Everything You Need To Know About CIPD Level 7

CIPD Level 7 is the highest Human Resources (HR) and Learning & Development (L&D) qualification available, equivalent to a postgraduate or master's degree.  

Ideal for senior professionals, this advanced diploma enables you to develop and implement strategic workplace initiatives and gain Chartered CIPD membership. 

Why CIPD Level 7?  

Did you know that between March 2022 and February 2023, HR roles requesting CIPD qualifications paid up to £4,400 more than those not specifying CIPD credentials? 

 Additionally, HR manager-level Chartered Members have the potential to earn an average of £9,900 more than those without CIPD membership. 

Completing your CIPD Advanced Diploma makes you an Associate Member of the CIPD. From there, you can aim higher, upgrading your affiliate membership to become a Chartered Member or Chartered Fellow, depending on your experience. 

CIPD Level 7 with MOL 

CIPD Level 7 is like a comprehensive toolkit for HR and L&D leaders, offering in-depth insights and practical strategies to tackle the complex challenges of today's workplace.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about completing a CIPD Level 7 with MOL: 

• Overview of CIPD Level 7 
• Benefits of the Qualification 
• Entry Requirements 
• Core Modules 
• Optional Modules 
• Cost and Inclusions 
• Duration and Study Options 
• Balancing Work and Study 
• Career Opportunities Post-Qualification 
• How to Get Started with MOL 

By the end, you'll understand how this qualification can advance your career and how to get started with MOL! 

What do you need to know about CIPD Level 7? 

What is CIPD Level 7? 

CIPD Level 7 is the most prestigious qualification you can attain as an HR or L&D professional. It’s an advanced diploma equivalent to a postgraduate/master’s degree and the only level where you can apply for Chartered CIPD membership.  

CIPD Level 7 is best suited to senior professionals who want to develop and implement high level workplace strategies. 

What does CIPD stand for in HR? 

CIPD stands for Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.  This is the professional body for HR and People development.  

What is CIPD Level 7 equivalent to? 

Level 7 qualifications are equivalent to postgraduate degrees and are the highest level of CIPD qualification you can obtain. 

What are the entry requirements for CIPD Level 7? 

There are no formal entry requirements for CIPD Level 7; however, it is ideally suited for professionals with over three years of HR experience at a strategic level.  

If you lack this experience, you might find starting with CIPD Level 5 more beneficial to build a solid foundation.  

Unsure which level is right for you? Talk to our advisors, who can help you determine the best starting point for your career based on your experience and professional goals

Progression path

CIPD qualifications are structured to support your career growth at various stages: 

Level 3 (Foundation Level): Ideal for those new to HR, providing essential operational skills for entry-level roles such as HR Assistant or L&D Practitioner. 

Level 5 (Associate Level): Designed for those with some HR experience or a relevant degree, preparing you for mid-level roles like HR Manager or L&D Advisor. 

Level 7 (Advanced Level): Targeted at experienced HR professionals ready for senior strategic positions, such as HR Director or Chief People Officer. 

Each level builds upon the previous one, ensuring comprehensive development and preparing you for the next stage in your career. 

With MOL, you can complete a CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning and Development or a CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management. 

Who should have a CIPD Level 7 qualification? 

A CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is perfect if you’re looking to become a strategic leader in your organisation or if you want to develop knowledge to help you explore innovative new areas in your business - like Technology Enhanced Learning. 

How much does CIPD Level 7 cost?

At MOL, the cost for CIPD Level 7 starts from £6,495, and this comprehensive package includes: 

• Access to our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE): Engage with course materials anytime, anywhere 
• “Topic Essentials” bitesized videos: Get started with concise, informative videos covering key topics 
• Guided Activities: Enhance your learning with structured activities designed to deepen your understanding 
• Assessment briefings: Prepare effectively for your assessments with detailed briefings 
• Tutor support: Receive guidance and support from experienced tutors throughout your course. 
• Live webinars or face-to-face workshops: Choose your preferred learning method with interactive webinars or in-person workshops for a more engaging experience. 

How long does CIPD Level 7 take?

 The duration of the CIPD Level 7 course depends on your chosen study mode:

Live Online learning

Complete your CIPD Level 7 qualification in up to 24 months (about 2 years): this structured format includes live webinars, interactive sessions, and scheduled activities, providing a more guided learning experience. 

On Demand learning

Study at your own pace with the flexibility to take up to 36 months (about 3 years) to finish the course. This option allows you to access course materials and resources anytime, enabling you to fit your studies around your personal and professional commitments. 

Choose the learning method that best suits your schedule and learning style, ensuring you can effectively balance your studies with other responsibilities. 

Can I do CIPD Level 7 and work full-time?

Yes, you can complete your CIPD Level 7 qualification alongside a full-time job. At MOL, we’ve designed a range of study options so you can fit your studies in around your other commitments. 

On Demand provides the greatest flexibility, with 24/7 access to all resources. Study at your own pace and progress according to your availability, making it easy to balance your studies with work and personal commitments! 

Live Online provides you with the option to join live webinars and participate in group activities and discussions. This option offers the structure of scheduled sessions with the flexibility to access materials online at any time, like the on-demand option. 

For businesses looking to upskill employees or teams, we offer in-person classroom sessions. These are an ideal way for colleagues to learn together in a structured environment, fostering collaboration and teamwork. 

No matter your preferred learning style, MOL has designed these options to ensure you can successfully complete your CIPD Level 7 qualification - without compromising your work commitments. 

CIPD Level 7 - core modules

Strategic People Management

The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management encompasses the following core modules:

• Work and Working Lives in a Changing Business Environment: Explore the evolving nature of work and its impact on people management strategies. Understand how globalisation, technology, and societal changes influence the workplace. 
• Personal Effectiveness, Ethics, and Business Acumen: Enhance your personal effectiveness with a focus on ethical decision-making and developing business acumen critical for strategic roles. 
• Business Research in People Practice: Acquire skills to conduct robust business research. Learn methodologies and analytical techniques to inform and drive strategic business decisions. 
• Strategic Reward Management: Gain expertise in designing and managing reward systems that align with organisational goals and motivate employees. 
• People Management and Development Strategies for Performance: Develop strategies for managing and developing people to optimise performance and achieve organisational success. 
• Resourcing and Talent Management to Sustain Success: Learn to attract, develop, and retain talent. Understand best practices in workforce planning and talent management. 
• Strategic Employment Relations: Navigate complex employment relations, including negotiation, conflict resolution, and fostering a positive workplace environment. 

Strategic Learning & Development

For those focusing on Strategic Learning & Development, the core modules are: 

• Designing Learning to Improve Performance: Learn to create effective learning interventions that directly enhance organisational performance. 
• Leadership and Management Development in Context: Develop leadership and management skills within various organisational contexts, fostering growth and innovation. 

Optional CIPD Level 7 modules

While completing your CIPD Level 7 certification, you’ll have the option to do some of the following modules: 

• Organisational Design & Development: Focus on designing effective organisational structures and processes to improve efficiency and adaptability. 
• Advanced Employment Law in Practice: Delve into complex employment law issues and their practical application in the workplace. 
• Technology Enhanced Learning: Explore the integration of technology in learning and development initiatives to enhance organisational learning capabilities. 

CIPD Level 7 example assignments

There are a number of assessments you’ll need to complete as part of your CIPD Level 7 qualification, some common examples include carrying out detailed analysis based on case studies. 

What jobs can I get with a CIPD Level 7 qualification?

Examples of career paths that will be available to you upon completing your studies include: 

• People analytics manager 
• Head of HR 
• Head of diversity and inclusion 
• Director of people 
• L&D manager 
• L&D advisor 
• L&D business partner 
• Recruitment manager 

Where can I study my CIPD Level 7?

You can pursue your CIPD Level 7 qualification entirely online, offering the flexibility to study from anywhere.  

Additionally, if your organisation is looking to upskill its team, MOL provides in-person courses at 20 locations across the UK.  

This ensures you have access to high-quality training whether you prefer the convenience of online learning or the collaborative environment of classroom sessions. 

You can study for your CIPD Level 7 completely online but if you’re an organisation looking to upskill your team, MOL can deliver this course face-to-face at a location convenient to you and your team. 

How do I get started with a CIPD Level 7?

Are you ready to start your CIPD Level 7 journey and gain the highest recognised qualification for your profession? Choose MOL for a tailored learning experience designed to fit your lifestyle.  

Our courses allow you to study how, where, and when you want, with the flexibility to accommodate your personal and professional commitments.  

MOL has been awarded the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for outstanding customer service, ensuring you receive the support you need throughout your studies.  

To get started, choose from our CIPD Level 7 courses in Strategic Learning and Development or Strategic People Management and enrol today! Our advisors will help you determine the best path forward based on your experience and career goals.