CIPD Qualifications

Which Level Is Right For You?

Discover the perfect HR qualification to match your career goals and experience level

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Every CIPD qualification can be taken standalone, or embedded inside a TESS People Professional apprenticeship at no extra cost. Apprentices also get Coachy, our 24/7 AI tutor built on Claude, included free.
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Find Your Recommended Level

Your Recommended Level

CIPD Qualifications Overview

LEVEL 3

Foundation Certificate in People Practice

6-9 months
Academic Equivalent
A-level
Who It's For
New to HR, looking to establish foundational knowledge and entry-level professional credentials.
Core Modules (4 units)
  • Business Culture and Change
  • Principles of Analytics
  • Core Behaviours for People Professionals
  • Essentials of People Practice
Professional Membership
Foundation Member CIPDCIPD
Price Range
£1,500–£2,500
View Details
LEVEL 5

Associate Diploma in People Management

12-15 months
Academic Equivalent
Foundation degree
Who It's For
Mid-career HR professionals seeking to advance to management and specialist roles.
Core Modules (7 units)
  • Organisational Performance and Culture
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Professional Behaviours and Valuing People
  • Employment Relationship Management
  • Talent Management and Workforce Planning
  • Reward for Performance and Contribution
  • 1 optional specialist module
Professional Membership
Associate CIPDCIPD
Price Range
£2,500–£4,300
View Details
LEVEL 7

Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management

18-24 months
Academic Equivalent
Postgraduate
Who It's For
Experienced HR professionals targeting director, board, or strategic leadership positions.
Core Modules (7 units)
  • Work and Working Lives
  • People Management and Development Strategies
  • Business Research
  • Strategic Employment Relations
  • Resourcing and Talent Management
  • Strategic Reward Management
  • Leadership and Management Development
Professional Membership
Eligible for Chartered MCIPDCIPD
Price Range
£6,000–£9,000
View Details

Detailed Comparison

Feature Level 3 Foundation Level 5 Associate Level 7 Advanced
Duration 6-9 months 12-15 months 18-24 months
Academic Equivalent A-level Foundation degree Postgraduate
Entry Requirements None (no formal qualifications needed) Level 3 or HR experience recommended Level 5 or significant HR experience + degree
Number of Units 4 core units 7 units (including optional specialist) 7 core units
Assessment Method Portfolio-based Portfolio and essays Portfolio and research project
Professional Membership Foundation Member CIPD Associate CIPD Eligible for Chartered MCIPD
Typical Career Path HR Assistant, HR Support roles HR Officer, Specialist, Team Leader HR Director, CHRO, Board level
Typical Learners Career changers, school leavers Mid-career professionals, line managers Experienced HR leaders

Your Learning Pathway

3
Foundation
Build core HR knowledge and establish professional credentials
→
5
Associate
Develop specialist expertise and management capabilities
→
7
Advanced
Master strategic HR leadership for senior roles

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