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‘Who, what and where’ of training qualifications 2009

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This round up of training qualifications in the UK has now been updated for 2009. Below you'll find brief details of qualifications available in the fields of training, learning & development, elearning, coaching and mentoring.

This year we've noted an increase in the number of elearning degrees being offered by UK universities and we've also expanded the section on coaching qualifications. This does mean that this document has become rather long, so we intend to seperate it into several more manageable sections in the future, as soon as possible after the site is relaunched on 20 May.

Details include where to get the various qualifications, how long they take, what they cost, and (in cases where we have your comments) what trainers think about them. We've excluded general teacher training as well as qualifications for training in a specific subject area, such as IT.

Once again, we would welcome your comments about the pros and cons of the various qualifications. And if you feel the list is still not complete, or you hear of any new qualifications being introduced, do please let us know.

Please note that inclusion of a course is for information only, and does not constitute an endorsement by TrainingZone.co.uk of the qualifications themselves or the organisations behind them.


GENERAL TRAINING, LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT QUALIFICATIONS

CIPD Certificate in Training Practice (CTP)

 

Where:

Direct from the CIPD’s training arm as a modular programme, or from more than 100 CIPD approved centres in the UK, Ireland and in 17 other countries around the world

What:

The course covers the following main areas: learning theory and training delivery, training design, participative methods, identification and analysis of training needs, training evaluation and assessment.

How long:

The CIPD modular course includes five residential courses. The timescale is flexible and you have up to 1 year to complete the course. There is also a fast-track version for more experienced trainers, which is designed to be completed within six months. The duration of courses run by CIPD centres varies: you can cram everything into a month or spread it out over a year or more.

How much:

£7,499 + VAT for the CIPD modular course if paid upfront, or £7,999 + VAT if paid module-by-module (£4,195 + VAT for the fast-track version if paid upfront, or £4405 + VAT if paid module-by-module). Prices charged by CIPD centres vary enormously, but expect to pay from around £1,200 at a local college, up to several thousand at a commercial training organisation. Affiliate membership of the CIPD is necessary while studying, which as a student costs £40 plus a subscription fee of £121.

How many:

Around 2,000 CTP qualifications are awarded each year. More than 12,000 people have passed the course since 1994. In addition, around 200-250 other CIPD training qualifications are awarded each year.

Comments:

The CTP is considered by many to be the industry standard and is the qualification most frequently asked for by employers. However, trainers tell us that the quality of teaching at CIPD centres is variable. But the CIPD insists that their rigorous quality assurance systems, independently audited by the QCA, guarantee that all courses educate students to a consistently high standard.
The certificate leads to Associate membership of the CIPD, but some trainers feel that the CIPD is more HR than training oriented.

More information:

See the CIPD website www.cipd.co.uk/training/CTP

 


TAP Diploma in Learning & Development

 

Where:

TAP programmes are offered by The Training Foundation at two Coventry-based training centres, or as in-company courses.

What:

The Diploma in Learning and Development programme involves achieving four certificates in training delivery skills, facilitation skills, training design & development and blended learning, all of which can be held independently. The programme also includes a work-based project. You can request certification by the British Institute for Learning and Development (BILD) or ABC Awards.

How long:

For the complete diploma: 17 days classroom instruction (5 days each for the delivery skills, facilitation and design workshops, plus 2 days for the blended learning event), plus 60 hours for a work-based project. This is reduced to 15 days for candidates with six months experience, and 10 days for those who already hold a Certificate in Training Practice.

How much:

£6,900 & VAT for the entire Diploma, reduced to £6,200 + VAT for trainers with six months experience, and £4,495 + VAT for CTP holders. If you want to take one or more of the Certificates independently, the fees are £1,990 + VAT for each 5 day Certificate course, and £940 + VAT for the 2 day certificate in blended learning. The 3-day Fast-track Delivery Skills course for experienced trainers costs £1,260 + VAT. In-company courses for up to 6 students are charged at £2,000 + VAT per day plus trainer's expenses.

How many:

As of September 2008, some 69 delegates had completed the TAP Diploma, which was introduced in 2006, and around 100 were working towards it. TAP certificates and diplomas are now awarded to more than 2,000 trainers a year and a total of more than 18,000 L&D professionals have gained one of the 14 TAP qualifications since 1998. This includes more than 2,300 in the NHS where TAP is a recommended ETD standard.

Comments:

TAP is a highly regarded and popular option across many sectors, and is increasingly requested by prospective employers. According to The Training Foundation: "96.4% of the 726 respondents to the TAP Survey 2009 would recommend the TAP Learning System to others".

More information:

See the TAP website www.tap-training.com for full details of the Diploma in Learning and Development and all other courses within the TAP Learning System

 

ITOL Certificate, Advanced Certificate & Diploma in Training & Occupational Learning

 

Where:

Through ITOL & its delivery partner, The Learning Sanctuary.

What:

Diploma candidates have normally completed the Certificate & Advanced Certificate first, which cover training delivery skills, learning theory, TNAs, training design, evaluation, and operations issues. The Diploma itself focuses on advanced skills, specialist approaches and management issues. The Certificates can also be held independently. Candidates new to training should complete ITOL's Foundation Certificate in Staff Development before starting the programme

How long:

Through ITOL, the certificates are available in a fast-track format for practicing trainers: three days for the Certificate, five days for the Advanced Certificate. The Diploma involves four additional two-day workshops over 18-20 weeks, plus assignments in between.
Through the Learning Sanctuary, the certificates are offered as distance-learning programmes, combining self study and workshops: 8 weeks for the Certificate, 12 weeks for the Advanced Certificate, 9 months for the Diploma.
If required, the Foundation Certificate involves a two day workshop.

How much:

Through ITOL, the fees are £1,495 + VAT for the Foundation Certificate, £1,995 + VAT for the Certificate, £2,795 + VAT for the Advanced Certificate and £4,250 + VAT for the Diploma.
Through The Learning Sanctuary, the fees are £950 + VAT for the Foundation Certificate, £1,500 + VAT for the Certificate, £1,500 + VAT for the Advanced Certificate, and £2,380 for the Diploma.

How many:

Figures not available from ITOL.


Comments:

A well-regarded alternative to the CTP, often recommended by TrainingZone.co.uk members as being purely focused on the L&D professional's requirements, and of a high standard. But since ITOL are relatively new to the scene, not so well recognised by employers at present.

More information:

ITOL: www.itol.org
The Learning Sanctuary: www.thelearningsanctuary.co.uk

 


Other Professional Qualifications

  • CIPD Advanced Certificate in Designing and Delivering Learning
  • CIPD Advanced Certificate in Learning and Development
  • CIPD Advanced Certificate in Management Development
  • CIPD Advanced Certificate in Strategic Learning and Development Management
  • CIPD Advanced Certificate in Managing Organisational Learning


Each of the 5 courses above takes from 20 weeks to one year part-time
They are available through the CIPD
Each courses costs £2,999 + VAT

  • Certificate in Training Administration


Up to six months part-time through the CIPD
Cost: £1,599 + VAT

  • Competence-based Certificate in Training Practice


A pilot programme for 2009 from the CIPD, designed for experienced L&D professionals working within a training role or context. It gives L&D practitioners the opportunity to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have already acquired in learning and development, offers a route to Associate Membership of the CIPD plus professional recognition of their abilities.
Cost: £1,900 + VAT

  • TAP Foundation Awards for Subject Matter Experts


The Foundation Awards involve achieving one of the following five courses in either training delivery skills, coaching skills, training design & development, presentation skills and developing performance support material. You can request certification by The Training Foundation. The Foundation Awards in training delivery skills, coaching skills, training design & development and presentation skills can be achieved through a two-day course with pre-course preparation. The developing performance support material is a two-day workshop plus online learning activities pre and post workshop.
Costs for four individual certificates are £840 + VAT for training delivery skills, coaching skills, training design & development and presentation skills and £1,200 + VAT for designing performance support materials. In-company courses for up to 6 students are charged at £2,000 + VAT per day plus trainer's expenses.
More information: See the TAP website

  • TAP Trainer-of-Choice


The Trainer-of-Choice certificated course is an important component in the TAP Learning System and will benefit everyone in an L&D role. It focuses on building trainers’ self-awareness of their current attitudes and behaviours. "This self-reflection helps trainers to adjust their practices to improve learner motivation and performance, to create an empathic, learner-centred climate and to engage with the hearts and minds of learners", says The Training Foundation. "The course focuses on the Six Principles of CHOICE and enables trainers to focus on what is really important to learners – and as we are all learners, so the six Principles reflect innate human needs." The course involves 3 days of classroom instruction with some pre course preparation and post course reflection.
Cost: £990 + VAT for the three day course). In-company courses for up to 6 students are charged at £2,000 + VAT per day plus trainer's expenses
More information: See the TAP website

  • Trainer Performance Monitoring & Assessment (TPMA) service leading to the Institute Certified Training Practitioner award (ICTP)

 The IITT Trainer Performance Monitoring & Assessment Service (TPMA), intended for trainers across all fields (not just IT) is authorised and governed by the Institute of IT Training (IITT) and the BCS. Trainers who pass through the TPMA live assessment service receive an assessor's report, outlining their key performance indicators, which they can use to obtain the Institute Certified Training Practitioner certificate (ICTP) - awarded jointly by IITT and the British Computer Society. The TPMA Assessment Report can be used as contributory evidence towards gaining the national qualification Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector award (PTLLS), level 3/4. Trainers are assessed in the workplace against core competency measures.
Typical costs for assessments are around £250 for a half-day to 1-day assessment. Training Providers or Training Departments may apply to the IITT to be conduct their own assessments.
More information: www.iitt.org.uk

  • BPP Diploma in Training & Development by Flexible Learning


A qualification for senior L&D professionals, offered by commercial training provider BPP, based on the four CIPD elective modules: learning and development, managing organisational learning & knowledge, managing the training and development function, and management development. The course takes around 10 months for the four electives, with 12 days of workshops/exams plus around 12-14 hours of flexible study per week. It costs £3200 + VAT.
More information: www.hr.bpp.com

  • Advanced Professional Diploma in Managing Organisational Learning and Development (MOLD)


Another qualification based on the four CIPD L&D electives: learning and development, managing organisational learning & knowledge, managing the training and development function, and management development. Offered by the commercial training provider MOL. The 12-month course includes a two and a half day induction workshop,10 full day workshops, a personal tutorial, tutor support, learning materials, flexible self-study and study venues across the UK. The four electives cost £2850 (there is no VAT to pay). CIPD membership is also required.
More information: www.mol-openlearning.co.uk

  • ITOL Diploma & Advanced Diploma in Learning Management


Available through The Learning Sanctuary, these diplomas are designed for those in a specialist management role in L&D, with the Advanced Diploma being aimed at those in a leadership role.
The modular programmes include distance learning, workshops and assignments. The Diploma takes nine months and costs £2380 + VAT. The Advanced Diploma takes 12 months and costs £2700 + VAT.
More information: www.thelearningsanctuary.co.uk

  • Edexcel Level 3 Award in Training Skills


A new qualification designed by training provider RCT Training, to fulfil a need for a short course focused purely on training, suitable for people who want to learn how to design and deliver training courses in any subject or sector. The course involves 24 hours of tuition, typically delivered over four to six weeks. It is normally delivered to groups of six to 12 (the minimum is six), at a cost of £2400, plus an accreditation fee for the Certificate of £180 per person. RCT Training will also accredit suitable training courses within client organisations. The cost for this accreditation service is £180 per person.
More information: www.rcttraining.co.uk

Doctorates in Education & Training

  • DPhil Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
    University of Sussex


£3,390 per year full-time
For information email: [email protected]

  • PhD Education and Training
    University of Greenwich


Three years full-time, four to five years part-time
£3,810 per year full-time, £635 per 30 credits part-time
For information see the website: www.gre.ac.uk

  • PhD Lifelong Learning
    University of Leeds


Research topics include learning at work, professional learning and development
Three to four years full time, five to seven years part time
£3,390 per year full-time, £1695 per year part-time (subject to review)
For information see the website: www.education.leeds.ac.uk

Masters Degrees in Lifelong Learning, Development & Training

 

What:

MA, MEd, MPhil and MSc qualifications are all available. In many cases study is towards a Certificate, then a Diploma, then the Masters degree. Programmes include:

Where:

  • University of Bradford: MEd (& PgDip/PgCert) Training and Development
  • Coventry University: MA (& PgDip/PgCert) Professional Learning
  • University of Edinburgh: MSc (& PgDip/PgCert) Management of Training and Development
  • University of Glasgow: MSc (& PgDip/PgCert) Adult & Continuing Education
  • Glasgow Caledonian University: MSc Lifelong Learning & Development
  • University of Greenwich: MPhil Education and Training (research degree)
  • University of Leeds: MA in Lifelong Learning
  • University of London Institute of Education: MA in Higher and Professional Education; MA in Lifelong Learning
  • University of Portsmouth: MSc Education and Training Management
  • Sheffield Hallam University: MA (& PgDip/PgCert) Post-Compulsory Education and Training
  • University of Sussex: MA in Lifelong Learning and Professional Practice; Mphil in Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
  • Swansea Metropolitan University: MA Professional Development, Education and Training
  • Thames Valley University: MA Learning and Development
  • University of Wales Institute, Cardiff: MA Post Compulsory Education and Training
  • University of Wales Newport: MA Post Compulsory Education and Training

How long:

Typically one to two years full-time or two to four years part-time.

How much:

Fees vary. Example fees for the whole programme in 2009/10 include £1,225 (Swansea Metropolitan); £3,600 (Sheffield Hallam); £3,600 (Glasgow Caledonian); £4,850 (Edinburgh).

More information:

Go to the Prospects website to search for a course www.prospects.ac.uk

 

Certificate in Post Compulsory Education & Training (PCET)

 

What:

The following universities are among those which offer a Certificate or Professional Graduate Certificate in Post-Compulsory Education & Training (PCET). Based on the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS - see below), they form a route to qualified teacher status. Several universities also offer PCET qualifications via local partner colleges.

Where:

  • University of Bedfordshire: PGCE & CertEd
  • Birmingham City University: PGCE
  • University Campus Suffolk (UCS): PGCE & CertEd
  • Cardiff University: PGCE & CertEd
  • University of East London: PGCE
  • Edge Hill University: PGCE & Cert HE
  • University of Greenwich: PGCE
  • University of Huddersfield: CertEd & PGCE
  • Manchester Metropolitan University: PGCE & CertEd
  • Northumbria University: PGCE & CertEd
  • Oxford Brookes University, PgCert
  • Sheffield Halham University: PgCert (part of MA programme
  • University of Southampton: PGCE & CertEd
  • University of Sunderland: PGCE & CertEd
  • Swansea Metropolitan University: PGCE & CertEd
  • University of Wales Institute, Cardiff: PGCE & CertEd
  • University of Wales, Newport: PGCE
  • University of the West of England (UWE): PGCE

How long:

Typically one year full-time or two years part-time (in-service) for the PGCE, although longer part-time programmes are available. The CertEd and PgCert may be offered part-time over just one year.

How much:

Varies. Example PGCE fees for 2009/10 include £900 x one year or £450 x 2 years (Edge Hill University), £1,200 x one year (Sheffield Hallam), £3,225 x one year (University of Plymouth), £3,225 x one year (University of Sunderland).

More information:

See the Prospects website to search for a course www.prospects.ac.uk

 

Bachelor Degrees in Post-Compulsory Education & Training

 

What:

L&D related first degrees at UK universities include:

Where:

  • Glyndŵr University: BA Hons Post-Compulsory Education & Training
  • University of Greenwich: BA/BSc Hons Education and Training (the programme is a progression from a foundation degree)
  • University of Hull (Doncaster College): BA Hons Learning and Development in Post Compulsory Education and Training
  • Northumbria University: BA Hons Post-Compulsory Education & Training
  • Oxford Brookes University: BA Hons Post-Compulsory Education and Lifelong Learning
  • University of Portsmouth: BA Hons Education & Training Studies
  • University of Southampton: BA Hons Education & Training (PCET)
  • Staffordshire University: BA Hons Post-Compulsory Education
  • University of Sunderland: BA Hons Education and Training
  • University of Wales, Newport: BA Hons Post-Compulsory Education & Training
  • University of Warwick: BA Hons Post-Compulsory Education & Training

How long:

Typically these are flexible, part time programmes designed for in-service tutors and trainers. Most courses run over 2-3 years.

How much:

Example fees for programmes starting in 2009/10 include £3200 for the entire programme (Glyndŵr University) £805 per year (Oxford Brookes University), £900 per year (University of Southampton)

More information:

Contact the individual university or college

 

Foundation Degrees in Education & Training

 

Where:

Learning & development Foundation Degrees include:

  • Education & Training (University of Greenwich)
  • Post Compulsory Education & Training (Edge Hill University, Leeds Metropolitan University at Bradford College, Canterbury Christ Church University at Canterbury College, University of Warwick, Leicester College)
  • Training and Development (University of Sunderland at Hartlepool and Newcastle colleges)
  • Training & Work-Based Learning (University of Sunderland at various colleges)

What:

Foundation degrees are offered by several universities in partnership with HE and FE colleges. They are designed and delivered in partnership with employers to equip people with knowledge and skills for business. They may lead on to BA/BSc courses

How long:

Varies. Many courses offer a part-time, flexible learning option. For example, the University of Sunderland Training & Work-Based Learning course, which has links with the CIPD, is one year full-time or two years part-time.

How much:

Varies hugely, from around £700 to over £3,000 for the total course.

More information:

Contact the individual university or college or visit www.fdf.ac.uk to search for a foundation degree.

 

NVQs & BTECs in Learning & Development

 

Where:

Through one of the many NVQ approved centres.

What:

Learning & Development NVQs, based on assessment of workplace practice, are available at level 3, 4 & 5. The awarding bodies include City & Guilds, Oxford Cambridge & RSA, Edexcel and the CIPD. Level 3 is for those who deliver training and development programmes and those responsible for their design and evaluation. Level 4 is aimed at full-time professionals with major responsibility for designing and delivering training within a work environment. Level 5, which includes a research element, is for those who contribute to planning, learning strategy and processes, and reviewing an organisation's capability to meet its development needs.

Learning & Development BTECs, made up of NVQ units, are also available at levels 3, 4 & 5 from various centres.

How long:

There is no time limit for completing an NVQ and courses are designed to be flexible. As a rough guide, Level 3 awards generally take six to 12 months, while level 4 and 5 awards take from nine months to a couple of years. However, intensive full-time courses are also available which offer a fast-track route. A full-time level 5 course might take 32 weeks, for example.

How much:

Prices vary hugely. For level 3, expect to pay from £600 to £1,200. For level 4, around £600 to £1,700, and for level 5, up to around £2,000.

Comments:

TrainingZone.co.uk members have told us that NVQs are worth considering if you want an award that is evidence- and work-based, rather than study-based, although one member told us her NVQ was 'mostly box ticking'. They have the advantage of requiring little or no time off work, and if you opt for the CIPD NVQs, you gain licentiate membership of the CIPD.

More information:

Go to the Directgov website to find an NVQ course or centre.

 

Award, Certificate & Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS, CTLLS & DTLLS)

 

Where:

Awarding bodies include City & Guilds, OCR and Edexcel. The qualifications are available through a wide range of providers including universities, colleges and City & Guilds approved centres across the UK. (The City & Guilds qualification numbers are 7303, 7304 and 7305).

What:

The Level 3 award, Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) provides an introduction to training and teaching adults.
The Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS), follows on from the PTLLS. City & Guilds candidates must hold the PTLLS award before moving on to the Certificate.
The Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS) is designed for those in a full training or teaching role. It fulfils the requirement of QTLS (Qualified Teacher status, Learning and Skills), which is required to teach adults in the public sector.

How long:

The duration varies depending on where you study and whether this is full- or part-time. For example, the PTLLS can be taken as a straight five-day course or at evening classes over a term. The Certificate course might be run intensively over three blocks of five days, separated to allow for teaching practice (30 hours of teaching practice is required), or part-time over several months. The Diploma, which requires 150 hours of teaching practice, is generally run part-time over a substantial period, typically two years.

How much:

Prices vary widely from one provider to the next. The most expensive are intensive courses run by commercial organisations, while the cheapest are part-time college classes. Expect to pay from around £300 to £700 for the PTLLS award, around £400 to £1,000 for the Certificate, and at least £1,200 for the Diploma.

Comments:

Regarded by members as good qualifications, leading onto qualified teacher status. It is thought that QTS will become more important in the future, even for trainers within industry.

More information:

See the City & Guilds website: www.cityandguilds.co.uk

 


ELEARNING & BLENDED LEARNING QUALIFICATIONS

Certificate in Blended Learning

 

Where:

Available through the CIPD

What:

"An in-depth look at how to design effective online learning materials, introduces the opportunities presented by virtual classrooms, and address the issues involved in implementing blended learning solutions."

How long:

20 weeks to one year

How much:

£3,145 + VAT for non-members, £2,999 + VAT for CIPD members

 

TAP Diploma in Elearning

 

Where:

TAP elearning programmes are offered by The Training Foundation at two Coventry-based training centres, as in-company courses and online: www.tap-training.com

What:

The Diploma is awarded to candidates who achieve the following four TAP Certificates, all of which can be held separately: Certificate in Blended Learning, Elearning Facilitation, Elearning Design, Elearning Implementation. The programme also includes a work-based project. You can request certification by the British Institute for Learning and Development (BILD). The Diploma and Certificates are accredited by the European Institute for Elearning

How long:

The blended learning certificate can be achieved through a two day workshop or a five week blended learning programme. There is a two day workshop for each of the other three certificates, plus online learning activities pre and post workshop.

How much:

£3,900 + VAT for the whole programme, which can be reduced for students already holding credits. Costs for individual certificates are £940 + VAT for blended learning, and £1,100 + VAT for each of the other three certificates. In-company courses for up to 6 students are charged at £2,000 + VAT per day plus trainer's expenses.

 

Elearning degrees & Certificates of Education

 

What:

UK qualifications include:

Where:

  • University of Cumbria: MA Education: eLearning
  • University of Greenwich: Certificate in Elearning, Teaching and Training (CeLTT); BSc Education and Training (Elearning) - the latter is a progression from a foundation degree
  • University of Edinburgh: MSc in Elearning (online course)
  • University of East London: MA in Online and Blended Learning
  • Edinburgh Napier University: MSc in Elearning Design and Development; MSc in Blended and Online Education
  • University of Hull: MEd Elearning
  • Lancaster University: PhD in E-research and Technology Enhanced Learning
  • Open University: MA in Online and Distance Education
  • University of Oxford: MSc in Education (eLearning)
  • Sheffield Hallam University: MSc (& PgDip/PgCert) in Technology Enhanced Learning, Innovation and Change
  • University of Ulster: MSc in eLearning: Interactive Teaching Technologies

How long:

Typically one year full-time or two to four years part-time for a Masters degree. One to two years for a Certificate.

How much:

Varies. Example fees for 2009/10 include £3,600 for the entire programme (Sheffield Hallam), £4,860 for the entire programme (Edinburgh), £3,745 for the entire Elearning MSc programme (Edinburgh Napier)

 


COACHING & MENTORING QUALIFICATIONS

Degrees & Postgraduate Certificates in Coaching & Mentoring

 

What:

There are several degree and postgraduate certificate programmes offered by UK universities, including Masters degrees with a PG Cert and PG Diploma as the first two stages of a three-part programme. The best known of these is the MA offered by Oxford Brookes University, which also has a doctorate programme. Several organisations have teamed up with universities to offer coaching degrees and certificates

Where:

  • Ashridge Management College / Middlesex University: Masters in Executive Coaching
  • Barefoot Coaching / University of Chester: PGCert Personal and Business Coaching
  • CFM Consulting / University of Strathclyde: Postgraduate Certificate in Executive Coaching
  • University of Gloucestershire: PGCE Mentoring and Coaching
  • i-coach academy / Middlesex University: MA/MSc (& Certificate) in Professional Coaching; Professional Doctorate in Coaching
  • Oxford Brookes University: MA (& PGDip/PGCert) Coaching and Mentoring Practice; DCaM Professional Doctorate Coaching and Mentoring
  • Lancaster University: Masters (& Diploma & Certificate) in Coaching in Organisations
  • Leeds Metropolitan University: MA (& PGDip/PGCert) Executive & Business Coaching
  • Liverpool John Moores University: PGCert Mentoring and Coaching (part of the MA Advanced Education Practice)
  • PB Coaching / Leeds Metropolitan University: PGCert Business and Executive Coaching; PGDip Coaching Psychology
  • Performance Consultants / University of Portsmouth: MSc (& PGDip/PGCert) Coaching & Development
  • Professional Development Foundation / Middlesex University: Masters in Professional Coaching; Professional Doctorate in Coaching
  • Northumbria University (Newcastle Business School): PGCert Coaching
  • Sheffield Hallam University: MSc (& PGDip/PGCert) Coaching and Mentoring
  • Staffordshire University: PGCert Performance Coaching & Mentoring
  • University of Westminster: PGCert Coaching and Mentoring at Work
  • University of Wolverhampton: MA (& PGDip/PGCert) Education (Mentoring & Coaching)

How long:

Varies. From one year full-time to around two years to five years part-time for the MA programmes, 1-2 years for the Certificates. The Oxford Brookes doctorate is designed to take 5 years, part-time.

How much:

Varies widely. Example fees for 2009/10 include: £2,250 for the 1-year certificate course (Westminster), £3,605 a year x 2.5 years plus £1,025 for dissertation (Sheffield Hallam); £8,800 for the entire MA programme (Oxford Brookes) and £5,680 per annum for the doctorate (Oxford Brookes). The masters programme from the Professional Development Foundation costs £8,100 + VAT.

 


Certificate & Advanced Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring

 

What:

The Certificate and Advanced Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring are designed to give a grounding in both the theory and practice of coaching, and are delivered through a blend of face-to-face, distance learning and online coaching methods. The Advanced Certificate is designed for practicing coaches and carries the European Mentoring and Coaching Council quality award kite mark at Practitioner level.

Where:

Through the CIPD www.cipd.co.uk

How long:

The Certificate takes seven months to one year part-time. The Advanced Certificate takes 12-15 months part-time.

How much:

Certificate: £3,735 + VAT for non-members; £3,950 + VAT for CIPD members. Advanced Certificate: £5,190 + VAT for non-members; £4,670 + VAT for CIPD members.

 

ILM qualifications in coaching and mentoring

 

What:

Level 3 qualifications:

  • ILM Level 3 Award in Workplace Coaching for Team Leaders and First Line Managers.
 
  • ILM Level 3 Certificate for Professional Workplace Coaches.

Both programmes involve three units introducing the key aspects of coaching in the workplace: understanding good practice in workplace coaching, organising workplace coaching and supervised coaching in the workplace. Candidates for the Certificate also complete an additional practical unit that includes at least 30 hours of coaching
Level 5 qualifications:
  • ILM Level 5 Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Management
 
  • ILM Level 5 Diploma for Professional Management Coaches and Mentors

Both programmes include three core units: Participants explore the characteristics of a good coach or mentor and present a business case for coaching and mentoring. They review their own ability as a management coach or mentor, and plan/deliver a short coaching or mentoring programme. In addition, Diploma candidates undertake an extended period of coaching or mentoring in the workplace.
Level 7 qualifications:
  • ILM Level 7 Certificate in Executive Coaching and Leadership Mentoring
 
  • ILM Level 7 Diploma for Professional Executive Coaches and Leadership Mentors

There are three core units common to both programmes. In the first unit participants critically review their own ability in the second they review the role of coaching and mentoring; and in the third they plan, deliver and review at least 12 hours of leadership mentoring or executive coaching. In addition, Diploma candidates undertake an extended period of supervised mentoring or executive coaching.

Where:

At an ILM approved centre

How long:

Level 3: A minimum of 36 hours guided learning is required for each programme, plus 30 hours coaching for the Certificate. Each course takes around six months to two years.
Level 5: A minimum of 45 hours guided learning for each course, plus around 100 hours of coaching or mentoring for the Diploma. Each course takes around eight months to two years.
Level 7: A minimum of 65 hours guided learning for each programme, plus around 125 of workplace coaching or mentoring for the Diploma. Each course takes around 10 months to three years.

How much:

Prices of ILM qualifications can vary from provider to provider, contact your local ILM centre to check prices in your area. Expect to pay from around £1,200 + VAT for the Level 3 awards, £1,500 + VAT for Level 5, and £2,000 + VAT for Level 7.

More information:

Go to the ILM website to find a centre www.i-l-m.com

 

AOEC Diplomas in Executive Coaching

 

Where:

Available through the Academy of Executive Coaching (AOEC) in London.

What:

These two courses are accredited by Middlesex University – Professional Development Foundation (PDF), the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC) and the International Coach Federation (ICF).

How long:

The Diploma in Intermediate Executive Coaching involves three 2-day modules, plus a live action coaching day, over 4 months. The Diploma in Advanced Executive Coaching involves four 3-day modules spaced around 10-12 weeks apart, tutorials, peer group meetings and two assessment days.

How much:

The cost of the intermediate diploma is £3,695 + VAT. The cost of the advanced diploma is £7700 + VAT .

More information:

AOEC website: www.aoec.com

 

Centre for Coaching Certificate and Diploma

 

Where:

Available through the Centre for Coaching in Bromley

What:

The centre offers a coaching certificate programme which leads on to a diploma, both accredited by Middlesex University. The diploma involves four certificate programmes: the Certificate in Coaching, Certificate in Stress Management and Performance Coaching, Certificate in Psychological Coaching, and Primary Certificate in Anger Management.

How long:

The Certificate in Coaching is a five-day taught course. The Diploma in Coaching involves around 100 hours of training, plus a distance learning element.

How much:

The cost of the Certificate in Coaching is £1,025 for individuals or 1,385 per person for organisations. The Diploma courses cost a total of around £3,000 for individuals, plus a registration fee of £500.

More information:

Centre for Coaching website: www.centreforcoaching.com

 

OCM Certificates and Diplomas in Coach-Mentoring

 

Where:

Available through the OCM, formerly known as the Oxford School of Coaching and Mentoring.

What:

The OCM offers three courses accredited by the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC) and/or credit rated by Oxford Brookes University. The Certificate in Coach-Mentoring is accredited by the EMCC and equivalent to NVQ Level 4. The Diploma in Professional Coach-Mentoring is designed for specialists and senior managers, and is accredited by the EMCC at intermediate level. It can also be assessed for 20 CAT points by Oxford Brookes. The Advanced Diploma in Professional Coach-Mentoring is accredited at Practitioner level by the EMCC, and worth 40 CAT points which can be credit rated by Oxford Brookes.

How long:

The Certificate in Coach-Mentoring is a six-month course. The Diploma in Professional Coach-Mentoring takes seven months. The Advanced Diploma takes 10 months.

How much:

Certificate: £2,950 + VAT. Diploma: £4,725 to £4,925 + VAT. Advanced Diploma: £5,725 - £5,925 + VAT.

More information:

OCM website: www.theocm.co.uk

 

NCFE IIQ Diploma & Advanced Diploma in Performance Coaching

 

Where:

Distance learning through Newcastle College

What:

These diplomas are flexible distance learning courses which can be studied online or through paper-based modules. The Advanced Diploma is designed for experienced coaches or those who have already achieved the Diploma.

How long:

Six months for the Diploma and a further five months for the Advanced Diploma.

How much:

Diploma: £395. Advanced Diploma: £450

More information:

Newcastle College website: www.flexible-elearning.co.uk

 

CFM Consulting Certificates of Coaching

 

Where:

From CFM Consulting (Coaching for More), at their Stirling Management Centre in Scotland.

What:

CFM Consulting offers qualifications accredited by the University of Strathclyde. The Certificate of Performance Coaching is an introduction to business coaching in the workplace. The Certificate of Professional Development in Coaching is a more intensive course.

How long:

The Certificate of Performance Coaching involves a two-day workshop plus a distance learning element. The Certificate of Professional Development in Coaching entails six days of teaching plus a blend of open learning, fieldwork, 360º feedback and self study.

How much:

£1,250 + VAT for the Certificate of Performance Coaching; £3,750 + VAT for the Certificate of Professional Development in Coaching.

More information:

CFM Consulting website: www.coachingformore.co.uk

 

Certificate of Professional Development in Executive Coaching

 

Where:

Available from the School of Coaching in London

What:

A coaching certificate programme accredited by The University of Strathclyde's Centre for Lifelong Learning.

How long:

The programme consists of 11 on-site learning days with around 2-3 weeks between each, and 18 one-to-one coaching sessions, including two with members of the faculty.

How much:

£8,200 + VAT

More information:

The School of Coaching website: www.theschoolofcoaching.com

 

Other coaching qualifications

  • Life Coaching Diploma (LCH Dip)


A qualification offered by Achievement Specialists, accredited by The European Coaching Institute. There are four routes to the diploma, from 'silver' to 'platinum', offering differing levels of one-to-one mentoring. The cheapest option includes virtual mentoring. All courses include workshops, blended learning assignments and a final assessment.
Costs: from £999 + VAT to £6,450 + VAT.
Achievement Specialists: www.achievementspecialists.co.uk

  • The Coaching Academy Diplomas in Coaching


The Coaching Academy offers a number of qualifications accredited to The Open College Network (OCN) and The Open and Distance Learning Quality Council (ODLQC). These include the Diploma in Personal Performance Coaching, the Diploma in Small Business Coaching and the Advanced Diploma in Coaching.
The courses combine live teaching in Bedfordshire and Crewe, practical assessments and assignments. The courses are designed to be flexible and there is no time limit.
Costs: Contact the Coaching Academy for details.
TEXT: www.the-coaching-academy.com

  • Performance Consultants Certificate, Diploma & Advanced Diploma in coaching


These qualifications are certified by Performance Consultants, which is a member of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC). All courses are based on a combination of workshops and self study, and take 3-6 months to complete. The Coaching Certificate involves 35 hours of study and is equivalent to NVQ Level 3. The Coaching Diploma involves 125 hours and is equivalent to NVQ Level 4. The Advanced Coaching Diploma involves 300 hours of study including 6 days of workshops.
Costs: Certificate £995 + VAT; Diploma £1,795 + VAT; Advanced Diploma £2,395 + VAT.
Performance Consultants: www.performanceconsultants.co.uk


Unless otherwise stated, course fees do not include accommodation. Details of degree programmes should be checked with the individual learning establishments as some courses may not be offered after 2009, and their details may vary from those shown.


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