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Diploma Program

Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade

Diploma

51 weeks

Qualified Instructors

This program can be offered at the campus(es) below. Please contact the campus of your choosing for program availability and delivery methods.

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Employment Rate

83%

*Jan-Dec 2023, CDI College BC;

Median Wage

$50 /hour

*Jobbank.gc.ca; 2024;

Work in the Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade

The Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade program will train you in the skills of supply chain management, global business environment, and international trade research. You will learn procurement processes, logistics and inventory management, customs regulations, and so much more!

This program includes FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) skills courses and corresponding assessments, which lead to the FITT Certificate in International Trade.

  • Procurement
  • Inventory Management
  • DEMAND PLANNING
  • Logistics Management
  • ATTENTION TO DETAIL
  • LEADERSHIP AND TEAM MANAGEMENT 
  • CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
  • SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
  • COMMUNICATIONS
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Approved & Designated 

This program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of British Columbia. CDI College is designated by the Education Quality Assurance (EQA).

Program Intro Background

Program Courses

Student Success Strategies

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The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge, skills and study techniques to help foster effective learning and a positive educational experience. This course explores two components of learning styles, Multiple Intelligence-based theory and Personality Spectrum – MBTI-based theory, and how learning styles and personality types affect learning. The course will cover the importance of values, their relationship to goals and goal setting. Strategies for setting personal goals, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and the stress that results from study or work situations will be explored and practiced through active participation in learner-centred activities. Effective study habits, techniques for preparing for tests and productive note taking strategies are key topics of this course that will provide the students with the necessary skills and attitudes to be successful in school. Having a sound understanding of financial, money, credit and debt matters and their implication on our lives is critical knowledge to have. Students taking this course will benefit from completing the Financial Management Workshops, which provides comprehensive coverage of financial and money management skills that will allow them to better save, budget, and manage their money and financial situations.

Effective Business Writing

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The workplace of the twenty-first century demands excellent communication skills. The focus of this course is on learning writing techniques that ensure effective business communication.

  • Achieve an Effective Style by using Precise Verbs, Concrete Nouns, and Vivid Adjectives
  • Write Memorandums and E-mail Messages that Deliver Information and Make Requests
  • Write Letters and Memorandums that Request Information Concisely and Promote Goodwill
  • Apply Skillful Writing Techniques in Refusing Requests
  • Compose Carefully Planned Sales Letters
  • Write Letters of Appreciation, Congratulation, Sympathy, Recommendation, and Introduction
  • Write Effective Formal and Informal Reports
  • Write a Formal Report including Data, using Tables, Charts,and Graphs

Introduction to Business Computer Applications

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This course presents an introductory look at the Microsoft 365 productivity applications Word, PowerPoint and Excel, and the Windows environment in which they run. It covers the fundamentals of organizing files and folders, of drafting business documents, of creating presentations, and of reporting data in spreadsheets. This course relies entirely on practical hands-on activities that allow you to learn the concepts by practicing them on a regular basis and obtaining feedback immediately.

Business Essentials for International Trade

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This is a survey course designed to introduce students to the exciting and challenging world of business, both in Canada and elsewhere. The course reinforces all aspects of business through multiple case studies and situation analysis, with some basic themes: change, business in a global context, ethics and social responsibility, small business, information technology, and the quality imperative. Students apply their knowledge through case studies, exercises to build your business skills, team exercises on ethics, and crafting a business plan. Topics are specifically related to international business (import/export, supply chain management).

Feasibility of International Trade (FITTskills)

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The course Feasibility of International Trade examines what individuals in organizations need to know and do to ensure the success of new international ventures. Careful research, analysis, and planning are necessary to examine the organization’s current state, to identify promising opportunities, and to analyze potential outcomes, both positive and negative. This course is part of the FITTskills program, which is built upon the competencies outlined in the FITT International Trade Competency Framework. It covers all areas of the CITP®/FIBP® Competency Profile, as well as supplementary related subskills that provide a more comprehensive and connected learning experience. This specific course is divided into modules that are a focused source of knowledge and performance skills required for specific international trade competencies.

Preparing an International Business Plan

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This course untangles the complex economic, financial, and professional considerations surrounding business ownership and operations, leading students to begin developing an international business plan step-by-step. The Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade program includes a term assignment where the student, as an entrepreneur, establishes a business where a product or service is made available to international customers. Preparing an International Business Plan Term Project During this course, students will start development of a business plan to start an import-export business, including the use of business plan simulation software, LivePlan. The goal at this early stage in the program is to begin thinking about what type of business a student may wish to establish and produce a business plan and essay to be concluded prior to the student’s work experience component.

International Market Entry Strategies (FITTskills)

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This course examines what individuals in organizations need to know and do to ensure the success of new international ventures. Careful analysis and planning are necessary to choose the most effective market entry strategy for a new venture. The chosen strategy must be successfully implemented and managed, which includes demonstrating cultural competence and complying with applicable local and international laws. This course is also part of the FITTskills program, which is built upon the competencies outlined in the FITT International Trade Competency Framework.

Procurement

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This course will introduce Purchasing as a business discipline with a focus on the Total Cost of Ownership for products and services, and Supplier Relationship Management. Topics include the Purchasing Cycle, Centralized vs. Decentralized purchasing, the preparation of documents for RFI and RFP processes, as well as the various costs involved in purchase decisions (acquisition, ownership, obsolescence, etc.). Students will develop an understanding of supply management and commodity strategy, supplier qualification, selection and management, and strategic cost management.

Inventory Management & Control

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This course will provide a broad introduction to the basics of materials management, manufacturing planning and control systems, inventory control, physical distribution and information flow among operational functions within the supply chain. It builds understanding of the tactical approach to inventory control that flows from the strategic approach in demand planning and inventory management.

Transportation and Freight Forwarding

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This course provides an overview of the value, methods and trade-offs of the transportation function within a supply chain. It then focuses on understanding the role of the freight forwarder, transportation geography, and how terms of trade are used between buyer and seller in a contract of sales of goods with a focus on international trade. This will include international payments, commercial documentation, cargo security and dangerous goods, plus insurance.

Logistics Management

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This course provides an introduction to warehousing and distribution management. Inventory is the heart of Logistics and Distribution planning can create additional value for customers, or excessive costs. The course examines the functions and purposes of warehousing and how to ensure it meets the requirements of the Supply Chain.

Customs

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This course offers an overview of administering the import and export of goods in Canada. Basic practices for successfully understanding key legislation and regulatory compliance, plus preparing various trade documents are covered.

Packaging and Materials Handling Equipment

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This course provides an introduction to the purposes and types of packaging and equipment used to protect and convey goods through the Supply Chain. The course examines the basic uses, legal requirements, benefits and drawbacks of different options available to help students make better decisions to maximize asset protection and mobility while minimizing cost.

Global Value Chain (FITTskills)

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This course examines aspects of the primary activities, distribution, and inventory management, and the supporting activities of document management and procurement, which are integral to international trade logistics. The course also examines how organizations obtain resources and what they need to know to control and manage logistical systems in relation to international trade. Other aspects of primary and secondary activities of global value chains are covered in this course, when carried out in the global market, have additional considerations and expanded processes compared to the domestic market. This course is also part of the FITTskills program, which is built upon the competencies outlined in the FITT International Trade Competency Framework.

Transportation Management Systems

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A transportation management system (TMS) is an integral part of any supply chain management system or software that is focused on transport logistics. These systems facilitate the various interactions between order management systems and their place of distribution, such as a warehouse or distribution facility. This brief course follows up on the topical coverage in the course, ITT-GVC: Global Value Chain by introducing several common software systems used in supply chain and international trade businesses. Illustration of these TMS systems may be presented in a computer lab, a vendor’s presentation to the class, or a field trip to a business using one of these systems. Students will report on their favoured selection of a TMS for their own international trade business.

Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) by Ground

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Canadian law requires that any person shipping, handling, or transporting dangerous goods must be trained in accordance with Transport Canada’s standards by means of relevant transportation. This TDG Certification training program has been developed in compliance with Transport Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and Regulations. This course covers all aspects of the TDG system, aimed primarily at ensuring students will have a clear understanding of the requirements of the following guidelines:

  • Guideline B – persons handling dangerous goods
  • Guideline C – offering for transport of dangerous goods
  • Guideline D – transportation of dangerous goods

The course is substantially online training, with instructor facilitation and reinforced classroom discussion and enhanced topics. A certificate is available by the online training provider upon successful completion.

Integrated Supply Chain Management

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This course provides an overview of a Supply Chain from raw materials to consumer purchase. The course examines the roles of members in the Supply Chain and ways to improve efficiency as well as how to identify and mitigate risk in the SC. The course also helps students understand how Supply Chain management has matured from a business cost centre to a strategic initiative.

Project Management

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This course will provide an overview of what constitutes a project, some of the more useful tools, and a methodology for success. The focus will be on visioning, building a high performance team, communication and change management requirements.

Products and Services for a Global Market (FITTskills)

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International trade is the exchange of goods and services among nations. The development and manufacturing of goods and the design of services are a primary activity of the global value chain. This course examines what, why, and how organizations develop, adapt, or customize goods and services in relation to international trade. It explores differences in regulatory, legal, cultural, and consumer/client requirements that require compliance or that might impact product and service development and adaptation. Organizations must analyze how these differences may impact cost, product design, packaging, labelling, product testing, service delivery, and sales and marketing. They should follow objective and thorough research, development, and testing processes that align with their overall business strategies in order to maintain a competitive edge in their international target markets. This course is also part of the FITTskills program, which is built upon the competencies outlined in the FITT International Trade Competency Framework.

International Trade Finance (FITTskills)

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When an organization expands from domestic trade to international trade, it must consider additional factors and alternate strategies. The key success factors of an organization’s international transactions, whether importing or exporting, include:

  • Payment
  • Risk mitigation
  • Financing
  • Access to timely information related to cash flow
  • Access to timely information related to the flow of goods and services to or from the international market

 

At the core of trade finance are the expectations of the exporter and importer. The exporter wishes to ensure prompt and secure payment, whereas the importer wishes to ensure that payment is authorized only when satisfied that the purchased goods or services have been shipped and received/delivered as per terms of the agreement. Negotiating payment options is a critical component of the contract negotiation process and helps mitigate risk for each party involved in the transaction. In addition, exporters can use credit insurance to help mitigate transaction payment risk, while importers may use bonds and guarantees (e.g. bid, performance, warranty) to protect from project incompletion or transaction performance risk.
Banks act as intermediaries between importers and exporters, offering specific products and services with features designed to facilitate the objectives of the importer and exporter. Beyond the pure payment aspect, trade finance also provides importers and exporters with products and techniques to finance production prior to export, or to permit the importer to sell the goods purchased, generate the intended profit, and then pay for the cost of acquiring the goods.

Trade finance also involves a specialized type of financing designed specifically to address the needs and expectations of importers and exporters. Like any other component of international business and trade, financing business across borders presents greater challenges than operating domestically.
This course, therefore, centres on the strategies and knowledge required for successful international trade transactions. The success and timeliness of these transactions impact an organization’s bottom line and are more likely when the organization has knowledge of payment options, risk mitigation strategies, contracts and effective cash flow management, as well as techniques and plans to manage disputes should they arise

International Sales and Marketing (FITTskills)

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This course details considerations an organization must take when promoting and selling products and/or services beyond domestic borders. It examines important concepts related to marketing, sales, and e-commerce in countries with different laws, political and economic environments, and cultures. International marketing attempts to position an organization’s products and services, brand, and communications so they meet the needs and preferences of each target country or region. Marketing activities are designed to generate awareness and demand for the organization’s offerings, and sales activities should convert awareness and demand into purchases. E-commerce is an important sales channel for international marketers as it provides direct access to customers anywhere in the world and reduces the transactional/logistical costs typically associated with marketing and selling products/services across borders. The type and prevalence of technology available varies across international markets and influences that channels work best to reach target customers.

Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade Practicum

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Students will be placed in actual workplaces related to their field of study and will be expected to act as a regular employee for six weeks in order to gain the valuable “real world” experience that so many employers seek. Students are encouraged to find their own work experience placement; however, once placed, continuation in that placement is mandatory. The objective of this practicum is for the student to focus on what area of international trade or transportation they desire to start (or resume) their careers in the global economy – from international businesses, logistics and distribution / freight forwarding, customs, and transportation companies. Students should treat this practical experience as a ‘practising job interview’ to promote their knowledge and skills.

Career & Employment Strategies

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In addition to learning career-oriented skills, students learn how to get a job in their chosen profession. Our Employment Services department will assist the graduate in resume writing, as well as preparing for job interviews. Our staff is sensitive to current job market trends and the needs of employers in each local market.
Our graduates receive guidance and training to use career tools that help job seekers build a better resume and cover letter, manage an online portfolio, hone interviewing skills, and develop a personal brand online.
Students will have the use of a computer lab which has unlimited Internet access, as well as job search resources. Facilitators will also be made available to advise on job finding resources, interview skills and techniques and to carry out mock interviews.

This course also looks at the planning, preparation, execution, and follow-up stages of an interview:

  • How people find jobs
  • Employer expectations
  • Presenting an enthusiastic attitude
  • Focusing on the right job and the hidden job market
  • Transferrable skills
  • Thank you letters
  • Effective telemarketing
  • Handling objections, self-confidence, and self-esteem
  • Individual counselling and coaching

Stay up-to-date with the industry’s latest leading software and tools

Admission

Benefits of this program

Employment Opportunities

  • Standard Admission
    • High school graduation or equivalent

 

  • Mature Admissions
    • 19 years of age upon starting classes
    • Pass the college's admissions test
  • Partnered with Forum for International Trade Training
  • One of the largest employment sectors in Canada
  • Market-driven program
  • Curriculum designed by industry partners
  • Multiple industry certifications
    • FITT Certificate
    • FITT Diploma
  • Sourcing and procurement specialist
  • Purchasing manager
  • Pricing coordinator
  • Supply and demand analyst
  • Demand forecasting lead
  • Supply chain logistics planner
  • Supply chain coordinator
  • Standard Admission
    • High school graduation or equivalent

 

  • Mature Admissions
    • 19 years of age upon starting classes
    • Pass the college's admissions test
  • Partnered with Forum for International Trade Training
  • One of the largest employment sectors in Canada
  • Market-driven program
  • Curriculum designed by industry partners
  • Multiple industry certifications
    • FITT Certificate
    • FITT Diploma
  • Sourcing and procurement specialist
  • Purchasing manager
  • Pricing coordinator
  • Supply and demand analyst
  • Demand forecasting lead
  • Supply chain logistics planner
  • Supply chain coordinator
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Gain a distinct advantage by earning industry-recognized certifications that validate your expertise and skills in key areas such as digital marketing, project management, and CRM. Our program prepares you to succeed, whether you're advancing, switching careers, or starting your own business. Invest in yourself and join a community of certified professionals shaping the digital economy.

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Our extensive network and reputation for excellence ensure that graduates are in high demand in today's competitive job market. Prepare to excel in sought-after roles with renowned companies and unlock limitless career opportunities. Elevate your career trajectory and secure your future with our program tailored to meet the demands of industry leaders.

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Hear From Our Graduates

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My time at CDI College has been a truly amazing experience. My instructors are excellent, and it is easy to follow them during class. They are very professional, experienced, knowledgeable, and deliver the information fully.

Pronob M.

Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade Program Graduate

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Thank you to my instructors; they are very thoughtful teachers who put a lot of thought into how they present the material. Their lessons were engaging and useful, and they were very patient with everyone in the class, always encouraging every student.

Nino C.

Global Supply Chain Management and International Trade Program Graduate

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