Diploma Overview
The Foundation Diploma of Proficiency in Internal Communication is a level 4 higher education qualification which is academically accredited by Solent University and provides students with an industry-recognised level of attainment.
The Foundation Diploma explores the essentials of internal communications delivery - from understanding the purpose of IC, organisational context, people and channels, to high standard content creation and the basics of communication planning - all informed by theory, best practice and current industry awareness. The course is mapped to Level One of the IoIC Profession Map.
The course has a strong theory into practice ethos meaning students can immediately apply learning to their role and organisation, adding value from the outset.
Gaining a qualification via the IoIC demonstrates not only professional capability but dedication to your internal communication career and professional development.
The programme is best suited for professionals who:
- Are at the start of their career and looking to gain the essential skills and knowledge required of an IC practitioner
- Can already demonstrate experience in an internal communication role and wish to develop their existing skills and knowledge
- Are looking to formalise their existing skills and knowledge and demonstrate their commitment to their professional development with a recognised
professional qualification from their industry body.
Learning Outcomes and Benefits
Learning outcomes
By completing the Foundation Diploma, students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the internal communication professional
- Show evidence of understanding how audience, message and medium will influence choice of internal communication styles
- Demonstrate in context with your own workplace practice an understanding of ethical & legal issues in relation to internal communication
- Use different communication channels appropriately to achieve stated purposes
- Research information accurately for dissemination to an internal audience
- Support colleagues in delivering a specific communication campaign
- Write accurate, simple communications for a variety of channels using plain English and correct grammar.
Additional course benefits include:
- Establishing 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
- Taking a pro-active, tailored approach to professional development and continuous learning, informed by the framework of the IoIC profession map
- Working closely with our diploma facilitator who provides one-to-one support and guidance throughout your studies and learning from internal communication industry experts
- Access to Solent University's online library and support services, including wellbeing and learning guidance
- Access to IoIC's dedicated online learning environment where you will engage in discussions and other activities with your fellow students
- The Diploma provides a full year's CPD (40 Points).
The Programme
The Foundation Diploma has two intakes a year - starting in January and June. The next cohort will be starting on 15 January 2025.
The course is delivered over 8 months and made up of five modules.
The programme is fully online and delivered via a blended teaching and learning approach, with a combination of workshops, webinars, online courses and resources, independent study, discussion forums and direct support from your tutors. There are also a number of optional drop-in sessions across the course to discuss student progress and answer any queries.
The Programme
Module One: Understanding Internal Communication and its Role in the Organisation
Be clear and confident about the purpose of internal communication, with a particular focus on the role it plays in your organisation.
Module one includes an Introduction to Internal Communication teaching session delivered by Liz Cochrane.
Module Two: Writing Skills for the IC Professional
Assess and improve your craft as a content creator.
Module two includes an online writing skills course designed and developed by Helen Deverell.
Module Three: Understanding Employee Groups and Channels
Use your learning to map a channels and audience matrix for your organisation against best practice theory.
Module three includes a teaching session delivered by Helen Chown on Employee Groups and Channels.
Module Four: Delivering an Effective Communication Plan
Put the theory into practice by creating a BAU plan which demonstrates best practice.
Module four includes a Communication Planning teaching session delivered by Liz Reynolds.
Module Five: Developing Yourself as an IC Professional
Reflect on all that you’ve learned so far and map your new knowledge and skills against the IoIC profession map.
Assessment
Foundation Diploma students are assessed via two pieces of coursework – a professional portfolio and an industry project. Students have the opportunity to submit draft assignments for feedback prior to final submission.
Entry Criteria
The Foundation Diploma is designed for those at the start/early stages of their internal communication career who are looking to master best practice tactical delivery skills and knowledge.
Candidates do not have to be working solely in internal communication, but we would recommend that they either have some IC experience/responsibilities or aspirations to develop in the profession.
Acceptance to the Foundation Diploma is subject to a short application form which allows the IoIC to be sure that the programme is suitable for the student. Depending on prior knowledge and experience, the professional development team may, on occasion, suggest an alternative course.
Foundation Diploma students must have an IoIC membership in order to join the programme. If you are not yet a member and would like to enrol in the Foundation Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £30.00 + VAT but will still have access to all of the usual benefits of membership, other than hard copies of Voice magazine.
Please note that the Foundation 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.
Key Information
How long does the course take and when does it start?
The Foundation Diploma takes 8 months to complete. There are two intakes each year, starting in January and June.
When is the next course?
The next course will be starting on 15 January 2025.
How much does the course cost?
The fee to study for the Foundation Diploma is £2400 + VAT. Student membership will be added to your invoice at a cost of £30 + VAT if you are not already an IoIC member.
The cost of the Foundation Diploma 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.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes, payment plans are available subject to terms and conditions.
How easy is it to combine the Foundation Diploma with full time employment?
The Foundation Diploma has been designed to be completed alongside full-time work and offers opportunities for students to apply their learning to their work and vice versa.
The course is delivered virtually, meaning students can join from wherever they are in the world.
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered via a blended approach, with a combination of workshops, webinars, online courses and resources, independent study, discussion forums and direct support from your tutors. There are also a number of optional drop-in sessions across the course to discuss student progress and answer any queries.
In addition to a half-day induction, there will be three half-day teaching sessions and three webinars. Students will be required to spend time on their own reading and independent study in addition to the teaching sessions, as well as on writing assignments and preparing their assignments.
How much learning time is required for the course?
On average the course requires around 7-8 hours a week. This total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks, independent learning and assessment activity.
How will I be assessed?
Foundation Diploma students are assessed via two pieces of coursework – a professional portfolio and an industry project. Students have the opportunity to submit draft assignments for formative feedback prior to final submission.
IoIC Membership
Foundation Diploma students must be members of IoIC. If you are joining the IoIC as a member in order to enrol for the Foundation Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £30.00 + VAT per year 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 cohort will be starting on 15 January 2025. To request an application form please complete the below form.