What is CIPD?

Are you considering a career switch in human resources but don't know what and where to start getting the right certifications? You might want to get started with CIPD qualifications.

The CIPD provides accredited qualifications, insightful research, and practical resources to its members and the wider HR community, which plays a crucial role in setting industry standards. The CIPD remains at the forefront of shaping the future of work by promoting ethical practices, fostering continuous learning, and fostering positive change in workplaces worldwide.

But before anything else, let's determine what it is and how CIPD's qualifications will help leverage your HR or L&D career.

Overview of CIPD

CIPD represents the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. CIPD sets the bar high as a professional body, defining the benchmarks for excellence in human resources (HR), learning and development (L&D), organisational development practice, and all people professionals.

Tracing its roots back to 1913, this institution has become the premier professional organisation catering to aspiring HR managers and learning and development practitioners. Being an industry leader, CIPD offers a range of qualifications, training, and resources to help organisations develop their people and HR careers.

The Purpose of CIPD

As the main professional body, CIPD is dedicated to advocating for superior work and life at work – aiming to establish beneficial work for the benefit of individuals, businesses, the economy, and society. It has a revolutionary impact on companies and their employees by elevating the bar for organisational growth and human resources.

A crucial part of its mission includes promoting a thorough understanding of employment law, organisational learning, and employment relations. CIPD's commitment to core behaviours and strategic responsibility is firmly grounded in its code of conduct and behaviours.

Importance of CIPD professionals in the current industry

In today's fast-evolving workplace, the role of HR and L&D professionals has never been more critical. As CIPD professionals, you stand at the forefront of driving organisational success through effective people management and development strategies. Your expertise in employment law, talent management, and organisational learning ensures businesses are compliant but also competitive and forward-thinking.

CIPD-certified professionals are equipped to address the dynamic challenges of the modern workplace, from navigating complex employment legislation to fostering inclusive cultures and developing resilient and adaptable workforces. Your strategic input can significantly influence the well-being of employees, leading to enhanced engagement, productivity, and ultimately, business performance.

Moreover, as organisations strive to adapt to technological advances and global market pressures, the strategic learning insights and leadership provided by CIPD professionals are invaluable. They are pivotal in shaping sustainable organisational cultures that can thrive amid change. Therefore ensuring businesses remain agile and responsive to emerging trends and challenges.

CIPD Qualifications

CIPD qualifications are highly regarded in the industry. It symbolises your commitment to excellence and continuous professional development. The institute's influence extends to shaping policy, fostering a community of practice, and ensuring that HR professionals are equipped to meet the challenges of the modern workplace.

The organisation presents a comprehensive qualifications suite that can add depth, business acumen, and credibility to your professional journey. These courses address various aspects of the field, from foundation qualifications for HR professionals to advanced diploma qualifications.

CIPD Level Courses

These CIPD courses, spanning from the foundation certificate and CIPD Associate Diploma to the more comprehensive CIPD Advanced Diploma, are globally esteemed and mark excellence in the more strategic people management profession.

As you can see, a CIPD qualification can significantly improve your professional growth regardless of your career stage. So whether you're an HR novice or an experienced practitioner, there's a CIPD qualification tailored to help you elevate your professional standing.

CIPD Membership Requirements

Gaining a membership with CIPD is a testament to your dedication to professional growth and development. This esteemed community can be entered by completing a suitable CIPD qualification or showcasing ample relevant professional experience.

The membership is divided into several tiers. Each tier provides a tailored set of resources, tools, and assistance to foster growth and skill development pertinent to your career stage.

CIPD Membership Grades

CIPD membership grades mirror the depth of your capability, knowledge, and impact in the HR and people development field. Your member grade must align with your current abilities.

Here's a breakdown:

• Student Member: To complete your qualification, you must maintain membership throughout the duration of your study, from enrollment to certification. You’ll also need to link your qualification to your membership so the CIPD can process your results once they've been submitted by your study center.
• Foundation Member: Once you've attained the Level 3 Foundation Certificate, you'll become a Foundation Member and can use the designation 'CIPD Foundation'. This membership level acknowledges your foundational knowledge and skills in HR or L&D and offers support and guidance as you progress in your career.
• Associate Member: If you've completed the Level 5 Intermediate Certificate or Associate Diploma, you're eligible for the Associate membership. This membership demonstrates your commitment to advancing your HR or L&D career and allows you access to resources and networking opportunities within the profession.
• Chartered Member:You're eligible for this membership if you completed the Level 7 Advanced Diploma or equivalent qualification. It signifies that you have a high level of expertise and experience in the field and provides you access to exclusive resources, events, and recognition within the industry.
• Chartered Fellow:To attain this membership, you must typically hold senior leadership roles and have made substantial contributions to the profession. You also need to be able to demonstrate that you have a minimum of one year’s experience working at Chartered Fellow grade6.
• Academic Membership:To be eligible for this membership, you need to be working in the field of teaching or research in HRM or an HRM related area. You will be formally assessed via an online Microsoft Teams Peer Review discussion with one of the CIPD’s academic assessors who are experienced academics.
• Affiliate Member:This grade is for non-HR and L&D professionals looking to access CIPD content, resources, and events, to help you in your work. It’s ideal if you need help to check you’ve got the right people policies for your organisation. It also gives you access to the CIPD’s network of more than 160,000 people professionals around the world, so you can share ideas, learn, and make decisions about your people practices.
• Chartered Companion:This is the highest level of recognition offered by the CIPD, reserved for exceptional leaders in the field. Admission into this grade is through nomination and selection by the CIPD Board.

Please note that each membership grade may have specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and ongoing requirements for maintaining membership status. Visit CIPD membership fees or contact their membership team for detailed information tailored to your individual circumstances and career aspirations.

The CIPD Profession Map

The CIPD Profession Map offers a detailed guide for you. This instrumental tool facilitates professional growth, from HR career novices to seasoned personnel development experts. It allows you to critically evaluate your current competencies, identify gaps in your skills, and chart a course for continuous professional development.

How the Professional Map Works

The Benefits of Being CIPD Qualified

Earning your CIPD qualification marks you as a distinguished professional in the competitive fields of HR management and people development. It showcases your dedication to adhering to the highest professional standards. Above all, it also makes you more attractive to future employers.

Here are the key benefits of holding a CIPD qualification:

• Enhances career opportunities and earnings potential, with HR directors in the UK averaging £70,000.
• Demonstrates to employers the depth of your skills and knowledge and elevates your professional credibility,which makes you stand out in the competitive job market.
• CIPD offers practical skills development.
• Helps expand your professional network, connecting you with like-minded peers.
• Supports continuous professional development, fostering lifelong learning and growth.

Beyond enhancing job prospects, CIPD qualifications foster extensive networking opportunities. As a CIPD-qualified professional, you become part of a vibrant community of practitioners, enabling you to share insights, learn from peers, and build valuable connections. Plus, you'll have access to a wealth of industry resources and information.

Investing in these qualifications isn't just about gaining a CIPD certificate; it's about arming yourself with the knowledge and skills that promise robust career progression in the people profession.

Why choose e-Careers for your CIPD qualifications?

Looking for a trusted provider for your CIPD qualifications? Look no further than e-Careers. We are one of the trusted providers of CIPD courses. Here are the reasons why you should not think twice before choosing e-Careers as your education partner:

• Accreditation:Our courses are fully accredited by the CIPD, guaranteeing you a qualification that's recognised and respected across the HR industry.
• Flexibility and Accessibility:With our online learning options, study when it suits you, balancing your career and personal commitments without compromise.
• Range of Course Options:From the L3 Foundation Certificate to L5 Associate Diplomas, we offer a variety of levels to suit wherever you are in your career journey.
• World-Class Learning Platform: Benefit from a premier learning platform and support from industry-leading tutors, enhancing your educational journey.
• Proven Track Record:With over 615,000 learners worldwide, our award-winning training provider status speaks volumes about our quality and commitment.
• TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card: You'll get access to a TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card, which opens doors to a broad range of discounts and deals on everything from dining, fashion, tech to travel, and daily essentials. The TOTUM platform offers over 400 discounts and deals, with more exciting brands being added every month.
• Growth Masterclasses: you will get access to exclusive Growth Masterclasses where our expert career coaches will equip you to make yourself a highly employable candidate.

We pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive and flexible learning solutions that cater to the diverse needs of our students. Our CIPD courses are designed to educate and empower, offering practical insights and skills directly applicable to the workplace.

Our CIPD Courses

Whether starting your career journey or looking to enhance your current skills, each CIPD course can cater to your needs.

CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice

The CIPD Level 3 Foundational Certificate is ideal for beginners or those in support roles within HR & L&D, this qualification lays the groundwork for a successful career by covering the core units of people practice, core behaviours for professionals, business culture, and change. It’s your first step towards making a mark in the people profession.

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management

A Level 5 qualification level is on par with the undergraduate level of HR degree. For those working in a people practice role and ready to grow, this qualification deepens your understanding of core behaviours, organisational performance, and culture, preparing you for strategic roles in HR.

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development

Designed for those passionate about enhancing organisational performance through L&D, this qualification equips you with the skills to design and implement effective learning strategies and foster a culture of continuous improvement and development.

As you can see, each qualification level has been meticulously crafted to foster a robust understanding of the various facets of human resource management.

We at e-Careers designed our learning platform to empower you to easily access your CIPD course materials and ultimately pass your chosen qualification, with comprehensive support every step of the way.

Conclusion

The CIPD's commitment to elevating the HR profession ensures that its qualifications remain relevant, forward-thinking, and essential for anyone serious about a career in people management or learning and development.

Looking ahead, the importance of CIPD qualifications is only set to increase. As workplaces evolve and the demand for skilled HR professionals rises, having a CIPD qualification will continue to be a significant asset.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us at +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 or visit our Human Resources page for more information about our CIPD courses.