What is a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)?

Many logisticians choose to continue their education after receiving their bachelor’s degrees. Some choose to pursue a master’s in a relevant field, while others prefer to work toward one or more certifications. The Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) designation is a way for logisticians to demonstrate their knowledge and improve their careers in the process. It is administered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS), one of the many professional organizations available to logisticians.

About APICS

APICS was founded in 1957 and has grown to more than 45,000 members around the world. The organization is recognized as a cutting-edge source of research, education and certification programs for logistics professionals who are dedicated to excellence. APICS offers several credentials and educational programs for both individuals and entire teams in addition to case competitions, conferences, seminars and webinars.

The Certified Supply Chain Professional Designation

The CSCP designation was created for supply chain managers, materials managers, operations managers, supply chain analysts and consultants. It teaches operations through a broad lens that includes the entire supply chain, including those stages that occur outside of a company, and allows logistics professionals to effectively integrate and manage a supply chain from end to end. Professionals who undertake this program will gain a deeper understanding of supply chain operations and be able to take external factors into consideration when developing internal structures at their companies.

Application Process

To qualify for the exam, applicants must have three years of business experience, a bachelor’s degree or an existing APICS certification. They must submit an application to formally note their eligibility and purchase a test, which must then be taken at a local testing center.

The CSCP test consists of 150 multiple choice questions, which candidates have 3.5 hours to answer. They may use several APICS resources to study for the exam. The self-guided CSCP Learning System provides readings and online study tools to help applicants prepare themselves for the exam. Fox Valley Technical College offers online courses that are supported by instructors, while local APICS chapters may offer in-person training. Finally, candidates may purchase the Exam Content Manual, which outlines topics and their importance to the test.  

Certification Maintenance

After successfully completing the CSCP exam, logistics professionals must maintain their certification by collecting professional development points. These points can be obtained by attending events like conferences, seminars, workshops and webinars, or by purchasing an ASCM membership. CSCP recipients must log their points on a regular basis and submit a maintenance application and fee on a regular basis.

Program Benefits

Earning your CSCP designation can bring significant benefits. According to APICS, logisticians who complete the CSCP program see their salaries rise by an average of 27 percent and improve their hiring potential by 65 percent. The designation also shows employers that you are dedicated to continuing your education in supply chain management and staying abreast of best practices. Future employers may value this commitment to learning, allowing you to obtain more senior roles as you progress in your career.

Once CSCP certified, you may want to consider the ASCM’s CSCP-F Fellowship program.

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