The four areas you need to study to become CIPD qualified* are known as fields. Whether you study one field at a time, or work your way through all four, the programme is designed to develop what we call ‘thinking HR performers’ and gives you a sound theoretical and, more importantly, practical base for your career in HR and people management.
What are the four fields?
If you complete any of the three fields plus the Applied Personnel and Development field, you’ll receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Personnel and Development awarded by the CIPD. On successful completion of all four fields, you’ll receive a Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel & Development awarded by the CIPD, plus CIPD Graduate Membership.
What order should I take the fields in?
There is no prescribed order, although most students start with People Management and Development. However, those working in learning and development roles are more likely to undertake the specialist learning and development electives first. Our Customer Advisers will be able to fully advise as to what order would be most appropriate for you.
Can I tailor the programme to suit my job?
Yes, you can. The Generalist and Specialist Electives field offers a choice of eight subjects, from which you choose four that suit your particular role.
*The CIPD qualification - the Professional Development Scheme (PDS) - is based on the CIPD's professional standards and leads to Graduate membership of the CIPD.