CIPD 6.1

Pathways into the People Profession

University

Apprenticeships

CIPD Qualifications

One pathway into HR and the people profession is through university. For example, you may study an HR-related course such as human resources management, business management and human resources or psychology. Even if you don’t study an HR-related subject, you can do a post-graduate conversion course later on! Once you have obtained your degree, you can apply for graduate HR training schemes. The CIPD accredits some university courses. A CIPD-accredited university programme is aligned to the CIPD Profession Map and maps to the core knowledge and core behaviour standards for a membership level. You’ll also automatically become a CIPD member once you graduate.

The CIPD also offers a variety of courses designed to help you develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) needed to excel in HR. From CIPD qualifications to CIPD learning courses, you can build a career in this dynamic industry in multiple ways. CIPD qualifications are the most popular route into HR and are widely recognised as the international standard for people professionals. Entry-level qualifications can be studied while you’re working, and sometimes employers will fund you to complete them.

University isn’t for everyone - and that’s okay! You can also pursue a career in the people profession by going down the apprenticeship route. The CIPD works with a variety of providers to train and assess apprentices. As an HR apprentice, you’ll learn the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) needed to be occupationally competent.Once you and your training provider feel you are ready, you’ll participate in an End Point Assessment (EPA) carried out by a CIPD assessor. This is your opportunity to showcase the knowledge, skills and behaviours developed throughout your apprenticeship. There are many apprenticeship routes to take, depending on where you're at in your career.