A Beginner’s Guide To CIPD Qualifications

Introduction

Many students in entry-level strategic HR and L&D roles, or those who want to pursue their careers in these fields, consider CIPD qualifications. However, they can’t decide whether to pursue CIPD or not. This is because they are often not aware of its criteria, levels, benefits, and costs. Therefore, it is hard for them to make a decision.

Are you also interested in HR and L&D roles but unsure about pursuing CIPD qualifications? No worries! We’ve got your back!

In this blog, we will discuss CIPD, its levels, benefits, costs, and much more.

Come on! Let’s dig in!

What is CIPD?

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is a UK-based professional body for Human Resources (HR) and Learning & Development (L&D) peers, recognized worldwide. Additionally, it provides resources and qualifications to HR and L&D fellows to enhance their skills and knowledge. Besides that, it offers three different qualification levels: 

• Foundation level (level 3)
• Intermediate level (level 5)
• Advanced level (level 7)

Levels of CIPD Qualifications

The CIPD qualifications are offered at 3 levels, and each targets different career stages. For instance, Level 3 for beginners, Level 5 for peers with some experience, and Level 7 for senior experts. 

Level 3: Foundation

First and foremost, CIPD Level 3, also known as the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice, is equivalent to A-levels in the UK. In addition to this, CIPD Level 3 allows you to enter the people profession with ease. No matter if you are going to begin your career 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.  

Apart from that, it focuses on providing a basic understanding of HR and L&D.

To know more details about the CIPD Level 3, you can read What is a CIPD Level 3 Certificate? Absolute Guide.

Level 5: Associate Diploma

On the other hand, CIPD Level 5, also known as the CIPD Associate Diploma Qualification, 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

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. 

This table will help you get a clearer idea of the levels of CIPD

	Level 3	Level 5	Level 7
Ideal for	Beginners who have an interest in HR and L&D professions.	Students who have some exposure to entry-level HR and L&D roles.	Peers who have both experience and a degree.
Equivalent	A-levels	Undergraduate	Master’s/Postgraduate
Career path	HR Trainer L&D practitioner	HR Manager HR Adventure	HR Business partner Head of HR
Average income per annum	£30,000	£45,000	£60,000-£80,000

This table will help you make a more reliable decision.

Choosing the Right CIPD Course

Worried about choosing the right CIPD course? No worries, we’ll guide you.

If you want to enroll in a CIPD course but don’t know which one would be best for you, then you need to take out a paper and a pen, and answer these questions:

• What are your long-term career goals?

Firstly, identify your long-term career goals. In addition, decide whether you want to pursue a career as an HR generalist, L&D specialist, or aim for a senior role, such as Head of HR.

• What is your experience in HR or L&D?

Moreover, note down the experience you have in HR or L&D. This is the most vital thing that will decide your course. 

Level 3

If you lack industry experience, 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. 

• Do you want to specialize in HR or L&D?

Besides this, you need to decide on the field you want to specialize in. However, if you wish to pursue CIPD Level 3, then you can skip this, as it covers both fields. 

• What is your budget?

Finally, one of the most vital steps before you choose your CIPD course is to know your budget. These levels have different costs; thus, it is crucial to know the cost of your course and the provider’s fees. 

CIPD Modules and Assessments

Level 3

The CIPD Level 3 course helps you build a foundation for entry-level positions. 

However, the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice is based on four modules:

Modules

1. Essentials of people practice

Firstly, this module introduces the basics of people practice and covers topics such as talent management, recruitment, etc. 

2. Core behaviors of people professionals

Besides that, this module focuses on building vital skills and behaviors that people professionals must have, including problem-solving, communication, etc. 

3. Principles of analytics

In addition, this one teaches the use of data and analytics in HR to improve decision-making. Furthermore, it includes topics like analysis, reporting, and data collection. 

4. Business, culture, and change in contacts

Lastly, this module explores the external influence on businesses and work culture. 

CIPD Intermediate level

On the other hand, the CIPD Level 5 course helps you enhance your skills to secure senior-level positions.

CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (HR pathway):

Modules

It has generally 7 modules:

Core module

• Evidence-based practice
• Organizational performance and culture in practice
• Professional behaviors and valuing people

Specialist module

• Employment relationship management
• Talent management
• Reward for performance

Optional module

• Specialist employment law
• Equality
• Diversity and Inclusion 

CIPD Associate Diploma in Learning and Development (L&D pathway)

Modules

Likewise, it also has 7 modules:

Core module: (same as HR)

• Evidence-based practice
• Organizational performance and culture in practice
• Professional behaviors and valuing people

Specialist module

• Supporting self-directed and social learning
• Learning and development design
• Facilitating personalized learning

Optional module: (same as HR)

• Specialist employment law
• Equality
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Learning and development essentials (only L&D)

Level 7

In addition, the CIPD Level 7 course allows you to expand your skills and knowledge for senior leadership roles. 

Moreover, the CIPD Advanced Qualifications is based on several modules. A few of them are listed below:

Modules

1. Strategic people management
2. Organizational design and development
3. Strategic reward management
4. Business research in people practice
5. Strategic employment relations

Assessments

● Assignments

Most qualifications assess students through written assignments and practical tasks. In addition, students complete their assignments and submit them online to the study centers.  

Moreover, students have to write assignments in different forms, such as

• Essays
• Reports
• Critical analysis
• Case studies

However, due to complex topics and a lack of time, peers find it hard to write these assignments. As a result, many students often take CIPD Assignment Help in UK. These experts provide you with reliable CIPD assignment help for levels 3, 5, and 7. 

● Marking

Additionally, the assignments are marked by study centers based on the criteria provided by CIPD. Though some centres mark pass/fail, others might have a different grading system. 

● Result

Lastly, the CIPD issues results and certifications for each qualification. 

Struggling with CIPD assignments? Seek professional help! Whether you are struggling with level 3 assignments or level 7 assignments, CIPD Assignment Help is at your service. From providing timely submissions to customised content, we’ve got your back!

Benefits of CIPD Qualification

CIPD qualifications are quite beneficial for your personal as well as our professional growth. 

According to Digital Marketing School, “87% of UK employers prefer candidates with CIPD qualifications for senior roles.”

The following are some benefits of pursuing the CIPD Qualifications:

The following are some benefits of pursuing the CIPD Qualifications:

● Career growth

Firstly, CIPD qualifications enhance your career growth. Additionally, it opens the door to several career options from entry-level to mid-level roles. These roles include

• HR assistant
• HR officer
• L&D specialist
• HR business partner
• Head of HR

Moreover, it also enhances your CV and makes it stand out from other candidates. 

● Global recognition

Besides that, these qualifications are recognized globally, allowing you to take a chance in a foreign market. Additionally, many foreign employers prioritize NVQ/CIPD-qualified candidates even if they are not from their country. 

● Enhanced earnings

Besides that, many employers seek peers with higher and advanced qualifications. Therefore, you are more likely to earn a better income with CIPD qualifications than a person without that degree. As a result, you are more likely to get salary boosts. In addition, “According to a survey conducted by the CIPD, 68% of HR professionals with a CIPD qualification reported an increase in salary after obtaining their qualification.”(Bradfield)   

● Practical skills

In addition to this, CIPD qualifications allow you to develop several advanced skills essential for your practical and personal life. Moreover, you get to know how you can manage chaos in an office environment. Furthermore, it helps you patiently tackle the issues between employees. 

The following are some practical skills that you might develop:

• Strategic planning
• Talent management
• Employee relations
• Problem-solving
• Critical thinking
• Communication

Cost and Duration of CIPD Courses

Indeed, to decide on a course, you must get an idea of its cost and duration.

CIPD Qualifications	Estimated cost	Duration
Foundation Certificate	£1000-£3500	7-9 months
Associate Diploma	£1500-£4200	12-15 months
Advanced Diploma	£3000-£8000	18 months

However, it should be noted that these costs and durations are estimates and may vary due to other factors. 

How to Get Started

You might have made your decision till now. If so, we will guide you on how to begin this journey.

1. Choose your level and study center

Firstly, decide which CIPD level you want to study. If you are still unable to identify the best level for you, then you can take the CIPD’s online quiz. Apart from that, you can also seek help from experts, who can help you decide the best level. 

Moreover, choose a reputable study center. You can also use the Center Finder on the CIPD website to find CIPD-approved centers. 

2. Enroll in your desired course

In addition, once you have decided on the level and study center, enroll yourself.

1. Start learning

Finally, start your learning. Ensure to access CIPD resources as well as CIPD Level 3, 5, and 7 Assignment Examples to give you an idea of the content. Moreover, review some CIPD Study Tips for Beginners, to know the CIPD criteria. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CIPD qualification?

Ans. CIPD qualifications are globally known certifications in HR and L&D. Moreover, they allow peers to learn about HR and L&D practices through strategic and practical learning.

What is the cost of CIPD qualifications in the UK?

Ans. The cost of the CIPD qualification may vary due to some factors. However, here is the average cost of each level:

• Foundation Certificate: £1000-£3500
• Associate Diploma: £1500-£4200
• Advanced Diploma: £3000-£8000

How can CIPD help boost 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.

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 want to pursue senior-level roles.

What to do if you have an issue with your study center?

Ans. Firstly, if you have an issue with your study center, confront them. However, if the action is not taken, you can file a complaint with the CIPD.  

Conclusion

Finally, this brings our guide to the end! 

To conclude, we have discussed CIPD, its levels, benefits, costs, modules, etc. Apart from that, we have also talked about which level you should choose. However, the only key is to choose the right course and begin your CIPD journey. Best of luck!