This course has several start dates throughout the year, allowing you to join at the beginning of any module. If you miss earlier modules, you can complete them at the start of the following academic year. Check the timetable tab for this year's start dates
This qualification extends and fosters a deeper level of understanding and application and naturally progresses learners' expertise in people practice. It is suited to individuals who are working in a people practice role and wish to contribute their knowledge and skills to help shape organisational value, and to those who are working towards or working in a people manager role.
As this course is a university level 5 qualification, and delivered part-time over a year, there is an expectation that learners can work independently, is able to research subjects, conduct wider reading and produce level 5 standard of work
The below fee is for the 2025/26 academic year and is subject to change.
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Course Details
This qualification is the next step from the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, and is designed to further enhance learners' ability to work independently and prepare them for more senior positions within organisations as people professionals. This is an interactive, collaborative course where learners can expect to complete in-class group activities, independent study and assignments which incorporate operational and analytical perspectives of the people profession.
At Level 5, learners are expected to analyse, interpret and evaluate relevant information, concepts and ideas, whilst understanding different perspectives, approaches or schools of thought and the reasoning behind them.
This qualification focuses on the key behaviours of people practice. The seven units cover a range of key topics including organisational culture, evidence based practice, professional behaviours, employee relationship management, employment law, talent and reward.
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Entry Guidelines
You must be 19 or over on or before 31st August to study on this course.
Relevant Level 3 qualification, such as CIPD or law, at Pass or above and a minimum of 4 GCSEs at Grade 9-4/A*- C, including GCSE English and maths, or equivalent.
If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.
Applicants who do not hold a relevant Level 3 qualification may also be considered based on their previous experience and existing knowledge. This may include operational managers who have managed people or dealt with HR-related matters, junior HR colleagues with a sound understanding of the wider people practice environment, or applicants with no direct HR experience who have completed a relevant qualification such as Law.
As this course is a university level programme (level 5) and is delivered over 34 weeks on a part-time basis, there is an expectation that you are able to study independently and have the ability to work autonomously. This includes the ability to seek resources, research your ideas, apply your knowledge and complete assignments to level 5 standards. -
Where can I progress to?
Successful achievement of the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management will allow progression onto the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management or the CIPD Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Learning and Development.
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Timetable
One evening per week.
Upcoming start dates:
19/10/2026
30/11/2026
11/01/2027
22/02/2027
22/03/2027
17/05/2027
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Assessment Methods
Assignment based assessment.
If you're not eligible to study for free, the cost of this course is:
£1724.00
Abbey Schofield
CIPD Level 5
