Professional qualifications can be a powerful lever for career advancement in a competitive job market. For HR and Learning & Development professionals in the UK, qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) are the gold standard which are highly valued by employers. With many higher level roles requiring CIPD certification, it's easy to see how holding a CIPD qualification can translate into a higher salary and career advancement.
What is a CIPD qualification?
The CIPD is the UK’s leading professional body for HR and people development. It offers three main levels of qualifications:
Level 3 (Foundation), for those starting out in HR or L&D
Level 5 (Associate), for experienced professionals looking to progress.
Level 7 (Advanced), for senior HR leaders and strategic roles.
Each level is designed to build knowledge, skills, and credibility in the field of people management.
Do employers value CIPD qualifications?
Yes, CIPD qualifications are widely recognised by employers across the UK and internationally. They serve as a benchmark for HR competence and are often listed as essential or desirable in job postings. Research by the CIPD found that, between March 2022 to February 2023, a CIPD certification was the most common certification asked for in HR job posts and was requested by major companies such as Microsoft, Network Rail and BMW.
Can a CIPD qualification get me a higher salary?
Yes, research suggests that CIPD qualifications not only enhance employability but also significantly boost salary potential. The CIPD found that, on average, HR professionals with a CIPD qualification earned 12% more than those without one. HR admin-level roles requesting a CIPD qualification listed salaries of up to £5,600 more than those not requesting CIPD qualifications, while HR manager-level requesting CIPD chartered membership offered up to £17,200 more. On average, salaries for HR roles requesting CIPD associate membership were £3,000 higher than those not requesting CIPD membership.
What other factors influence HR salaries?
While CIPD qualifications are valuable, salary is also influenced by factors such as experience and seniority, industry and private or public sector, geographic location and additional skills such as data analysis, employment law, or digital HR tools. Typically, private sector roles are higher paid and salaries are highest in London and other large cities.
Is a CIPD qualification worth the investment?
CIPD courses require an investment of time and money. However, the return on investment can be substantial. Over a 10 or 20 year career, a 12% salary increase can amount to tens of thousands of pounds.
Beyond financial gain, our learners have found that studying CIPD qualifications has also helped them gain greater confidence and credibility, career progression, and strategic advancement.
Becoming CIPD qualified has increased my confidence especially in understanding HR policies, compliance and employment legislation. As a result, I am able to offer higher quality HR support and advice.
CIPD Level 5 success story
So, can a CIPD qualification get you a higher salary?
The answer is a resounding yes—especially when combined with experience, strategic skills, and a proactive career mindset. For HR professionals aiming to climb the ladder, a CIPD qualification is not just a credential—it’s a career catalyst.