If you’re wondering where to study a CIPS qualification, hearing from past students can give you valuable insight. Joy Jackson recently completed their CIPS Diploma in Procurement and Supply with Oxford College of Procurement and Supply and shared her honest thoughts on the learning experience, skills gained and career benefits.

What inspired you to start your CIPS journey?

I had been working in procurement for about 5 years and felt that having a CIPS qualification would be a great opportunity to boost my technical knowledge and also give me the extra edge in the field. I am glad that I decided to pursue the Diploma when I did because I already had a few years of practical experience and I was able to apply what I was learning to my everyday work experiences.

Which study method did you choose for your CIPS qualification and why?

I initially chose Virtual Classes, but due to the time difference between the UK and the Caribbean, I decided that Distance Learning would be the most suitable option. This gave me the flexibility to study around my own schedule in Barbados, while still having access to all the comprehensive learning resources from Oxford College of Procurement and Supply. These materials provided everything I needed to confidently manage my self-study and progress through the qualification at my own pace.

How did you find the learning experience?

It was challenging to get back into studying since it had been a few years since I was last in the ‘classroom’. Doing the distance learning meant that I had to be very self-motivated but the way that the courses are structured ensured that I was able to organise myself well and tick off one thing at a time in order to achieve my goals.

What key skills or knowledge have you gained from completing your CIPS qualification?

I gained a wealth of information related not only specifically to procurement, but also to related technical areas including logistics, supply chain management and contract management. I learned a lot more than I initially expected and I certainly feel much more well-rounded because of this. I was also able to become more disciplined and organised in my self-study journey.

How has achieving your CIPS qualification impacted your career so far?

Shortly after completing CIPS, I was able to get a new job with higher pay and more independent responsibilities. I felt more equipped for this type of position, and having CIPS was something that definitely put me in a higher category from an employer’s perspective.

What advice would you give to someone considering starting their CIPS studies?

Do it. It is quite a big undertaking in terms of study time, especially if you are working a full-time job at the same time. However, it will 100% be worth it in the end. The amount of valuable technical knowledge you will gain will make the hours of studying worth it and it will be an invaluable qualification for your procurement career.

Would you recommend studying CIPS with Oxford College of Procurement and Supply? If so, why?

Yes! Firstly, the staff are all very friendly and helpful. From the time I first sent an email inquiring about the courses, I was met with such kind, accommodating staff, who I felt went above and beyond to help me and to ensure that I was taken care of. I can say this about every person I have interacted from Oxford College of Procurement and Supply. Secondly, the course materials are very comprehensive, including videos, quizzes, PowerPoint presentations and other useful tools to aid the study process. Overall, my experience has been great and I have and will continue to recommend Oxford College of Procurement and Supply to my friends and colleagues who are interested in pursuing CIPS.

This CIPS Diploma success story highlights how flexible learning can work for professionals around the world, even across time zones. By choosing Oxford College of Procurement and Supply, Joy gained the technical skills, confidence and competitive advantage needed to step into a higher-paying, more independent role.

Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, a career change, or simply want to strengthen your expertise, the CIPS Diploma in Procurement and Supply can help you get there. Find out more about our CIPS qualifications and see how our flexible study options can work for you.