CIPR Qualifications – Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
1. What is changing?
From 2 March 2026, the CIPR is refreshing two of its professional qualifications (CIPR Foundation and CIPR Professional PR Certificate) to ensure they continue to reflect modern, ethical and digitally capable PR and communications practice.
The titles are changing slightly to reflect that the qualifications will benefit those working in public relations and communications roles. The new titles are:
- CIPR Public Relations and Communication Foundation
- CIPR Public Relations and Communication Management Certificate
2. Why is the CIPR updating these qualifications?
Regular syllabus reviews are standard practice across education and professional bodies, helping to ensure qualifications continue to remain credible, relevant and aligned with changing employer needs and industry practice
3. When will the changes take effect?
- 2 March 2026: The new syllabi is published and enrolment onto these new qualifications opens
- 2 April 2026: The new syllabi is taught and delivered
4. Will the changes affect current students?
No. Current students continue on the version they started, with no impact on their learning, assessment or recognition.
5. Can current students switch to the new version of the qualification?
No. Current students must complete the version they started. The refreshed qualifications are not interchangeable with existing syllabi.
6. Will the existing qualifications still be recognised?
Yes, the existing qualifications remain credible, recognised and respected.
7. What are the main differences in the refreshed syllabi?
The updates increase focus on ethical decision-making, digital capability, emerging technologies and clearer development pathways.
8. How will CIPR Accredited Teaching Centres support the transition?
CIPR Accredited Teaching Centres have received full briefing packs and will update materials by 2 March 2026.
9. Will CIPR Accredited Teaching Centres adopt changes at the same time?
Yes, all CIPR Accredited Teaching Centres will open enrolment on the 2 March 2026 and deliver the new syllabi from 2 April 2026.
10. What support is available if I have questions?
- Prospective students: Please contact your chosen Accredited Teaching centre
- Current students: Please speak with your tutor or support team
- CIPR Accredited Teaching Centres: Please email the Awarding Body team at [email protected]
11. How do these changes support my career?
The refreshed qualifications build ethical, digital, AI-informed and strategic communication capability.
12. Are further changes planned?
Yes. These changes are designed to lay the foundations to make our overall suite of qualifications more appealing and clearly linked to different career stages.
13. Will employers understand the new qualification titles?
Yes. Titles clearly describe level and scope and align with professional terminology.
14. Where can I find the updated syllabi?
New syllabi will be available on the CIPR website from 2 March 2026. You can find the syllabus for the Public Relations and Communication Foundation on this page and the syllabus for the Public Relations and Communications Management Certificate on this page.
15. How is the CIPR communicating these changes?
Through website updates, student communications, member newsletters, social media, and briefings with CIPR Accredited Teaching Centres.