CIPR Certificate:

Internal Communications

Level 5 | Degree | 8/9 SQA
Unlock the potential of effective internal communication with the CIPR Specialist Certificate in Internal Communications. This course aims to equip candidates with a comprehensive introduction to the key concepts, theories, techniques, and skills essential for thriving as an internal communicator.

Throughout the programme, you will explore the vital role internal communications play within an organisation's structure, systems, leadership, and culture. You'll learn how to research, create, and curate impactful content across various channels, empowering you to support management in achieving strategic and transformational objectives. With a solid grounding in these core areas, this certificate will set you on the path to becoming a proficient and influential internal communicator.
Format

Live (virtual)
Learning

Starting dates

9 January 2025

April 2025

June 2025

September 2025

Duration

10 x 2 hour
Live sessions

2 x 1 hour
Tutor session

Supplementary

12 weeks

Course tutor(s)

Michelle Atkinson

Course fee

 £995 + VAT 

Excludes CIPR fees*
See enrolment guide
for details

Aims of the course

This course aims to equip candidates with essential concepts, theories, techniques, and skills for effective internal communication. The course covers the role of internal communications within an organisation's structure and culture, teaching candidates to create impactful content across various channels while supporting management in achieving strategic objectives

Assessments Methods 

A two part written assessment 
  1. Internal Communication Plan: This includes a 500-word overview of secondary research that informs the internal communication strategy, alongside a detailed 1,500-word plan that outlines key employee groups, objectives, activities, and timelines.
  2. Content Curation Report and Creative Brief: This involves a 500-word report detailing the processes and tools for curating written and multimedia content related to the internal communication plan, as well as a 500-word brief for a creative piece that supports the activities outlined in the plan.

Entry requirements 

 This course is perfect for aspiring internal communicators, PR professionals, HR practitioners, and students looking to enhance their skills in effective organisational communication.
To study for this course, you will need either a CIPR Foundation award or any UK recognised degree, or equivalent or 2 years’ relevant full-time employment in public relations (or related sectors, e.g. marketing, journalism) and 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, 1 of which must be in the English Language.

How can it be used?

This course can be used to develop essential skills in internal communication, enabling professionals to effectively manage communication within organisations, improve employee engagement, and support strategic goals. It also enhances career opportunities by providing practical knowledge in content curation, communication planning, and ethical practices, making graduates more effective in roles related to PR, HR, and organisational leadership.
All our learners gain access the the nesma learning hub and you own learning homepage. From here you can access all your courses, materials and activities, see your progress and work with other students. 

The platform provides broader benefits including skills passport, activity badges, and access to skills intelligence, offers and news!

Learning outcomes

The unit comprises three learning outcomes.


Learning Objective 1
Learning Objective 2
Learning Objective 3
Learning Objective 4

Understand how internal communication impacts organisational effectiveness and supports change.

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Apply communication models and develop internal communication plans to achieve objectives.

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Produce effective written, verbal, and social media communications for employee engagement.

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Support managers in communication and engagement with their teams.

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The 'nesma way'

What makes us different is our focus on giving you a great learning experience with more tutor engagement and personal focus ...we call it 'The nesma Way'!  

  • Personalised course selection and options support
  • Structured guidance from our exclusive tutors
  • Simply more contact time to ensure your success
  • Membership to an ever-growing learning community
  • A leading edge learning companion, content and online tools
  • Amazing pass rates and a great experience!
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Course Tutor

Michelle Atkins

With over 30 years in PR and communications, including 20 at a senior level, I currently work in Internal Communications. A Fellow of the CIPR, I’ve held senior roles across public sector organisations and consultancies. I support MA students at Newcastle University and serve as Secretary of the CIPR North East committee. Passionate about public and crisis communications, I enjoy helping others grow while continuing to learn. Outside of work, I’m a football fan and enjoy staying active.
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