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.
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.
What is the format and duration of Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201) – Planning?
Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201) is an online, live, instructor led hybrid course accessible through a digital learning platform. It includes interactive modules, real-world examples, and downloadable resources. The course takes approximately 15–20 hours to complete. Learners have six months to finish it at their own pace.
Do I need to complete Public Sector Procurement Program: Essentials (PSPP® 101) before enrolling in Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201)?
While not mandatory, completing PSPP® 101 is highly recommended before starting Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201). The foundational knowledge from Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 101) helps you understand the strategic concepts presented. If you already have basic procurement experience, you may begin directly with Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201).
What key topics are covered in the planning course?
The course covers the Canadian public sector, the development of procurement strategies, needs assessment, market analysis, risk management, and sourcing options. It also explores procurement planning documents and stakeholder engagement. These topics are tailored to Canadian public sector procurement environments.
What will I be able to do after completing the course?
You’ll be equipped to design effective Canadian public procurement strategies and create well-structured procurement plans. You’ll also understand how to analyze risks, consult stakeholders, and align procurement with organizational goals. This makes you more effective in planning complex procurements.
Is there a digital credential upon completion?
Yes, upon successful completion of Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201), you receive a digital certificate of achievement. This credential confirms your expertise in procurement planning and strategy. You can share it on LinkedIn or with employers as proof of your skills.
What is the cost and are there group discounts?
Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201) can be purchased for $1750 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.
Can individuals pay in installments?
Payment options through Affirm Canada Holdings Ltd. (“Affirm”). Your rate will be 0–31.99% APR (where available and subject to provincial regulatory limitations). APR offered is based on creditworthiness and subject to an eligibility check. Not all customers will be eligible for 0% APR. Payment options depend on your purchase amount, may vary by merchant, and may not be available in all provinces/territories. Actual payment option terms will be shown at checkout. A down payment (or a payment due today) may be required. Affirm accepts debit cards and PAD as forms of repayment on payment options. Select payment options may be eligible for repayment in the form of credit cards. Please review the terms and conditions of your credit card when using it as a form of repayment. Sample payment options may be: a $800 purchase could be split into 12 monthly payments of $72.21 at 15% APR, or 4 interest-free payments of $200 every 2 weeks. For more information, please see https://www.affirm.com/en-ca/how-it-works.
How many professional development hours does Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201) provide?
Public Sector Procurement Program: Planning (PSPP® 201) provides approximately 18 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
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.