Have you been looking into obtaining a CIPD qualification? Budding HR professionals can advance their careers by obtaining a professional membership with the CIPD – here’s everything you need to know about the qualification.

Human resource and L&D professionals can boost their resumes and demonstrate their adherence to professional standards by becoming a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the professional body for human resources courses and learning and development courses. A CIPD membership can be obtained by completing CIPD qualification, which recognises HR and L&D professionals who excel in their delivery of HR and L&D solutions.

While a degree or some experience is always helpful, it is not necessary to become a CIPD professional, as there are also student memberships available for those with less work experience or academic accomplishments under their belts.

The right qualification for you will depend on your career goals, with the CIPD offering courses in line with different points of one’s career trajectory: Level 3, Level 5, and Level 7. If are striving for professional development by becoming a Chartered Member, a postgraduate-level qualification is appropriate. If you have a few years’ experience in human resources, an undergraduate-level qualification will suit. Finally, if you are just starting out in the world of work, A-level standard courses will be a smart professional qualification to obtain.

Courses are available at different levels including Advanced Diplomas, Intermediate Certificates and more. From courses in London and Ireland to distance learning options, there are a number of CIPD courses that allow you to become a chartered fellow.

HR and L&D professionals are responsible for recruiting, screening, interviewing and placing workers, as well as handling employee relations, payroll, benefits, and training. As the first port of call in many organisations, HR professionals play a pivotal role. L&D professionals have an equally significant role, developing L&D strategies and learning programs that support organisational goals.

Becoming a CIPD certified professional comes with a wide range of responsibilities that you’ll have to demonstrate the ability to fulfill effectively – those are:

Becoming CIPD qualified greatly increases your career prospects, whether you are looking for full-time employment or wish to work on a consultancy basis. Some roles that could be more readily available to you as a member of the CIPD include HR advisor, L&D advisor, trainer, HR analyst and people management specialist. Of course, not everyone can afford online courses and there are some free HR courses available too.