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CIPD programme FAQs

If you can't find the answer you're looking for in our FAQs below, feel free to get in touch with us on 020 7932 2760 for more information. 

Why should I gain a CIPD qualification?

Over 75% of advertised HR positions require candidates to hold CIPD membership. According to an Economic Impact Assessment of the Consultative Committee for Professional Management Organisations (study by London Economics), professional qualifications and membership of a professional organisation lead to an increased likelihood of employment. The same research also found that the lifetime benefit of a professional qualification is approximately £80,000. The HR profession is increasingly seen as an attractive, long-term career option. However, competition for the best jobs and highest salaries continues to increase, particularly with the deregulation of markets and the widening of the EU. To advance in your chosen career within such a competitive market, it is important that you grasp that professional qualifications and proof of competency are now a “must have”.

Which level of qualification should I choose?

More than 75% of the HR jobs advertised now require candidates to hold CIPD membership.

Level 3: Our CIPD Foundation programmes offer an introduction into the fundamentals of the operational HR or Learning & Development (L&D) function. They are intended for those working in an HR or L&D support role who may wish to further develop their knowledge and skills. Typical candidates are HR Administrators, those who have HR responsibilities as part of a wider role and anyone wishing to enter the HR profession.

What is the difference between an Award, Certificate or Diploma?

All three levels of qualifications are made up of units or modules.  A single unit or module equates to an Award.  As each of these has a credit value, candidates can achieve a Certificate or Diploma through selecting from a range of units or modules, to the required number of credits.

How do I know whether a Certificate or a Diploma is more appropriate for me?

The choice depends on your current role, your existing qualifications, past experience, and also on your personal learning and career goals.  Credits gained from an Award can be carried forward to a Certificate at the same level and credits gained from an Award and Certificate can be carried forward to a Diploma at the same level.  To discuss your individual requirements, please call 020 7932 2760 and speak to an expert adviser.

How are your programmes delivered? What does Mixed Mode mean?

In the main, candidates will gain their qualification through the construction of a portfolio which demonstrates their knowledge, experience and competence against the required CIPD learning outcomes.

Through the completion of storyboard templates and the gathering of  work-based, or activity/assignment based evidence, candidates cover the various criteria for their qualification. The stronger your evidence the less narrative you will need to produce. 'Evidence' can be in the form of letters, emails and documents such as policies that demonstrate what you do in your role on a day to day basis. Evidence must be within the last 2-3 years maximum. All narrative and evidence should be in electronic format where possible.

As a mixed mode provider we utilise a range of delivery and assessment methods to cover the criteria of the programme in a way that best suits you as an individual. Examples of these methods include:

• One-to-one meetings with a qualified adviser (offices throughout the UK)
• Flexible meeting dates and times to fit in with your work and personal commitments
• Group-based learning within facilitated workshops
• Unlimited support via telephone and e-mail
• Remote programmes available for overseas candidates – support via webcam (Skype) available
• Recommended reading guidance and specifically designed handouts

I have already completed some level of CIPD qualification; what impact will this have?

This will depend upon which level of qualification you have already achieved and the level you are hoping to now undertake. The CIPD can confirm the details they have on your student record. To request this, either send us your membership number and date of birth or contact the CIPD membership team directly.

When do your programmes start?

The individually tailored nature of our programmes means that, with the exception of our workshop delivery, you can start at the most convenient time for you. Workshop based programmes will have predetermined dates.

Are there payment options available?

For those funding the programme themselves, we are able to offer flexible payment options to ease financial pressures. This is agreed on an individual basis subsequent to final fee quotation.

How do I register? What are the next steps?

We would be delighted to arrange a free, no obligation, consultation meeting with you to answer any further queries and to establish which qualification and delivery method is going to work best for you. To schedule this appointment, or to make any further enquiries, please call 020 7932 2760, or alternatively contact us via e-mail at leanne.bucknor@reed.co.uk.

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