A choice of membership routes
The following five membership routes are open to you if you want to obtain a professional grade of membership.
Educational
The educational route is our most popular route into membership. Our network of education centres offer a range of full-time, part-time and/or flexible learning courses. Our qualifications are designed to suit everyone, from those with little or no experience to those in more senior positions.
Professional assessment of competence (PAC)
If you’re operating at a senior level in personnel and development and have got five year’s managerial-level experience, the best way for you to become a member is through professional assessment of competence (PAC).
Accreditation of prior certificated learning (APCL)
The APCL route will assess your postgraduate-level qualification(s) against our Professional Standards, and, if successful, you'll be awarded exemptions from the Professional Development Scheme (PDS).
National and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (NVQs/SVQs)
If you want an alternative to college study and are already 'doing the job' then this route is for you. NVQs/SVQs are nationally recognised and widely used competence-based qualifications.
MBA
If you've been awarded an MBA within the last 10 years you automatically qualify for Licentiate membership.
If you’re still studying for your MBA you can join us as an Affiliate member and take immediate advantage of all the benefits that membership brings. As soon as you successfully complete your MBA we’ll upgrade you to Licentiate membership.
Direct admission for approved qualifications
This route is the best way for you to become a member if you've been awarded a CIPD-approved or accredited qualification within the last ten years. This route is also for those who already hold an NVQ/SVQ in a relevant occupational area.
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