What is a CIPD Qualification?
A CIPD qualification is an internationally recognised certification in human resources or learning and development. It is awarded by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and demonstrates practical and theoretical knowledge in managing and developing people.
CIPD qualifications are available at three levels:
- • Level 3 – Foundation: Entry-level qualification for those new to HR or L&D.
- • Level 5 – Associate: Intermediate qualification for professionals seeking to develop strategic understanding.
- • Level 7 – Advanced: Postgraduate-level qualification for senior leaders and consultants.
Each level can lead to professional CIPD membership at Foundation, Associate, or Chartered status, depending on your experience and qualification level.
What is CIPD ?
The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) is the UK’s leading professional body for HR and people development.
It sets recognised standards for HR and L&D practice through research, qualifications, and membership frameworks.
With more than 160,000 members across 120 countries, the CIPD supports professionals and organisations in promoting effective management, fair workplaces, and better working lives.
CIPD Levels Explained
CIPD qualifications are available at three levels, each designed to support different stages of a career in HR or learning and development. Whether you’re just starting out or progressing into a leadership role, there’s a CIPD qualification to match your goals.
CIPD Level 3
Foundation Certificate in People Practice
Ideal for anyone looking to start a career in HR or Learning and Development. This qualification builds the essential knowledge and behaviours needed for entry-level roles like HR Assistant or L&D Coordinator.
CIPD Level 3 Qualification
Who is it for?
CIPD Level 3 Qualification
What does it Cover?
The Level 3 Certificate provides a strong foundation in HR principles, focusing on essential knowledge and behaviours required for success as a People Professional. Topics include workplace culture, employee lifecycle, and effective communication.
Study Level
Equivalent to A-level
CIPD Level 5
Associate Diploma in People Management
Focused on advancing core HR knowledge, this diploma helps professionals align people practices with business strategy. Topics include performance management, employment law, talent development, and people analytics.
CIPD Level 5 Qualification
Who is it for?
CIPD Level 5 Qualification
What does it Cover?
The Level 5 Diploma in People Management explores key HR functions and how to align people strategies with business goals. Topics include employment law, talent management, organisational culture, performance management, and people analytics, equipping you to operate at a more strategic level.
Study Level
Equivalent to Bachelor’s degree
CIPD Level 5 L&D
Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning & Development
Designed for professionals working in L&D or those transitioning into learning strategy roles. This diploma covers learning design, digital learning, behaviour change, and impact measurement.
CIPD Level 5 Qualification
Who is it for?
CIPD Level 5 Qualification
What does it Cover?
This qualification focuses on developing impactful learning strategies within organisations. Key areas include learning needs analysis, digital and blended learning design, behaviour change, and measuring the effectiveness of L&D interventions, all grounded in real-world practice.
Study Level
Equivalent to Bachelor’s degree
CIPD Level 7
Associate Diploma in People Management
The highest-level CIPD qualification. Develops strategic thinking, leadership, and organisational influence, ideal for experienced HR leaders shaping people strategies at the top level.
CIPD Level 7 Qualification
Who is it for?
CIPD Level 7 Qualification
What does it Cover?
The Level 7 Diploma covers advanced topics in strategic HR leadership. You’ll explore areas such as business research, workforce planning, talent strategy, organisational design, and managing change. The qualification supports high-level decision-making and influence at senior leadership level.
Study Level
Equivalent to Master’s degree
CIPD Membership
Completing a CIPD Qualification
Completing a CIPD qualification gives you the chance to become a professional member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. This membership is well known and respected across the HR and L&D sectors, both in the UK and internationally.
Each level of membership provides access to a range of resources, including research, events, and development tools. Members can also use post-nominals to show their professional status in the field.
CIPD membership is designed to support your professional development, no matter your level of experience.
There are three CIPD membership grades
Foundation Member:
After completing a Level 3 qualification
Associate Member (Assoc. CIPD):
After completing a Level 5 qualification
Chartered Member (MCIPD or FCIPD):
For those who complete Level 7 and meet the required experience
Why Get CIPD Qualified?
CIPD qualifications are valued by employers and often required for roles in human resources and learning and development. Each level is designed to build the skills and knowledge needed for professional growth and long-term career progression.
Salary Growth
People professionals with a CIPD qualification earn on average 12% more than those without
Career Progression
73% of Avado learners advanced in their careers within three months of finishing their course
Employer Demand
CIPD was the most requested certification in HR job listings across the UK
Higher Level Roles
HR manager positions requesting CIPD Chartered Membership offer up to £17,200 more in salary
Wider recognition
Over 270 companies, including global employers like Microsoft and Network Rail, list CIPD membership in job ads
Source: Avado learner data and CIPD website
Why Study CIPD with Avado?
Avado is a CIPD Platinum Centre, recognised for high standards in online teaching,
assessment, and learner support. With over 50,000 graduates worldwide, Avado
provides a flexible and structured way to gain a CIPD qualification.
What Makes Avado Different:
Fully online learning
Study from anywhere, with flexible access to course materials to fit around work and life
Live tutor-led classes
Join real-time sessions with experienced tutors, or catch up with on-demand recordings
QuickScore and Ava
Get instant feedback on assignments and support from Avado’s AI learning assistant
Avado Connect
Join a professional HR and L&D community to network, find a mentor, and explore new opportunities
Ready to Start Your CIPD Journey?
Take the first step today!
FAQs About CIPD Qualifications
What does CIPD stands for?
CIPD stands for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. It is the professional body for human resources (HR) and learning and development (L&D) in the UK, with a global membership of over 160,000 people professionals.
Is a CIPD qualification worth it?
Yes. A CIPD qualification is widely valued by employers and often required for roles in HR and L&D. It helps professionals build recognised skills, improve job prospects, and increase earning potential. Many learners use it to move into new roles, gain promotions, or become eligible for CIPD membership.
Do I need a degree to study a CIPD qualification?
No degree is required to begin a CIPD course. Entry requirements vary depending on the level, but Level 3 qualifications are suitable for beginners or those without formal academic experience. Higher levels, such as Level 5 and Level 7, are ideal for those with experience in HR or L&D.
What are the CIPD qualification levels?
CIPD offers three main qualification levels:
- Level 3 – Foundation Certificate in People Practice (A-level equivalent)
- Level 5 – Associate Diploma (undergr1aduate level), in People Management or Learning & Development
- Level 7 – Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management (postgraduate level)
Each level supports different stages of a professional HR or L&D career.
How long does it take to complete a CIPD qualification?
The time needed depends on the qualification level and study format:
- Level 3 typically takes 8 months
- Level 5 takes 10 months
- Level 7 can take 20 months
Flexible learning options allow learners to study part-time alongside work.
Is a CIPD qualification recognised internationally?
Yes. CIPD qualifications are recognised and respected by employers around the world. They demonstrate a standard of professionalism in HR and L&D and are used by multinational companies when hiring and promoting people professionals.
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