Should I Earn a CPIM or CSCP Certification?

The Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS) offers both the Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) certification and the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification. These certifications can help supply chain professionals grow their careers by demonstrating practical knowledge and critical skills in the industry.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that positions for logisticians — professionals who oversee supply chains — will grow 18% from 2022-2032, a much faster growth rate than average. Also, in 2022, the median annual wage for logisticians was $77,520, well above the national median wage across all occupations.

Learn more about CPIM and CSCP certification requirements and benefits on this page.

Supply chain management is a discipline that involves the process of creating goods or services and making sure they reach the consumer. Supply chain managers ensure customer satisfaction, which can impact a business’s success compared to competitors.

A “supply chain” encompasses any process that converts unprocessed materials into finished goods, whether they are physical or virtual.

Supply chain management professionals can earn certifications to improve their understanding of the industry, earn higher salaries, and move into more senior roles.

The CPIM and CSCP certifications are well-regarded within the supply chain field. In fact, companies looking to hire supply chain managers often list these credentials on job postings as desired traits of potential candidates.

Earning one or both of these certifications can make a candidate’s resume stand out to recruiters. Specifically, the CSCP designation is seen as a mark of dedication and expertise in supply chain management and can aid in securing promotions within a current role.

According to APICS, as of 2022, professionals with the organization’s certifications were more likely to receive promotions and earn higher salaries compared to non-certified peers.

Overall, these certifications are recognized as valuable in demonstrating an individual’s commitment to their professional development and knowledge in the supply chain field.

APICS membership costs $99 per year. Membership with the certification upgrade — which allows you to save on certification exams — costs $199 annually.

The time it takes to study for the CPIM or CSCP certification exam varies based on the individual’s experience, schedule, and commitment to studying. On average, it takes about 6-12 months to prepare for and pass the exams. However, some test takers may choose to study for longer if they are balancing other commitments such as work or family.

Both CPIM and CSCP certifications are designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the supply chain industry. They cover a broad range of topics like:

The CPIM certification focuses more on the internal operations of a company, including production, inventory, and quality management.

On the other hand, the CSCP certification has a broader scope, covering the entire supply chain from end to end, including suppliers and customers. It also includes a focus on the creation of value through the supply chain, strategic alignment of supply chain and business goals, and the management of relationships across the supply chain.

Both the CPIM and CSCP certifications can help professionals advance their careers. Certification from a professional organization offers employers concrete proof of skills and knowledge. CPIM- and CSCP-certified professionals can leverage their certification into promotions and/or higher salaries.

While CPIM certification may help professionals early in their careers, more experienced employees should consider earning CSCP certification. Readers should note that certification does not guarantee a certain job title or salary. Employees should speak to their current or potential employers about how earning a certification can advance their careers.

Earning the CPIM and/or CSCP certification can lead to career advancement and a higher salary. According to Payscale, in March 2024, the average annual salary for professionals with a CPIM certification is $84,000. The average annual salary for professionals with a CSCP salary is $93,000.

However, supply chain professionals’ salaries can differ depending on many factors, including their location, education, and experience. Professionals looking for better pay may need to search for a new job or move to an area with more competitive salaries.