Overview
Next course: September 2025 - May 2026
The Advanced Diploma of Proficiency in Internal Communication is a level 6 higher education qualification which is academically accredited by Solent University, meaning students recieve a dual award from Solent University and the IoIC.
The Advanced Diploma is a unique learning programme which allows students to define, implement and achieve their own professional development objectives, and supports them to take the next step in their career.
The course is designed for those with internal communication experience who are involved in planning as well as implementation and delivery, and are either in, or looking to move into, a managerial or business partner role.
Students will be encouraged to put theory into practice, and to channel their learning into their organisation and the development of their role. They will also have the opportunity to extend their industry knowledge by working collaboratively with fellow students to produce a report on a broader internal comms-related topic.
The programme is best suited for professionals who:
- Have mastered the basics of internal communication and are looking to progress their career through demonstrating mastery of a broader range of tactical and planning skills
- Have gained considerable internal communication experience and are now looking to underpin their work with best practice theory
- Are keen to demonstrate their commitment to their internal communication career and professional development.
What will you study?
The programme
At the start of the programme students will complete a self-assessment of their existing knowledge and skills using the level two of the IoIC profession map as a guide. Using this assessment, and with the support of a dedicated course facilitator, students will develop a personal professional development plan which they will work towards throughout the programme.
The personalised approach to the Advanced Diploma programme allows for the development of knowledge, skills and behaviours relevant to each student's current role and organisation. Students complete two assessments throughout the course.
Teaching on the Diploma centres around supporting students to develop and manage their IC practice with topics including:
- taking an outcomes-focused approach to IC planning
- understanding and working with stakeholders
- employee groups and audience mapping
- using data to generate insight and measure impact and value.
Assessment
The first assessment is the preparation of a professional portfolio demonstrating their learning and development, underpinned by a critical narrative based on theory and best practice. To create their portfolio, Advanced Diploma students are tasked with setting their own objectives, putting together a personal development plan based on their requirements and skills/knowledge gaps which they work towards achieving with the support of a dedicated facilitator.
The second, a collaborative project, producing a joint report on a topical question related to internal communication practice set by the IoIC. This assessment is an opportunity for students to research a genuine communication issue over the course of the diploma with a facilitator assigned by IoIC to provide guidance. This collaboration provides students with the opportunity to share learning, build long-lasting professional relationships, and work together on a practical, relevant, and valuable project.
The benefits
What will you gain from this qualification?
The Advanced Diploma is designed to provide the skills and knowledge required of an internal communication professional who is in, or is looking to move into, a business partner or managerial position. Gaining a qualification via the IoIC demonstrates not only professional capability but dedication to your internal communication career and professional development.
By completing the Advanced Diploma, students will:
- be equipped to plan, manage and deliver internal communication of a high standard, as per the expectations of a practitioner at level two of the IoIC Profession Map
- integrate theory with their professional practice and use it to underpin decision making
- develop reflective and critical thinking skills: establish a practice of reflective thinking, leading to an enhanced ability to think critically and articulate ideas clearly, and using academic writing techniques to build ability to draw on ideas to support an argument
- advance their internal communication knowledge and skills relevant to their personal circumstances and objectives
- take a pro-active, tailored approach to professional development and continuous learning, informed by the framework of the IoIC profession map
- work closely with our diploma facilitator who provides one-to-one support and guidance throughout your studies and learn from internal communication industry experts
- gain access to Solent University's online library and portal as well as IoIC's dedicated online learning environment where you will engage in discussions and other activities with your fellow students
- receive a year's worth of CPD (40 Points).
Entry Requirements and Application Process
Entry Criteria
Advanced Diploma students should be experienced in the delivery of best practice internal communication as per level one of the IoIC Profession Map, and may be working in, or towards, a managerial role, or as a senior member of an internal communication team.
The Advanced Diploma is mapped to level two of the professional map, with students using the map at level two as a guide throughout their studies.
The programme is best suited for professionals who:
- have mastered the basics of internal communication and are looking to progress their career through demonstrating mastery of a broader range of tactical and planning skills;
- have gained considerable internal communication experience and are now looking to underpin their work with best practice theory;
- are keen to demonstrate their commitment to their internal communication career and professional development.
Additional Requirements
Advanced Diploma students must be members of IoIC. If you are joining the IoIC as a member in order to enrol on the Advanced Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £30.00 + VAT
The Advanced Diploma is delivered and assessed in English. Applicants for whom English is not their first language may be required to demonstrate their English language proficiency via a certificate from an undergraduate degree taught in English, an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, or a similar equivalent alternative.
Application Process
The application process consists of an application form and eligibility assessment, followed by a telephone interview.
As part of this interview process, candidates are required to collate and submit up to five examples of work which they feel demonstrate their IC competence and experience, including at least two pieces of content which have been produced in a business context and which have been written for different audiences and/or channels.
Holders of the Foundation Diploma are eligible to enrol on the Advanced Diploma without taking part in the interview process, subject to completion of the Advanced Diploma application form and review by the Diploma Facilitator. Please note: holders of the Foundation Diploma may also be required to provide evidence of their experience.
Key information
How long is the course?
The Advanced Diploma takes nine months to complete.
When does the course start?
The course runs once a year. The next cohort of the Advanced Diploma will start in September 2025 and will run until May 2026.
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered entirely online and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. There will be a combination of workshops; online materials, independent study and reading; collaborative group work and discussion boards; assignment writing; and optional group drop-in sessions. Students are also supported via direct tutor interactions and 1on1 sessions throughout the course.
How are students assessed?
Students are assessed via two peices of coursework: a professional portfolio and a collaborative group project.
How easy is it to combine the Advanced Diploma with full-time employment?
The Advanced Diploma has been designed to be completed virtually, anywhere in the world, alongside full-time work and offers significant opportunities for students to apply their learning to their work.
How much does the course cost?
The fee to study for the Advanced Diploma is £2,900 + VAT. Student membership will be added to your invoice at a cost of £30 + VAT if you are not already an IoIC member. Payment plans are available upon request and subject to terms and conditions.
The cost includes all teaching and learning sessions; access to Canvas, the IoIC’s online learning environment; access to Solent University’s online library and portal where students can find all key resources and readings; and all assessments.
IoIC Membership
Advanced Diploma students must be members of IoIC. If you are joining the IoIC as a member in order to enrol on the Advanced Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £30.00 + VAT and will have access to all of the usual benefits of membership, (please note that student members will not receive hard copies of Voice magazine).
Ready to apply?
The next course will be starting in September 2025. Applications will be opening in February 2025, please register your interest using the form below and we'll be in touch in due course.