Diploma Overview
Distance Learning | Next Cohort starts June 2025.
The Foundation Diploma of Proficiency in Internal Communication is a Level 4 Higher Education Qualification which is academically accredited by Solent University while also providing 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 1 of the IoIC Profession Map.
The Diploma has a strong theory into practice ethos meaning students can immediately apply learning to their role and organisation, adding value from the outset and encouraging students to continuously reflect on their practice and progress.
The Foundation Diploma is a fully online, part-time programme specifically designed to fit around busy working lives enabling IC practitioners to integrate working and personal lives with their studies.
Gaining a qualification via the IoIC and Solent University demonstrates not only professional capability but dedication to your internal communication career and professional development.
The programme is best suited for professionals who:
- Are in the early stages of their internal communication career and looking to gain the essential skills and knowledge required of an IC practitioner
- Wish to refresh or develop their existing skills and knowledge, and grow their confidence in their role
- Would like to formalise their existing skills and knowledge and demonstrate their commitment to their professional development with a recognised
academic and professional qualification.
What you'll study
The Foundation Diploma has two intakes a year - with cohorts starting in January and June. The next cohort will be starting on 4 June 2025.
The course is delivered over 8 months and is made up of five modules.
The programme is fully online and takes a blended teaching and learning approach, with a combination of workshops, webinars, online learning and resources, independent study, discussion forums and direct support from your Facilitator.
There are also a number of optional group drop-in sessions across the course to share learning, answer questions and connect as a cohort.
The Programme
Module One: Understanding Internal Communication and its Role in the Organisation
This module explores the role and purpose of internal communication, including how it supports the achievement of overall business objectives and its impact on organisational performance, individual wellbeing and employee engagement.
Students will also examine how external factors have an impact on the internal communication function.
During the module students will increase their understanding and awareness of their own organisation and the role of IC, and they will consider the importance of cross-function collaboration and relationships with key stakeholders.
Module Two: Writing Skills for the IC Professional
This module looks at best practice content production, helping students to assess and improve their craft as content creators. Students will also develop their understanding of how audience, message and medium should influence their choice of style.
The module includes an online writing skills course designed and developed by expert Helen Deverell.
Module Three: Understanding Employee Groups and Channels
This module equips students with the skills they need to analyse a range of internal communication channels and articulate how each should be used to deliver internal messages.
Students will explore the needs of various employee groups and stakeholders and the implications for crafting appropriate and engaging messaging/content.
Module Four: Delivering an Effective Communication Plan
Module Four delves into best practice communication planning for business-as-usual communication, including appropriate delivery and taking other communication priorities into consideration.
During the module students will put their theory into practice by creating a business-as-usual communication plan and articulating how it demonstrates their learning.
Module Five: Developing Yourself as an IC Professional
The final module on the course requires students to reflect and evaluate what they have learnt, analysing their progress and professional development during the diploma and identifying priorities for next steps in their learning and skills development.
Assessment
The Diploma is an academic qualification accredited by Solent University therefore students are required to write academic assignments supported by research, analysis and referencing.
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.
Learning Outcomes & 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.
Other 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
- Being taught by a highly experienced and passionate teaching team of internal communication experts, and supported throughout the programme by a dedicated and experienced Facilitator
- Enrolment with Solent University and access to their library, resources and full support services, including wellbeing
- The opportunity to foster a network of internal communication professionals, sharing learning and providing support during your studies and beyond
- 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 of IoIC CPD (40 Points).
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 4 June 2025 and will run until the end of January 2026.
How much does the course cost?
The fee to study for the Foundation Diploma is £2600 + 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 covers enrolment with Solent University and access to the University's library, study and support services; assessment and certificate.
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 employment?
The Foundation Diploma has been designed to be completed alongside 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.
Please note: all live sessions take place during the UK's standard working day (9am - 5pm).
How is the course delivered?
The course takes 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 8 study 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.
Will I be required to write academically?
Yes. The Diploma is an academic qualification accredited by Solent University therefore students are required to write academic assignments supported by research, analysis and referencing.
Can I study as an international student?
Yes, the course is fully online so students can join from wherever they are in the world. However, please note that the majority of live sessions take place between 9.30am and 1pm UK time.
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.
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 an 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.
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.
Ready to apply?
To apply for the next cohort of the Foundation Diploma, starting 4 June 2025, please request an application form below.