Education FAQ

What is an APICS number?

This is the number issued to you by SAPICS once you become a member of SAPICS or you decide to embark on a SAPICS / APICS course.

 

I would like to do a course in Supply Chain Management, how do I set about it?

We recommend that you contact one of our Education Providers. They are experts in the field and can guide you well on your education path. We encourage you to complete a form with your details which we then send to the Education Providers to contact you.

 

What are the requirements for doing the CPIM?

A Diploma / Degree plus 2 years working experience - full details are available under the Education section of this website.

 

What are the requirements for doing the CSCP?

A Diploma / Degree plus 5 years working experience and the completion of the eligibility process through APICS - full details are available under the Education section of this website.

 

Do I need to complete the CPIM before I do the CSCP?

No it is not necessary although in some instances it is recommended. Much depends on your prior learning and work experience.

 

Who should pursue the CPIM?

The CPIM is essential for professionals involved in the following fields:

1. Production & Inventory Management
2. Operations
3. Supply Chain Management
4. Procurement
5. Materials Management

 

How will the CPIM benefit me?

1. It will increase your functional knowledge of production and inventory management.
2. Improve efficiency across the processes of your organisations supply chain.
3. Streamline operations through accurate forecasting.
4. Maximise customer satisfaction by delivering products and services JIT.
5. Increase organisations profitability.
6. Enhance your credibility among peers, employers and customers.

 

Is there a maximum amount of times if I fail that I will not be able to write anymore?

As long as you are willing to write an exam you will be allowed to continue, it is entirely up to the individual / company as it can become a costly exercise.

 

How long does it take to complete the CPIM?

It will take between 18-24 months. This is provided that your exam sittings are successful. The CPIM consists of 5 modules that can be done at a candidate's own pace. There are currently 3 - 4 exam sittings per year and a maximum of 2 subjects can be written per sitting. It is very difficult to write more than one subject per sitting, and it is recommended that you do one at a time until you are more confident of the process and the question.

 

Would it be better to do the self study option or attend a lecture led class?

This depends entirely on the individual and what is best suited for your study abilities, experience and knowledge of the subject matter.

 

Who can I contact should I require assistance during myself studies?

We have various Authorised Education Providers who will be able to assist intermittently with any queries pertaining to the study material.

 

Can I just complete the BSC Module only?

Yes you may do the BSC as a single subject if you choose. You will receive a certificate from APICS once you have successfully completed this module.

 

Do I still have to complete the BSC module even if I have a Supply Chain Degree?

In order to obtain the full CPIM certification you will need to complete the BSC module.

 

Do I have to start with the BSC module?

It is recommended that one begins with the BSC as this module incorporates all the introductory aspects of the remaining four modules which would aid in the study process and examinations of the follow up modules.

 

What qualification would I have achieved once I have completed the CPIM or CSCP?

The CPIM and CSCP designates are international certifications and are a global standard for supply chain and operations management. These designates are internationally recognised and are currently offered in over 40 countries. They are not currently accredited in South Africa however the CPIM is equivalent to the NQF level 6 and the CSCP equivalent to the NQF level 7.

 

What companies recognise the CPIM & CSCP?

The CPIM & CSCP certifications are widely recognised in South Africa. Eskom highly recommends and encourages the certifications within the company. A few other companies who make avid use of these certifications are Transnet, Barloworld, Nampak and Toyota to name a few.

 

Which is better; attending CSCP lectures or doing self study?

Most CSCP participants opt for the self study route as there is an APICS on line study facility which aids in the study process. The CSCP can be successfully completed in three months however most students prefer six months as this is an intense learning intervention. Some candidates prefer the support of an instructor and group sessions.

 

Are the CPIM & CSCP exam made up of multiple choice questions?

Yes the CPIM and CSCP are both multiple choice question exams. The CPIM exams [all modules] are three hour exams each which are generally split into morning and afternoon sessions as follows;

• BSC AM
• ECO AM
• DSP AM
• MPR PM
• SMR PM
• BSC Basics of Supply Chain [Module 1]
• ECO Execution and Control of Operations [module 2]
• DSP Detailed Scheduling and Planning [module 3]
• MPR Master Planning of Resources [module 4]
• SMR Strategic Management of Resources [module 5]
• The CSCP is a four hour exam incorporating all four domains.

 

 

How do I go about ordering the study material?

You will need to complete the Customer Order Form [COF] which can be obtained on the SAPICS website. Alternatively you can contact one of the Authorised Education Providers in your area that will discuss your best options with you and are able to sell education material directly to you.

 

How do I receive my study material?

Once we have received your COF we will invoice you accordingly. Upon receipt of payment we will forward your material via our courier service. Alternatively, if purchasing the material through one of the Authorised Education Providers they will confirm the process with you.

 

Can I get a re-mark should I fail?

The remarking of an exam is possible but can be costly and we have to date not had a fail mark emerge as a pass mark. The exams are marked by way of the scale scoring system. You can find an outline of this marking process on the SAPICS website.

 

Is SAPICS accredited?

SAPICS is accredited with MerSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA). Our number is 17-QA/ACC/0292/08