Do You Need a CIPD Qualification to Work in HR?

Do you need a CIPD qualification to work in HR? Well, yes and no. Technically, the answer is no but the reality is that a lot of employers look for CIPD accreditation and some won’t consider job applicants who are not CIPD qualified. Being CIPD qualified will definitely make you a lot more skilled, knowledgeable and employable, which can convert that no into a yes. While a CIPD qualification does not guarantee that you will get a job in HR or move up the HR ladder, it definitely improves your chances.

Professional body

The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) is the professional membership body for HR and L&D professionals and as such, it’s the most common route to HR accreditation. It is also very high regarded – CIPD qualifications are considered by many to be the gold standard. For that reason, being CIPD qualified tells employers that you have reached a certain standard of knowledge and competence.

Range of qualifications

The CIPD offers qualifications at three levels – entry level (Level 3, foundation level), intermediate (Level 5) and advanced (Level 7). If you are already CIPD qualified or already work in HR and you want to move your career into a new area – an HR specialism for example – or you want to progress to a management role, studying for the next qualification up can really help.