By | Did you know? “CIPD qualifications are widely recognised by employers across the UK and internationally. They serve as a benchmark for HR competence and are often listed as essential or desirable in job postings.”(Reed.com) |
Several students who want to pursue their careers in HR or L&D roles enroll in a CIPD qualification. However, choosing the right CIPD qualification is vital for you.
Do you also want to enroll in a CIPD qualification, but don’t know which one is better for you? No worries! We are here to help you.
In this blog, we will discuss the levels of the CIPD qualification guide and also how you can choose the one that is better for your career.
So what are we waiting for? Let’s dive into it!
What are the Levels of CIPD Qualifications?
The CIPD qualification is offered at 3 levels, and each targets different career stages.
The following are the levels in a CIPD qualification
Level 3: Foundation Level
Firstly, CIPD Level 3 is also known as the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice. Moreover, this level is equivalent to A-levels in the UK. In addition to this, CIPD Level 3 allows you to enter the people profession without any difficulty. No matter if you are going to begin your career either in HR or L&D, or want to enhance your skills in entry-level roles, pursuing CIPD Level 3 is a better choice for you. Besides that, it focuses on providing a basic understanding of HR and L&D.
Level 5: Associate Diploma
On the other hand, CIPD Level 5 is also known as the CIPD Associate Diploma Qualification. Also, it is equivalent to a UK undergraduate degree. In addition, it is suitable for fellows with some experience in the industry. Moreover, you can pursue the CIPD Level 5 qualifications even if you haven’t completed Level 3. However, it is often vital to have either a level 3 equivalent qualification or proven experience in the field. Additionally, CIPD Level 5 focuses on developing skills for HR and L&D management positions.
Furthermore, there are 2 CIPD Qualifications at level 5, including:
- CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (HR)
- CIPD Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development (L&D)
Level 7: Advanced Diploma
Besides that, CIPD Advanced Qualifications, Level 7, are equivalent to a Master’s/Postgraduate degree across the UK. Moreover, it is suitable for people with enough experience and aiming for senior leadership roles in HR and L&D. In addition to this, the Level 7 qualifications provide you with high-level strategic knowledge to help you secure and ace a senior HR or L&D role.
Just like CIPD Level 5, it also offers 2 qualifications:
- CIPD Advanced Diploma in People Management (HR)
- CIPD Advanced Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development (L&D)
Apart from that, you can also apply to become a Chartered Member of CIPD.
Which CIPD qualification is right for you?
Want to know which CIPD qualification is right for you? We got you!
Your suitable CIPD level depends on the following factors:
Long-term career goals
Firstly, your CIPD Level depends on your long-term career goals. You need to decide whether you want to specialize in HR or L&D. However, if you wish to pursue CIPD Level 3, then you can skip this, as it covers both fields.
Experience
Moreover, another main factor is the experience.
Level 3
If you lack industry experience, in that case, you have to start from the CIPD Level 3.
Level 5
However, if you have some experience in any of these fields and want to move into a mid-level role. In that case, the CIPD Level 5 is best for you. Moreover, you can also pursue this diploma even if you don’t have a Level 3 certificate.
Level 7
On the other hand, if you do have enough experience in the field and want to pursue senior leadership roles, then CIPD Level 7 might be a better choice for you. Just like level 5, level 7 also doesn’t demand a degree of other CIPD levels. Rather, you must have an undergraduate degree in a related field.
Budget
Lastly, you need to check your budget, as a CIPD qualification can be a bit costly. However, the cost of a CIPD qualification differs according to the CIPD level and the provider’s fees.
To give you an idea of the average cost, here is an estimate of each level:
- Foundation Level: £1000-£3500
- Associate Diploma: £1500-£4200
- Advanced Diploma: £3000-£8000
Foundation certificate
Where should you start?
This table will help you get a clearer idea of where you should start your CIPD qualification:
| Levels | Ideal for | Equivalent | Career path | Estimated cost | Duration |
| Level 3 | Beginners who have an interest in either HR or L&D professions. | A-levels | HR Trainer
L&D practitioner |
£1000-£3500 | 6-12 months |
| Level 5 | Students who have some exposure to entry-level HR and L&D roles. | Undergraduate | HR Manager
HR Adventure |
£1500-£4200 | 12-18 months |
| Level 7 | Peers who have both experience and a degree. | Master’s/Postgraduate | HR Business partner
Head of HR |
£3000-£8000 | 18-24 months |
This table will help you make a more reliable decision.
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In a nutshell!
All in all, your CIPD level depends on your career goals, your experience, and your budget. You can also take a look at A Beginner’s Guide To CIPD Qualifications to know more about CIPD qualifications and their levels.
We hope that this blog will help you get started on your CIPD journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which CIPD Level should you choose?
Ans. Choose:
- CIPD Level 3: if you don’t have any skills and experience in the field
- Level 5: if you have some experience but want more opportunities
- Advanced Level: if you have sufficient experience and wish to pursue senior-level roles.
How can CIPD help enhance your career?
Ans. CIPD opens the door to several career options, from entry-level to senior-level roles for you. Furthermore, it makes your CV stand out from others, which boosts your chances of securing the job.
Can you enroll in CIPD Level 5 without CIPD Level 3?
Ans. Yes, you can enroll in CIPD Level 5 without CIPD Level 3, with a relevant equivalent degree and proven experience in an HR or L&D role. However, the requirements may vary depending on the provider.
