CIPD vs HR Degree: Which is Better?

If you want to start a career in HR, you might be choosing between a CIPD qualification or an HR degree.  

Both can be valuable but HR CIPD courses are often the better choice as they’re cheaper, quicker to finish, and more flexible than a degree.  

Most employers also look for CIPD when hiring, so it can help you move up in your career faster.  

A HR degree gives you the university experience, but you might still need a CIPD qualification later on to progress. 

What are CIPD courses? 

CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) is an independent professional body committed to improving working lives by providing the best guidance and training for those working in HR (Human Resources) or L&D (Learning and Development) roles. 

CIPD courses cover everything an HR professional needs to know throughout their career from entry-level to senior roles including employment law and people management techniques.  

While there’s no legal requirement for you to have a CIPD qualification to have an HR role, most employers want candidates who are CIPD accredited. 

Benefits of a CIPD HR course  

CIPD membership 

When you achieve a CIPD qualification you automatically gain CIPD Membership giving you access to networking opportunities, CIPD communities and tools to use in your HR role. 

Flexible learning 

MOL Learn’s On Demand or Live Online study options mean your CIPD HR courses can be completed virtually – allowing you to fit your study around your work or personal commitments. 

Improved imployability 

CIPD qualifications are recognised as the gold standard for HR professionals which can significantly improve your career prospects when job hunting or looking for a promotion.  

Recruiters have also reported an average of over £4,000 difference in the annual salary for qualified HR professionals compared to unqualified HR professionals in similar roles.  

CIPD qualifications are recognised internationally and the organisation has over 50 branches across the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Gibraltar.  

Cost and time-effective 

An undergraduate degree in the UK will generally cost you around £27,000 (not including any maintenance fees for materials and living) and takes 3 years.  

In comparison, CIPD HR courses with MOL Learn, start from only £1,620 and can be completed in 6 – 24 months. 

Read more: Are CIPD qualifications worth the cost? 

Who should complete a CIPD HR course? 

CIPD courses are ideal for learners who are looking to balance their studies with other aspects of their life (such as work and family commitments) while still advancing their careers.  

CIPD courses also work well for individuals with some experience and knowledge of professional working environments looking to re-train as an HR professional with a recognised qualification. 

What are HR degrees? 

Many universities offer undergraduate degrees in Human Resource Management and, once you’ve graduated, you can apply for HR roles and graduate schemes.  

The specific topics covered by an HR degree can vary depending on the learning provider as there is no set curriculum for all HR professionals. 

Benefits of an HR degree 

University experience 

For some, especially those who are younger or who need a lifestyle change, the university experience can be highly beneficial – including meeting new people, having a wider support structure from the university, and getting to explore new locations.  

This experience can help to improve your self-confidence and establish your personal identity.  

Learn soft skills 

For those that are new to professional working environments, an HR degree at a university can help to develop the soft skills that are crucial to successful long-term employment and career progression.  

These include time management, accountability, and communication skills. 

Who should complete an HR degree? 

HR degrees are best suited for learners who want to learn full-time and who are looking to enter HR as their first or second professional role with little work experience. 

Entry Requirements for CIPD courses vs HR degrees 

HR degree: usually requires A-Levels or UCAS points. 

CIPD course: no formal qualifications needed, lots of learners start with work experience. 

CIPDs are definitely the more accessible choice if you don’t want to go through university. 

Should you complete a CIPD HR course or HR degree? 

For most learners, we recommend CIPD HR courses over an HR degree because: 

• Not all degrees reach the CIPD’s standard of accreditation - your CV could still lack the CIPD qualification employers are looking for 

• Not all universities facilitate distance learning which can limit your study options if you’re not able to relocate – find out more about MOL Learn’s flexible learning options 

• Most undergraduate degrees are significantly more expensive than a CIPD qualification and take much longer to complete. 

Can you do a CIPD course and a HR degree? 

Yes, lots of people choose to do both a CIPD and a HR degree at different times.  

A HR degree gives you a broad look at the people profession, as well as the university experience (if that’s something you’re looking for). 

On the other hand, CIPDs are specifically made to give you the professional credibility that employers are looking for. 

Doing both can give you even more knowledge of the HR profession and prepare you for senior, strategic job roles. 

CIPD vs HR degrees – FAQs 

Do I need to do a HR degree and a CIPD qualification? 

No, many employers value CIPDs more than a degree - but having both can boost your career options. 

Is CIPD recognised internationally? 

Yes! CIPD is respected across the UK and in many countries worldwide. 

Is CIPD or a HR degree better for career progression? 

CIPD gives you flexible, faster access to HR roles and promotions, while a degree can be useful if you want the full university experience. 

Can I do a CIPD course straight after school or college? 

Yes. You don’t always need qualifications or work experience. Lots of people choose CIPD over a degree because it’s an open and direct way to start your HR career. 

Get CIPD qualified with MOL 

At MOL, we know the HR profession like no other training provider - that’s what makes our courses great.  

Our tutors are industry experts and use a wealth of HR experience to bring your learning to life.  

Explore our HR CIPD courses and get in touch with MOL to kickstart your HR career today!