The human resources (HR) field is booming, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can effectively manage and develop an organization’s workforce. In UAE and beyond, CIPD certificates have become the gold standard for HR qualifications, signifying expertise and opening doors to exciting career opportunities. If you’re looking to build a successful career in HR or L&D, then pursuing a CIPD certificate could be the next step toward achieving your goals.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the CIPD certification. We’ll define it, discuss its benefits to HR managers in the UAE, and explain how to qualify for it.

What is CIPD?

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is a professional HR and People development body established in 1913 in the UK.

Since then, it has become a globally recognized benchmark for excellence in HR and Learning and Development (L&D), serving around 150,000 members worldwide.

CIPD is dedicated to championing better work and working lives by setting professional standards, providing research and insights, and offering qualifications that empower HR professionals to excel.

CIPD Qualification Types and Levels

2021 saw the number of qualifications offered reduced from 17 to just five. Today, CIPD offers three types of qualifications in three distinct levels, which vary according to the goal and current career levels. We’ll look at these in detail later, but for now, let’s briefly grasp the three levels of CIPD certificates for UAE HR professionals:

• Foundation (CIPD Level 3) is an introductory course for anyone with relatively little or no experience at all in HR and L&D.
• Associate/ Intermediate (CIPD Level 5) is for HR practitioners with some experience looking to expand their knowledge and responsibilities.
• Advanced (CIPD Level 7) provides advanced training on HR strategy, policies, and practices for experienced professionals looking to develop their expertise.

Most CIPD qualifications focus on either Human Resources or Learning and Development – allowing you to tailor your options based on your particular professional interests.

1. CIPD Level 3 – Foundation

The CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice offers a solid foundation in HR and L&D for anyone who wants to develop a career in HR but has little or no experience. It’s roughly equivalent to an A-level in terms of complexity and depth.

At level 3, you can opt for the pathway that applies to your chosen profession in either HR or L&D. The three essential modules covered at this level in both pathways are:

• Essentials of People Practice
• Core Behaviours for People Professionals
• Business, Culture, and Change in Context
• Principles of Analytics

This certification is suitable for: Entry-level HR professionals, Non-HR professionals, and HR and L&D support staff: 

Duration: CIPD Level 3 qualifications can be studied either full-time or part-time at any CIPD training center or online. The course duration varies but typically takes 6-9 months to complete.

Cost: The cost for 100% online courses is approximately 10,000 AED, while blended courses (a combination of online and in-person learning) can cost around 13,000 AED.

Potential jobs and salaries: Once you’ve successfully completed your CIPD Level 3 qualification, you can apply for various entry-level HR roles in the UAE, such as HR administrator, HR assistant, HR coordinator, and learning and development assistant, among others. The average annual salary for these roles in the UAE ranges between 40,000 and 70,000 AED.

2. CIPD Level 5 – Associate / Intermediate

The CIPD Associate Diploma qualifications are indexed as Level 5 qualifications. This program is a step up from the foundation level and provides in-depth knowledge of mid-level managerial or advisory HR/L&D principles and practices.

There are two CIPD pathways offered at level 5, one in HR and another in L&D:

i) CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management (HR)

This pathway is for HR professionals who are currently working in HR and want to move towards a managerial role. It is also suitable if you’re new to the profession but at least have some experience in some HR duties in a different role or if you have a degree and want to develop your knowledge at a higher level than the Foundation Certificate.

There are six core modules covered at this level, but you’ll have to choose one extra elective module to study based on your interests.  The six core modules are:

• Organizational Performance and Culture in Practice
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Professional Behaviours and Valuing People
• Employment Relationship Management
• Talent Management and Workforce Planning
• Reward for Performance and Contribution

Elective modules for both HR and L&D Associate programs include:

• Wellbeing at Work
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Leadership and Management Development
• Specialist Employment Law
• People Management in an International Context

This certification is suitable for: Career changers with some experience in HR duties, newcomers to HR with a relevant degree, and HR professionals looking to progress in HR management.

Duration: 12-15 months

Cost: The approximate cost is from AED 11, 912

Potential jobs and salaries: With this qualification, you’ll be prepared for various mid-level HR roles, such as HR advisor, talent management specialist, and HR manager, among others. In the UAE, the monthly salary for these roles is between AED 2,311 and AED 25,500.

ii) CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organizational Learning & Development

Just like the HR pathway, this intermediate-level qualification is for L&D professionals with some experience or beginners with some prior knowledge of the L&D profession.

The program is designed to help you develop a skillset for mid-level and managerial roles in L&D.

The core modules covered at this level are:

• Organizational Performance and Culture in Practice
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Professional Behaviours and Valuing People
• Support Self-Directed and Social Learning
• Learning and Development Design to Create Value
• Facilitate Personalised and Performance-Focused Learning

This certification is suitable for: L&D assistants, managers, and L&D assistants.

Duration: 9 to 11 months

Cost: From AED 22, 300 (blended learning)

Potential jobs and salaries: Upon completion, you can apply for various mid-level L&D roles in the UAE, such as training advisor, learning and development officer, training manager, among others. The average monthly salary for these roles is AED 21,997.

3. CIPD Level 7 – Advanced

The CIPD  Advanced Certification is the highest level of qualification currently offered by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. It’s classed at Level 7, meaning it’s equivalent to Master’s/postgraduate qualifications in difficulty.

Those who enroll in a Level 7 qualification will learn to develop and implement cutting-edge HR tactics, which will help them improve their strategic skills and gain specialist knowledge.

There are two pathway qualifications offered at level 7, one in HR and another in L&D. Only by earning a CIPD Level 7 Diploma makes you eligible to apply for the prestigious Chartered Member of the CIPD.

i) CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management

As most advanced qualifications do, this one is aimed at experienced HR professionals seeking to move into leadership and strategic roles. The program is also a good next step for HR graduates or those who are ready to complete a postgraduate-level HR qualification.

The core modules covered at this level are:

• Work and Working Lives in a Changing Business Environment
• Business Research in People Practice
• People Management and Development Strategies for Performance
• Resourcing and Talent Management to Sustain Success
• Personal Effectiveness, Ethics, and Business Acumen
• Resourcing and Talent Management to Sustain Success
• Strategic Employment Relations
• Strategic Reward Management

The elective modules for both HR and L&D pathways are:

• Advanced Employment Law in Practice
• Technology-Enhanced Learning
• Managing People in an International Context
• Advanced Diversity and Inclusion
• Learning and Development Practice

This certification is suitable for: Senior HR professionals with significant experience, HR managers and department heads, and HR graduates.

Duration: Around 18 months -24 months (self-paced)

Cost: The CIPD Level 7 Diploma costs approximately 30,000 AED for online courses, while Live Online courses cost around 33,500 AED. Classroom study costs around 40,000 AED.

Potential jobs and salaries: Graduates of this program can apply for high-level HR roles, such as HR director, talent management director, HR business partner, and chief human resources officer. The average monthly salary for these positions is AED 35,000 but can vary dramatically depending on the seniority of your role.

ii) CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning & Development

Similar to the HR pathway, this qualification is designed for experienced L&D professionals who want to develop their strategic business management, learning design, and development strategy expertise.

It’s the most advanced qualification CIPD offers in L&D and involves postgraduate-level study.

The core modules covered at this level are:

• Work and Working Lives in a Changing Business Environment
• Business Research in People Practice
• Personal Effectiveness, Ethics, and Business Acumen
• People Management and Development Strategies for Performance
• Organizational Design and Development
• Designing Learning to Improve Performance
• Leadership and Management Development in Context

This certification is suitable for: Experienced L&D professionals, L&D managers, directors, department heads, and L&D consultants.

Duration: Around 18 months to 24 months, although this will vary according to the mode and location of the training.

Potential jobs and salaries: The most common roles for graduates with a Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic L&D are Training/L&D director, Head of Training/L&D, and L&D Consultant with an average salary of AED 19,000 per month, depending on the seniority level.

The Advantages of Attaining a CIPD Certificate In the UAE

The benefits of attaining a CIPD certificate are far-reaching and impactful, both for HR practitioners in the UAE and the organizations they serve. Regardless, the primary advantage is gaining valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your career in HR. The certification programs are tailored to meet the demands of today’s constantly evolving workplace, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in HR.

In addition to professional development, having a CIPD qualification offers several other benefits:

• Enhanced career opportunities: The CIPD Profession Map is the foundation of their qualifications. It outlines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for success at different career levels, providing a clear pathway for HR professionals to progress. Whether you aspire to be an HR generalist, L&D specialist, or strategic leader, the right certificate can propel you towards your dream job.
• Increased Earning Potential: CIPD-qualified professionals often command higher salaries due to their recognized expertise and proven skills. The return on investment from a CIPD qualification is substantial, with significant earning potential throughout your career.
• Professional Credibility: A CIPD certificate is a badge of professionalism, demonstrating your commitment to excellence and adherence to ethical standards. It instantly boosts your credibility among colleagues, employers, and clients.
• Networking Opportunities: Being a part of the CIPD community provides ample opportunities to network with like-minded professionals, attend events and conferences, and stay connected with the latest industry developments.
• International Recognition: With its global reach and reputation, a CIPD certificate is recognized by employers across the world. This opens up doors for international career opportunities for HR professionals in the UAE.

Boost Your HR Career to the Next Level with Bayzat

Earning a CIPD qualification takes time, dedication, and effort, but the courses are flexible enough to fit in with your work schedule. Experience is a crucial factor for advanced CIPD qualifications, and Bayzat can help put your skills to the test regardless of the workplace. With the platform’s various features that help you track employee performance, onboard new employees, analyze data, and keep all your HR processes organized, you’ll be able to apply your newfound knowledge in a practical setting easily.

Book your free demo today and see how Bayzat can help you manage your workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does CIPD stand for?

CIPD stands for Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. It is a professional body that sets standards for  HR and L&D professionals globally.

What are the different levels of CIPD qualifications? 

CIPD offers qualifications at three levels:

• Level 3: Foundation level, suitable for those beginning their HR or L&D career.
• Level 5: Intermediate level, designed for experienced HR and L&D practitioners looking to advance their knowledge and skills.
• Level 7: Advanced level, aimed at senior HR and L&D professionals seeking to develop strategic expertise in their field.

How do I choose the right CIPD qualification?

Consider your current level of experience, job role, and future career aspirations when choosing a CIPD qualification. It’s best to start with a foundation or intermediate-level certificate before progressing to an advanced diploma. Also, research and compare the different modules offered by each certification to find the one that aligns with your learning objectives.  Lastly, consider the mode and location of the training to ensure it fits in with your schedule.

How long does it take to complete a CIPD qualification?

The duration varies depending on the level of certification, mode of study, and individual progress. On average, a foundation-level certificate takes around six months to complete, an intermediate-level certificate takes 12-18 months, while an advanced diploma may take 18-24 months.