If you're working in HR (or a people-focused role) and want to increase your impact, the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is one of the strongest qualifications you can add to your CV. It's designed to build practical capability across key people management areas—culture, evidence-based decisions, employee relations, reward, and talent—so you can help your organisation perform better.
At VQ Solutions, you can study CIPD Level 5 100% online and self-paced, with assignment-only assessment (no exams), a typical 6–12 month timeframe, and support from an HR team. The course fee is £2,160 (including VAT), with payment plans available (including a 12-month option).
Who CIPD Level 5 is for
The Associate Diploma in People Management is ideal if you enjoy developing and managing people and you want to deepen your HR knowledge with a blend of core and specialist units. It's a great fit for roles such as HR Business Partner, HR Manager, People Analyst, Employee Relations Manager, Diversity and Inclusion Specialist, Resourcing Business Partner, Reward and Benefits Manager, and Talent Manager.
VQ Solutions also notes there are no strict formal entry requirements; applications are assessed individually, and it helps if you have CIPD Level 3 (or equivalent), around 2+ years of relevant experience, and strong written communication (as assessment is via written assignments).
What you'll learn (modules)
CIPD Level 5 is structured around 7 modules: three core units, three specialist units, and one optional unit.
Core units include: Organisational performance and culture in practice; Evidence-based practice; Professional behaviours and valuing people. Specialist units include: Employment relationship management; Talent management and workforce planning; Reward for performance and contribution. You then choose one optional unit, with options including Specialist employment law, Advances in digital learning and development, Diversity and inclusion, Well-being at work, and Leadership and management development (among others).
How long it takes, how you're assessed, and what it costs
CIPD guidance commonly describes a completion window of around 6–18 months depending on pace and centre, and VQ Solutions' typical completion timeframe is 6–12 months due to the self-paced online format. VQ Solutions delivers the course with no exams—assessment is assignment-only—and includes support plus free resubmissions if needed.
In terms of investment, VQ Solutions' CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management costs £2,160 inclusive of VAT, with materials and assessment fees included and payment plans available. If you're employed, you may also be eligible for a fully-funded apprenticeship route (depending on your situation and eligibility).
What qualification level is CIPD Level 5 (and what membership you get)?
CIPD Associate level qualifications are set at RQF Level 5 in England and Northern Ireland (and aligned to equivalent frameworks in Wales, Scotland, Ireland, and the European Qualifications Framework). Completing an Associate (Level 5) qualification can lead to Associate Membership of the CIPD, allowing you to use the designation Assoc CIPD.
Ready to start?
VQ Solutions offers CIPD Level 5 online with a typical 6–12 month study window, HR team support, and an all-inclusive price of £2,160 (VAT included). You can enrol online or explore payment plans directly from the course page.