Completing a CIPD qualification will advance your learning in HR or L&D and is the most frequent route into CIPD membership.

Why study for a qualification

Recognised and requested by employers

CIPD qualifications are recognised by employers as a global standard of excellence. They're seen as a commitment to developing your future and show the profession you value knowledge and ethical practice.

Studying a CIPD qualification also puts you in increasingly high demand. As of February 2023, CIPD qualifications ranked the 10th-most requested certification amongst all job posts – putting demand ahead of that for an MBA.   In the last year alone, the number of jobs requesting CIPD qualifications has grown by 115% compared to 10 years ago.

A boost to your earning potential

Lightcast™ industry and occupation data for the United Kingdom show that people professionals with a CIPD qualification could earn on average +12% more than those without. HR roles requesting CIPD qualifications, across all levels, pay up to +£4,400 (16%) more than those that don’t. And a CIPD qualification increases your salary potential for HR admin level roles by up to +£5,600.

Underpinned by the Profession Map

All the CIPD qualifications are grounded in the Profession Map, the international standard for the people profession. It sets out the knowledge, values and behaviours required for people professionals to make their greatest impact and thrive in a changing world of work. 

A route to CIPD membership

After enrolling onto a CIPD qualification, you will be invited to join as a Student Member, joining a thriving community of over 20,000 students worldwide. 

Once you have completed your qualification, you will be rewarded with either Foundation or Associate Membership of the CIPD, a badge of professionalism that’s internationally recognised and a showcase to your knowledge and impact as a people professional 

Depending on your experience you can then progress on to Chartered Membership or Chartered Fellowship. 

Benefits of CIPD membership include access to invaluable tools and resources that will support you in your day-to-day work and help you continue your professional development to achieve your career goals. 

The gateway to a vibrant international community of people professionals

You'll join one of the most vibrant and engaging communities of people professionals. From local branches to online community forums there are lots of opportunities to connect with peers to share experience and learn from each other.

Find the qualification
for you

Learn more about foundation, associate and advanced qualifications or CIPD accredited university programmes. 

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How
to enrol

Find out about the qualification enrolment process and how CIPD Student Membership can support your studies 

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Discover the value
of CIPD

Did you know that CIPD membership and qualifications make you more in-demand and increase your salary potential?

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