What is a Certificate of Professional Development (CPD) qualification?

A CPD qualification provides an opportunity to study three established university level modules to achieve a recognised award directly relevant to a specific career/sector. The award is validated by the University of Plymouth and will normally take one year to complete (part time).

Why study for a CPD?

Programmes can be designed by selecting specific modules to meet the individual requirements and learning aims of the student, and in many cases can also include an industry standard qualification. Professional guidance will be provided in selection of the modules, and students will be allocated a personal tutor to guide them through the programme.

Who is it for?

For many people, taking on a full higher education course is simply not practical or appropriate. The CPD award is designed to be flexible to meet the needs of the student; it utilises our current provision and so is ready for you to access.

Alternatively, employers can identify modules that would meet the training needs of their employees and design a CPD for their workforce. There might be core modules that all staff would study with the option of different specialist modules added to meet the needs of specific staff.

What could be studied?

Modules for inclusion in a CPD award can be drawn from the following areas of study:

• Business
• Catering
• Child care
• Construction
• Computing
• Design and media
• Engineering
• Hair and beauty
• Health professions
• Leisure

For example, someone wishing to further their career and/or business in the food and beverage industry could choose to study: People and Organisations; The Business Plan; and Event Management.

A computer network engineer could study: Computer Network Principles; Wide Area Networks and Protocols; and Network Administration. (This programme could also allow a student to obtain Cisco Certified Network Associate [CCNA] status).

Someone wishing to gain Automotive Master Technician status could study: Advanced Vehicle Technology; Advanced Vehicle Diagnostics; and Communication and Liaison Techniques.

An individual needing to boost their management qualifications may study: Project Management; Management Accounting; and Operations Management.

What support is available?

Students studying for a CPD award at the College will have access to our complete range of Learner Services, including our Learning Resource Centre, Disability and Mental Health Support Services, Careers Advice and Guidance as well as being part of our HE student community.

How much will it cost?

A CPD programme will usually be studied part time over a period of one year, and costs just £900.

What previous qualifications are required?

Applicants will normally have gained qualifications such as A Levels, NVQ Level 3, BTEC National Certificate/Diploma or an Access to Higher Education award.

What should I do now?

For more information, or to discuss specific requirements for a CPD award, please call 0117 312 5372, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it