Professional Certifications

Certification is the process by which a public purchaser demonstrates a standard of competency for the benefit of the public. Obtaining a designation reflects established standards and competencies for those engaged in governmental purchasing, and attests to the purchaser's ability to obtain maximum value for the taxpayer's dollar.

Certifications associated with NIGP are issued by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC); full program details are available on their web site.

CPPB Programs

The CPPB level applies to individuals who have demonstrated prescribed levels of professional competency as a buyer in public and governmental purchasing.

CPPO Program

The CPPO level applies to individuals holding supervisory and/or managerial positions within a public agency. These individuals may or may not be performing the purchasing for the governmental entity, but do either supervise a staff of buyers, the purchasing department, the agency, etc. or manage a minimum of one essential function of the procurement cycle (i.e. contracting).

Download the UPPCC Certification Handbook and Certification Applications

Institute for Supply Management

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) exists to educate, develop, and advance the purchasing and supply management profession.

ISM offers the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) and Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD) designations. Information is available on their web site.

Virginia Institute of Procurement

The Virginia Institute of Procurement (VIP) operates under the auspices of the Department of General Services, Division of Purchases and Supply, and delivers procurement education to public procurement professionals.

VIP's Virginia Contracting Officer Certification Program currently offers professional certification at three levels:

Virginia Contracting Associate Officer (VCA)
Virginia Contracting Officer (VCO)
Virginia Contracting Master Officer (VCM)

Participation in the program is voluntary and open to employees of the Commonwealth of Virginia and employees of other public bodies who meet the eligibility criteria of the certification level they pursue.