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CIPD courses explained

If you are looking for a promising future in human resources or people management, then a CIPD course is the right choice.

CIPD courses are like a compass for HR professionals, guiding them through the ever-changing landscape of human resources. Just as a compass helps explorers navigate unfamiliar territories, CIPD courses provide HR professionals with the proficiency and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the HR field.

Like different compass models catering to various terrains, CIPD courses offer a range of qualifications tailored to different levels of experience and expertise, helping individuals find their desired path within HR.

But before getting an understanding of CIPD courses, you might be curious to develop an idea about how valuable a CIPD qualification is.

What is the value of a CIPD qualification?

A CIPD qualification refers to a credential or certification awarded by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), a leading professional body for HR and people development.

CIPD qualifications are highly respected and recognised within the field of HR and are designed to enhance the understanding, skills, and capabilities of HR professionals at various stages of their careers.

CIPD qualifications are recognized by employers as a global standard of excellence, demonstrating a commitment to developing one's future and showing the profession that knowledge and ethical practice are valued.

CIPD qualifications are highly regarded in the HR industry and have become a benchmark for career development.

value of a CIPD qualification

CIPD qualifications cover a wide range of topics related to talent acquisition, performance management, employment law, and business strategy, among others, which can help individuals to gain essential industry expertise and open doors to bigger and better career opportunities as they progress.

Additionally, CIPD qualifications can provide access to a host of benefits and resources to help individuals with their studies and their careers, including exclusive member benefits, shared experiences, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Being a member of a professional body like the CIPD can provide a range of benefits, including access to professional development opportunities, networking opportunities, and resources to support continuous learning and development.

CIPD accredits a range of courses designed to enhance the proficiency and skills of HR professionals and those interested in pursuing an HR role in their career.

A chartered member of the CIPD is entitled to use the designation "Chartered MCIPD" after their name, which demonstrates their professional standing and expertise.

CIPD courses

CIPD courses have revolutionised the HR industry by setting the gold standard for professional development, equipping HR professionals with the skills, and strategic mindset to shape the future of work and drive organisational success.

A CIPD course goes beyond traditional HR training, offering a comprehensive and forward-thinking curriculum that addresses the most pressing challenges HR professionals face in today's rapidly changing business environment.

By emphasising strategic HR roles, organisational learning, and cutting-edge practices, CIPD courses empower HR professionals to become strategic partners and catalysts for positive change within their organisations.

CIPD courses not only provide theoretical understanding but also focus on practical application, ensuring that HR professionals can effectively translate their learning into real-world solutions. Through case studies, simulations, and hands-on projects, participants gain valuable experience in tackling complex HR issues, making informed decisions, and driving sustainable business outcomes.

These courses cover various areas within the field of HR and L&D (Learning and Development) and can be tailored to different levels of experience and expertise. The key CIPD courses are:

CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate

The Level 3 Foundation CIPD Certificate is an entry-level qualification offered by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

It is designed for individuals who are new to HR or have limited experience in the field. The Level 3 CIPD course provides a solid foundation in HR principles and practices, equipping learners with the essential knowledge and skills to begin their HR career or enhance their understanding of HR in their current role.

The Level 3 CIPD course covers a wide range of HR topics, including understanding organisations and the role of HR, supporting recruitment and selection processes, managing employee performance, and handling employee relations issues.

It provides learners with a comprehensive overview of the key areas within HR and introduces them to the fundamental principles and concepts that underpin effective HR management.

The qualification typically involves a combination of structured learning, coursework, and assessments. Learners may engage in virtual classroom sessions, online learning materials ensuring learning at their own pace, or a blended learning approach, depending on the mode of delivery chosen by the training provider.

Assessments may include written assignments and case studies, which allow learners to demonstrate their understanding of the course material and its practical application.

Syllabus list

There are four main modules in the CIPD HR Level 3 Foundation Certificate:

  • Business Culture and Change in Context
  • Principles of analytics
  • Core Behaviours for people professionals
  • Essentials of People Practice

After successful completion of the Level 3 CIPD qualifications, individuals gain a recognised credential that demonstrates their commitment to professional development and readiness to contribute effectively in HR roles.

It can improve your proficiency in HR and provide a solid stepping stone for further advancement in HR.

Membership status: To start studying one of the CIPD qualifications, individuals must become a member of the CIPD first. The CIPD offers a range of membership options, including Student Membership, which is suitable for those who are new to HR and are studying for a CIPD qualification.

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma - People Management

The Associate Diploma CIPD qualification refers to the intermediate level of qualifications offered by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is a comprehensive qualification that is designed to help HR professionals develop their knowledge and skills in people management. The course covers a range of topics, including employment law, resourcing and talent planning, employee engagement, performance management, and reward management.

The Associate Diploma is a Level 5 qualification, which is equivalent to a foundation degree or higher national diploma. It is suitable for HR professionals who are looking to progress in their careers and take on more senior roles.

To achieve the Associate Diploma, learners must complete seven modules and a work-based project. The modules are as follows:

  • Organisational Performance and Culture in Practice
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Professional Behaviours and Valuing People
  • Employment Relationship Management
  • Talent Management and Workforce Planning
  • Reward for Performance and Contribution
  • Leadership and Management Development

Each module covers specific learning outcomes, and assessment is through assignments, case studies, and a work-based project.

Overall, the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is an excellent qualification for HR professionals who are looking to develop their knowledge and skills in people management and progress in their careers.

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma - Organisational Learning and Development

The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development is a comprehensive qualification that is designed to help HR professionals develop their knowledge and skills in the field of learning and development within an organisational context.

The course covers a range of topics, including identifying and assessing learning and development needs, designing and delivering effective learning and development solutions, evaluating the impact of learning and development interventions, and understanding the wider context of organisational learning and development.

The Associate Diploma is a Level 5 qualification, which is equivalent to a foundation degree or higher national diploma. It is suitable for HR professionals who are looking to progress in their careers and take on more senior roles in the area of learning and development.

To achieve the Associate Diploma, learners must complete seven modules and a work-based project. The modules are as follows:

  • Organisational Performance and Culture in Practice
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Professional Behaviours and Valuing People
  • Supporting Self-Directed and Social Learning
  • Learning and Development Design to Create Value
  • Facilitate Personalised and Performance-Focused Learning
  • Advances in Digital Learning and Development

Each module covers specific learning outcomes, and assessment is through assignments, case studies, and a work-based project.

Overall, the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development is an excellent qualification for HR professionals who are looking to develop their knowledge and skills in learning and development and progress in their careers in this area.

By obtaining the CIPD Level 5 qualification, individuals demonstrate a solid understanding of HR principles and practices, positioning themselves as competent HR professionals who can contribute effectively to their organisations' HR strategies and initiatives.

This qualification will help you grow your profession as an HR along with providing useful insight to prospective employers to select you over other candidates.

CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma

The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is an esteemed qualification offered by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)

It is an advanced-level program designed for experienced HR professionals who are operating at a senior strategic level or aspiring to advance their careers in HR leadership and talent management roles.

The Level 7 Advanced Diploma focuses on developing advanced knowledge, expertise, and competencies in HR and personal development.

It covers a wide range of strategic HR topics, including strategic HR management, organisational design, HR analytics, leadership and management, employment law and employee relations, and diversity.

The qualification aims to enhance learners' ability to think strategically and critically, analyse complex HR issues, and develop innovative solutions that align with organisational goals. It equips HR professionals with the knowledge to shape HR strategies, drive organisational change, and lead effectively in a dynamic business environment.

To become Level 7 CIPD qualified, participants typically engage in a combination of structured learning, self-directed study, and practical application.

The program is often delivered through a blend of virtual face-to-face sessions, online modules, workshops, and individual or group assignments. Assessments may include written assignments, case studies, presentations, and a final research project or dissertation.

Syllabus list

CIPD HR level 7 contains 4 core and 3 specialist modules. Also, 1 optional module which you can choose during the course.

  • Core: Work and working lives in a changing business environment
  • Core: People Management & development strategies for performance
  • Core: Personal effectiveness, ethics & business acumen
  • Core: Business research in people practice
  • Specialist: Strategic employment relations
  • Specialist: Resourcing & talent management to sustain success
  • Specialist: Strategic reward management
  • Optional: Advanced employment law in practice
  • Optional: Organisational design & development
  • Optional: Managing people in an international context
  • Optional: Advanced diversity and inclusion

By completing the Level 7 Advanced Diploma, individuals demonstrate their ability to operate at a strategic level in HR and their readiness to make significant contributions to their organisations.

This qualification is highly regarded by employers and can significantly enhance your overall people profession and experience along with opening doors to senior HR leadership positions, consulting roles, or other strategic HR roles.

How long does it take to do CIPD courses?

The duration of CIPD courses can vary depending on several factors, including the level of the qualification, the study mode (full-time or part-time), individual's prior knowledge and experience.

Here are some general guidelines regarding the time it takes to complete CIPD courses:

  • CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate

    The average completion time for an entry-level qualification is around 7 to 9 months. It provides a solid foundation in HR experience, principles, and practices.

  • CIPD Level 5 Intermediate/Associate Diploma

    The average completion time for intermediate-level qualifications is between 1 to 1.5 years. They offer a deeper understanding of HR practices and strategic learning considerations.

  • CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma

    This advanced-level qualification usually takes 1 to 2 years to complete. It is designed for experienced HR professionals operating at a senior strategic level.

    It's important to note that these timeframes are general estimates, and the actual duration may vary depending on individual study pace, the availability of study time, and the specific program structure offered by the training provider.

What personal skills are required to do a CIPD course?

To be successful in HR and L&D, individuals need to possess a variety of technical and interpersonal skills. Some of these can be developed, but some need to come naturally. They include:

technical and interpersonal skills

A CIPD Level 3 HR professional:

  • Communication skills: Effective communication with employees, managers, and stakeholders.
  • Problem-solving skills: Identifying and addressing HR-related challenges in an organisation.
  • Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues on HR projects and initiatives.
  • Time management: Learning how to prioritise work based on importance and impact.
  • Basic HR cognizance: Understanding HR principles, processes, and practices.

A CIPD Level 5 HR professional in People Management:

  • Advanced communication: Communicating complex HR concepts clearly and persuasively.
  • Critical thinking and analysis: Evaluating HR issues and proposing strategic solutions for an organisation.
  • Research: conducting research on HR topics and using evidence to support arguments.
  • Leadership and management: Demonstrating leadership capabilities and managing HR projects.
  • Employee relations: Understanding employment law and effectively managing employee relations.

A CIPD Level 5 HR professional in Organisational Learning and Development:

  • Organisational skills: Designing training programs, managing schedules, and coordinating logistics.
  • Analytical thinking: Analyse data, identify trends, and draw meaningful insights.
  • Flexibility and adaptability: Open to new ideas, willing to learn, and capable of adjusting strategies based on evolving business needs and technological advancements.
  • Continuous learning: Staying updated with industry trends, research, and emerging technologies ensures that your knowledge and skills remain relevant.

A CIPD Level 7 HR professional:

  • Strategic thinking: Thinking strategically and aligning HR practices with organisational goals.
  • Business acumen: Understanding the broader business context and the impact of HR on organisational performance.
  • Advanced analytical skills: Analysing complex HR data, metrics, and trends to inform decision-making.
  • Change management: Leading and managing organisational change initiatives.
  • Ethical leadership: Demonstrating ethical leadership and upholding professional standards.

It's important to note that as individuals progress to higher levels, the expectations and depth of understanding required in these capabilities also increase.

What is the cost of CIPD courses?

The cost of CIPD courses can vary depending on several factors, including the level of the qualification, the study mode (full-time or part-time), the training provider, and the location.

cost of CIPD courses

e-Careers offer various benefits when it comes to providing the best cost of CIPD courses to students. They include:

  • Price matching guarantee
  • Interest-free payment plans
  • Accepts payment by all major credit & debit cards, bank transfers, credit finance and PayPal which ensures flexibility in payment

The cost of a CIPD qualification level 3 can range from around £1,395 to £4,500 (GBP) in the UK. e-Careers offers Level 3 CIPD qualification at around £1400.

The cost of a CIPD qualification Level 5 in People Management can range from approximately £2695 to £4,000 (GBP) in the UK. e-Careers offers this course for up to £2700.

The cost of a CIPD qualification Level 5 in Organisational Learning and Development can range from approximately £2695 to £5,000 (GBP) in the UK. e-Careers offers this course for up to £2695.

The cost of CIPD qualification Level 7 can range from £4000 to £8000 approximately.

Career opportunities in CIPD course

How much you can earn after getting CIPD approved in different CIPD courses?

The CIPD's HR Profession Map outlines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for success in the people profession, and the organisation offers a range of qualifications to support professionals in their development.

Completing CIPD courses at different levels can lead to various HR career opportunities in the field of Human Resources (HR) and people management.

Career opportunities

Here are some potential career paths associated with CIPD Level 3, Level 5, and Level 7 qualifications, along with average salary ranges in the United Kingdom (UK). Please note that salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and organisation size:

CIPD Level 3

  • HR Assistant/Administrator: Entry-level role supporting HR operations.

    Salary range: £17,000 - £25,000 per year (Source: Reed)

  • HR Coordinator: Assisting in HR activities and supporting HR processes.

    Salary range: £20,000 - £28,000 per year

  • Recruitment Coordinator: Assisting in recruitment processes and supporting hiring style="padding-bottom: 0;" activities.

    Salary range: £20,000 - £28,000 per year (Source: Totaljobs)

  • Learning and Development Administrator: Supporting learning and development style="padding-bottom: 0;" initiatives.

    Salary range: £20,000 - £28,000 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

CIPD LEVEL 5

  • HR Advisor: Providing HR advice and support, and managing employee relations.

    Salary range: £25,000 - £40,000 per year (Source: Check-a-salary)

  • HR Business Partner: Collaborating with business leaders, driving HR strategies.

    Salary range: £32,000 - £53,000 per year (Source: Robert Half)

  • Learning and Development Specialist: Designing and delivering training programs.

    Salary range: £30,000 - £50,000 per year (Source: Totaljobs)

  • Talent Acquisition Specialist: Managing recruitment processes and attracting talent.

    Salary range: £30,000 - £50,000 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

CIPD Level 7

  • HR Manager: Overseeing HR functions, and implementing HR strategies.

    Salary range: £70,000 - £75,000 per year (Source: Reed)

  • Organisational Development Consultant: Supporting change initiatives, and style="padding-bottom: 0;" facilitating leadership development.

    Salary range: £36,000 - £60,000 per year (Source: Totaljobs)

  • HR Director: Leading the HR function at a strategic level.

    Salary range: £70,000 - £150,000 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

  • HR Consultant: Providing expert HR advice and consultancy services.

    Salary range: £40,000 - £70,000 per year (Source: Talent)

Please note that these salary ranges are approximate and can vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, organisation size, and individual negotiation skills.

e-Careers as your training provider

Why is e-Careers a leading provider of CIPD courses?

e-Careers offers huge value and benefits to its students which makes us a leading provider of CIPD courses.

Thousands of students have benefitted from outstanding career progression opportunities and higher earning potential by studying CIPD courses with e-Careers.

e-Careers is a leading provider of CIPD courses for several reasons:

  • Accreditation:

    e-Careers is an accredited CIPD centre, which means that its courses have been approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). This ensures that the courses meet the high standards set by the CIPD and are recognised by employers.
  • Flexibility:

    e-Careers offers CIPD courses delivered in an online, flexible learning environment, based on self-paced online learning supported by industry acclaimed tutors.
  • Expertise:

    e-Careers has a team of experienced trainers and tutors who are experts in their field. They have extensive knowledge of HR and L&D and are able to provide learners with practical insights and advice.
  • Support:

    e-Careers provides learners with comprehensive support throughout their course. This includes access to tutors and trainers, online resources, and study materials.
  • Value for money:

    e-Careers offers competitive pricing for its CIPD courses, making them accessible to a wide range of learners.

By choosing e-Careers, learners can benefit from flexible learning options from which they can learn at their own pace, unlimited support from expert tutors, and a range of online resources, including interactive quizzes, video lectures, and case studies. This makes learning convenient and accessible and helps learners to achieve their goals with confidence.

If you want more information about CIPD courses, you can contact us at +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 or visit our Human Resources

cost of CIPD courses cost of CIPD courses cost of CIPD courses

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