CIPD Certificate in Personnel Practice

Who is it for?

Anyone undertaking this course needs to either be working in a human resources role - probably an entry level position, such as HR assistant - or have good access to an HR department so that you can demonstrate application of your learning. While it would suit someone beginning their professional career, it is also highly applicable to senior managers making a shift into the field of Human Resources.

Where can it lead?

Highly qualified professionals in HR can rise to the top. As more and more companies understand the importance of effective management of their staff, knowledge of and experience in sound HR practices is becoming more and more highly prized. Even if you would like to eventually progress to a different area of management, the skills you learn through this qualification will be a valuable addition to your resume.

Salary?

A qualification such as this can add to your earning potential. While a starting salary in the HR area can be anything between £15,000 to £18,000 a year, further experience and training could see you earning up to £50 or more in senior HR management.

Can I apply?

As this is a Level 7 programme (equivalent to a Master's degree) you will need a good level of management experience. Please call our dedicated CIPD advisors on 0500 501 346 to discuss specific entry requirements, how to gain CIPD Student Membership, and the exemption process.

Course Code

U19

Period of study

18 months

What will I study?

Human Resource Plans and Organisational Context

• Study Personnel Practice and the key relationships within the personnel function. Examine legal aspects, such as health and safety, and the storing of personnel data.

Recruitment and Selection

• Examine the different selection methods and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Consider the use of job descriptions and person specifications in the recruitment and selection process.

Performance Management and Employee Relations

• Consider the relevance of motivation to performance management. Examine the key factors in ensuring successful implementation of a performance management system. Study why procedures for handling discipline and grievance are required in the workplace. Explore the disciplinary interview and the skills needed to conduct that interview effectively.

Training and Development

• Consider training and development in terms of learning and education. Examine the range of training methods and the process of training needs analysis. Review the importance of the learning cycle. Explore individual learning styles.

Assessment

There will be six assessments during the course and three 2-day residential workshops.  Assessments can be submitted to ICS online via the Student Community (the faster alternative), or posted to ICS. Note that some assessments may need to be posted.

• Assessment 1: a written assignment of 1500-2000 words
• Assessment 2: a skills-based assignment that will be assessed at the second workshop
• Assessment 3: a skills-based assignment that will be assessed at the third workshop
• Assessment 4: a written assignment of 1500-2000 words
• Assessment 5: a project management report of around 3500 words on a subject of the student's choice
• Assessment 6: a CPD (Continuing Professional Development) record and plan

Notes

The workshops will take place in a central UK location.

In the skills based assignments, you will play the role of interviewer in a mock interview. After each interview you will write a short statement of between 500-1000 words, outlining your thoughts on the interview.

You will be given the opportunity to submit first drafts for Assessments 1, 4, 5 and 6, and will receive detailed feedback from your ICS tutor on these drafts, enabling you to improve their work before submitting it for assessment.

Please note that the format of the exam is subject to change. The details provided are intended only as a guide and should not be regarded as definitive.

Technical requirements/Fees

CIPD membership, exam and workshop fees are additional to course fees.