Foundation Member

Activate your career in the people profession

Foundation membership starts to build your credibility. It shows you’re serious about your development and that you have a strong base of knowledge to build on. Once you’ve successfully completed your CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice you become a Foundation Member and can use the designation 'Foundation CIPD'.

Working at Foundation grade means you have a direct impact on daily operations. You’re using your knowledge to perform an effective tactical role that supports others in your organisation including your manager, colleagues and customers.

This grade is for you if:

You complete the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice
You’re beginning to build your experience in people practice, or looking for your first role in the people profession.
You’re carrying out varied tactical and administrative work for your immediate colleagues and customers.
You’re applying your knowledge of people practices to your work.
You’re performing day-to-day tasks, such as answering queries, booking people onto training, or gathering information to support people programmes.

When you’re a Foundation Member, you can use the designation Foundation CIPD after your name.

The Foundation Member grade is aligned with the corresponding level in the Profession Map.

How to become a Foundation Member:

You will gain Foundation Membership upon successful completion of a Foundation Certificate in People Practice.

Foundation Certificate in People Practice

If you're starting your journey in the People Profession, a CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice is perfect for you.

If you were previously in membership, find out how to come back to ensure your expertise is professionally recognised and trusted.

Not sure if Foundation Membership is right for you?

Student Member

Associate Member

Chartered Member

Chartered Fellow

Affiliate Member

We also have Academic Membership grades for academics and researchers working in the field of HR and L&D.

To recognise exceptional leaders, we have a Chartered Companion grade which is the highest level of recognition awarded by the CIPD. Following a nomination process, the CIPD Board selects individuals to enter this grade.

Member benefits

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Find out what CIPD membership has to offer.

Member benefits

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