What are the CIPD levels?
If you’re considering a career in human resources (HR) or looking to enhance your current skills, you’ve likely come across the term “CIPD levels.” But what exactly are they?
What is the CIPD?
CIPD qualifications, offered by the ‘Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’, are designed to equip HR professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel. Whether you’re just starting out in an HR role, building on existing experience, involved in an HR course, or moving towards a senior HR role, there’s a CIPD level tailored to you.
In this guide, we’ll explain the three CIPD levels — CIPD Level 3, CIPD Level 5, and CIPD Level 7 — and help you decide which is right for your career goals.
Understanding and choosing the right CIPD level
CIPD qualifications are structured into three levels, each aligned with different stages of HR professional development. Selecting the right level depends on your career stage, experience, and goals. Here’s an overview of the CIPD levels and guidance on how to choose the best fit for you:
Foundation Certificate in People Practice
Who is it for?
Aspiring HR professionals.
Career changers transitioning from roles like administration or recruitment.
What will you learn?
Basics of people management.
Core HR functions, such as workforce planning and onboarding.
Level 3 is ideal for beginners or those making a career change into HR. Comparable to an A-level qualification, this level provides a solid foundation in HR, covering topics like recruitment, employment law, and employee relations. It’s perfect for individuals starting their HR journey, preparing them for roles such as HR Assistant or Administrator. Explore the Level 3 course.
Associate Diploma in People Management
Who is it for?
HR professionals with some experience.
Those aspiring to roles like HR Advisor or Manager.
What will you learn?
Employee relations and engagement.
Talent acquisition and development.
Practical application of HR strategies.
Level 5 is designed for those looking to build on existing HR experience and progress to advisory or management roles. Equivalent to an undergraduate degree, it bridges the gap between foundational knowledge and higher-level expertise, equipping learners with the skills to address complex HR challenges and make a greater organisational impact. Learn more about the Level 5 course
Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management
Who is it for?
Senior HR professionals.
Individuals aspiring to roles like HR Director or Consultant.
What will you learn?
Organisational design and development.
Advanced employment law.
Strategic workforce planning.
As the pinnacle of CIPD qualifications, Level 7 is tailored for senior HR professionals aiming for strategic positions. Recognised as equivalent to a Master’s degree, it focuses on high-level HR strategies and leadership, preparing learners to influence organisational policies and drive strategic initiatives. Completing Level 7 can also lead to a Chartered Membership of CIPD, a prestigious accolade for HR professionals. Discover the Level 7 course
Why study CIPD with BPP?
At BPP, we specialise in delivering HR-focused CIPD courses that prepare you for real-world HR challenges. Our CIPD courses are designed from the ground up by highly specialised HR professionals. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to lead transformative organisational change.
Frequently asked questions
CIPD offers three levels of qualifications: Level 3 (Foundation), Level 5 (Associate), and Level 7 (Advanced). Each HR course is tailored to different career stages and aspirations. These are globally recognised qualifications and help HR professionals enhance their skills and employability.