadership: every student sits four strategic core modules assessed by Case Response written case studies, and then chooses three electives from six specialist options, assessed by Objective Response multiple choice. Cores are board-level; electives let you deepen specialism.

CORE MODULES · MANDATORY · CR WRITTEN EXAMS

C1

L6M1

Strategic Ethical Leadership

The leadership core. Ethical decision making at the top of the organisation, board-level governance, the CIPS Code of Conduct, CSR, and how procurement leaders build stakeholder trust in uncertain environments. Assessed by CR written case study.

CR · Core

Ethics & Leadership

C2

L6M2

Global Strategic Supply Chain Management

Design and optimise supply chains at global scale. Network design, strategic performance measurement, resilience, digitalisation, and sustainability across borders, all aligned to corporate strategy. Assessed by CR written case study.

CR · Core

Global Supply Chain

C3

L6M3

Strategic Procurement Management

Position procurement at the executive table. Corporate procurement strategy, executive stakeholder management, value creation, category strategy, transformation and strategic partnerships. Assessed by CR written case study.

CR · Core

Corporate Strategy

C4

L6M4

Future Strategic Challenges for the Profession

Anticipate and shape what comes next. AI and automation, blockchain, geopolitical risk, circular-economy sustainability, and the evolving capabilities procurement leaders will need to stay relevant. Assessed by CR written case study.

CR · Core

Future & Foresight

ELECTIVE MODULES · CHOOSE 3 OF 6 · OR MULTIPLE-CHOICE EXAMS

E1

L6M5

Strategic Programme Leadership

Lead major procurement programmes end to end. Programme governance, strategic contract development, multi-stakeholder management, benefits realisation and leadership presence at scale, ideal for aspiring CPOs and Strategic Sourcing Directors.

OR · Elective

Programme leadership

E2

L6M7

Commercial Data Management

Turn procurement data into commercial insight. Spend analytics, data quality, procurement technology stacks, visualisation and the governance frameworks that make procurement data trustworthy at board level.

OR · Elective

Data & Analytics

E3

L6M8

Innovation in Procurement and Supply

Drive innovation through the supply base. Supplier-led innovation, open collaboration models, early-contractor involvement, IP considerations and how to set up procurement to generate, not block, new ideas.

OR · Elective

Innovation

E4

L6M9

Supply Network Design

Design the supply networks that modern organisations depend on. Network topology, make-or-buy at enterprise scale, resilience engineering, near-shoring and the trade-offs that sit behind every strategic sourcing decision.

OR · Elective

Network design

E5

L6M10

Global Logistics Strategy

Strategic logistics for global procurement. International transport strategy, warehousing networks, Incoterms at scale, customs and trade compliance, and the levers that shape end-to-end service and cost globally.

OR · Elective

Global logistics

E6

L6M11

Commercial Negotiation at Scale

Negotiation as a strategic leadership discipline. Complex multi-party negotiation, portfolio-level deal design, cultural and cross-border dynamics, and the frameworks for negotiating agreements that hold up over the long term.

OR · Elective

Strategic negotiation

 Popular elective combinations.

Programme leadership focus: L6M5 + L6M7 + L6M8.
Category & sourcing focus: L6M5 + L6M8 + L6M10.
Strategic transformation focus: L6M7 + L6M9 + L6M11.

Katie will help you map the right three to your career goals at enrolment.

HOW IT WORKS

From enrolment to Chartered status.

A clear path from sign up to achieving your CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma. Choose how you learn: online, in-person (Lincolnshire), or hybrid, and study within a flexible 12–18 month window, around 8–12 hours per week.

1Enrol & register

2Study the 4 CR cores

3Study your 3 OR electives

4Diploma & MCIPS

Confirm eligibility (Level 5 or 5+ yrs strategic experience), select your three electives, receive full materials and your tutor roadmap. ~1 week.
Work through L6M1–L6M4 with guided study, live sessions and 1 to 1 Katie time. Sit Case Response written exams, typically months 1–6.
Progress through your chosen electives, overlapping with cores. Objective Response multi choice exams, months 4–12.
Pass all 7 exams to earn the Level 6 Professional Diploma. Then work with CIPS (and us) to apply for MCIPS Chartered status.

WHO IT’S FOR

Built for procurement leaders heading for MCIPS.

🎓

CIPS Level 5 graduates

The natural next step. You’ve completed the Advanced Diploma and are ready for the final academic stage before Chartered status.

👔

Senior procurement leaders

Procurement managers, strategic sourcing leads and category directors with 5+ yrs strategic experience aiming for board-level influence.

🏢

Heads & Directors

Heads of Procurement and Directors seeking professional validation and the pathway towards Chief Procurement Officer roles.

⚡

Experienced direct entrants

Without Level 5 but with 5+ yrs strategic procurement experience? Direct entry may be available, talk to Katie to confirm.

YOUR TUTOR

FCIPS (Fellow of CIPS) | Strategic Procurement Expert

Katie Jarvis-Grove is a Fellow of CIPS and brings 20+ years’ of hands-on procurement expertise to Level 6 coaching. Specialising in strategic leadership and CR examination technique, Katie has guided hundreds of professionals to successful Level 6 completion and Chartered status.

QUALIFICATIONS & CREDENTIALS
• FCIPS (Fellow of CIPS) — Gold standard professional designation
• CIPS Level 6 Expertise — Deep knowledge of all modules and examination requirements
• Strategic Procurement Background — 20+ years’ at director and board level
• Examination Specialist — Expert in CR written examination technique and strategic answer construction

TEACHING APPROACH
Katie’s coaching emphasises:
• Strategic thinking rather than rote learning
• Real world procurement scenarios and board-level decision making
• Examination technique specific to CR written formats
• One-to-one tailored support for your learning style and role context
• Confidence building for high-stakes examinations

AVAILABILITY
One to one sessions available throughout your programme. Katie also leads group teaching sessions covering key module topics and examination technique.

Contact Katie directly:
info@apscips.com | 01790 755618

PRICING

One price, everything included — flexible payment options

COMPLETE LEVEL 6 PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

£2,900.00

  • Full access to study materials for all 7 modules (4 core + 3 electives)
  • One-to-one tutor support with Katie Jarvis-Grove (FCIPS) — up to 14 hours included
  • Distance / Self-study Programme
  • Examination technique workshops (CR written and OR multiple-choice)
  • Pastoral support throughout your 12–18 month journey
  • Digital access to all resources for 18 months
  • 1 resit
  • Post-qualification support for MCIPS application

CIPS exam & registration fees are charged separately by CIPS.

💳 Spread the cost

Interest-free instalments available to spread the cost of the course (please contact us for more details and a personalised payment plan)

🏢 Employer sponsorship

Many employers fund CIPS Level 6. We provide a business case template, employer testimonials and flexible invoice terms (net 30 / net 60).

🧩 Prefer one module at a time?

Individual Level 6 Study Packs and Revision Packs are available for every module if you only need one area, or are retaking an exam.

View Level 6 Study Packs →

COMPARE OPTIONS

Choose the right learning option for your goals.

FEATURE COMPLETE COURSE STUDY PACK REVISION PACK
Study Materials (All 7 Modules) ✓ Included ✓ Included ✗ Revision-only
One-to-One Tutor Support (Katie) ✓ Up to 14 hrs ✗ Not included ✗ Not included
Group Teaching Sessions ✓ Included ✗ Not included ✗ Not included
CR Exam Coaching (Written) ✓ Included ✓ Included ✓ Included
OR Exam Coaching (Multiple-Choice) ✓ Included ✓ Included ✓ Included
Pastoral Support Lead (LC) ✓ Included ✗ Email support ✗ Not included
1 Module Resit (exam fees apply) ✓ Included ✗ Not included ✗ Not included
Digital Access Duration 18 months 12 months 6 months
MCIPS Application Support ✓ Included ✗ Not included ✗ Not included
Best For First-time learners aiming for MCIPS Self-motivated learners with some experience Final exam intensive prep
Not sure which is right? Book a free 20-minute consultation with Katie →

ABOUT THE QUALIFICATION

What is the CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma?

The CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma is the final academic qualification in the CIPS pathway to Chartered status (MCIPS). It represents mastery of strategic procurement at the highest professional level and is globally recognised as the gold standard in procurement and supply chain expertise.

WHAT MAKES CIPS LEVEL 6 DIFFERENT?


vs. Other Procurement Qualifications:
• Only pathway to Chartered status (MCIPS)
• Specific focus on strategic leadership and governance
• CR written examinations demand board-level thinking
• Global recognition and professional standing


vs. Self-Study:
• Expert tutor guidance on examination technique
• Structured learning eliminating guesswork
• Peer community and collaborative learning
• Pastoral support through challenging content

Typical career outcomes after Level 6

This qualification is ideal for those targeting:
• Chief Procurement Officer (£80,000–£130,000+)
• Director of Supply Chain (£75,000–£120,000+)
• Head of Category / Strategic Sourcing (£65,000–£95,000+)
• Strategic Procurement Transformation Roles
• Board-level Procurement Advisory Positions

THE CIPS PATHWAY

Level 2 — Certificate

Foundation

Level 3 — Advanced Certificate

Operational

Level 4 — Diploma

Level 5 — Advanced Diploma

Level 6 — Professional Diploma

You are here

MCIPS · Chartered

+ 3 yrs’ experience

FAQs

Your Level 6 questions, answered.

  • Do I need to complete Level 5 first before Level 6?

    Level 5 (Advanced Diploma) is strongly recommended as the natural progression through CIPS qualifications. However, if you have 5+ years of strategic procurement experience, you may be considered for direct entry to Level 6. We assess each application individually. Contact our team to discuss your background: info@apscips.com | 01790 755618

  • Can I study Level 6 while working full-time?

    Yes, absolutely. The programme is designed for busy senior procurement professionals. Most learners commit 8–12 hours per week during study periods (including independent study, tutor sessions, and exam preparation). This is very manageable alongside a full-time executive role. Many of our most successful students are C-suite procurement leaders who have balanced work, family, and study effectively.

  • How long does Level 6 take to complete?

    The typical timeframe is 12–18 months from enrolment to Professional Diploma. This includes:

    • Months 1–6: Completing core modules with CR exams
    • Months 4–12: Completing elective modules with OR exams
    • Months 12–18: Final exam results and portfolio completion

    You can accelerate (12 months) or extend (18 months) based on your pace. After the diploma, MCIPS application typically takes 2–3 additional months.

  • What’s the difference between CR and OR exams?

    Core Required (CR) exams are mandatory written examinations for all 4 core modules. These are 3-hour assessments requiring you to construct detailed strategic answers demonstrating board-level thinking.

    Optional Requirement (OR) exams are multiple-choice assessments for your 3 chosen electives. These test applied knowledge through scenario-based questions in a more concise format.

    Both require expert technique, but our coaching tailors to each format.

  • What happens if I fail an examination?

    First attempt failure is rare given our support (95% pass rate), but if it occurs, you have 1 resit included with your Complete Course. Resit exam entry fees apply. We’ll provide intensive targeted coaching to address gaps and ensure success on your second attempt.

  • Can I spread the cost over multiple months?

    Yes. We offer flexible, interest-free payment plans at 12, 18, and 24 months.

    Alternatively, pay in full for a discount. Full pricing details available upon request.

  • How is this different from self-study?

    Self-study requires you to navigate CIPS material independently. Our Complete Course provides:

    • Strategic-level thinking guidance specific to Level 6 expectations
    • Expert CR examination technique coaching (crucial for written exams)
    • One-to-one tutor support (up to 14 hours with Katie Jarvis-Grove FCIPS)
    • Group teaching sessions providing peer learning and expert insights
    • Pastoral support removing stress and isolation
    • Structured progression eliminating guesswork

    Self-study costs less but risks time-wasting and examination failure. Our 95% pass rate reflects this value.

  • Can my employer pay for this course?

    Many learners secure employer funding. We provide:

    • Business case template highlighting ROI (qualification progression, salary uplifts, strategic capability)
    • Letters of support for employer L&D applications
    • Flexible payment and enrolment supporting organisational timelines

    We recommend presenting the strategic business case: “Level 6 investment develops our next CPO and strengthens procurement strategic impact.” Contact us for a template: info@aspireprocurement.co.uk | 01790 755618

  • How is the course assessed?

    Assessment is through examination only (no coursework assignments):

    • Core Modules (L6M1–L6M4): CR written exams (3 hours each) assessing strategic reasoning, critical analysis, and answer construction
    • Elective Modules (3 of 6): OR multiple-choice exams testing applied knowledge
    • Resits: 1 resit included per module if needed (exam fees apply)

    Your tutor coaches examination technique throughout. No continuous assessment or group projects.

  • What is MCIPS Chartered status and why does it matter?

    MCIPS (Member of CIPS, Chartered status) is the gold standard professional designation in procurement and supply. It distinguishes you as a fully qualified, professionally recognised expert. Benefits include:

    • Global recognition and professional standing
    • Board-level credibility and authority
    • CPO and strategic leadership readiness
    • Significantly higher salary potential
    • Access to exclusive CIPS networks and CPD
    • Legal right to use “Chartered Procurement Professional” title (where legislation permits)

    MCIPS requires: Level 6 diploma + professional experience + CIPS application approval.

  • What happens after I achieve Level 6? How do I get MCIPS?

    Upon completing all 7 modules and exams, you’ll receive your Professional Diploma. You’ll then:

    1. Compile your Professional Experience Portfolio with CIPS guidance
    2. Demonstrate meeting the MCIPS Chartered Competency Framework
    3. Submit your application to CIPS for final approval
    4. Receive formal MCIPS designation upon approval

    This process typically takes 2–3 months. Our team provides full support through this final step. You become MCIPS Chartered once CIPS confirms your application.

  • Can I choose which 3 electives I study?

    Yes, you choose 3 electives from 6 available modules.

    During enrolment, our team guides you through elective selection based on your career goals (e.g., CPO track, Category Sourcing focus, Transformation specialist). You’ll also receive self-assessment tools helping you identify which electives best suit your aspirations.

  • What’s the MCIPS application process like after Level 6?

    The MCIPS application process involves:

    1. Professional Experience Verification: Compile evidence of 5+ years strategic procurement experience meeting CIPS Chartered Competency Framework
    2. Portfolio Submission: Provide examples, achievements, and reflections demonstrating your capability across competency areas (Strategy, Leadership, Ethics, Transformation, etc.)
    3. CIPS Assessment: CIPS reviews your portfolio and experience credentials
    4. Approval & Designation: Upon approval, you receive formal MCIPS Chartered status

    Timeline: 2–3 months from application to approval

    Our team provides guidance completing your portfolio, coaching on competency demonstration, and support addressing any CIPS queries.

RELATED PRODUCTS

Continuing your journey

SINGLE MODULE

Level 6 Study Packs

For motivated self-learners preferring study materials without one-to-one tuition.

Includes: Full study materials for all 7 modules, CR and OR exam coaching, 12-month digital access.

Browse Study Packs →

SINGLE MODULE

Level 6 Revision Packs

For those completing self-study or refreshing before final examinations.

Includes: Focused revision notes, past exam questions, exam technique workshops, 6-month access

Browse Revision Packs →

PREREQUISITE

Level 5 Complete Course

For those still building their foundation before Level 6.

Duration: 9–12 months

Includes: One-to-one expert tuition, full study materials, examination coaching, pastoral support

View Level 5 Course →

Ready to achieve MCIPS Chartered status?

Begin your Level 6 journey today. Join hundreds of procurement leaders who have successfully progressed to Chartered status through our expert, supportive training.
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