Certificate in Public Procurement
Course Overview
Advance your knowledge of the changing supply chain landscape and increase your career prospects with a Certificate in Public Procurement.
The Certificate in Public Procurement (Level 8, 10 ECTS) provides learners with an introduction to the role and function of procurement and supply chain management within the public sector. Learners gain factual, regulatory and theoretical knowledge and awareness of the public procurement and supply chain management field. Learners develop practical and other relevant skills to carry out procurement and supply chain-related tasks and manage projects to meet specified objectives.
Why Study Public Procurement at Griffith College?
Turlough Kieran, lecturer and former principal officer at the Office of Government Procurement, said: “There has never been a more important time for public sector procurement professionals to upskill and keep their knowledge current and relevant. Civil service, local government and state agencies will all face significant procurement and supply chain challenges and opportunities in the coming years. The Certificate in Public Procurement provides the theoretical and practical skills to ensure practitioners can meet these challenges effectively.”
The course provides learners with advanced knowledge, competencies and skills to effectively implement a public procurement project in a compliant, ethical and sustainable manner which is value for public money. It will support learners to:
- Develop research, communication, and presentation skills.
- Enhance interpersonal skills such as digital literacy, commercial awareness, teamwork, and time management skills.
- Deepen capacity and competency to solve complex public procurement problems using innovative and creative methods.
- Learn sustainable, ethical and professional approaches, in line with a changing regulatory environment.
- Builds application of key personal and professional attributes to manage multiple inputs and stakeholders.
- Understand key business decisions and adapt quickly to changing circumstances in the public procurement sector.
Intake Dates
- Dublin - Part-Time - February 2027
- Dublin - Part-Time - September 2027
FAQ'S
Yes. Griffith College Dublin offers a Certificate in Public Procurement, a QQI-validated Level 8 award worth 10 ECTS credits. It's studied part-time over two semesters and covers the principles of public procurement, EU Procurement Directives, and how to manage a compliant public procurement project from start to finish.
You receive a Certificate in Public Procurement, validated by QQI at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications and worth 10 ECTS credits. It's a formal academic qualification rather than a private provider's certification, so it's a solid way to show employers your knowledge of public sector procurement.
There are two modules. The first covers the principles behind public sector procurement, including EU Procurement Directives, case law and competition law, and how procurement has become a strategic function. The second focuses on managing a public procurement project compliantly, with contract and supplier management to maximise value for money.
The course runs part-time over two semesters. Classes take place one evening a week from 6.30pm to 9.30pm, plus two Saturdays online. It's based at Griffith College Dublin and fits around a full-time job, which makes it a practical option if you're looking for procurement courses in Dublin.
Yes. The course is designed for mature learners who want to start or advance a career in public procurement or related fields. You don't need to be an experienced buyer, but you should be ready to commit to further study. Many learners already work in the public sector and want a formal qualification.
The course is open to applicants who hold a relevant Level 7 qualification and want to achieve a Level 8 award. If you're over 23, you can also apply on the basis of previous learning or work experience, along with a demonstrated commitment to further education.
If you want to go further, Griffith College offers related courses such as the MSc in Procurement and Supply Chain Management. The right next step depends on your existing qualifications, so the admissions team can advise on which route fits.
There are intakes in October and February, and the next listed start date is February 2027. Because the course is part-time and evening-based, you can begin while staying in your current role. Apply early, as places on professional evening courses can fill up.
Apply directly to Griffith College. You'll need to show evidence that you meet the minimum entry requirements, such as your Level 7 qualification or details of your work experience if you're applying as a mature learner, along with a copy of your passport.
Course Details
Modules
On completion of the module learners will have a good understanding of the principles that underpin procurement in the public sector. They will have an indepth understanding of and be able to apply the various procurement procedures available under the EU Procurement Directives. Learners are introduced to case law and competition law and its impact upon procurement in this area. Learners will understand how public procurement has been transformed over the past 25 years from an administrative exercise to a strategic function which is key to help to finance government policies.
On completion of the module learners will have an in-depth knowledge, understanding and the skills required to compliantly manage a public procurement project. They will understand the importance of rigorous planning and its impact on the success of the project. Learners will also understand how proper contract and supplier management ensures that public value for money is maximised.
Course Contact
- Dublin
Timetables
Timetable:
1 Evening per week: 6:30 pm - 21:30 pm
2 Saturdays Online
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
The programme is aimed at mature learners who wish to pursue/ advance a career in public procurement and/or related fields, and to considerably advance and enhance their existing knowledge and competencies and attain the academic accreditation necessary for progression in the workplace.
This programme is also aimed at learners who currently hold NFQ Level 7 cognate qualification(s) and wish to achieve a Certificate at Level 8 on the NFQ in public sector procurement.
Applicants who are over the age of 23 may apply on the basis of previous learning and/ or work experience and a demonstration of commitment to further education.
How to Apply
Applicants should apply directly to the College. Applicants will be required to provide evidence of meeting the programmes minimum entry requirements, and will also be asked for a copy of their passport when applying.
Fees
Tuition Fees
Fee: EUR 1,950.00
An Academic Administration Fee of €250 is applicable each year, regardless of duration of study. The fee is due in February for February-intake students, and in September for September-intake students.
A 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted. The fees above relate to Year 1 fees only.
Flexible payment options
Students wishing to pay their fees monthly may avail of our direct debit scheme. Please view our Fees information page for more information and assistance.
2% Learner Protection Charge
All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby, in the event of the provider ceasing to provide the programme for any reason, enrolled learners may transfer to a similar programme at another provider, or, in the event that this is not practicable, the fees most recently paid will be refunded.
