In a recent survey of Avado learners, 69% said their biggest challenge while studying for a CIPD qualification was balancing work and study. This outranked other concerns like staying motivated (11%) or keeping a study routine (16%).
If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to complete a CIPD course while working full-time, the answer is yes – with the right support and flexibility, you absolutely can.

Is It Possible to Study CIPD While Working Full-Time?
Yes, and many people do!
In fact, most Avado learners are working professionals. Studying while working allows you to:
- Apply what you learn in real time
- Stay employed while progressing your career
- Get your employer to support your development
- Advance your career without pausing your income
It takes commitment, but our course structure is designed to make it achievable –even with a busy job and personal life.
Explore: Avado’s employer-funded CIPD case template – study without the financial stress!
How to Manage Your Time Effectively While Studying?
Balancing deadlines, meetings, and life outside of work takes planning. Here are a few proven strategies from successful Avado learners:
- Create a weekly study schedule: Block off regular time in your calendar, even just 30 – 45 minutes a few times a week.
- Break modules into smaller chunks: Tackle one section at a time to avoid overwhelm.
- Use weekends or quieter work periods for focused study or assignments.
- Watch on-demand sessions around your own availability – no need to attend live.
Remember, with Avado, everything is available online and can be accessed 24/7 – study when it suits you.
Tips for Assignment Planning
Assignments can feel daunting, but planning ahead helps massively.
Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Start early: Look at the brief as soon as it’s available and break it into tasks.
- Draft gradually: Don’t try to write it all in one sitting. Use short writing sessions to build momentum.
- Use tutor feedback: Ask questions and share early ideas to get guidance.
- Set internal deadlines: Aim to finish a few days before the official deadline so you have time to review.
How Flexible Is Avado’s Learning Model? Busting the Myth
It’s a common perception that Avado focuses solely on cohort-based learning – but our approach is more flexible than many realise.
All our CIPD courses are designed to give you a structured pathway to success, with the flexibility to fit around your job and lifestyle. Whether you choose our core Professional package or opt for the Plus package with enhanced personalisation, the experience is designed with working professionals in mind.
Here’s how it works:
- You’ll join a cohort for structure, motivation, and peer support
- Live tutor-led sessions help guide your learning – and while attending live is encouraged, it’s okay if you occasionally miss a session
- Recordings are available on demand, so you can study anytime, anywhere
- Built-in reminders and tutor check-ins help you stay on track, even if life gets busy
With Avado, you’re not left to study alone – and you’re not locked into a rigid schedule either. It’s a learning model that gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, while still having the structure and support to succeed.
Justyna H., Avado CIPD Level 5 graduate:
“As a mom of a young child, I was looking for a provider that offered truly flexible learning. And Avado ticked all the boxes for me.”
Introducing the Plus Package – Even More Personalised Support

For learners looking for an even more tailored experience, Avado now offers a premium upgrade to our CIPD programmes – the Plus package. Designed for those who want extra flexibility and personalised guidance, Plus includes everything in Professional, with added features to boost confidence and success.
CIPD Plus includes:
- CIPD Membership
- Three 1:1 pre-assessment feedback tutorial
- Access to two mock employment tribunals (valued at £795) for practical insights
- Unlimited access to the QuickScore tool for assignment feedback throughout your course
- A £50 Kogan Page book voucher to support your reading and research
It’s ideal for professionals who want to go beyond the standard support and maximise their study experience with more direct feedback and learning tools.
Explore: The benefits of CIPD membership for HR professionals
Yes, You Can Do It!
Balancing work and study isn’t easy – but it’s absolutely possible with the right structure, support, and mindset. At Avado, we’ve helped thousands of professionals like you earn their CIPD qualification while working full-time.
With our flexible, tutor-supported approach, you can make it work on your terms and take a confident step forward in your career.
Explore CIPD Courses at Avado
- CIPD Level 3 HR Courses: The CIPD Level 3 Certificate in People Practice is ideal for anyone looking to start a career in either HR or Learning and Development.
- CIPD Level 5 HR Courses: The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management will help you build on your existing HR knowledge.
- CIPD Level 5 L&D Courses: The CIPD Level 5 Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development is the most comprehensive course available for L&D professionals, ideal for you if you want to formalise your existing experience, skills and knowledge.
- CIPD Level 7 HR Courses: The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is aimed at expanding learners’ autonomy so they can strategically direct organisations and their people.