Solent University accredits Institute of Internal Communication Diploma

Southampton Solent University has officially accredited the Institute of Internal Communication's Foundation Diploma of Proficiency.

The agreement was signed on Thursday 21 June and formally recognises the programme's academic and professional standards of teaching.

Solent welcomed to campus the Institute's chief executive Steve Doswell, who formally signed the agreement with deputy vice-chancellor Professor Jane Longmore, as well as Institute director Sheila Parry.

The accreditation follows Solent's rigorous review of the programme's learning outcomes, assessment practices and candidates' experience, to ensure that the knowledge and skills taught through the entry-level diploma match the needs and standards of the internal communication profession.

Successful Foundation Diploma candidates will receive 30 CATS (Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme) points as evidence of achievement, which are accepted by many UK higher education institutes and can be used as credits towards other qualifications.

Professor Jane Longmore, deputy vice-chancellor of Solent University, said: "As a University which puts a high premium on its links with the world of work, we are delighted to be working closely with the Institute of Internal Communication, helping to build a rigorous professional development framework for this dynamic sector. Excellent communications lie at the heart of successful organisations; Southampton Solent University's accreditation of the IoIC's Foundation Diploma will support future generations of communication professionals."

IoIC education and accreditation director Sheila Parry said: "The role of professional institute has brought us new responsibilities in terms of setting, raising and maintaining standards for members, and indeed the sector as a whole.

"We always knew that external accreditation would become an important part of our professional development activities as it confirms that a qualification is robust, fit for purpose and in line with current educational standards. We are very pleased to have established this partnership with Solent which reflects our strong belief in the importance of combining business know-how with academic rigour in our qualification programme."

Further information about the programme is available at www.ioic.org.uk