By Well, if you are on the crossroads of choosing between CIPD level 5 or CIPD level 7. Then this blog is going to turn out to be your best read today.
So, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is one of the most renowned and prestigious qualification in the UK for all HR aspirants. Thus, it is perfect for those who are seeking to kick start their career into HR. And even for those who wants to boost their career and unlock various career opportunities.
So, when you are just starting out in this field, then you are clear about which level to choose. As level 3 is the only choice for you.
But when an experienced HR professional with over 5 years of experience plan to enroll in the CIPD. Then they do get stuck in this dilemma of choosing the right level for them.
Obviously, anyone would like to jumpstart their CIPD with level 7. But it is not always a smart choice. So, sometimes enrolling in level 5 is actually what you need.
So, if you are one of those persons stuck in this confusion. Then I will clear out everything for you today.
Thus, in this blog, we will learn all the key differences between CIPD Levels 5 & 7. And will help you learn everything about these levels. So, from their exclusive purpose to their equivalence, we will explore each and everything about them:
Exploring CIPD Level 5
So, let us start with CIPD level 5 and see what it is all about.
Thus, CIPD Level 5 is called as the intermediate level or Associate level. This level is one step ahead of the basic level 3. It is designed for HR professionals with some years of experience in this field.
This level is equivalent to a Bachelors degree and help students learn about the practicality of crucial Human Resource operations and practices.
Who is it For?
Well, this level is ideal for people who are:
- HR professionals with relative experience in this field.
- Experts looking to shift into HR management roles
- Professionals seeking to enhance their HR skills and knowledge
- Anyone who has completed their CIPD level 3 and wants to advance further.
What Will You Learn?
So, the main focus of CIPD level 5 is on Strategic HR and Operational HR management. The three core modules of this program include:
- Organizational performance & culture in practice
- Evidence-based practice
- Professional behaviors & valuing people
Other than these compulsory courses. Students have choice to select three specialist modules for their course from any one of them.
- Talent management & workforce planning
- Supporting self-directed and social learning
- Learning & development design to create value
- Facilitate personalised and performance focused learning
- Reward for performance & contribution
- Employment relationship management
- Learning & development design to create value
Plus, you will also have an option for an optional module for this course.
How Long Does it Take?
Ah, the duration of CIPD level 5 is not fixed. But it can take you up to 6 to 12 months to complete it.
It depends on your choice of doing it part time or full time. And is available for both online and classroom sessions.
And you do not even have to worry about it as there are lots of professional writing services out there who are offering expert CIPD Level 5 Assignment Help to students to help them ace it.
Career Opportunities After CIPD Level 5
I know you must be wondering what your options are after completing CIPD level 5. So, after completing your CIPD level 5, you can easily apply for roles like:
- Human Resource Advisor
- HR Manager
- Talent Acquisition Specialist
- Learning and Development Officer
Exploring CIPD Level 7
Now, it is time to unravel CIPD Level 7 and see what it is all about.
So, CIPD level 7 is the highest qualification offered by CIPD. Thus, it is the most advanced level and is even equivalent to a Master’s Degree.
So, this level is basically designed for senior HR professionals who are eyeing leading HR positions or roles in their companies.
Who is it For?
Thus, you must choose this level if you are:
- Experienced HR professionals eyeing senior HR roles
- HR managers and directors looking to enhance strategic HR skills
- HR professionals aiming to get Chartered CIPD membership
- Anyone who has completed their CIPD level 5 and wants to advance further.
What Will You Learn?
So, the CIPD level 7 is the most advanced level. It includes four core modules including:
- Work and Working Lives in a Changing Business Environment
- People Management and Development Strategies for Performance
- Personal Effectiveness, Ethics and Business Acumen
- Business Research in People Practice
Thus, other than these compulsory courses. You can select three specialist modules from the given ones:
- Strategic employment relations
- Designing Learning to Improve Performance
- Organisational Design and Development
- Resourcing & talent management to sustain success
- Leadership & Management Development
- Strategic reward management
And again, you can choose an optional course as well.
How Long Does it Take?
So, normally, your CIPD level 7 can take you a year or two to complete it.
You can either do it part time, full time or even online. It is completely up to your preferences. But you must know that this level required extensive research skills and critical analysis.
Oh no, not to worry. You can always hire an expert CIPD Level 7 Assignment Help to assist you in your qualification.
Career Opportunities After CIPD Level 7
Now let us get straight to the results. And see what you can gain after completing your advanced level study for CIPD Level 7.
So, after completing this level. You can easily apply for senior leadership positions with confidence like:
- HR Director
- Head of People and Culture
- Senior HR Consultant
- Learning and Development Director
And this level will even give you an edge over other HR professionals.
Key Differences Between CIPD Level 5 and Level 7
| Features | CIPD Level 5 | CIPD Level 7 |
| Level of Difficulty | Intermediate | Advanced |
| Who is it For? | HR professionals with experience | HR professionals with senior level experience |
| Equivalency | Bachelors Degree | Masters Degree |
| Area of Focus | Practical HR & Management | Strategic HR & Leadership |
| Duration | 6-12 Month | 12-24 Months |
| Career Growth | Mid-level HR positions | Senior Level HR Positions |
| Cost | Less Expensive | More Expensive |
| Chartered Membership | Not Eligible | Eligible |
Which CIPD Level is Right for You?
So, if you are still thinking which level is right for you. Then here is a quick decision making checklist for you.
Thus, you will choose CIPD level 5 if:
- You have some relative experience in this field and want to boost your knowledge and skills.
- Are looking for some mid level HR positions.
- Need a faster qualification to growth.
Also, you can choose CIPD Level 7 if:
- You are an experienced HR professional and mid level position
- Eyeing senior leadership roles
- Wants access to Chartered membership of CIPD
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, both CIPD level 5 and level 7 offer excellent growth opportunities for HR aspirants. But which one suits you best depends on your goals and expectations with the required level.
If you are mid level HR professional looking for a growth in your career. Then CIPD level 5 is the best choice for you. But if you are looking for some senior level HR roles and eyeing leading HR positions. Then CIPD level 7 will suit you the best.
So, think twice before choosing the right level for you. And consider all the information you have to make sure that you are making the right career choice for yourself. And I know, after reading this blog, that won’t be a problem for you. Best of Luck!
