Balancing a professional qualification with a full-time role can feel like a lot, especially early in your career. But for Oli, studying CIPD while working was a chance to build confidence, gain new knowledge and develop skills he could apply immediately.
In this Q&A, Oli shares what motivated him to study CIPD, why he chose Oxford College of Management, how he stayed on track alongside everyday life and what advice he’d give to anyone considering CIPD but feeling unsure.
What made you decide to study CIPD, and why was now the right time?
I joined my current organisation as part of a graduate scheme, where all participants were given the opportunity to study towards a professional qualification (funded by the graduate scheme). I wanted to start this as soon as I started as I had just graduated from university a few months prior. As a result, I was still in the ‘studying mindset’ and thought it would be easier than trying to ‘get back into the groove’ of studying and completing essays, assignments etc…had I decided to wait.
Why did you choose Oxford College of Management for your CIPD studies?
I chose Oxford College of Management because they offered exactly what I was looking for. The flexibility to study at my own pace, whilst also having a fantastic and supportive team of tutors on standby to provide any guidance/assistance I may need.
How did you find balancing studying alongside work and everyday life?
It’s definitely a subjective and personal one. But I approached it very similar to how I did my studies at university. Some weeks will be quieter so I’d encourage making the most of this time, and then during busy weeks it’s important to learn that it is OK to take a step back from studying as intensely. It’s a marathon not a sprint and over the course of the 2 years my intensity and hours put in each week towards the qualification naturally varied. You are in it for the long haul and I think that’s all that matters. I also set myself a ‘loose’ roadmap (i.e. by month X I would like to be on session Y of module Z). This helped me remain accountable and ‘on track’ but of course like all things in life there may be unexpected delays and slip ups. That’s why on demand learning was so great!
Have you been able to apply what you learned in your role already?
Whilst I am not currently in a ‘People’ role, I definitely think that the skills and knowledge I have gained from studying towards the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management have changed how I interact and collaborate with others. Modules such as reward management and motivational theory have helped me to see relationship dynamics and colleague’s attitudes towards tasks in a different light. Definitely an eye opener.
What’s next for you now you’ve completed your CIPD qualification?
I think I will definitely take a bit of a break from studying now! It’s been a thoroughly enjoyable but demanding 2 years. For now, I will reflect on what I have learned and then weigh up whether I want to pursue this qualification at a higher level or look for a role where this qualification is a requirement/directly applicable.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting CIPD?
If you have the time, resources and support to study towards it I would definitely encourage others to do so. You might not need it right now for your current role but with how fluid and unrestricted career pathways are these days you never know what field/area you might end up in the next 2,5 or 10 years. Talk to your peers (colleagues, friends, managers) and see if there is any way they can support you whilst you take on the responsibilities and demands that come with studying. Even if, by the end of the course, you aren’t sure if you will go into a role that is directly associated with your qualification – you are guaranteed to come out the other side more knowledgeable, and with a different perspective on the world of HR and People Management. In this day and age, knowledge is key.
Oli’s experience shows that studying CIPD while working is absolutely achievable with the right mindset, a flexible learning approach, and support around you. Whether you’re in an HR role already or simply want to build people management knowledge for the future, CIPD can be a valuable step forward.
If you’re looking to build confidence, strengthen your people skills, or take the next step in your career, explore our HR courses and find the right option for your goals.