Do I Need to Do a CIPD HR Course?

If you want to grow your career in HR, then yes, doing a CIPD course is one of the best ways to do it.  

You don’t technically need to have one to get a job in HR, but most employers will be looking for it. 

A CIPD qualification shows you meet the right standards and can help you get a better job, promotion, or pay rise. 

CIPD courses at MOL 

MOL offers CIPD courses at three levels: 

• Level 3 Foundation Certificate - for people just starting out in HR 

• Level 5 Associate Diploma - for people with some HR experience who want to move into management 

• Level 7 Advanced Diploma - for people with lots of HR experience who want senior roles 

With us, you can study online in a way that fits around your life, with tutors who know the HR industry and can guide you through every step. 

What are CIPD courses? 

The CIPD aims to champion better work and working lives by improving practices and policies related to people management and development in workplaces. 

If you’re considering a career in HR, you’ll hear a lot about CIPD courses. 

Considering pursuing a new professional qualification can feel overwhelming due to factors like finances, time commitments, and work-life balance.  

At some stage, you might ask yourself, "Do I really need to do a CIPD HR course?" 

CIPD has a community over around 20,000 HR professionals who have achieved their CIPD certification, so let's delve into the benefits of a CIPD HR qualification and also take a look at other routes you could take into the HR industry. 

What does CIPD mean? 

CIPD stands for Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, which is the professional body for HR and L&D experts in the UK and worldwide. 

Here are a few things the CIPD does: 

• CIPD sets and maintains standards in the HR field 

• It provides qualifications to enhance professionals' skills and knowledge 

• CIPD offers resources to support HR professionals 

• The organisation plays a key role in advocating for effective people management and development 

• This advocacy extends to both organisational and societal levels. 

Do you need a CIPD qualification to work in HR? 

While there’s no legal requirement for you to have a CIPD qualification to have a HR role, most employers don’t consider candidates who aren’t CIPD accredited. 

Most employers prefer candidates with CIPD accreditation for HR roles because it shows commitment to professional growth and following industry standards. This makes CIPD qualifications highly valued in the HR industry. 

“The CIPD course was my ticket into the competitive HR industry. It helped me get my foot in the door, and I'm immensely grateful for taking that step. Employers truly value and seek out CIPD qualifications, and I now feel respected and equipped to thrive in this dynamic field. - MOL CIPD learner” 

What are the different types of CIPD courses? 

MOL provides a diverse range of courses tailored to cater to HR professionals at different skill levels, offering programmes for beginners, intermediates, and professionals alike. 

CIPD Level 3 Certificate 

This course is perfect for those just beginning their career in HR or have some experience and are new to studying. 

After completing this course, you would be qualified to work as a: 

• HR administrator 

• HR assistant 

• Organisational Development Officer 

Our CIPD Level 3 courses: 

CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice (Level 3) 

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma 

This is ideal for those already working in a HR or L&D role, but want to take the next step in their career and expand their skills and experience with a training course. MOL has two types of courses at this level. 

Once you have a Level 5 Diploma, you could be equipped for a role as a: 

• HR/L&D manager 

• Talent manager 

• Recruitment manager 

Our CIPD Level 5 courses: 

CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (Level 5) 

CIPD Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development (Level 5) 

CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma 

This is an advanced diploma which will indicate you can work at a strategic level and is the only level where you can apply for Chartered CIPD membership upon completion.  

The Level 7 advanced diploma is suited to HR professionals who develop workplace policies and business strategies. 

Those who complete this course are suited to positions such as: 

• Head of HR 

• People Analytics Manager 

• Head of Diversity and Inclusion 

Our CIPD Level 7 courses: 

CIPD Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management (Level 7) 

CIPD Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning and Development (Level 7) 

"Starting with Level 5 CIPD was just the beginning. Progressing to Level 7 propelled my career to new heights, leading to higher salaries and respected positions. CIPD gave me the tools to soar in HR." - MOL learner 

MSc Top-up in Strategic Human Resource Management 

If you’ve recently obtained your CIPD Level 7 Diploma (within the last 5 years), you can enhance your experience by acquiring a highly respected and globally recognised qualification.  

Investigate a specific business challenge and present real-world solutions that will benefit you and your organisation. 

Careers available after completing your MSc studies include: 

• Director of HR 

• Director of Diversity and Inclusion 

• Director of People 

Our CIPD MSc courses: 

MSc Strategic HR Management (in partnership with the University of Salford) - Live Online 

How long does a CIPD course take? 

The time it takes to finish a CIPD qualification will depend on the level and how you study. 

CIPD Level 3: 6 months (up to 12 months for On Demand) 

CIPD Level 5: 12 months (up to 24 months for On Demand) 

CIPD Level 7: 24 months (up to 36 months for On Demand) 

If you study full-time, you will typically finish each course in less time. 

Who Should Do a CIPD HR Course? 

Whatever stage you’re at in your HR career, there’s a CIPD course designed for you.  

CIPD is the gold standard for people working in HR, so it’s the best choice if you want to progress.