Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

The programme combines core procurement theory with applied tools and case-based learning. Typical modules cover:

• Strategic Procurement and Sourcing – frameworks for aligning procurement with organisational strategy, category management and supplier segmentation.
• Supplier Relationship and Performance Management – selection, evaluation and development of suppliers, KPIs and performance improvement programmes.
• Contracting and Procurement Law – contract types, negotiation techniques, risk allocation and relevant public procurement rules where applicable.
• Cost and Total Cost of Ownership Analysis – costing methods, make-or-buy decisions, life-cycle costing and value engineering.
• Operational Purchasing and Process Design – purchase-to-pay processes, purchase order management, e-procurement tools and process optimisation.
• Category Management and Market Analysis – market intelligence, supplier market mapping and category strategies.
• Data Analytics for Procurement – spend analysis, dashboarding and using data to support sourcing decisions.
• Ethics, Sustainability and Responsible Sourcing – CSR considerations, sustainable procurement practices and supplier audits.

Teaching uses a mix of lectures, seminars, practical workshops and case studies drawn from both private and public sector procurement. Assessment typically includes group projects, a practical sourcing assignment, written exams and a final diploma project or capstone focused on a real procurement challenge.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in economics, business, engineering or a related discipline, or to demonstrate relevant professional experience in purchasing or supply chain functions. Selection usually requires a CV, a statement of purpose outlining motivation and experience in procurement, and often an interview or short assessment.

Instruction language and language proficiency requirements depend on the programme delivery; applicants should demonstrate sufficient language skills for the chosen language of instruction. Relevant short courses, professional certificates (e.g. CIPS modules) or several years of procurement-related work experience are considered an advantage.

Career prospects

Graduates use the diploma to enter or progress within procurement and supply chain roles. Typical job titles and career paths include:

• Buyer / Senior Buyer
• Category Manager
• Procurement / Purchasing Manager
• Strategic Sourcing Specialist
• Supplier Relationship Manager
• Purchasing Analyst or Spend Analyst
• Contract Manager or Procurement Consultant

Alumni find roles in manufacturing, retail, professional services, public sector procurement and multinational companies. The practical orientation of the programme also supports careers in procurement transformation projects, supplier development and procurement-related consultancy.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

Corvinus is one of Hungary’s leading institutions for economics and business education, known for close ties to industry and a strong applied focus. The procurement diploma benefits from faculty expertise in supply chain, procurement law and business strategy, plus frequent guest lectures from procurement practitioners and access to corporate case studies.

Students can expect a pragmatic curriculum designed for immediate workplace application, opportunities for networking through industry events and career services support to connect with regional and international employers. The university’s central Budapest location also facilitates engagement with a broad cross-section of Hungarian and international organisations active in procurement and supply chain management.