CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management with Work Experience

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Introduction

Are you an HR professional seeking to advance your career and believe that an official qualification with further work experience will help you stand out in the competitive HR field? This programme covers essential topics like employee relations, talent management, and employment law, equipping you with the expertise needed to secure senior HR roles.

Enhance your HR career with our CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, now with guaranteed work experience to boost your practical skills.

This CIPD Associate Diploma course is ideal for HR professionals with existing HR experience or those who have completed a CIPD Level 3 qualification and are ready to progress into roles such as HR Advisor, HR Business Partner, or HR Manager.

If you’ve already completed a CIPD Level 3 course, you can start your work experience either at the beginning or the end of this programme, as your foundational knowledge satisfies the requirements for HR work experience.

Our CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management course builds on your understanding of key areas like people management, workforce planning, and specialist employment law. You’ll learn to manage positive working relationships, apply evidence-based practices, and develop collaborative strategies for improving organisational performance.

As a globally recognised qualification, the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management provides you with a prestigious CIPD qualification. Upon completing the course, you can use the designation ‘Associate CIPD’. This provides an edge in the competitive HR field, especially for mid-level HR positions.

This flexible online course is delivered through our industry-leading platform, featuring interactive course materials, scheduled live sessions, and ongoing tutor support. This includes a comprehensive career support programme, including tailored guidance on creating your CV, LinkedIn, and cover letter. You’ll also get 4-16 weeks of remote work experience with leading companies, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 5 in England and Northern Ireland. Credit and Qualifications Framework (CQFW) Level 5 in Wales. Comparable to Level 7 in Ireland, Level 9 in Scotland, Level 5 European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

To receive a mark on your CIPD course, you must register for a CIPD Student Membership, which is not included in the course fee. Visit the CIPD Membership Fees for information on the current annual student membership fee.

Course code

5N8Q

Location

Varies

Price

£3995

Syllabus

5CO01: Organisational Performance and Culture in Practice

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the connections between organisational structure and strategy and the business operating environment.

  • Understand organisational priorities, how to interpret theories and what drives change.

  • Understand how to build diversity and inclusion.

  • Understand how people practice connects and supports wider strategies.

5CO02: Evidence-Based Practice

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the methods re-applied to diagnose challenges and opportunities.

  • Understand critical thinking and how different ethical perspectives can influence decisions.

  • Understand the benefits and risks of solutions for improving people practice issues.

  • Understand how to measure the impact people practice makes on organisations.

5CO03: Professional Behaviours and Valuing People

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand how to champion inclusive and collaborative strategies.

  • Understand how to design and evaluate solutions for positive working relationships.

  • Understand how the role of a people professional is evolving.

  • Understand how to assess your strengths, weaknesses, and development areas.

5HR01: Employment Relationship Management

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand how to develop practices aimed at supporting better working lives.

  • Understand how to differentiate between employee involvement and participation.

  • Understand emerging trends in conflict, mediation, and arbitration.

  • Understand performance, disciplinary and grievance matters.

  • Understand employment law and the types of employee representation.

5HR02: Talent Management and Workforce Planning

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand labour market trends and their significance for workforce planning.

  • Understand the impact of a changing labour market on resourcing decisions.

  • Understand supporting succession and contingency planning.

  • Understand turnover and retention trends and how organisations build talent pools.

  • Understand the importance of managing contractual arrangements and onboarding.

5HR03: Reward for Performance and Contribution

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the principles of reward and how policies and practices are implemented.

  • Understand how people and organisational performance impact approaches to reward.

  • Understand how data can be gathered, measured, and used in benchmarking.

  • Understand how to develop reward packages and the legislative requirements that impact them.

  • Understand the role of people practice in supporting managers to make reward judgements.

5OS06: Leadership and Management Development

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the relevance of leadership and management and the knowledge, skills and behaviours required.

  • Understand a range of different learning and development initiatives in developing leaders and managers.

  • Understand the effectiveness of leadership and management development initiatives.

Exams

No exams. There are seven end-of-module assignments on which you’ll be assessed. Your tutor will mark this for you to revise before submitting it to CIPD, and you have three attempts at passing it.

Modules: 7 (3 core, 3 specialist, 1 optional)

Number of assessments: 7

UCAS Points: 42 Credits

Eligibility

The CIPD Level 5 Career Academy with Work Experience programme is ideal if you have little HR experience or have completed the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice. If you’re aiming to move into mid-level HR roles like HR Manager, HR Business Partner, or Talent Manager, this programme will equip you with the skills, knowledge, and experience that employers are looking for.

You must have a strong interest in HR and people management, but formal qualifications are not always necessary. We recommend speaking with our CIPD Specialist to confirm your eligibility and explore your best study path.

Additional Benefits​

As part of our CIPD Level 5 Career Academy with Work Experience, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits designed to support your professional growth and career progression:

  • Guaranteed remote work experience
    Gain valuable hands-on HR experience with established companies, working remotely for 4-16 weeks. This flexible arrangement can be part-time or full-time based on your availability.

  • High chance of job offers from host companies
    1 in 4 students typically receive a job offer from their work experience host, providing a significant opportunity to secure long-term employment.

  • Professional CV, LinkedIn, and cover letter writing services
    Stand out to prospective employers with a professionally crafted CV, optimised LinkedIn profile, and personalised cover letter, all guided by our writing experts to highlight your strengths and qualifications.

  • Access to the Kogan Page resource library
    Enjoy access to over 90 leading eBooks covering essential HR topics. Our comprehensive eLearning platform includes all course materials. However, if you prefer physical books, you can enjoy a 20% discount on official textbooks.

  • Flexible, self-paced online study
    Complete your qualification at your own pace, with 18 months of course access. Our platform is designed to fit around your existing commitments, ensuring you can balance your studies with work or personal life.

  • Comprehensive career support programme
    From your initial consultation to completing your work experience, you’ll receive ongoing career advice, employability preparation, and support to ensure you’re ready to enter the job market confidently.

  • Live online classes and tutor support
    Benefit from regular live sessions with expert tutors who will guide your learning, answer your questions, and provide personalised feedback on your assignments to ensure your success.

  • Community Forums: Connect with fellow CIPD students, share insights, and collaborate through our online forums.

  • Key Notes for efficient learning: Take notes as you go, download them, and incorporate them into your assignments. Build your assignments as you study instead of doing it all at the end.

  • Comprehensive assessment checklist: We have a detailed checklist to ensure you cover all necessary elements in your assignments.

  • Affordable CIPD training: Benefit from our price match guarantee and interest-free payment options, making high-quality CIPD training accessible.

FAQs

What is CIPD Level 5 equivalent to?

CIPD Level 5 is roughly equivalent to a foundation degree or the second year of an undergraduate degree.

What is a CIPD Level 5 qualification in People Management?

The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management with Work Experience programme combines academic learning with guaranteed remote work experience. This qualification is designed to help you advance your HR career by building both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The work experience component lasts between 4 to 16 weeks, depending on your preferences and the requirements of the host company.

Is CIPD Level 5 worth it?

Yes, CIPD Level 5 is highly regarded within the HR industry and can significantly enhance your career prospects. This qualification can open doors to more senior HR positions, such as HR Manager or HR Business Partner, and demonstrates a deeper understanding of people management. It’s a worthwhile investment for those looking to progress in their HR career and take on more responsibility.

How difficult is CIPD Level 5?

CIPD Level 5 is more challenging than the introductory CIPD Level 3, as it covers more in-depth HR theories and practices. It requires good analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to apply HR concepts in practical settings. While demanding, it is manageable with the right level of dedication and support, especially if you already have some HR experience.

Can you do CIPD Level 5 without experience?

While it’s recommended to have some experience in HR before starting CIPD Level 5, it is not a strict requirement. Many students progress to Level 5 after completing a CIPD Level 3 qualification or have transferable skills from related roles. However, if you have no prior HR experience, it may be beneficial to start with CIPD Level 3 to build a solid foundation.

How fast can you complete CIPD Level 5?

The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on the pace of study and whether you are studying part-time or full-time. However, with a structured learning approach and dedication, some students may complete the course faster.

Can I do a CIPD course online?

Yes, at e-Careers, you can complete your CIPD course entirely online. Our CIPD with Work Experience programme offers flexible, online learning through an interactive platform, allowing you to access all study materials, attend live classes, and even watch recorded sessions at your convenience.

Additionally, you’ll benefit from unlimited tutor support and remote work experience, giving you a comprehensive HR training experience from the comfort of your home.

When does the work experience take place?

If you have already completed CIPD Level 3 with us or elsewhere, you can choose to do the work experience at the beginning or the end of the CIPD Level 5 programme. This flexibility is possible because your Level 3 knowledge meets the minimum HR requirements for the work experience. For students without HR experience, the work experience typically follows the Level 5 qualification completion.

Can I get a job offer from the work experience programme?

Yes, 1 in 4 students typically receives a job offer from their host employer after completing the work experience. The programme is designed to enhance employability by combining academic learning with practical, real-world experience.

What jobs can you get with CIPD Level 5 qualification in People Management?

Once completed, you’ll be awarded CIPD Associate Membership, and you can use the designation “Associate CIPD” after your name. Studying for your Associate Diploma in People Practice Level 5 CIPD makes you eligible for a range of advanced HR job roles, including:

  • Diversity and Inclusion Specialist: £31K – £48K

  • People Analyst: £32K – £49K

  • Talent Manager: £39K – £65K

  • HR Manager: £41K – £61K

  • HR Business Partner: £46K – £64K

  • Organisational Development Officer: £47K – £59K

  • Reward and Benefits Manager: £53K – £86K

  • Talent Acquisition Manager: £58K – £71K

  • HR Director: £94K – £120K

Source: Glassdoor