Everything you need to know about CIPD Level 5

If you’re thinking about completing a CIPD Level 5 course but need a bit more information before you make your decision, look no further. Here’s everything you need to know about CIPD Level 5.

What is CIPD Level 5?

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is an internationally recognised association for HR and L&D professionals. 

A CIPD course at Level 5 is an associate level qualification designed for those in working in, or looking to progress to, management or senior management roles in their industries. 

CIPD Level 5 qualifications are best suited for those already in HR or L&D roles who are looking to expand their professional knowledge and develop their skills further. 

What is CIPD Level 5 equivalent to?

CIPD Level 5 Diplomas are highly regarded in the HR and L&D industries and are roughly equivalent to a foundation or undergraduate degree in difficulty and skills gained.

What CIPD Level 5 qualifications are available?

There are 2 CIPD Level 5 qualifications: 

CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (Level 5) – this course will look at how to manage relationships, foster talent, guide strategic planning and reward performance in employees.
CIPD Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development (Level 5) – this option focuses on how to organise different forms of learning across your organisation to boost colleague confidence and improve performance and development.

Who should have a CIPD Level 5 qualification?

A CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma is ideal if you want to lead decisions and strategies around people management or skills development as these courses are designed to take your skills to the next level, substantiate your experience with a qualification and help you move into a senior role. 

What does CIPD Level 5 include?

With MOL Learn, CIPD Level 5 includes 24/7 access to our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Here, you will have “Topic Essentials” bitesize videos to get you started, guided activities, assessment briefings and tutor support. Depending on your study method, we also offer multiple live, interactive webinars or face to face workshops delivered by our expert topic-specialist tutors. 

How long does CIPD Level 5 take?

For our Live Online or Classroom-based learning options, a CIPD Level 5 qualification will take you around 12 months to complete. Or, with our self-paced On Demand programme, you’ll have up to 24 months to complete at your own pace.

Can I do CIPD Level 5 and work full-time?

Yes, you can complete your CIPD level 5 qualification alongside a full-time role. With MOL Learn, our programmes are designed with a range of options so you can fit your studies in around your other commitments.

On Demand offers the most flexibility with all the resources available to you 24/7 so you can study whenever you want to and progress at your own pace.

Live Online learning provides you with the option to join regular live, interactive webinars and work in groups to solve challenges and tasks while still having the same flexible access as the On Demand study option.

If you’re a business looking to upskill your team, Classroom learning is a great option.  Students will attend face-to-face sessions with tutors and peers to enhance their learning experience.

CIPD Level 5 example assignments

There are a number of assessments you’ll need to complete as part of your CIPD Level 5 qualification, some examples include:

• Evaluating the role of HR professionals by referencing the CIPD Profession Map
• Study a recent project to evaluate the project management and problem-solving techniques used
• Create, implement and review a plan for professional development.

Career Advancement Opportunities with Level 5 CIPD

Upon successful completion of your CIPD Level 5 course, you will have a globally recognised qualification. This solidifies your skills and expertise in the industry, and makes you stand out from the crowd.

Many people who completed CIPD Level 5 have access to a world of opportunities in the industry. They are recognised by employers offering higher positions. A CIPD qualification increases your value in the job market and your earning potential. 

There are many career opportunities open to those with a CIPD qualification, such as HR manager, talent manager, employee relations manager, people analyst and many more.

CIPD Level 5 vs other HR and L&D industry qualifications

CIPD has a strong focus on HR and L&D research and thought leadership. CIPD is also the leading professional HR body in the UK and internationally. 

Other HR professional courses like ATD and SHRM may not focus on the specific L&D aspects of HR, and can typically have higher fees. 

In the UK, CIPD is preferred. Similarly, many international countries prefer CIPD for their HR roles. A CIPD role can give you a wider range of career advancement opportunities and is more value for your money in terms of salary increase. 

How much does CIPD Level 5 cost?

For CIPD Level 5, prices start from £2,995 (including VAT). 

MOL offers a price match guarantee against competitor providers. 

Average Salary

A CIPD Level 5 qualification gives you opportunities for career and salary advancement. 

For a HR manager role in the SME private sector, salary ranges from £40,000 - £60,000 (£70,000 in London). For large organisations, salary ranges up to £80,000.

For more information on salary averages across a range of roles, check out our guide to average HR salaries with CIPD qualifications. 

Ready to take the next step in your professional journey with a CIPD Level 5 qualification? Get started with MOL Learn. 

Our courses are designed with you in mind so you can study how, where and when you want to. We’ve also received a Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for our excellent customer service.

Get in touch with one of our friendly Qualification Advisors to learn more about our CIPD qualifications.