What is a CIM qualification? Here’s what you need to know

Change is inevitable in all industries, and the ability to adapt is now a fundamental skill. This is particularly true in marketing, where technology and shifting consumer behaviours have transformed the landscape over the past decade.

To stay competitive and keep progressing, continuous upskilling is crucial. While pursuing a marketing qualification might seem daunting at first, knowing where to start makes all the difference. To help, we’ve addressed some of the most common questions about embarking on a CIM qualification.

With nearly 80% of marketers reporting significant shifts in the skills required for their roles, we launched a new suite of qualifications in September 2024, developed in line with our updated Global Professional Marketing Framework. These qualifications focus on fostering digital agility, equipping marketers with the skills to harness the latest technologies effectively and empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to have a positive impact on people, profit and the planet.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, there’s a CIM qualification to meet your needs.

What level can I start at?

Your starting point will depend on your experience and prior qualifications. CIM’s new qualifications suite offers a range of options suitable for marketers at different stages of their careers. The Foundation Certificate in Professional & Digital Marketing at Level 3 is perfect for those beginning their marketing journey. More experienced professionals can enrol in the Certificate in Professional & Digital Marketing at Level 4, the Diploma in Professional & Digital Marketing at Level 6, or the Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Marketing and CIM Marketing Leadership Programme at Level 7.

The updated qualifications have been designed with flexibility in mind, offering a variety of modules at different levels, where you can choose from various options to tailor your learning. You can explore all available options and find the right level for you by visiting the CIM qualifications page or contacting the team.

How much does a CIM qualification cost?

The total cost of a CIM qualification will vary depending on the study centre you choose. In addition to tuition fees, you’ll also need to consider the cost of CIM membership and assessments. CIM membership offers significant value, giving you access to exclusive resources such as webinars and career-enhancing tools, including the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme. You’ll also receive digital badges to showcase your qualifications on your email signature and platforms like LinkedIn, demonstrating that you’re up to date with the latest marketing trends and practices.

Students residing in eligible countries may benefit from reduced assessment fees, so be sure to check with the qualifications team for more information.

When can I start?

CIM’s qualifications are designed to be flexible and fit around your personal and professional commitments. Start dates vary depending on your chosen study centre, but assessments take place online in fixed months: April, July, and December. This flexibility allows you to fit your studies into your personal and working life, while still keeping to structured deadlines for completion.

How do I enrol?

The first step is to enrol with an Accredited Study Centre. CIM’s Study Centre Finder can help you locate the best one based on your needs and preferred learning style. Whether you’re looking for online or in-person learning, there’s a centre to suit you. You can also study directly with CIM through CIM Academy where you can benefit from expert-led guidance and a personalised approach to your development.

Once you’ve chosen a centre, you’ll need to join CIM as a studying member, which opens up access to a wealth of resources designed to support you throughout your studies. Enrolling is straightforward, and if you need guidance, our support team is available to assist you through every step of the process.

Can it be studied entirely online?

We recognise that flexibility is key for busy marketers, so many study centres offer the option to study entirely online. Previous assessment processes have also been reviewed and updated, and they will now all be conducted online.

Am I eligible for module exemptions?

If you’ve already completed a marketing degree or hold relevant qualifications, you may be eligible for module exemptions under CIM’s Accredited Degree Programme. This could allow you to fast-track your studies and avoid repeating content you’ve already mastered. Be sure to check whether your previous qualifications (for example, a university degree) meet the criteria for exemptions.

Is it worth the financial investment?

Investing in your professional development is always a big decision, but CIM’s updated qualifications are designed to deliver real value. Developed through extensive research and guided by the new Global Professional Marketing Framework, the qualifications address the skills gaps and needs of today’s marketers. This framework includes eight key areas of technical knowledge and over 30 specific skill sets, ensuring you gain the expertise necessary for modern marketing roles.

How do the qualifications help solve today’s marketing challenges?

The marketing landscape has changed significantly, with nearly 80% of marketers reporting that the skillset required today has shifted dramatically. Technologies like Gen AI, Web3, and GA4 have transformed how marketers operate, and the depth and breadth of marketing roles have expanded. CIM’s qualifications have evolved in response to this, offering more specific, practical modules that focus on applying digital technology within the business context, not just using digital tools.

Another crucial aspect of our industry today is responsible and ethical marketing. Marketers are increasingly concerned with how to navigate these issues, and CIM’s qualifications address these concerns with a dedicated focus on sustainability, commercial intelligence, and ethical marketing. For example, the new Commercial Intelligence module teaches marketers how to make sound business cases for marketing investments, appealing to key decision-makers like finance directors and board members.

Why choose CIM?

CIM’s qualifications are designed not only to enhance your technical skills but also to make the learning process accessible and flexible. The 2024 updates include smaller, bite-sized modules that can be studied alongside full-time jobs, making them easier to integrate into busy lives. The assessment methodology has also been modernised, with all assessments now conducted online.

In addition, all CIM qualifications lead towards Chartered Marketer status, providing an important pathway for career development. Digital badges, which you can display on platforms like LinkedIn or in emails, allow you to showcase your qualifications and demonstrate that you are up to date with the latest marketing trends and practices.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your career prospects, CIM’s qualifications offer the skills, support, and flexibility you need to succeed in today’s fast-changing marketing environment.

If you believe a CIM qualification could be the right fit for you and have questions about beginning your journey, you can reach out to our friendly team at +44 (0)1628 427222 or download our prospectus.

Find out more info about CIM Qualifications here