Running CPCAB qualifications online

CPCAB qualifications continue to be successfully delivered online, and it is clear that our centres are embracing it and using it to enhance the learning experience for many learners.

How can my centre start delivering CPCAB qualifications online?

We offer permission for some of our qualifications to be delivered in an online or blended format.  If you’re keen to offer some or all of our qualifications online you will need to:

  • Apply for online delivery approval from us.  The application asks for your centre’s intention and ability to deliver high-quality online or blended training.
  • Commit to working within the CPCAB Quality Framework for Online Delivery to support you to deliver the very best quality of online teaching and learning. We’ll review your work with this framework through our regular Quality Assurance processes.
  • CPCAB online delivery permissions summary

    All online delivery GLH for regulated qualifications must be fully synchronous. We acknowledge the benefits of asynchronous delivery, but this must be counted as TQT (self-study) and not GLH (guided learning hours).

    100% face-to-face delivery

    Blended delivery (part face-to-face, part online)

    100% online delivery
    ELSK-L2
    USM-L2
    ICSK-L2
    CSK-L2
    CST-L3
    CAST-L3
    LCS-L3
    Allowed Allowed Allowed
    TC-L4
    LC-L4
    Allowed Up to 25% of GLH can be delivered online

    Up to 49% of placement hours can be online/telephone
    Not suitable for fully online delivery
    TC-L4 BACP APQ Not allowed Up to 25% of GLH can be delivered online

    Up to 49% of placement hours can be online/telephone
    Not suitable for fully online delivery
    PC-L5
    CBT-L5
    TCSU-L6
    Allowed Allowed

    The maximum percentage of online placement hours will depend on the individual’s own practice methods. No CPCAB limit is set.
    Allowed
    CYP-L5 Allowed Up to 50% of GLH can be delivered online

    Up to 49% of placement hours can be online/telephone
    Not suitable for fully online delivery
    CPCAB Tailormade Qualifications Allowed Allowed

    No online ratios are set. Applications will be considered on an individual basis.

    High level of synchronous delivery expected
    Allowed

    No online ratios are set. Applications will be considered on an individual basis.

    High level of synchronous delivery expected
    CPCAB CPD Endorsement Programmes Allowed Allowed

    No online ratios are set. Applications will be considered on an individual basis.

    Some delivery may be asynchronous.
    Allowed

    No online ratios are set. Applications will be considered on an individual basis.

    Some delivery may be asynchronous.
    OPCP-L5 Not allowed Not allowed
    Allowed

    Delivery must be fully online and synchronous.

    All online delivery GLH for regulated qualifications must be fully synchronous. We acknowledge the benefits of asynchronous delivery, but this must be counted as TQT (self-study) and not GLH (guided learning hours).

    CPCAB's Quality Framework for Online Delivery

    Our Quality Framework for Online Delivery is a multi-purpose framework. It obliges centres to consider the additional competences required when delivering online, and it encourages tutors and centre staff to positively engage with the potential of online delivery methods and foster best practice. It's also a 'quality stamp' on qualification delivery that a learner can expect when studying a CPCAB qualification online, in comparison to many other online or distance offerings which may not hold themselves to such best practice guidelines.

    How can centres apply to offer online delivery?

    Centres wishing to offer qualifications online should complete Appendix 2 of the relevant centre recognition application form, available from How to become a CPCAB recognised centre.

    How will online delivery affect candidates?

    Whether online, blended or face to face, candidates studying with CPCAB can be reassured that their qualifications meet the required standards at their chosen level of training, and will enable them to progress.

    Our practitioner qualifications have been mapped to the requirements of the profession and to the relevant professional associations.

    We continue to advise that any online or distance learning they do with other awarding organisations should be substantial. Their learning should fully represent the competences they need to qualify at their chosen level and gain their preferred professional membership/accreditation at the end of their training. Poor quality online/distance learning may not be sufficient for progression or provide the competencies to work safely with clients.