What is CIPD Level 7? HR Qualifications Explained

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is well known for helping HR and L&D professionals alike to kickstart and get ahead in their careers with their prestigious qualifications.

Did you know, however, that even if you’re a seasoned HR professional that CIPD can offer you an enhanced level of skills and knowledge to take your career to new heights?

In our third and final blog of the CIPD HR Levels series, we explain the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in-depth so you can better understand if this incredible qualification is one that will benefit you moving forward.

What is CIPD Level 7?

The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management is roughly equivalent to a Master’s degree and will put you on track to achieve CIPD Chartered status - the HR industry’s ultimate accolade.

Similar to the CIPD Level 3 and Level 5 qualifications, the CIPD Level 7 Advanced course is linked with the CIPD Profession Map, with each module offering insights into the advanced areas of HR, including effective business research analysis and how to create reports that will be presented to key stakeholders in an attempt to implement new policies.

Overall, the CIPD Level 7 qualification offers learners the high-level skills you need to move into and make a difference in senior strategic roles.

Is the CIPD Level 7 qualification for me? 

The CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is perfect for you if:

• You’d like to reach the highest level in your career as a people professional
• You have significant HR experience, an HR degree, or a have previously completed the CIPD Level 5 qualification
• You’re currently working or aiming to move into a senior-level HR position, or
• You’d like to help shape HR strategies and policies in your organisation

While you may already be comfortable in your HR career, the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma is designed to give you the knowledge and skills to thrive in your career, gaining a comprehensive understanding of people practice and how to develop your strategic abilities to create real and lasting change in your organisation.

How long is the CIPD Level 7 course? 

If you’re studying either online or via blended learning with us at DPG, then you’re likely looking at completing your Advanced qualification in around 18 to 24 months.

Bear in mind, however, that this will change based on any other learning provider you choose, the learning method you choose, and whether you work part-time or full-time. You’ll also want to take into account any external responsibilities you may have that take up your time.

The key to success here is finding a provider (like us!) who offers the CIPD Level 7 Advanced qualification in a way that works flexibly around your life, making it easier to progress without any added stress.

How much does the CIPD Level 7 Diploma cost? 

Similar to our answer to the previous question, the answer to this one will vary depending on the provider you choose and which method of study you prefer, though typically you’re looking at costs between £6,099 and £7,000.

While we know that sounds like a lot to ask for upfront, if you choose to study with DPG, you’ll benefit by spreading the cost of your course up to over 30 months - and all of our payment plans are entirely interest-free!

How will I be assessed? 

Similar to the CIPD Level 5 qualification, when studying the CIPD Level 7 qualification you’ll complete a written assignment for each module you’ll study that will be marked by our assessors and also moderated by the CIPD.

Your course will cover four core units, three specialist topics, and one optional unit. 

For additional support, you’ll also have access to DPG’s award-winning online community as well as live and recorded Q&A webinars that you can join or watch whenever you’re looking for further guidance. 


Looking for more information on how to enhance your HR career? Download your free brochure and get started today with a 100% online CIPD Level 7 qualification.