Whether you’re starting out, changing direction, or looking to progress in your payroll career, an IPASS qualification demonstrates that you have the practical, industry-aligned knowledge needed to support business success. Stand out from your peers with a nationally recognised payroll qualification respected by employers across Ireland
QQI Validated Programme
The Certificate in Payroll Techniques is validated by QQI as a Special Purpose 10 ECTS Credit Award at Level 6 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications. With the rigorous external quality assurance process overseen by QQI, you can feel confident that the programme will have set rules around the amount of work, the time involved, the qualifications of the instructor, and the levels of academic oversight.
Professional Membership & Use of Post-Nominals
Successful Graduates of the Certificate in Payroll Techniques (CPT) are entitled to apply for Associate Member status of the Irish Payroll Association and use the post-nominal designatory letters AIPA after their name to highlight their status as a Payroll Professional.
Formal Digital Credential
Certificate in Payroll Techniques programme graduates earn a professional credential, issued electronically on a secure platform, with a link that you can share with employers and others wishing to verify your credentials. You’ll also be able to add the credential to your LinkedIn profile to demonstrate your achievement to your network as well as recruiters and potential employers searching for qualified payroll professionals
Our alumni work for Ireland's top organisations
Payroll Industry Statistics
Source: Voice of Payroll 2024 Ireland Report
€43K
is the average salary in Ireland for individuals holding a Payroll qualification.
73%
of payroll professionals are satisfied with their current role.
89%
of payroll professionals express a need for more learning and development opportunities in the field.
69%
of those involved in the hiring process find it challenging to find qualified payroll processors.
80%
of hiring managers consider payroll qualifications essential when making hiring decisions.
IPASS Student Success Stories
They started in retail, beauty, and admin — now they’re payroll professionals. Inspiring career journeys powered by IPASS qualifications.
Shauna Lehane
"When I was looking for Payroll roles, IPASS wasn't just an advantage - it was essential! The certificate helped me become more attractive to employers."
Sarah McDonnell
"The Student Portal was absolutely brilliant! I could log in to download the sample exam papers, watch pre-recorded lectures, and access the extra materials provided each week by the lecturers."
Lisa Richardson
"Whether I had experience or not, it did not matter. What they [Payroll Hiring Managers] wanted was the IPASS certification."
Ciara McDonnell
"I chose IPASS because all the Payroll jobs I looked at required the IPASS qualification. It's the best and the only option out there for Payroll courses."
Jennifer Byrne
"When I decided to make a career change, I noticed that IPASS was highly regarded by employers, so I chose to enrol in the IPASS course. My new employer even agreed to sponsor me to become IPASS-qualified".
Ann Geragthy
"I'd definitely recommend the IPASS membership to any payroll professionals. It's great to be part of a supportive network, and I believe it's well worth getting involved in the payroll community"