CIPD Level 5 - Associate Diploma in People Management

The Level 5 programme assumes that you already have a grounding in HR practice, however management professionals can also gain invaluable insights into key topics such as talent management, employment legislation, pay and reward, recruitment and selection, and ethical people management. 

Successful completion of the programme will mean you are awarded the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, which will entitle you to CIPD associate member status, and to use the letters ACIPD after your name. As a Level 5 graduate, you will have the knowledge to effectively implement and influence strategic people management decisions on behalf of the organisation.

Overall, studying CIPD level 5 has not only enabled me to directly apply my learning in the workplace but has transformed both my capability and my confidence. I now operate as a credible People Professional who can contribute to strategic discussions, lead on people initiatives and support my organisation in achieving its goals. Studying with Blackburn College is one of the best decisions I have ever made and I cannot recommend them enough!’ Kirsty Morris, People Advisor (2026)

This programme will develop your understanding of how effective people practice contributes to the success of organisational performance. You will apply your knowledge to people management issues within a range of organisational contexts, to develop your skills and confidence when advising on matters of law, policy and practice. You will also develop your analytical and consulting skills, preparing you for roles such as HR Business Partner, People Manager, or similar.

There are various options for study, across both daytime and evening learning. Typical college attendance would be 9.00am – 4.30pm on Tuesdays, however it is also possible to attend from 1.00pm – 9.00pm on Tuesdays, or across two evenings per week. For more information on study time options, please contact our specialist team on 01254 29 25 00 or email business@blackburn.ac.uk

There are two entry dates every year, either in September or March. This course can be studied on a 1 year or 2 year programme, please contact us for more information.

How does this fit with professional membership of the CIPD?

On successful completion of the Level 5 qualification, you will gain Associate Membership of the CIPD. Following which, you may want to consider studying with us for the Level 7 CIPD Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management. Successful completion of level 7 would make you eligible to apply for an upgrade to chartered CIPD membership status.

Fees

Course Fees are £2,390.00 per person for 2026/27 academic year. In addition, you will be required to pay an annual membership fee direct to the CIPD. 

 CIPD Membership Fees & Assessment Costs | CIPD

Please note: You must remain in membership throughout all the time that you are both on the course and waiting for your certificate to be awarded.

Advanced Learner Loan

The above options are also eligible for Advanced Learner Loan funding. This option is not available if your employer is funding the programme. The loan values and payments required to College are: £724.00 loan funded and £1,666 payable to college (subject to change when released each September)

To gain your level 5 CIPD Associate Diploma in people management qualification you will need to successfully complete the following units:

Core Units

Organisational performance and culture in practice (5CO01)

This unit explores how organisations are designed and how they operate within an ever-changing commercial and digital environment. Learners will examine the link between organisational structure, culture and performance, and how external trends shape business strategy and workforce planning. The unit highlights the critical role of employee behaviour, well-being and organisational culture in successfully leading change and driving sustainable performance.

Evidence-based practice (5CO02)

This unit develops the skills needed to use data and evidence to inform sound professional judgement and decision making. Learners will explore how to gather and analyse robust quantitative and qualitative evidence, apply critical thinking, and evaluate information ethically. The unit also emphasises the importance of measuring the impact of people practice to demonstrate value and influence organisational outcomes.

Professional Behaviours and Valuing People

This unit focuses on the behaviours that underpin the practice of a people professional. Learners will explore how professional values such as ethical practice, courage, inclusivity and integrity build trust, strengthen working relationships and support employee voice and well-being. The unit considers how continuously developing professional behaviours enhances personal effectiveness and contributes to improved organisational performance.

 

Employment relationship Management (5HR01)

This unit examines how strong employment relationships are created and sustained. Learners will explore key approaches, tools and practices that support positive employee experiences and productive working lives. The unit highlights the strategic importance of effective relationship management and its direct impact on engagement, performance and organisational success.

Talent management and workforce planning (5HR02)

This unit focuses on how organisations attract, develop and retain the talent they need to meet current and future demands. Learners will examine workforce planning strategies, and effective recruitment and onboarding practices. The unit also considers the risks and costs of poor workforce planning and explores practical tools and interventions to minimise these risk

Reward for performance and contribution (5HR03)

This unit explores how reward strategies support organisational goals and motivate performance. Learners will examine the influence of internal and external factors on reward policies, including financial drivers and cost considerations. The unit highlights the role of people professionals in supporting managers to make fair, evidence-based reward decisions and demonstrates how effective reward practices reinforce performance and contribution.

Specialist Employment law (5OS01)

This unit provides an overview of key areas of employment law and the legal frameworks that shape people practice. Learners will explore how employment legislation applies in different situations and the responsibilities of people professionals to ensure legal compliance. The unit supports the development of confidence in applying legal principles to real-world workplace situations.

‘I particularly enjoyed the Specialist Employment Law module and exploring how legislation underpins every aspect of the employee lifecycle.’ Kirsty Morris, People Advisor (2026)

You would normally be required to have at least one of the following:

• CIPD Level 3 qualification (or a level 3 qualification in a related field, such as ILM)
• A degree in a related field
• Relevant work experience at an appropriate level

If this is not the case, you can still talk to us about enrolment, however our Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice course may be more appropriate for you.

Each of the 7 modules is assessed via the submission of a written assignment. There are currently no examinations at Level 5.