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Qualification / Level 5

Associate Diploma in People Management

The benchmark HR qualification for professionals ready to operate at a strategic level and earn globally recognised Assoc CIPD status.

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Qualification Level
RQF Level 5, Undergraduate Degree Equivalent
Duration
12 – 16 Months (Part-Time)
CIPD Membership
Assoc CIPD on completion
Assessment
Written Assignments, Case Studies & Professional Discussion
Delivery
Virtual & In-Person | Abu Dhabi · Online GCC
Units
7 Units, 3 Core, 3 Specialist, 1 Optional

Overview

About This Qualification

The CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is the benchmark qualification for HR professionals who want to operate at a strategic level and gain globally recognised credentials. It is designed for practitioners with some existing HR experience who are ready to advance into more senior people management roles.

As an official CIPD Approved Study Centre, Skills Plus delivers this qualification with a focus on practical, real-world application. You will learn from experienced HR practitioners based in the UAE, ensuring everything you study is directly relevant to the GCC context, from employment law to workforce planning and talent strategy.

On completion, you will be eligible for CIPD Associate Member (Assoc CIPD) status, a globally recognised mark of professional credibility that signals to employers your commitment to excellence in people management.

Who Is It For?

Who Is It For?

HR Professionals
With 1–5 years of experience ready to formalise and advance their expertise into senior advisory or business partner roles.
People Managers
Line managers and team leaders with people responsibilities who want recognised HR credentials and a stronger strategic foundation.
CIPD Level 3 Graduates
Foundation Certificate holders ready to progress to Associate Membership and take on more senior responsibilities.

What You Will Achieve

What You Will Achieve

  1. Apply evidence-based HR practices to real workplace challenges
  2. Design and implement performance management frameworks
  3. Build high-performing teams through effective talent management
  4. Navigate employment law and manage complex employee relations situations
  5. Lead organisation development and change management initiatives
  6. Use people analytics to support strategic decision-making
  7. Achieve CIPD Associate Member (Assoc CIPD) designation
  8. Align people strategy with broader organisational objectives

Programme Modules

Programme Modules

The Level 5 diploma comprises 7 units, 3 core units studied by all learners, plus specialist and optional units, each assessed through written assignments and reflective practice.

01Organisational Performance and Culture in Practice (Core Unit)

Examines how organisations are structured and how culture, systems and HR practices drive performance.

Align people practice with business strategy

02Evidence-Based Practice (Core Unit)

Develops skills in using data, research and critical analysis to inform HR recommendations.

Build credible, data-informed HR decisions

03Professional Behaviours and Valuing People (Core Unit)

Explores the professional values, ethics and inclusive behaviours that define a people professional.

Lead with integrity and professional credibility

04Employment Relationship Management (Specialist Unit)

Covers employee relations, conflict resolution, collective bargaining and employment law in practice.

Manage complex ER situations with confidence

05Talent Management and Workforce Planning (Specialist Unit)

Develops skills in identifying, attracting, retaining and developing talent aligned to organisational needs.

Build robust talent pipelines

06Reward for Performance and Contribution (Specialist Unit)

Examines reward strategy, pay structures, benefits and how reward drives performance and retention.

Design motivating, fair reward frameworks

07Specialist Employment Law (Optional Unit)

A deeper examination of employment legislation, tribunal process and legal compliance in people management.

Advise with authority on employment law

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior HR qualifications to join the Level 5?

Not necessarily. The CIPD Level 3 is the most common route, but you can also enrol with a relevant degree or substantial HR work experience. Our advisors will confirm the right entry point for you.

How is the Level 5 assessed?

Through written assignments, case studies and professional discussions, no examinations. Assessments connect directly to real workplace scenarios and are immediately applicable to your role.

What is the difference between Assoc CIPD, Chartered Member and Chartered Fellow?

Assoc CIPD is awarded on completing Level 5. Chartered Member (MCIPD) requires Level 7 or equivalent experience. Chartered Fellow (FCIPD) is the highest designation for senior strategic HR leaders.

What payment options are available?

We offer 0% interest monthly instalment plans, full payment, and corporate invoicing options. Contact our advisors for a full breakdown of what's available.

Can I progress to CIPD Level 7 after this?

Yes. The Level 5 is the standard pathway into the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma, the postgraduate-level qualification leading to Chartered Membership (MCIPD).

Can my employer fund this?

Many organisations across the UAE and GCC fund CIPD qualifications. We can provide supporting materials to help make the case to your employer.

Let’s discuss what you need.

Tell the academy about your role and what you would like the learning to help you do.

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Awarding-body information

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