Foundation diploma in Internal Communication.
Diploma Overview
The Foundation Diploma of Proficiency in Internal Communication gives you a professional foundation built on rigorous standards and a qualification that carries genuine weight. Mapped to the IOIC Profession Map and delivered in partnership with Solent University, it develops your expertise and your ability to add value from day one.
Study online, part-time, alongside people doing work like yours. Apply and test your learning as you go. Leave with the kind of confidence that changes how you show up in your role.
What the programme gives you
Theory into practice
Apply your learning directly to your professional practice, adding value from the outset.
Built around your life
Fully online and part-time, designed to fit around busy working schedules.
A community of communicators
Build a network of fellow practitioners, sharing learning, experience and insight.
Bonus AI qualification
Earn a free Certificate in Practical Artificial Intelligence alongside your Diploma.
Who it's for
Ideal if you are in the early stages of your internal communication career and looking to develop your skills and grow your confidence. Also suitable for more experienced practitioners looking to formalise their experience and increase their professional standing.
What you'll study
The Programme.
Module One: Understanding Internal Communication and its Role in the Organisation
This module explores the role and purpose of internal communication, including how it supports the achievement of overall business objectives and its impact on organisational performance, individual wellbeing and employee engagement.
Students will also examine how external factors have an impact on the internal communication function.
During the module students will increase their understanding and awareness of their own organisation and the role of IC, and they will consider the importance of cross-function collaboration and relationships with key stakeholders.
Module Two: Writing Skills for the IC Professional
This module looks at best practice content production, helping students to assess and improve their craft as content creators. Students will also develop their understanding of how audience, message and medium should influence their choice of style.
The module includes an online writing skills course designed and developed by expert Helen Deverell.
Module Three: Understanding Employee Groups and Channels
This module equips students with the skills they need to analyse a range of internal communication channels and articulate how each should be used to deliver internal messages.
Students will explore the needs of various employee groups and stakeholders and the implications for crafting appropriate and engaging messaging/content.
Module Four: Delivering an Effective Communication Plan
Module Four delves into best practice communication planning for business-as-usual communication, including appropriate delivery and taking other communication priorities into consideration.
During the module students will put their theory into practice by creating a business-as-usual communication plan and articulating how it demonstrates their learning.
Module Five: Developing Yourself as an IC Professional
The final module on the course requires students to reflect and evaluate what they have learnt, analysing their progress and professional development during the diploma and identifying priorities for next steps in their learning and skills development.
Learning outcomes.
By completing the Foundation Diploma, students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the internal communication professional
- Show evidence of understanding how audience, message and medium will influence choice of internal communication styles
- Demonstrate in context with your own workplace practice an understanding of ethical & legal issues in relation to internal communication
- Use different communication channels appropriately to achieve stated purposes
- Research information accurately for dissemination to an internal audience
- Support colleagues in delivering a specific communication campaign
- Write accurate, simple communications for a variety of channels using plain English and correct grammar
Course Delivery
The Foundation Diploma has two intakes a year, with cohorts starting in January and September. The part-time programme is specially designed for working professionals.
Teaching and Learning Strategy.
The Foundation Diploma is fully online and delivered via:
- highly interactive and practical workshops
- informative webinars
- on-demand materials and resources
- group discussions and activities
- self-directed research and study
You are supported by a dedicated Facilitator who is an experienced communicator, expert and tutor.
The course also includes optional group drop-in sessions where you can share learning, ask questions and connect as a cohort.
The emphasis throughout is on real-life learning - the application of theoretical concepts to the workplace environment.
Assessment.
Students are assessed via two pieces of coursework:
- An evidence-based professional portfolio which demonstrates professional competence and includes evidence of students have applied their learning to their role.
- An industry project where students are tasked with producing a basic plan to communicate a business-as-usual message, such as the introduction of a new product or employee benefit.
Students also have the opportunity to submit draft assignments for feedback prior to final submission.
The Diploma is an academic qualification accredited by Solent University therefore students are required to write academic assignments supported by research, analysis and referencing.
Why choose this course?
- The only academically accredited Level 4 Qualification in Internal Communication.
- A highly experienced and passionate teaching team of internal communication experts.
- Underpinned by robust professional standards, the course is mapped to Level 1 of the IOIC Profession Map.
- Outstanding support throughout the course, including the opportunity for 1-1s with a dedicated and experienced Facilitator.
- Establishing a practice of reflective thinking and an enhanced ability to think critically and articulate ideas clearly.
- Learning how to academic writing techniques, research and evidence-based practice when working with stakeholders and decision-makers.
- A pro-active, tailored approach to professional development and continuous learning.
- Enrolment with Solent University and access to their library, resources and full support services, including wellbeing.
- A network of internal communication professionals, sharing learning and providing support during your studies and beyond.
- Access to IOIC's dedicated online learning environment where you will engage in discussions and other activities with your fellow students.
- A full year of IoIC CPD (40 Points).
Key Information
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 course?
The next course will be starting on 2 September 2026 and run until May 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, payment plans are available subject to terms and conditions.
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 join from wherever they are in the world.
Please note: All live sessions take place during the UK's standard working day (9am - 5pm).
How is the course delivered?
The course takes a blended approach, with a combination of workshops, webinars, online courses and resources, independent study, discussion forums and direct support from your tutors. There are also a number of optional drop-in sessions across the course to discuss student progress and answer any queries.
In addition to a half-day induction, there will be three half-day teaching sessions and three webinars. Students will be required to spend time on their own reading and independent study in addition to the teaching sessions, as well as on writing assignments and preparing their assignments.
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.
How will I be assessed?
Foundation Diploma students are assessed via two pieces of coursework – a professional portfolio and an industry project. Students have the opportunity to submit draft assignments for formative feedback prior to final submission.
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.
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).
Entry Criteria
The Foundation Diploma is ideal for those in the early stages of their internal communication career who are looking to master best practice delivery skills and knowledge, or those who have some experience which they want to formalise and validate.
Candidates do not have to be working solely in internal communication, but they do need to have some communication experience and/or internal communication responsibilities.
Acceptance to the Foundation Diploma is subject to an application form which allows the IOIC to be sure that the programme is suitable for the individual. Depending on prior knowledge and experience, the professional development team may, on occasion, suggest an alternative course.
Foundation Diploma students must have an IOIC membership in order to join the programme. If you are not yet a member and would like to enrol in the Foundation Diploma you will be eligible for the student rate of membership at a cost of £32 + VAT.
Additional requirements
The Foundation 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.
Ready to Apply?
The next cohort will be starting in September 2026 and will run until May 2027.
If you are interested in applying for this cohort, please use the contact form below to request an application form.
Prefer to talk it through first? Email [email protected].
Hear from Diploma Facilitator, Liz Reynolds.
Student Experience
