HR Qualifications

Foundation Level: CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice

Considered to be at a similar level to A-Level qualifications, the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice is an entry-level qualification. It is designed to provide individuals with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in the field of HR and people management.

The course covers a range of topics related to people practice, including understanding the role of HR, employee resourcing, performance and reward management, and employment law. It equips participants with the fundamental principles and practices necessary to effectively support HR functions within an organization.

By completing the Level 3 Foundation Certificate, individuals can develop a basic understanding of HR practices, gain insights into key HR processes, and learn how to apply HR principles to real-world scenarios. This qualification is suitable for those who are new to HR or seeking to enter the HR profession.

Job Roles: HR Administrator, HR Assistant

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management

This pathway is designed for individuals who are already working in HR roles or those who aspire to pursue a career in HR. It covers a range of HR topics, including HR strategy, resourcing and talent planning, employee relations, employment law, and reward management. The HR pathway aims to enhance participants' understanding of HR practices and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute strategically to HR functions within organisations.

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development

This pathway is specifically tailored for professionals involved in learning and development roles or those interested in pursuing a career in L&D. It focuses on areas such as learning and development strategy, designing and delivering effective learning programs, evaluating learning interventions, and understanding organisational learning and development needs. The L&D pathway aims to develop individuals' knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating learning initiatives within organizations.

Upon completion of the Level 5 qualification, individuals will have a comprehensive understanding of HR practices and be equipped with the skills necessary to effectively contribute to HR strategy and operations within their organisations. This course can open up opportunities for career progression, such as HR business partnering or senior HR management roles.

Job Roles: HR Advisor, HR Manager, HR Business Partner, Learning and Development Manager

Advanced Level: CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management

This course is designed for HR professionals and senior managers who want to develop their strategic thinking and leadership skills in the field of people management.

The Level 7 Advanced Diploma is the highest level of qualification offered by the CIPD and is equivalent to a master's degree in the UK. It focuses on the strategic aspects of managing people within organisations and provides learners with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to operate at a senior level in the HR field.

Covering a range of topics related to strategic people management, including HR strategy, organisational development, talent management, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and change management. The course aims to help professionals enhance their ability to align people management strategies with overall business objectives, drive organisational performance, and effectively lead and develop the HR function.

To achieve the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma, individuals typically need to complete a series of modules or units, which may involve coursework, exams, and practical assessments. The duration of the program can vary, but it is generally designed to be completed part-time over a period of one to two years.

Job Roles: Senior HR Management, Head of Human Resources, HR Director

The ILM Level 3 qualification offers three different levels of achievement:

ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management: This is the shortest program within the Level 3 qualification and provides a basic understanding of leadership and management concepts. It typically consists of a few units/modules and requires learners to complete a small number of assignments or assessments.

ILM Level 3 Certificate in Leadership and Management: The certificate program is more comprehensive than the award. It covers a wider range of leadership and management topics and requires learners to complete a greater number of units/modules. It generally involves more in-depth assessments and assignments.

ILM Level 3 Diploma in Leadership and Management: The diploma program is the most extensive option within the Level 3 qualification. It provides a comprehensive understanding of leadership and management principles, techniques, and practices. The diploma typically requires learners to complete a significant number of units/modules, assessments, and assignments.

The overall aim of the course is to develop key skills in areas such as effective communication, team leadership, problem-solving, decision-making, and managing performance.

ILM Level 5 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Leadership and Management

Designed to enhance the leadership and management skills of individuals who are in middle to senior management positions.
The qualification is structured into three levels:

Award: This level provides a basic understanding of leadership and management concepts. It typically involves completing a smaller number of units and requires less time commitment compared to the higher levels.
Certificate: The certificate level offers a more comprehensive understanding of leadership and management principles. It involves completing a broader range of units and typically requires a longer duration of study.

Diploma: The diploma level is the most advanced and in-depth qualification within the ILM Level 5 framework. It provides a comprehensive understanding of leadership and management theories, practices, and skills. The diploma requires the completion of a significant number of units and involves a substantial time commitment to study. Learning modules include, strategic leadership, managing change, operational planning, team management, and organisational performance and navigating complex business environments.

Job Roles: Senior Management roles, Group HR Manager, Head of Operations, Head of Information Technology, Head of Marketing

ILM Level 7 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Leadership and Management

The ILM Level 7 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Leadership and Management is an advanced professional qualification offered by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). It is intended for senior managers and executives who are seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities and strategic management skills.

The Level 7 qualification is structured into three levels:

Award: The Level 7 Award provides a concise introduction to advanced leadership and management concepts. It requires the completion of a small number of units.
Certificate: The Level 7 Certificate offers a deeper understanding of leadership and management principles in a broader context. It involves completing a range of units that delve into strategic leadership, organizational analysis, and performance management. The certificate level requires a more substantial time commitment compared to the award level.

Diploma: The Level 7 Diploma is the highest level of qualification within the ILM framework. It provides an extensive exploration of leadership and management theories, strategic thinking, and complex decision-making processes. The diploma level requires the completion of a significant number of units and often involves a considerable time commitment.

The course covers strategic leadership, organisational analysis and development, managing complexity and ambiguity, strategic change management, and strategic resource management.

The Level 7 qualification is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for senior leadership roles in complex and challenging organisational environments. It aims to equip individuals with the strategic acumen, critical thinking abilities, and decision-making skills necessary for driving organisational success and leading change initiatives at the highest levels.

Job Roles: Executive Management roles, COO, CIO, CEO, CMO, CHRO

Human Resources Management Degree

An HR degree focuses on the management of human resources and typically covers a range of topics including employee recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, performance management, and more, to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field. This course provides an overview of the principles and practices of HR management, including strategic planning, workforce planning, and organisational development.

An HR degree prepares individuals for careers in HR departments, recruitment agencies, consulting firms, or other organizations where HR expertise is required.

Job Roles: HR Administrator, HR Assistant, HR Manager

Human Resources Masters Degree

A Master's degree in Human Resources is a graduate-level program that focuses on developing advanced knowledge and skills in the field of HR management. It is designed for individuals who want to specialise in HR and pursue leadership roles in HR departments or related areas.

A typical Master's degree covers various aspects of HR management, including strategic HR planning, employee recruitment and selection, training and development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, labour laws and regulations, organisational behaviour, and HR analytics. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the HR function and its strategic importance within organisations.

Obtaining a Master's degree in Human Resources can enhance career prospects, provide opportunities for advancement, and increase earning potential within the field of HR.

Job roles: HR Manager, HR Director, Head of HR