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11 January 2021 - 3 min read
The CIPD have launched their new 2021 qualifications. In this blog we explore the changes, CIPD levels and different routes through.
If you have completed or are currently studying on a CIPD course, your qualification is just as relevant and recognised by employers as ever.
CIPD Level 3: Foundation
Award: 1 module
Certificate: 6 modules: 6-8 months
Diploma: 8 modules: 8-10 months
Equivalent to A-level
CIPD Level 5: Intermediate
Award: 1 module
Certificate: 6 modules: 6-8 months
Diploma: 8 modules: 8-10 months
Equivalent to undergraduate degree level
CIPD Level 7: Advanced
Award: 1 module
Certificate: 4 modules: 10-12 months
Diploma: 8 modules: two years
Equivalent to master’s level
The 2021 New CIPD qualifications are more streamlined with just one size of qualification at each level. As a result you can no longer work towards individual CIPD accredited Awards nor complete a Certificate then top-up to the Diploma later. If you have (or are working towards) the existing Level 7 Certificate, please contact us about what to do to top-up to the 2021 Diploma.
Introductory - A Level Equivalent
A practical entry-level qualification in People Management, perfect if you are:
Funding options
Undergraduate - Degree Equivalent
Combines application of skills with exploring theory and research. An ideal level for those:
Funding options
Postgraduate - Masters Equivalent
This postgraduate advanced-level qualification is designed for those who satisfy at least one of the following criteria:
Funding options
Undergraduate - Degree Equivalent
This qualification combines the application of skills with the exploration of theory and research, ideal if you:
Funding options
Postgraduate - Masters equivalent
This postgraduate advanced-level qualification is perfect for those who fulfil at least one of the following criteria:
Funding options
There are still written assessments at each level which are set by the CIPD, often in the form of a report. The idea is that they look a little like a document you might submit to senior leadership to put forward a recommendation on a new idea or system.
At level 3 and 5 these written assessments follow the learning objectives for the module. Whereas at level 7 the learning objectives are more intertwined throughout the assessment.
The CIPD Level 3 no longer includes practical in class assessments. If you study with Acacia we will still give you the opportunity to will work with your tutor and peers to perfect these skills in a safe environment.
At Level 7 you will no longer have to complete the two national exams, this content is now covered via assignment work. There is however still a 7000-word research project on an aspect of HR or L&D of your choice.
There have now been two iterations of the CIPD levels and qualifications. The first was made in 2010, a year after the original CIPD profession map was launched. The 2021 changes have now been made two years after an updated profession map. However, all previous versions of the qualifications are of no less value and this is how they compare:
Level 5 and 7 CIPD options did not exist prior to 2010 so (if like me) you studied some time ago you will have either the CPP or CTP.
Within their 2021 qualifications the CIPD has removed the option to choose the size of the course at each level. As a result you can no longer choose between an Award, Certificate or Diploma. However, for those currently studying this is what it all meant:
Award: bite-size qualifications designed to build a specific skill or update knowledge. This was also suitable for those who were not a in a position to commit to a full qualification.
Certificate: a certificate was six modules at Level 3 and 5 and four modules at Level 7. This size of qualification is will cover the core skills you need for a career in HR or learning and development.
Diploma: this is the most comprehensive option where you will take eight modules to cover the full spectrum of skills needed for a highly successful career.
We’re so excited at Acacia to be one of the first providers to be approved for the new CIPD qualifications. For more information about the different CIPD levels, speak with one of our Course Advisors. They will talk through your experience and expectations, offering advice on which is the best qualification to get you where you want to be. Click here to contact us.
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