Hello,
I completed the level 3 and went straight on to the level 7 without a break. I have almost completed it and am really looking forward to having some spare time back.
It was certainly more difficult than level 3 but that was what I expected and prepared myself for. Having not completed level 5 I am not able to comment on the difference between those two but it was more challenging.
I am completing mine at Huddersfield University and the combination of class and assignments is a good blend in my opinion. As my class is a mixture of different levels and sectors it leads to come fantastic debates and more learning than I received at level 3.
The assignments have been dependant on the session in question though you cover all elements of HR, from employment relations, HR in business context, L&D and managing people etc.
All sessions had an assignment of around 3000 to 3500 words, though some also had group work. I have had 2 exams, 1 at the end of each year that were for a specific session.
Exams are 2 hours each and honestly not enough time to write everything you could but plenty of time to make a good answer to the questions.
I would recommend level 7 to anyone that asks as the amount of theory it has taught me really backs up the practical I am doing daily but it is a big commitment.
Having said all that if you balance work, level 7 and life well from the start and work on assignments in stages you will complete it in no time!
Go for it!

Hi Chelcey, like Hayley below I went straight from L3 (which I did some time ago) and actually started my L7 yesterday. So its hard to comment on the exact changes you would notice. So far I would say its not a huge step up from degree level. The big difference my tutor kept mentioning was that at L7 it about critically evaluating the topics/policies/research. A lot of "So what?", "Why?" and "What does that mean for X?", its a move away from being descriptive and a need to back up what you are saying with research/journals/etc.

I'm studying through MOL, and there's a lot of assignments and tasks to complete between sessions too, and also as Hayley mentioned two national exams.

Its still early to fully assess the workload but at the moment I am finding it manageable.

Great to hear from first-time contributors. You are all very welcome and thank you for sharing your own experience.