We understand that packaging technicians may be asked to carry out research as part of their day-to-day role. The PIABC Level 5 Award for a Packaging Research Project enables you to gain a nationally-recognised qualification for your efforts.
This qualification recognises that conducting and writing up a significant piece of research requires a particular skill set. These skills are applicable to many different sectors and this qualification provides evidence that you have these skills.
Who should undertake this qualification?
This is a Level 5 qualification (foundation degree level) so you will be expected to be carrying out a challenging and rigourous piece of research. It is likely that you are already a packaging technician that has been given responsibility for conducting a project.
We would normally expect those wishing to undertake our level 5 qualifications to have a minimum of 1 GCE A-level and 5 GCSEs at grade A–C, or equivalent, including one science subject, or to have previously graduated from our PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging course. Industrial experience can be used as an alternative to formal qualifications and we expect all learners to have good communication, numeracy and IT skills.
How do I get this qualification?
This is a distance learning qualification and we would normally expect you to register and submit your project title and outline for approval before commencing.
We will provide guidance on how to conduct your project and complete your report and we have a dedicated tutor on-hand to help with any problems or questions you many have. In addition, we strongly recommend having an internal mentor to support you through your project.
Once you have completed your project report you shoudl submit it to us for assessment by PIABC Limited.
How long does it take to achieve this qualification?
How is this qualification assessed?
The PIABC Level 5 Award for a Packaging Project is assessed through the submission of a project report, which should be 5000-7000 words in length. This report should demonstrate your ability to:
- Organise and conduct a packaging-related research project
- Use relevant theoretical knowledge and practical skills to conduct your project
- Appropriately present a substantial reserach project report.
How much does it cost to undertake this qualification?
The fee to undertake this qualification through the IOM3 Training Academy is £350 (+VAT at 20% where applicable).
There is an additional fee of £135 (VAT free) for your registration with the awarding body PIABC. This also covers the assessment of your project and certification. If you do not pass first time there will be an additional fee to resubmit your project to be assessed again.
IOM3 members and subscribers to our Business Partner Programme are entitled to a discount of 10% on the course fee.

Register at anytime to work towards the PIABC Level 5 Award for a Packaging Research Project