Free Level 5 HR Course. Study online. You can work through this hr qualification at your own pace, fitting study around your existing commitments. Over the course of a year, you'll cover people management, HR strategy, and key employment practices. Entry requires GCSE level or equivalent, including Level 2 English and maths. This is a recognised level 5 hr qualification from CIPD, one of the most respected names in the profession.
Who this course is for
STRONG Managers: Individuals currently working in roles who are looking to advance their careers and deepen their knowledge and skills in people management and development. Those aiming to move into more senior roles, seeking to build a solid foundation in key functions and strategic practices
Entry requirements
Educated to GCSE level or equivalent. Strong skills in English and basic mathematics (Level 2 (GCSE level 4 or above) or equivalent) are required to effectively engage with course materials and assessments. The course is ideal for those starting in their career or looking to make a career change into HR.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of people management practices and how to apply them at work.
You'll explore strategic HR approaches, including workforce planning and talent management.
You'll study employment law and how it shapes HR decisions.
You'll learn how to support employee wellbeing and engagement.
You'll examine learning and development frameworks used in organisations.
You'll build skills in handling performance, absence, and disciplinary processes.
You'll analyse how HR contributes to organisational culture and change.
How you will learn
You'll study entirely online, working through course materials at a pace that suits you. Assessment is through written assignments and applied tasks that draw on your workplace experience or case-based scenarios. CIPD qualifications are assessed without formal exams; your work is submitted and marked against the CIPD's own standards.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Leeds City College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
HR Manager: lead recruitment, employee relations, and HR strategy
People Manager: manage teams and support staff development
HR Business Partner: align HR practice with business objectives
HR Advisor: advise managers on employment matters and policy
Talent Acquisition Specialist: oversee hiring and workforce planning
Learning and Development Coordinator: design and deliver staff training
Employee Relations Advisor: handle workplace disputes and disciplinary cases
What you could study next
CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management: the senior-level CIPD qualification for those moving into strategic or director-level HR roles.
CIPD Level 5 Organisational Learning and Development: a parallel Level 5 Diploma if your focus shifts toward training and development rather than generalist HR.
A postgraduate degree in Human Resource Management: some universities accept CIPD Level 5 as part of entry criteria for HR-related master's programmes.
