Course Overview
Next course starts: 9 September 2025.
The Advanced Diploma of Proficiency in Internal Communication is a Level 6 higher education qualification which is academically accredited by Solent University, meaning students receive a dual award from Solent University and the IoIC.
The specialist course is mapped to Level 2 of the Profession Map and is designed for those with internal communication experience who are involved in planning as well as implementation and delivery, and are either in, or looking to move into a managerial or business partner role.
The Advanced Diploma is a unique programme which allows students to define, implement and achieve their own professional development objectives, and supports them to take the next step in their career. They will also have the opportunity to extend their industry knowledge by working collaboratively with fellow students to produce a report on a broader internal comms-related topic.
The course has a strong theory into practice approach, with students applying their learning to their organisation and the development of their practice and role.
The part-time programme is delivered over nine months and is specifically designed to fit around busy working lives so students can study while still working full time, enabling practitioners to integrate demanding working and personal lives with high level study.
Programme and Delivery
The programme
At the start of the programme students will complete a self-assessment of their existing knowledge and skills using the Level Two of the IoIC Profession Map as a guide. Using this assessment, and with the support of the course facilitator, students will develop a personal professional development plan which they will work towards throughout the programme.
This personalised approach to the Advanced Diploma programme allows for the development of knowledge, skills and behaviours relevant to each student's current role and organisation.
Advanced Diploma students are also assessed via the completion of a collaborative group project which sees the cohort produce a joint report with other students on a topical IC challenge set by the Institute.
Teaching on the Diploma centres around supporting students to develop and manage their IC practice with workshops on the following topics:
- Taking an outcomes-focused approach to IC planning
- Understanding and working with stakeholders
- Employee groups and audience mapping
- Using data to generate insight and measure impact and value.
Students will also be provided with a workshop on Academic Writing.
Assessment
Students undertake two assessments on the Diploma.
Throughout the course students will work on a professional portfolio to demonstrate their learning and development, underpinned by a critical narrative based on theory and best practice. To create their portfolio, Advanced Diploma students are tasked with setting their own objectives, putting together a personal development plan based on their requirements and skills/knowledge gaps which they work towards achieving with the support of a dedicated facilitator.
Students will also undertake a collaborative group project, producing a joint report on a topical question related to internal communication practice set by the IoIC. This assessment is an opportunity for students to research a genuine communication issue over the course of the diploma with guidance from the course Facilitator. This collaboration provides students with the opportunity to share learning, build long-lasting professional relationships, and work together on a practical, relevant, and valuable project.
The course is an academic qualification; therefore students are required to write academic assignments supported by research, critical analysis and referencing. They will be provided with guidance and resources to support them with their assignment writing.
Delivery
The course is fully online and requires on average around 8-10 hours study time per week.
Formal sessions on the course include a half-day induction, a half-day workshop on academic writing, 4 half-day workshops delivered by experts, follow-up sessions and webinars. Please note: all formal sessions take place during the working day.
Students will also have 121s with the Course Facilitator, group calls for their collaborative project, and will be required to undertake significant independent reading, study and assignment writing.
There will also be a number of optional drop-in sessions throughout the course.
Why study this course?
What will you gain from this qualification?
The Advanced Diploma is designed to provide the skills and knowledge required of an internal communication professional who is in, or is looking to move into, a business partner or managerial position. Gaining a qualification via the IoIC demonstrates not only professional capability but dedication to your internal communication career and professional development.
By completing the Advanced Diploma, students will:
- be equipped to plan, manage and deliver internal communication of a high standard, as per the expectations of a practitioner at level two of the IoIC Profession Map
- integrate theory with their professional practice and use it to underpin decision making
- develop reflective and critical thinking skills: establish 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
- advance their internal communication knowledge and skills relevant to their personal circumstances and objectives
- take a pro-active, tailored approach to professional development and continuous learning, informed by the framework of the IoIC profession map
- work closely with our diploma facilitator who provides one-to-one support and guidance throughout your studies and learn from internal communication industry experts
- gain access to Solent University's online library and portal as well as IoIC's dedicated online learning environment where you will engage in discussions and other activities with your fellow students
- receive a year's worth of CPD (40 Points).
Course Team
Chris Coburn
With more than 17 years of experience in Internal Communications, Chris has built a career on transforming how businesses engage with their teams. He spent the first decade of his journey at the John Lewis Partnership, where he honed his expertise in strategic communication, employee experience, and change management.
In 2019, Chris earned a Master’s in Internal Communication Management from the IoIC and Solent University, graduating with Distinction. Passionate about the success of the IoIC, he became a mentor for future Master's students, served as a Director on the IoIC Board, and contributed to pivotal projects like developing the IoIC’s strategy guide.
Today, Chris runs his own successful communications consultancy, where he helps small and medium-sized businesses elevate their employee experience and communication strategies.
Domna Lazidou
Domna has a background as a practitioner and academic and is an expert in culture, communication and leadership in complex, multicultural organisations. Domna combines consultancy with teaching on the Advanced Diploma, leading a module for the MA Internal Communication and teaching intercultural communication for business and the professions at Warwick University.
Domna has designed and runs several executive training programmes on global leadership and diverse teams for Oxford Business School as well as a popular training course on Communicating Culture Change for the IoIC. She is the co-author of “Global Fitness for Global People: How to manage and leverage cultural diversity at work”.
Domna delivers two half-day workshops on the Advanced Diploma:
- Understanding and working with stakeholders
- Employee groups and audience mapping.
Jo Hall
Jo Hall is an Internal Communication Consultant and a Coach for communication professionals.
With over 20 years of experience in employee communications, global leadership and project management and a passion for creating environments where people thrive and find fulfilment at work, she combines all these ingredients to create workshops, programmes and learning experiences that are practical, insightful, supportive and inclusive. Jo also holds an MA in Internal Communication Management and is an active IOIC Fellow, Trainer, Awards Judge & Diploma Assessor.
Domna delivers two half-day workshops on the Advanced Diploma:
- Taking an outcomes-focused approach to IC planning
- Using data to generate insight and measure impact and value.
Entry Requirements and Application Process
Entry Criteria
Advanced Diploma students should be experienced in the delivery of best practice internal communication as per level one of the IoIC Profession Map, and may be working in, or towards, a managerial role, or a Business Partner role.
The Advanced Diploma is mapped to Level Two of the professional map, with students using the map at this level as a guide throughout their studies.
The programme is best suited for professionals who:
- have mastered the basics of internal communication and are looking to progress their career through demonstrating mastery of a broader range of planning, research and IC management skills.
- have gained considerable internal communication experience and are now looking to underpin their work with best practice theory.
- are keen to demonstrate their commitment to their professional development and take the next step in their IC career.
Additional Requirements
Advanced Diploma students must be members of IoIC. If you are joining the IoIC as a member in order to enrol on the Advanced Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £30.00 + VAT
The Advanced 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.
Application Process
The application process consists of an application form and eligibility assessment, followed by an interview with the Diploma Facilitator.
As part of the interview process, candidates will be required to prepare a short presentation.
Holders of the Foundation Diploma are eligible to enrol on the Advanced Diploma without taking part in the interview process, subject to completion of the Advanced Diploma application form and review by the Diploma Facilitator. Please note: holders of the Foundation Diploma may also be required to provide evidence of their experience.
Key information
How long is the course?
The Advanced Diploma takes nine months to complete.
When does the course start?
The course runs once a year. The next cohort of the Advanced Diploma will start on 9 September 2025 and will run until May 2026.
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered entirely online and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. There will be a combination of workshops; online materials, independent study and reading; collaborative group work and discussion boards; assignment writing; and optional group drop-in sessions. Students are also supported via direct tutor interactions and 1on1 sessions throughout the course.
How are students assessed?
Students are assessed via two pieces of coursework: a professional portfolio and a collaborative group project.
How easy is it to combine the Advanced Diploma with full-time employment?
The Advanced Diploma has been designed to be completed virtually, anywhere in the world, alongside full-time work and offers significant opportunities for students to apply their learning to their work. Please note: formal sessions take place during the working day.
What is the time commitment for the course?
The course is a Level 6 Qualification therefore it requires a significant time commitment for the duration of the course.
The course requires on average around 8-10 hours study time per week, including independent and self-directed research, study and learning.
Will I need to write academically on the course?
Yes, students are required to write academic assignments supported by research, critical analysis and referencing. They will be provided with guidance and resources to support them with their assignment writing.
How much does the course cost?
The fee to study for the Advanced Diploma is £2,900 + VAT. Student membership will be added to your invoice at a cost of £30 + VAT if you are not already an IoIC member.
The course fees include enrolment with Solent University and access to their library and services, assessment and certification.
Flexible, interest-free payment plans are available upon request and subject to terms and conditions.
IoIC Membership
Advanced Diploma students must be members of IoIC. If you are joining the IoIC as a member in order to enrol on the Advanced Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £30.00 + VAT 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 course will be starting on 9 September 2025 and will run until May 2026.
Applications are now open, however we are currently working our way through the waiting list. If you would like to apply, please complete the below form and we will add you to the list and be in touch as soon as possible with an application form.