Professional qualifications

Our HR and L&D qualifications develop relevant and essential knowledge and skills, and are a route into professional membership of the CIPD. 

Join over 25,000 professionals currently studying an HR and L&D qualification with us.

• Increase your career prospects and earning potential.
• Gain the skills, knowledge and tools to support your organisation and progress your career.
• Build your confidence and credibility to handle the most pertinent people management and development issues.

CIPD’s foundation and intermediate qualifications equate to Levels 3 and 5 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and are regulated by Ofqual, Qualifications Wales and the Council for Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA).

Want to talk through your study options? Speak with one of our advisers today: call +44 (0)20 8612 6208 or contact us.

New CIPD qualifications are launching in 2021 – find out more

Which qualification is right for me?

Step 1: Identify your level of study

Advanced level: If you’re experienced, looking to advance to a strategic level, and aspire to become a Chartered Member, then this postgraduate-level qualification is for you.

Intermediate level: If you’re already working in HR or L&D and want to develop your knowledge and skills, then this undergraduate degree-level qualification is the choice for you. 

Foundation level: If you’re just starting out in HR or L&D or working in a support role, these A-Level standard courses will make an ideal first professional qualification. 

Regulation

CIPD’s foundation and intermediate qualifications equate to Levels 3 and 5 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and are regulated by Ofqual, Qualifications Wales and the Council for Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA).

Step 2: Choose your size of qualification

Diploma: Study a wide breadth of subjects.
Successful completion of a Foundation or Intermediate Diploma leads to Associate membership.
An Advanced Diploma also leads to Associate membership, and gives you the knowledge to apply for Chartered Membership (subject to eligibility).

Certificate: Study the essentials employers are looking for.
Successful completion at any level leads to Associate Membership.

Award: Focus on one area.
Get the knowledge and skills in a specific HR or L&D subject.
Note: Awards do not lead to any professional grade of membership but may give you credits toward a Certificate or Diploma.

Step 3: Decide how you’d like to study 

We deliver our qualifications through a range of different study modes, letting you choose the option that suits you most: 

• Full-time or part-time learning: Attend taught classes as part of a structured, face-to-face learning experience 
• Block learning: A more intensive study pattern, with taught classes grouped into blocks of workshops 
• Digital learning: Enjoy maximum flexibility to study when and where you want through a blended or digital qualification
• Mixed-mode study: Aimed at experienced individuals and enables use of workplace evidence alongside a mixture of learning input and support to suit the needs of the candidate

Step 4: Find your perfect qualification and study centre

We offer a choice of qualifications, study centres and ways to learn for each level of study and type of course. 

Browse all qualifications: Search the Qualification finder

Study online through CIPD Enterprises in partnership with AVADO: Get details from AVADO

Search for a specialist qualification: Explore CIPD Training

Step 5: Join the CIPD as a student member

Enjoy immediate access to essential HR and L&D resources, support and rewards. 

Progress to professional membership on successful completion of your studies.

Learn about student membership

Studying not for you?

Experience Assessment is a direct route to CIPD membership. It doesn’t require sitting an exam or a qualification in HR to be eligible. Instead, professionals with relevant experience showcase how they meet the membership standards.

Learn more about Experience Assessment