Is CIPD Level 5 Right for Me?

CIPD Level 5 is aimed at people with some HR experience who want to boost their knowledge, build confidence, and move into more senior roles.   

So, if you're already working in Human Resources or Learning & Development and want to take a step-up career-wise, it could be the right move for you.  

In this blog we’ll explain what a CIPD Level 5 qualification involves, who it’s for, and how it can support your career.  

Here’s what we’ll cover:  

• What CIPD Level 5 is  

• The modules included in CIPD Level 5 

• Who can apply for CIPD Level 5 

• Costs, study length, and online options  

• How to pick a CIPD provider. 

What is CIPD Level 5? 

CIPD Level 5 is a mid-level qualification in human resources or learning and development.  

It’s about the equivalent of a foundation degree or HND, and it sits between Level 3 (entry-level) and Level 7 (postgraduate) in the CIPD level framework. 

Where CIPD Level 5 sits 

CIPD Level	Equivalent	Who it’s best for
CIPD Level 3	A-level	People starting out in HR or L&D
CIPD Level 5	Foundation degree	HR professionals with some prior experience
CIPD Level 7	Master’s degree	Senior HR or L&D professionals who want to focus on high-level strategy roles

 

Who is CIPD Level 5 for? 

A CIPD Level 5 course will likely suit you if: 

• You’ve already got some experience in HR or L&D roles 

• You want to move into advisory or management roles 

• You’re looking for certified, practical knowledge from a recognised institution. 

CIPD Level 5 module list 

When you study CIPD Level 5, your modules will depend on whether you decide to focus on HR or Learning & Development.  

Both our CIPD Level 5 People Management and CIPD Level 5 Organisational L&D courses share core topics that are relevant across the industry, with some specific modules that will vary depending on the pathway you choose. 

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management 

Core CIPD Level 5 HR modules: 

• Organisational Performance and Culture in Practice 

• Employment Relationship Management 

• Professional Behaviours and Valuing People 

• Reward for Performance Contribution 

• Talent Management and Workforce Planning 

• Evidence-Based Practice. 

Optional CIPD Level 5 HR modules: 

• Advances in Digital Learning and Development 

• Specialist Employment Law 

• People Management in an International Context 

• Wellbeing at Work. 

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational L&D 

Core CIPD Level 5 L&D modules: 

• Organisational Performance and Culture in Practice 

• Facilitate Personalised and Performance Focused Learning 

• Learning and Development Design to Create Value 

• Professional Behaviours and Valuing People 

• Supporting Self-Directed and Social Learning 

• Evidence-Based Practice. 

Optional CIPD Level 5 L&D modules: 

• Advances in Digital Learning and Development 

• Specialist Employment Law 

• People Management in an International Context 

• Wellbeing at Work. 

These modules are built around real-life challenges, so no matter which course you choose, you’ll be able to apply what you learn directly to your job. 

CIPD Level 5 requirements 

There isn’t a set list of entry requirements for CIPD courses, and you don’t necessarily need to complete Level 3 before you start Level 5.  

However; there are things that will be expected from you as a Level 5 CIPD learner, so it’s important to assess your experience and confidence with independent study before you apply. 

Most CIPD Level 5 learners: 

• Have completed CIPD Level 3, A-levels, or an equivalent qualification 

• Have a good amount of hands-on HR or L&D experience 

• Are comfortable reading, writing, and studying independently. 

Is CIPD Level 5 beginner-friendly? 

Not really; CIPD Level 5 will assume you already have some prior knowledge in the field. 

If you’re brand new to HR or have limited experience, starting with CIPD Level 3 foundation certificate might make more sense for you. This course will give you the basics you’ll need to succeed at CIPD Level 5 and beyond.  

If you’re not sure which CIPD level is right for you, read our CIPD qualification levels guide or speak to an MOL advisor. We'll help you choose the right starting point for your learning. 

Is CIPD Level 5 right for your career goals? 

CIPD Level 5 is designed to help HR professionals move into more senior roles or switch careers by giving you transferable skills that can be used across a range of job types and levels. 

According to Reed's 2024 HR Salary Guide, candidates with a CIPD qualification earn an average of 12% more than those without – it really is one of the best ways to advance your career in HR or Learning & Development! 

With an average salary range of £25,000 - £50,000, HR jobs you can do with CIPD Level 5 include: 

• HR Advisor 

• HR Business Partner 

• Recruitment or Resourcing Lead 

• Learning & Development Partner 

• Talent Manager 

• Learning & Development Consultant. 

Completing Level 5 also sets you up for Level 7, the highest-level CIPD course, which is aimed at senior professionals aiming to become strategic HR leaders. 

How long does CIPD Level 5 take?   

How long a CIPD Level 5 course takes will depend on how you choose to study and how much time you can give each week. 

Full-time learners usually finish the course in 12 months. If you’re studying part-time around a job or other commitments, it can take up to 24 months.  

At MOL, our flexible study options mean you can pick the pace that suits your lifestyle and learning preferences. 

Cost of Level 5 CIPD   

The cost of studying CIPD Level 5 with MOL starts from £210 (inc. VAT) per month, with no hidden fees. 

This cost includes everything you’ll need to complete the course. 

What’s included in the cost of CIPD Level 5? 

• Access to all course materials 

• 32 hours of live teaching  

• £150 worth of e-textbooks 

• Support from expert tutors 

• Online learning tools and resources. 

Can you study an online CIPD Level 5 course? 

Yes, you can study CIPD Level 5 online, and with MOL, you can choose the study mode that suits you best. 

CIPD Level 5 online study options 

Study mode	What it offers
Live Online	Live, scheduled classes lead by tutors via webinars
On Demand	Study on your own time with 24/7 access to course materials

 

Why study CIPD Level 5 online? 

• Learn from home (or anywhere) 

• Fit study around work and life 

• Stay in touch with tutors and other learners 

• Use real-world examples in your current role. 

No matter which way you choose, you’ll have support, practical assignments and digital tools to help you stay on track. 

Who is the best CIPD Level 5 provider? 

Not all CIPD providers are the same. Before you enrol, it’s important to ask the right questions.  

What to look for in your CIPD Level 5 provider:  

• CIPD-approved provider status  

• Options for live or on-demand study  

• Experienced, helpful tutors  

• Clear pricing with no extras  

• Good learner reviews. 

Why choose MOL?  

As a CIPD Platinum centre, we offer flexible, trusted CIPD courses with the support you need to succeed. Whether you want structured study or total flexibility, MOL helps you make it work. 

Is CIPD Level 5 the right choice for you? 

CIPD Level 5 is the right step for you if you’ve already got some HR or L&D experience and you want to move into more senior roles. 

At MOL, we make it easy to get started with online study options, career-focused learning, expert tutors, and much more! Make your next career move with confidence, we’re here to help you get there.  

Browse our CIPD Level 5 courses to see what’s included or speak to our advisors for more information - no pressure, just straight answers.