5 Steps to Get a CIPD Qualification

If you’ve been browsing HR job boards lately, you’ve likely seen the acronym CIPD appear in almost every “Required Qualifications” section. In the UK and internationally, it’s widely considered the gold standard for anyone serious about a career in people management. But what exactly is it, and how do you actually get those letters after your name? Here are the 5 Steps to Get a CIPD Qualification.

What is a CIPD Qualification?

A CIPD qualification is a professional certification awarded by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. It isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a specialised professional license for the “People Profession.” It covers the essential pillars of modern business: recruitment, employment law, organizational strategy, and employee well-being.

Why does it matter?

• Credibility: It proves to employers that you have the technical knowledge to handle complex, high-risk HR issues.
• Earning Power: Statistics consistently show that CIPD-qualified professionals command higher salaries and are fast-tracked for promotions.
• Professional Status: Once you qualify, you gain the right to use designations like Assoc CIPD on your LinkedIn and business cards.

Choosing the Right Level for You

The CIPD offers three distinct levels. To choose the right one, you need to match your current experience with your future goals:

CIPD Level 3: Foundation Certificate

Equivalent to: A-Level standard or High School graduation. Best for: Freshers, HR Administrators, Line Managers, those qualified by experience but looking for a formal certificate, or those switching careers from a different industry. It focuses on the “how-to” of HR, such as professional behaviours, analytics together with supporting recruitment, ER, performance management, reward, and training.

CIPD Level 5: Associate Diploma

Equivalent to: An Undergraduate degree. Best for: Current HR Professionals looking to move into management. This level dives into the “why” behind HR policies and focuses on organizational performance and leadership.

CIPD Level 7: Advanced Diploma

Equivalent to: A Master’s degree. Best for: Senior leaders, HR Directors, and strategic consultants. This level is highly academic and focuses on high-level business strategy and leading change across global organisations.

How to Get a CIPD Qualification: 5 Steps

1. Identify Your Specialism

Decide if you want to focus on People Management (Generalist HR) or Learning and Development (L&D). While Level 3 provides a broad base for both, Levels 5 and 7 allow you to specialize in the area that interests you most.

2. Choose a Study Provider

The CIPD doesn’t teach the courses themselves; they authorise “Study Centres” to do so. You have several ways to learn:

• Online/On-Demand: Maximum flexibility for those working full-time.
• Blended Learning: A mix of virtual workshops and independent study.
• Apprenticeships: Many employers now fund CIPD qualifications as part of an apprenticeship, allowing you to “earn while you learn.”

3. Register as a Student Member

To start your course, you must join the CIPD as a Student Member. This provides access to the “Knowledge Hub,” a massive library of research and templates that you will need to pass your assignments.

4. Complete the Assessments

The CIPD focuses on practical application rather than memorisation. Most courses are assignment-based rather than exam-based. You will be asked to complete reports, case studies, and projects—for example, “Develop a strategy to reduce employee turnover in a tech startup.”

5. Achieve Your Designation

Once you pass your final module, you’ll receive your certificate. You can then upgrade your membership, officially joining a global network of over 160,000 professionals.

Is it worth it in 2026?

With the rise of AI and the shift toward flexible, remote-first work cultures, the “human” side of business has never been more complex. A CIPD qualification ensures you aren’t just “doing HR” by instinct, but are driving business value through evidence-based practice.

Pro Tip: Check if your employer has a training or development budget. Most companies are happy to fund a CIPD course because the knowledge you bring back—especially regarding employment law—can save them significant legal costs. In the UK your employer can get your fees paid for through an apprenticeship at Levels 3 and 5.  

Explore Bradfield’s CIPD Courses

• CIPD Level 3 HR Courses: The CIPD Level 3 Certificate in People Practice is ideal for anyone looking to start a career in either HR or Learning and Development.  
• CIPD Level 5 HR Courses: The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management will help you build on your existing HR knowledge.  
• CIPD Level 5 L&D Courses: The CIPD Level 5 Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development is the most comprehensive course available for L&D professionals, ideal for you if you want to formalise your existing experience, skills and knowledge.  
• CIPD Level 7 HR Courses: The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is aimed at expanding learners’ autonomy so they can strategically direct organisations and their people.
• CIPD Level 7 L&D Courses: The CIPD Level 7 L&D Advanced Diploma is aimed to learn how to design your organisation for optimum success, develop your leaders and managers, and create a learning culture to accelerate people’s careers.

To learn about our professional CIPD training courses, our management and personal skills training, contact Bradfield’s support team, check our CIPD Qualification FAQs, or give us a call at +44 020 7977 9200, or alternatively, follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to stay up-to-date.