CIPD and National College of Ireland secure approval for Ireland's first HR apprenticeship

The CIPD and the National College of Ireland (NCI) have received approval from the National Apprenticeship Office to develop Ireland's first Human Resources Apprenticeship, marking a landmark step in widening access to the HR profession through a structured, work-based learning route.

As reported by the CIPD, the Level 8 degree apprenticeship will run over three years, combining academic study with hands-on workplace experience. It is designed to build the next generation of HR professionals at a time of significant change in the world of work.

To reach the development stage, the CIPD and NCI were required to demonstrate both strong industry demand and employer commitment to the programme. More than 25 organisations have already pledged their support, spanning public services, healthcare and life sciences, technology, financial services, energy and utilities, construction, engineering, retail, and professional services.

The next step in the development process is the formation of an industry-led consortium to design the curriculum and set the occupational standards for the apprenticeship. Employers from across Ireland will work alongside the CIPD, NCI, and other key stakeholders to ensure the programme reflects current and future professional requirements.

Alison Hodgson, director of CIPD in Ireland, said the programme creates a more accessible entry point into the profession. She said: "This creates a new and inclusive pathway into HR, enabling individuals to gain valuable workplace experience while earning a recognised qualification."

Professor Gina Quin, president of the National College of Ireland, said the apprenticeship addresses a practical gap in professional development infrastructure. She said: "This pioneering apprenticeship programme will offer a unique opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in HR while supporting employers to grow their talent pipelines."

Subject to QQI approval timelines, employers will be invited to register interest from 2027, with the first cohort of apprentices expected to start in September 2028.

For HR practitioners and workforce planners, the development carries significant implications. Ireland has not previously had a structured degree-level apprenticeship route into the HR profession, meaning organisations have historically relied on graduate recruitment, postgraduate conversion programmes, or internal development to build HR capability. The new apprenticeship creates a pipeline mechanism that allows employers to grow HR talent from entry level while the apprentice remains in employment, reducing both recruitment costs and the gap between academic training and workplace readiness.

Read the full announcement on Ireland's first HR degree apprenticeship.