What is CPD?

CPD is a simple and structured approach to everyday learning. CPD is not a formal qualification, rather the continuous learning, in bitesize chunks, that keep you, and your qualifications up to date. Today, CPD is the currency of professional education and training, by everyone in the workforce across the globe. It’s the culmination of every small and big effort you undertake to be better at work and a better you. In short, membership with the CPD Institute provides:

Competence

Develop competence by rewiring your
skills ready for the future

Credibility

Build instant credibility with prestigious
post-nominals & certified badges

Community

Leverage our network to grow your
business or get that dream job you want

Traditional education has always provided the basic building blocks upon which CPD stands. In 2023 we need to learn subjects that truly matter to us and which give us the experience and ability to put us on track to succeed. We’re no longer learning for work, but from work.

CPD stands for 'Continuing Professional Development'.

In most cases, a CPD certificate is awarded upon completion of a CPD accredited activity – whether it be;

The certificate will reflect a certain number of points or hours that are traditionally mandated from a particular professional body or regulator.

Certificates are a way of validating your continual learning to ‘cash in’ on career progression and your employability.

Across the globe, CPD is undertaken in most countries either as part of an individual's day to day life, or as a focussed professional practice. It describes the long-haul career development process, programmes or activities professionals and organisations engage in to continually evolve.

Why is CPD important?

In 2023, CPD has become an important factor in determining who gets hired in the professional field. Employers do not only focus on academic qualifications nowadays; they also make these decisions based on the level of professionalism applicants exhibit and advancements made in career paths.

Engaging in ongoing improvement provides individuals with the skills necessary to stand out from the crowd. It makes individuals more experienced, dutiful and capable of handling various tasks to their client’s satisfaction and to meet and excel company standards and can make individuals masters of their field. CPD can take different forms – the one you choose depends on your discretion – all aimed at long-term professional development.