Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers you need by checking out some common questions from public procurement professionals just like you.
Do learners earn digital badges for completing courses?
Yes, a Credly badge will be issued upon completion. Learners have the option to share this badge on social media and professional platforms. With Credly, you can:
(a) easily manage, share, and verify your learning achievements,
(b) add credibility through secure verification,
(c) access labour market insights that connect your skills with current job opportunities, and
(d) unlock exclusive promotional offers and learning pathways available only to badge earners.
For more information about Credly, visit: https://support.credly.com/hc/en-us/articles/360021222051-What-is-Credly
Can individual learners choose to Buy Now and Pay Later in instalments?
Yes, individual learners can select a Buy Now, Pay Later option through Affirm. Depending on the total purchase amount, instalment plans range from 3 to 36 months:
- $300–$1,499.99: 3, 6, or 12 months
- $1,500–$2,999.99: 6, 12, or 24 months
- $3,000–$15,000: 12, 24, or 36 months
Eligibility is determined by Affirm at checkout and applying won’t affect your credit score. APR varies from 0–31.99%, based on creditworthiness and provincial regulations. A down payment may be required. To learn more, visit Affirm’s website.
Do PSPP® (Public Sector Procurement Program) courses count towards procurement designations?
Yes, the PSPP® (Public Sector Procurement Program) provides 100 Education Hours that can be applied toward the CPPB and CPPO designations offered by the UPPCC. However, it’s recommended to confirm with the UPPCC directly, as requirements may change over time. PSPP® courses may also count toward professional development credits for other designations such as SCMP and PMP, depending on the specific criteria of each professional body. We suggest checking with your certifying organization in advance to ensure eligibility.
What are the key differences among the training programs you offer?
We offer a variety of training programs tailored to different needs within the procurement and public sector space. Each program is designed with a specific focus, audience, and format in mind. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose the right one for your goals:
| Details | PSPP® | CMPSP™ | AIPSP | Webinars |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Sector | Public | Public + Private | Public | Public |
| Focus | Procurement | Contract Management | Artificial Intelligence | Procurement |
| Format | Instructor led + self-learning | Instructor led + self-learning | Self-learning | Instructor-led |
| Target Audience | Procurement, Sourcing, and Purchasing professionals (Analyst to VP level) | Professionals supporting Canadian clients in procurement and contracting (including legal and technical roles) | Government employees | Procurement, Sourcing, and Purchasing professionals (Analyst to VP level) |
| Also Suitable For | Career changers, learners switching from private to public sector, and private vendors serving government | Career starters and learners entering contract management roles | Career starters and private-to-public sector switchers | Private vendors and professionals exploring public procurement |
Each program meets a different set of learning goals. If you’re unsure which one is right for you, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to guide you based on your background and career plans.
How do I access the course after purchase?
Once you complete your purchase, you’ll receive an email with everything you need to get started. This email will include a link to access the course, along with your login credentials. Be sure to check your inbox (and spam folder, just in case). If you don’t receive it within a few minutes, feel free to contact our support team for assistance.
What does Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) cover and how long does it take?
Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) introduces key Canadian public sector procurement principles, terminology, and the full procurement lifecycle. It includes sourcing, contract basics, ethical standards, and compliance practices. The course takes approximately 8–10 hours to complete. You can learn at your own pace, with flexible access.
Do I need any prerequisites to enroll in Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101)?
No prior procurement experience or training is required to start Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101). The course is designed for beginners and those looking to build a foundational understanding. It’s suitable for anyone entering the Canadian public sector or working closely with procurement teams.
Is Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) recognized for procurement certifications?
Yes, Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) is part of Procurement School’s recognized PSPP® certification pathway. It serves as the first step toward advanced learning and certification in public sector procurement. Completion of PSPP® 101 earns you a certificate of achievement.
What learning materials and tools are included?
The course includes interactive e-learning modules, quizzes, and real-life examples. You’ll receive downloadable resources such as reference tools and job aids. These materials are yours to keep and revisit as needed throughout your Canadian public sector journey.
How is the course delivered and how do I access it?
Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) is delivered entirely online through a world class user-friendly learning portal. When you register, you will be provided access to the course content. You can log in anytime, from any device, to learn at your own pace.
What are the pricing and team discounts?
Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) can be purchased for $500 individually.
Teams of 5-9 get 5% off. Teams of 10-14 get 10% off, Teams of 15-19 get 15% off, Teams of 20-25 get 20% off. To earn these discounts, please email [email protected] or call us at 250-370-0041.
When does course access expire?
Learners have 6 months of access from the date of enrollment. This timeframe allows ample flexibility to complete the course at your own pace. You can log in anytime during this period to review or continue progress.
Is there a money-back or guarantee policy?
Refunds before commencing Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP®® 101) is subject to a fee of $50. No refunds are available after the online course has been started.
What makes Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) different from other procurement courses?
PSPP® 101 is tailored specifically for Canadian public sector procurement professionals. It’s designed by procurement experts with real-world experience and aligned with Canadian public procurement standards. The course is engaging, practical, and highly applicable.
Who is the course designed for?
This course is ideal for new Canadian public procurement professionals, support staff, and anyone who interacts with public sector procurement processes. It’s also suited for project managers, administrators, and finance staff seeking a solid procurement foundation.
Can I bundle Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) with other courses?
Yes, Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) can be bundled with the full PSPP® series (201–301) for a complete learning path. Bundling offers cost savings and a structured journey from beginner to advanced procurement leadership. Bundle at 20% discount can be purchased at https://theprocurementschool.com/product/pspp-101-201-202-203-301/
What support is available during and after the course?
Support is available through email and the online platform throughout your enrollment. You’ll also gain access to a community of learners and ongoing updates. Post-course, your certificate and resources remain available for continued reference.
How many professional development hours does Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) provide?
Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) provides 8 professional development hours. These hours may count toward ongoing training requirements for procurement certifications or career advancement. A certificate is provided as proof of course completion.
What happens if I don’t complete the course in time?
If you don’t finish your course within the access period, you may be able to extend your enrollment for an additional fee. Reach out to our support team to explore your options.
Is the course accessible to learners with disabilities?
Our learning platform is built with accessibility in mind, supporting participants with visual, hearing, or mobility impairments. If you require specific accommodations, we’re happy to work with you to ensure your learning experience is smooth and inclusive.
Any additional benefits?
Alongside structured lessons, you’ll receive downloadable resources, practical templates, real-world examples, and expert guidance you can apply immediately. You’ll also have the chance to connect with a network of professionals for valuable knowledge exchange.
When does the next session start?
Program start dates depend on the course. Self-paced programs begin as soon as you enroll, while instructor-led programs follow scheduled start dates shown on the course page.
How can I access course previews?
Sample lessons and preview videos are available on each course page so you can experience the content, format, and delivery style before registering.
Can international participants attend?
Our programs are open to learners from anywhere in the world. While some content is tailored to Canadian practices, the skills, tools, and principles taught are applicable internationally.
Do I earn any Professional Development Points after successfully completing learning goals?
On successful course completion, eligible learners will be granted Professional Development Points (PDP): any 100 level courses (8 PDP), any 200 level courses (18 PDP), any 300 level courses (35 PDP), any Webinars (1.5 PDP). These earned PDP can also be submitted for approval by you towards maintenance of other external industry certifications earned by you.