For most people, the biggest question about a CIPD qualification isn’t which level to choose. It’s whether study will actually fit around a full-time job. Here’s an honest picture of what studying CIPD online with Learnmore involves, so you can judge for yourself.
Live workshops, not recorded lectures
Our programmes run entirely remotely through interactive online workshops. They’re live sessions with a tutor and other learners, not a library of videos to work through alone, and they’re supported by e-learning resources you can use in your own time.
Assignments that use your day job
Every CIPD assessment is work-based rather than exam-based. Each assignment asks you to apply what you’ve learned to a real challenge in your own organisation, so your studying feeds your job and your job feeds your studying. There’s no exam hall, and nothing memorised then forgotten.
What you’ll study
The curriculum at every level traces back to the CIPD Profession Map, the framework developed with thousands of HR professionals that defines what the profession actually needs. At Level 3 that means four units covering the business context of HR, the employee lifecycle, essential employment law, and the fundamentals of people practice. At Level 5 it means seven units going deeper into areas including employment relationship management, talent management and workforce planning, reward, and employment law. You can read more about how the CIPD Profession Map works on the CIPD’s own site.
A coach in your corner
Every learner has a dedicated coach from enrolment to completion, someone to turn to when an assignment gets difficult, work gets busy, or motivation dips. It’s one of the biggest reasons our learners finish what they start, and why 98% say they feel more confident in their role.
The honest time commitment
Level 3 typically takes 9 months and Level 5 takes 9 to 12 months. You’ll need protected time for the live workshops and for assignments, and we agree a study plan with you at the start so the pace fits your life rather than fighting it. Many employers support learners with study time during work hours, and it’s always worth asking, especially since the assignments deliver value back to your organisation as you go.
Deciding if it’s right for you
If the format works for you, the next question is the level. Our guide to choosing between Level 3 and Level 5 walks through it. If you’d rather talk it through with a person, that’s what we’re here for. Whether you want to pick up the phone or drop us an email, we’ll let you decide.
Speak to us to see which programme is right for you
*Our articles are accurate at the time of publication, but course details, funding and industry standards can change. They’re here to inform rather than to replace formal advice, so if you’re weighing up a decision, get in touch and we’ll help you find the right path.
Level 5 CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management
- HR manager to head of department
- £3,450 +VAT
- 9-12 months
- CIPD membership included
Level 3 CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice
- Aspiring HR leaders
- £1,995 +VAT
- 9 months
- CIPD membership included