Career-ready HR Skills
Get CIPD qualified for just £84/month with an Interest-free payment plan
Our CIPD pass rate is 93%†
Get Your Free CIPD Course Guide
What Our Students Say About Studying a CIPD Course
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Whether you’re new to HR, aiming for a promotion, switching careers, or want to bring postgraduate-level knowledge to your role, CIPD HR training with us is the first step to achieving your career goals.
CIPD Level 3
Foundation Certificate in People Practice
Who is it for?
Perfect for HR beginners starting their career
Average salary:
Average salary: £22,000 - £30,000‡
Career path:
Qualify for entry-level roles like HR Assistant or HR Administrator
Start anytime
with personalised support
Learn 100% online
at your own pace
Looking to launch a rewarding career in Human Resources (HR) or Learning and Development (L&D)? This online CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice will help you get there, on your terms.
‘The tutors were an absolute dream and took all the stress I was feeling out of the work I had to do. They took their time to listen to me and to explain, I never felt rushed and always felt that I could call them again should I need to.’
– Patricia Knott
'Thanks to ICS Learn I have been able to begin my journey and learn so much about the field.'
– Heather Donaldson
'I'm pleased to say that I was able to manage my time effectively and that the self-paced nature of the course allowed me to fit my studies around my existing schedule with no concerns.'
– Katie Nicholas
'When I started studying... I was an HR Administrator with no experience, however, studying with ICS Learn has helped me progress to Business Partner level (with an additional salary increase) in a short period of time.'
– Charlotte Bendell-Dixon
CIPD Level 3 Course FAQs
The CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice is an entry-level qualification aimed at people who are looking to start a career in Human Resources (HR) or Learning and Development (L&D).
It's suitable for beginners who have little or no experience working in HR or L&D roles, making it a popular choice for those looking to switch careers and gain an entry-level role in the people profession.
The CIPD Level 3 course, it's the first qualification that most HR and L&D professionals
study, providing a strong foundation of essential knowledge to build your career on.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
Human Resources (HR) is a vital department within organisations, responsible for managing the entire employee lifecycle, from recruitment to retirement.
HR professionals ensure that businesses attract, develop, and retain the best talent while cultivating a positive work culture in alignment with legal compliance. Some key responsibilities of HR teams include:
- Recruitment and Hiring: Attracting, interviewing, and selecting top talent for available roles.
- Employee Relations: Managing workplace relationships and ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations.
- Training and Development: Offering employees opportunities for professional growth and skills enhancement.
- Performance Management: Evaluating employee performance, providing feedback, and aligning individual goals with organisational objectives.
- Compensation and Benefits: Overseeing employee salaries, bonuses, and benefit programs to ensure competitiveness.
- Workforce Planning: Ensuring that the organisation has the right people in the right roles, addressing any skills gaps.
HR is essential to maintaining a productive workforce, enhancing employee engagement, and aligning people strategies with business goals.
If you're looking to advance your career in HR, our online CIPD HR courses will give you the skills you need to succeed in the people profession.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
While HR focuses on managing the overall employee lifecycle, including recruitment, performance, and compliance, L&D specifically concentrates on developing employees' skills, knowledge, and career growth through training and learning initiatives.
L&D professionals design and implement strategies that foster a culture of continuous learning and development within the workforce. For example, core areas of L&D include:
- Training Design and Delivery: Creating and implementing effective training programs that align with organisational goals and employee growth.
- Learning Strategies: Developing approaches to enhance skills across different teams, ensuring the right learning opportunities are available.
- Employee Development: Identifying and nurturing employees' potential for career growth, ensuring they are equipped for future roles.
- Performance Improvement: Evaluating and enhancing employee performance through targeted training and development initiatives.
- Organisational Development: Implementing strategies to improve overall organisational effectiveness through learning and training.
As businesses continue to prioritise employee engagement and growth, L&D is becoming increasingly vital to creating a high-performing workforce.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
Right away! When you enrol, you’ll be able to log in within 60 minutes.
On average it will take you between 7 and 9 months to study the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, based on a typical study schedule of a few hours a week.
However, keep in mind that how long it takes you to complete your CIPD Level 3 course comes down to how much time you can dedicate to studying in a week and whether you choose to study On Demand or Live Online.
On Demand allows you to work through the course at your own pace, on your own time. With Live Online, however, you'll be expected to attend set live-streamed workshops and set your personal study schedule between them.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
The online CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate is split into four critical modules, where you'll develop the fundamental knowledge and skills you need to begin your HR career:
- Business, Culture and Change in Context: you'll explore how HR and L&D professionals influence work and employees in different ways. You'll also look at how digital and commercial environments impact businesses, the importance of project planning and how employee behaviour can shape workplace culture.
- Essentials of People Practice: you'll look at the fundamental principles and functions of the people profession (ie. Human Resources and Learning & Development), as well as legislation and policy. You'll explore areas such as the recruitment process, diversity and inclusion and managing employees.
- Core Behaviours for People Professionals: examines the key behaviours that are expected from professionals working in HR and L&D roles. Throughout this module, you'll explore how ethical practice can create value and how ethical principles can be applied to various customer-focused business approaches. You'll also learn how to evaluate and reflect on contemporary, professional ethical values.
- Principles of Analytics: you'll discover how evidence-based practice motivates business outcomes and learn how data analytics is used to inform decision-making within an organisational.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
On Demand
Live Online
£117/month interest-free*
Payments
12 months
Deposit
£99
Total Price
£1,499
CIPD Level 5
Associate Diploma in People Management
- Who is it for?
Perfect if you have some HR experience or a degree - Average salary:
Average salary: £32,000 - £70,000‡ - Career path:
Qualify for entry-level roles like HR Assistant or HR Administrator - Start anytime
with personalised support - Learn 100% online
at your own pace
Looking for a mid-level HR role? The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is designed for those who have some experience with HR duties or have a non-HR degree and want to begin their studies at a higher level.
‘I highly recommend ICS Learn. The support and materials enabled me to complete an 18-month qualification in 6 months, and I secured a job as HR Manager for a national brand.’
– Ashley Phillips
'I have already gained several interviews and the wage expectations are higher due to this alone. So I am extremely hopeful for the future.'
– Tessa Stocks
'I researched a few providers, but I kept returning to the ICS Learn. They seemed to be market leaders, and offered the flexible approach I needed.'
– Paul Whittle
'Just enroling has been enough to prove to my employer that I'm serious about improving my skills and gaining more knowledge. The course has also helped me in my current position...and I was also informed...that I was being considered for an internal promotion.'
– Inayah Balikouzou
CIPD Level 5 Course FAQs
HR Management (Human Resource Management) is the strategic approach to managing people in an organisation. It focuses on recruiting, developing, and retaining employees while ensuring a positive workplace culture and aligning workforce strategies with business goals.
A career in HR Management involves key responsibilities such as:
- Recruitment & Talent Acquisition: Attracting and selecting the right candidates.
- Employee Relations: Managing workplace culture, conflict resolution, and engagement.
- Performance Management: Evaluating and improving employee productivity.
- Learning & Development (L&D): Upskilling employees to enhance performance.
- Compensation & Benefits: Designing fair and competitive reward structures.
- HR Strategy & Workforce Planning: Aligning HR practices with business objectives.
- Employment Law & Compliance: Ensuring policies meet legal and ethical standards.
The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is ideal if you have some HR experience or a relevant degree and want to progress into mid-level HR management roles, such as HR Manager, HR Business Partner, or People & Culture Lead.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
The CIPD Level 5 qualification is not equivalent to an HR degree, but it's considered to be equivalent to an undergraduate qualification in terms of difficulty as it's academically challenging and requires critical thinking.
This makes the CIPD Associate Diploma an excellent option for those looking to advance their HR career without committing to a full degree programme!
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
When studying for a CIPD Level 5 HR Diploma, you'll study three specialist (pathway) units, which include:
- Employment Relationship Management
- Talent Management and Workforce Planning
- Reward for Performance and Contribution
You'll also choose one elective module to study from the following list:
- Specialist Employment Law
- Advances in Digital Learning and Development
- Learning and Development Essentials
- People Management in an International Context
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- Leadership and Management Development
- Wellbeing at Work
We recommend choosing your elective modules based on an area of human resources that you have a professional interest in.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
Once you've completed the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, you'll be qualified to apply for a range of HR management and mid-level positions, including:
- HR Advisor
- HR Analyst
- HR Officer
- Talent Advisor
- Recruitment Advisor
- DEI Specialist
- HR Group Advisor
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
Right away! When you enrol, you’ll be able to log in to your course and get started within an hour.
Please keep in mind that while our On Demand study option allows you to work through the course at your own pace, with Live Online you'll be expected to attend scheduled online workshops per unit of study.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
On Demand
Live Online
£162/month interest-free*
Payments
20 months
Deposit
£159
Total Price
£3,399
CIPD Level 7
Foundation Certificate in People Practice
- Who is it for?
Perfect for experienced HR professionals and HR graduates - Average salary:
£65,000 - £150,000‡ - Career path:
Qualify for entry-level roles like HR Assistant or HR Administrator - Start anytime
with personalised support - Learn 100% online
at your own pace
Eyeing a strategic senior HR role? The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management is designed for those with substantial HR experience or an HR degree who are ready to take on postgraduate-level study.
‘You feel the tutors’ passion, enthusiasm and knowledge. It's not a case of passing the assignments, it's about really developing your skills and equipping you to put them into practice.’
– Will Russell
'I find the tutor support helpful and quick to respond to any queries or concerns I might have. I also find assessment feedback to be constructive and useful and again...provided in a timely manner.'
– Carys Jones
'I am so grateful to ICS Learn - they have made the CIPD Level 7 course accessible for me both financially and [flexibly]...I am able to fit it in around my full-time work and my life.'
– David Eldridge
'I would absolutely recommend ICS Learn. The flexibility and support you receive from them is fantastic. They support you in every way possible and they strive to ensure you pass your units first time.'
– Rachel Elizabeth
CIPD Level 7 Course FAQs
As the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management is equivalent to post-graduate study in difficulty, and it's the most challenging and prestigious HR qualification that the CIPD offers. It's also one of the most fulfilling!
The CIPD Level 7 is the most advanced HR training qualification, focusing on strategic, high-level HR practices.
Unlike CIPD Level 3, which introduces foundational concepts, and CIPD Level 5 in HR, which develops intermediate skills and strategic awareness, CIPD Level 7 delves into complex topics like organisational design, advanced employment law, and global people management. It requires critical thinking, independent research, and the ability to provide strategic solutions to business challenges, making it ideal for senior professionals and leaders.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
How long it takes you to complete a CIPD Level 7 qualification depends on how much time you can dedicate to studying, and whether you choose the On Demand or Live Online study option.
However, for most of our students, the online CIPD Level 7 HR course typically takes 18 to 24 months to complete while working full-time.
To give you complete flexibility, we offer a generous 30-month support period, allowing you to study at your own pace and balance your learning with work and other commitments.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
Technically, yes! However, we don't advise enrolling on the CIPD Level 7 course without previous experience.
The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management is one of the most prestigious HR training qualifications that you can study in HR management. Globally recognised by employers, it commands a great deal of respect and credibility in the HR industry.
As the CIPD Level 7 course is equivalent to a post-graduate degree in difficulty, we recommend that you have at least one of the following to study the qualification:
- Considerable experience working in an HR role
- Senior managerial experience that involved a broad range of HR elements
- An HR degree or relevant qualification (e.g., the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma)
As well as meeting any of the above criteria, you'll need to be able to demonstrate that you can speak and write in English to a high level.
If English is your second language, we recommend that you have an IELTS 6.0/TOEFL 79/Cambridge Grade C or equivalent. We're happy to review your case on an individual basis if you're unsure though.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
If you’re funding the course yourself, our flexible 0% payment plans allow you to spread the cost with interest-free* monthly instalments.
Plus, with our price match guarantee, we’ll match any provider’s price for a like-for-like CIPD course, so you’ll always get the best deal with us.
If your employer is funding all or part of your course, we can invoice them directly for your course fees – just let your course advisor know and we’ll arrange everything.
We also accept funding through ELCAS for this course. If you’re an Armed Forces member looking to use the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme, speak to our course advisors for more details.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
As an ICS Learn student, you'll always have the support you need to succeed. From the moment you enrol, you'll gain access to:
- Our all-in-one virtual learning platform, mystudyspace
- Access to all of your interactive online course materials
- Online Induction Programme and AI-led videos
- FREE online study planners
- Personalised tutor support
- Access to our Resource Library, full of tools, tips and guidance
- Live biannual Employment Law updates to keep you informed
- Our friendly Student Services team to help you with non-academic questions
You'll also have lifetime access to our Career Hub, which offers you thousands of resources to help you impress employers, master critical business skills, and build your dream career. This includes:
- A CV and cover letter builder
- An interview simulator
- An elevator pitch builder
- Career and work psychology assessments
- In-depth industry and employer profiles
- 350+ employer films with practical advice from hiring managers
- 1000+ short courses, articles and videos on key career skills like negotiating a raise and leading a team
You can take a sneak peek at the Career Hub and sign up for free today.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
On Demand
Live Online
£210/month interest-free*
Payments
30 months
Deposit
£199
Total Price
£6,499
Our flexible study options
Study CIPD 100% online, either On Demand or Live Online. With 24/7 course access and expert support, you'll develop your HR career at your own pace, on your terms.
On Demand
Learn 100% online from anywhere, anytime
Live Online
Expert-led live-streamed workshops
CIPD HR Course FAQs
A career in Human Resources (HR) is more than just managing people – it’s about shaping workplace culture, driving business success, and making a real difference in employees' lives.
HR professionals are in high demand across all industries, offering strong career progression, job security, and competitive salaries. Whether you're passionate about recruitment, employee development, or workplace strategy, HR allows you to work in a dynamic, people-focused field.
Here’s why HR is a great career choice:
- High earning potential: Salaries range from £26,000 for entry-level HR roles to £75,000+ for senior HR leaders.
- Diverse career paths: From HR Business Partner to Chief People Officer, you can specialise in areas like L&D, talent acquisition, or employee relations.
- Strong job market: HR professionals are essential to every business, creating a stable and rewarding career path.
- Make a real impact: Shape company policies, improve employee well-being, and drive organisational success.
With a CIPD qualification, you'll gain the skills and credibility to unlock exciting opportunities and fast-track your career in HR. Whether you're just starting out or looking to step up, we make it easy to get qualified 100% online, with expert support every step of the way.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is the world’s leading professional body for Human Resources (HR) and Learning & Development (L&D), setting the global standard for people development.
With 160,000+ members worldwide, CIPD is the only organisation that grants Chartered status to HR and L&D professionals. Every year, over 25,000 learners study a CIPD HR or L&D course to advance their careers. Employers also highly value CIPD accreditation, with the majority of roles in the people profession requiring CIPD training.
Whether you're starting out or aiming for leadership, a CIPD-accredited qualification can help you:
- Boost your CV and stand out to top employers
- Unlock new career opportunities and promotions
- Increase your earning potential
- Gain confidence and credibility in your HR expertise
Start your CIPD journey today and study at your own pace, 100% online.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
No matter where you are in your career, there's a CIPD course that's perfect for you!
- CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate: Ideal if you’re new to HR or working in a support role and want to build essential knowledge and skills.
- CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma: Best for those with some HR experience who want to move into advisory or management roles.
- CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma – Designed for experienced HR professionals aiming for strategic or director-level positions.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
With 10,000+ independent reviews rating us 'Excellent' on Trustpilot, we think our students say it best – and we’re proud to be the UK’s most trusted CIPD centre! We're the most experienced too. Backed by 130 years in flexible distance learning, we know what it takes to help you succeed.
We’re committed to flexible, career-focused learning that fits your life. With self-paced learning, extended study periods, and expert support, we make it easy to gain your CIPD qualification, no matter what life throws at you!
That’s why thousands of HR professionals choose us every year: to develop the skills they need for the careers they want.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
Switching to a career in HR? No problem.
The CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice is the perfect starting point – and there's no prior HR experience or knowledge required. It’s designed to help career changers build essential skills and break into the HR or L&D industry with confidence.
However, if you already have a bachelor's or master's degree, you may be eligible to fast-track your studies and start at the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma instead.
To explore the best route for you, speak with one of our expert CIPD Course Advisors today.
Questions about a CIPD Course?
Our Course Advisors are here to help
People love learning with us –
just ask our students.
- 130+ years of experience in education
- A trusted CIPD centre for over 30 years
- On Demand and Live Online CIPD study options
- 93% pass rate across all our CIPD courses
Benefit from expert-led tutor support with industry experts
We make your career goals more affordable than ever
Interest-Free Payment Plans*
Spread the cost of your studies into manageable monthly instalments at no extra cost.
Easy Employer Invoicing
If your employer is paying for all or part of your course, we can invoice them directly.
No Third-Party Financing
No hidden fees, no delays. Everything is managed by us so your career development stays simple and stress-free.
We’ll match any online CIPD provider’s price, so you can enjoy flexible learning with us at the best value.
Trusted by global organisations to build world-class professionals and teams.
Why study CIPD?
- Gain gold standard HR and L&D training
- Develop top-tier HR or L&D skills
- Land your next HR or L&D role
- Boost your salary and career prospects
- Build a career you love
Benefit from expert-led tutor support with industry experts
Rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot from 10,000+ independant reviews
Study On Demand or Live Online! Choose full flexibility or add structure with one live-streamed workshop per unit – whatever suits your learning style.
We’ve been a leading CIPD provider for 30 years. We're also the world's most experienced distance learning provider, with 130+ years of helping people achieve their career goals.
*Any offer of credit is made by ICS Learn and subject to your status and eligibility.
‡Salary averages are referenced from Hays UK Salary & Recruiting Trends (2025).
†93% pass rate based on 9,266 assignments achieving a pass in 2023.
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International Correspondence Schools Limited is a company incorporated and registered in Scotland under company number SC434382. Our registered office at ICS Learn Limited, 7 West Nile Street, Glasgow, G1 2PR. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – Firm Reference Number: 726654.