What changes when you finish.
You can articulate the value of the work
You already know internal communication matters. The Diploma gives you the language and the evidence to explain the role it plays in driving organisational performance, and to make that case to the people who need to hear it.
Your writing gets sharper
The programme includes a dedicated writing course, and you finish able to write clear, accurate communication for a range of channels, and to judge what good looks like when working with AI.
Understand employee groups and planning
You will know how to choose channels, understand different employee groups, and build a communication plan that delivers.
You build a network that lasts
You study alongside people doing work like yours, sharing learning and experience through the course and beyond it.
BY THE END YOU WILL BE EQUIPPED TO
- Explain the role of the internal communication professional and the value the function adds
- Judge how audience, message and medium should shape the way you communicate
- Apply an understanding of ethical and legal issues to your own workplace practice
- Use different channels appropriately to achieve a stated purpose
- Research information accurately for an internal audience
- Deliver a communication plan and campaign
- Write accurate, plain English communication for a variety of channels
Who can apply.
The Foundation Diploma suits you if you are building a career in internal communication, usually in your first or second role, or if you are more experienced and want to formalise that experience and raise your professional standing.
01.
You are in the early stages of an internal communication career and want to build skills and confidence.
02.
You are more experienced and want to formalise what you know and raise your professional standing.
03.
You are not in a pure internal communication role, but you do some communication work. Some experience is needed.
Eligibility. There are no formal entry requirements. The Foundation Diploma is open at this level, and every application is reviewed by the professional development team to make sure the programme is the right fit for your experience. Where another IOIC qualification would suit you better, they will say so.
Membership. Foundation Diploma students need to be IOIC members. If you are not yet a member, the student rate is applied which is £32 + VAT.
If English is not your first language. The programme is delivered and assessed in English. You can show proficiency with a certificate from an undergraduate degree taught in English, an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, or a similar alternative.
Fees and funding.
£2,800 + VAT
The full programme. Interest-free payment plans available. Student membership added at £32 + VAT if you are not already a member
Asking your employer to fund it? We will help you build the business case. Email [email protected] and tell us what your organisation needs to see.
What the fee covers
- Enrolment with Solent University, and access to their library, study and support services
- Assessment and certificate
- Free access to a Certificate in Practical Artificial Intelligence from Solent University
- Access to IOIC resources, support and community, and our online learning environment
- A full year of IOIC CPD, 40 points
Who teaches it.
Liz Reynolds, Diploma Facilitator. An internal and change communication consultant with over 20 years of experience across the public, private and charity sectors, and industries including logistics, finance, education and professional services. Liz holds a Masters in Internal Communication Management and is an IOIC Fellow.
Student experience.
Accreditation and professional recognition.
The Foundation Diploma of Proficiency in Internal Communication is accredited by Solent University, and mapped to the IOIC Profession Map.
Ready to take the next step?
Applications are open for the cohort starting in January 2027. Request a form and we will be in touch.
Prefer to talk it through first? Email [email protected]
Frequently asked questions.
How long does the course take?
The Foundation Diploma takes 9 months to complete. There are two intakes each year, starting in January and September.
When is the next cohort?
The next course will be starting in Januay 2027 and run until September 2027.
How much does the course cost?
The fee to study for the Foundation Diploma is £2800 + VAT. Student membership will be added to your invoice at a cost of £32 + 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, flexible and interest-free payment plans are available to spread the cost across the duration of studies.
I'd like to ask my organisation to sponsor me, can you help with a business case?
Yes, we can help you put together a business case to request financial sponsorship on the course. Contact us on [email protected] and we'll be happy to help.
How easy is it to combine the Foundation Diploma with employment?
The Foundation Diploma has been designed to be completed alongside work and ensures students are able to apply their learning to their work and vice versa.
The course is delivered virtually, meaning students can take part from wherever they are in the world.
Please note: all live sessions take place during the UK's standard working day (9am - 5pm). All teaching sessions are recorded and available on-demand.
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.
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. The IOIC and Solent University offer significant support for academic writing and study skills.
I've been out of education for a long time, what support will I receive?
The majority of our students are working professionals who have not studied for some time, the course is therefore structured to include guidance and ongoing support. You will also have the opportunity to submit drafts of your assignments, receiving feedback to help you hone and develop your work ahead of final submission.
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 on the Foundation Diploma, you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £32 + 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).