Qualification framework

Certification Levels

Structured professional qualifications from specialist certificates through RQF Levels 4–7, plus executive short courses, accredited by iPED UK, FIPS, and WSO.

178 published programmes across 11 subject areas

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Academic progression ladder

Most full programmes follow a structured pathway within each subject family.

4 Professional Diploma
5 Advanced Diploma
6 Graduate Diploma
7 Postgraduate Diploma

International track awards iPED UK levels; Local track awards FIPS professional credentials. Many programmes offer a dual award.

Qualification types

Each credential type maps to a stage of professional development. Browse live programmes for each level.

Specialist

Professional Certificate

Specialist credentials for focused competence in a discipline. Ideal as an entry point or add-on to your professional profile.

Typical duration
Varies by programme
Assessment
Competency-based assessments and practical evaluations.
Available now
70 programmes

Typical entry routes

Qualify through any one of these routes:

  • WASSCE / SSSCE / GCE O'Level (or equivalent) with relevant credits
  • Documented industry experience (RPL pathway)
  • Related certificate or diploma, subject to equivalence review
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4 Level 4

Professional Diploma

Foundation professional qualification (RQF Level 4). Builds core competencies for supervisory roles and progression to advanced study.

Typical duration
~7 months
Assessment
40% coursework · 20% practical · 40% examination (85 notional hours).
Available now
43 programmes

Typical entry routes

Qualify through any one of these routes:

  • WASSCE / SSSCE / GCE O'Level with credits in Maths, English, and a relevant subject
  • 2+ years documented industry experience with employer reference (RPL)
  • Certificate or diploma in a related discipline
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5 Level 5

Advanced Professional Diploma

Intermediate professional qualification (RQF Level 5). Develops technical depth and management capability for mid-level specialists.

Typical duration
~7 months
Assessment
40% coursework · 20% practical · 40% examination (85 notional hours).
Available now
8 programmes

Typical entry routes

Qualify through any one of these routes:

  • Successful completion of the corresponding Level 4 programme
  • Diploma, BSc/BEng, HND, or equivalent in a related discipline
  • 5+ years practitioner experience plus bridging modules (RPL)
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6 Level 6

Graduate Diploma

Advanced professional qualification at RQF Level 6. Develops strategic capability for senior practitioners moving into leadership roles.

Typical duration
~7 months
Assessment
40% coursework · 20% practical · 40% examination (85 notional hours).

Typical entry routes

Qualify through any one of these routes:

  • Level 5 diploma in the same programme, plus 2 years of senior industry experience
  • BSc/BEng in a related discipline, plus 3 years of industry experience
  • Equivalent advanced professional credential, plus experience and bridging modules
  • Senior practitioner RPL pathway with portfolio assessment (7+ years)
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7 Level 7

Postgraduate Diploma

Executive-level professional qualification at RQF Level 7. Prepares senior practitioners and executives for strategic leadership.

Typical duration
~7 months
Assessment
40% coursework · 20% practical · 40% examination (85 notional hours).
Available now
2 programmes

Typical entry routes

Qualify through any one of these routes:

  • Level 6 diploma in the same programme
  • MSc, MEng, MBA, or equivalent in a related discipline, plus relevant experience
  • Senior executive RPL pathway with portfolio assessment (10+ years)
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Executive

Executive Certificate

Focused short programmes for practising professionals. WSO-accredited executive certificates and specialist industry credentials.

Typical duration
Varies (typically 1–3 months)
Assessment
Practical competency assessments aligned to industry standards.
Available now
55 programmes

Typical entry routes

Qualify through any one of these routes:

  • No formal academic prerequisites, designed for working professionals
  • Relevant industry experience in the subject area recommended
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International track

iPED UK accreditation

Awards RQF-aligned diplomas (Levels 4–7) with global recognition through iPED UK.

View international programmes
Local track

FIPS professional credentials

Locally registered professional certificates and diplomas awarded through Festari Institute of Professional Studies.

View local programmes

All programmes are delivered in English. Learners below the competence threshold complete the FIPS English for Professional Communication bridging module before enrolment.

Secure & verifiable

Digital verification

Every certificate includes verification codes and secure digital records.

Accredited awarding

Programmes meet international standards through iPED UK, FIPS, and WSO.

Competency assessed

Structured coursework, practical work, and examinations at every level.

Permanent records

Transcript and certificate records maintained for employers and regulators.

Verify a certificate

How to earn your qualification

  1. 1
    Choose your level

    Select the credential that matches your experience and career goals.

  2. 2
    Apply online

    Submit your application with supporting documents through the admissions portal.

  3. 3
    Complete the programme

    Attend blended sessions, complete assessments, and meet competency standards.

  4. 4
    Receive your award

    Graduate with a verifiable certificate or diploma from FIPS or iPED UK.

Ready to start your pathway?

Browse accredited programmes or speak with admissions to find the right level for you.

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