The Diploma in Public Procurement is an advanced programme which caters for the needs of decision makers by equipping them with the skills to design and implement strategic initiatives ensuring they position and resource their procurement activity appropriately.
The programme focuses on the strategic aspects of procurement within the context of international best practice. This advanced programme provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of key aspects such as capability development, procurement planning, cost reduction initiatives, strategy development, change management and supply market structures and analysis.
The programme is specifically designed for key decision makers in the procurement, project management and budget holding functions in the public sector.
Those looking for a comprehensive introduction to Public Procurement may be interested in the Certificate in Public Procurement.
This programme will be delivered over one academic year. Delivery is via a blended learning programme that involves a combination of distance learning, tutor delivery/attendance at tutorials, directed home study and continuous assessment through assignments, a work-based project and written examination. The work-based project will last for the duration of the programme and a number of months after the course lectures have finished.
Tutorials will take place at the Institute of Public Administration in Dublin. Classes typically run from 9:30 to 5:00 on tutorial dates.
This Diploma is delivered on a modular basis and covers the following topics:
Module One: Foundation
- Basics of strategic procurement
- Opportunity analysis
- Business requirement analysis
- Internal and external influences and barriers
- Procurement structures
- Introduction to course assignment
Module Two: Corporate Planning & Strategy Development
- Procurement planning – corporate plans
- Capability development and commercial awareness
- Supply positioning and Supplier Preferencing Matrices
- Procurement Strategies and Innovation
- Porters five forces
- Framework Agreements
Module Three: Market Reseach, Procurement Processes and Procedures
- Market research and structure
- Market analysis
- Price – cost relationship
- Developing purchasing processes and procedures
- Category Management
- Role of ICT systems in procurement
- eProcurement tools
- Sustainable (green) procurement
Module Four: Change Management and Negotiation Skills
- Drivers for change
- Planning for change
- Interpersonal and communication skills
- Negotiation strategies
- Negotiation skills
Module Five: Performance Management
- Procurement performance management
- Contract & supplier performance management
- Project management
- Effective communication
Accreditation
The IPA is a recognised college of University College Dublin (UCD). From 2011, any student entering an accredited IPA Programme will graduate with a UCD award. The IPA and UCD are part of the wider National University of Ireland (NUI) network. The Diploma in Public Procurement is at Level 6 (Special Purpose Award) on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Asssessment
Assessment is based on a combination of three assignments, a work-based project, a presentation and a three hour, closed book examination.
The work-based project will last for the duration of the programme. Course presenters will provide ongoing assistance during the project. On completion of the project each participant will be required to make a formal presentation to an expert panel on the deliverables achieved by the project and marks will be awarded using assessment criteria.
Fee, Enrolment Procedures and Admissions
€4500 per person. Fee includes course materials, matriculation, tuition and tutorial attendance, project assessment and examinations.
Participants may gain admission to the programme through the following avenues:
- hold the Certificate in Public Procurement (accredited by the NUI), or
- hold the current IPA/Achilles Certificate in Public Procurement, or
- hold an equivalent non-IPA/Achilles award in public procurement validated at certificate level, or
- demonstrate five years relevant public procurement experience.
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