What Are the Top 6 Courses Available for Managers?

Are you looking to become a manager?

Want to upskill and secure higher-paying positions?

With an average manager salary of £51,732 in the UK, choosing a career in management can be lucrative and secure.

If you need help finding the right management course for you, we have listed the best six below.

1. CMI Level 3 Principles of Management and Leadership

The CMI Level 3 Principles of Management and Leadership course is designed for aspiring or newly appointed managers seeking a solid foundation in leadership principles.

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) provides a comprehensive curriculum focusing on key managerial skills, and MOL holds a 95% pass rate for this qualification.

Average price: From £151 per month interest-free with MOL.

Duration: Depending on the number of units you take, the course is between 5 weeks and 12 months long.

Aimed at:

• Newly appointed team leaders
• First-line managers and supervisors
• Junior managers
• Those looking to advance their career in a management role
• Individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of management principles
• Professionals aiming to improve their leadership capabilities
• Anyone responsible for managing a team or department at an operational level

Pros:

• Accredited by the CMI, a globally recognised institution
• A-level equivalent, giving you a recognised academic standard
• Practical skills you can immediately implement in the workplace
• Free resubmission if you do not pass first time
• Access to free CMI Affiliate Membership and ManagementDirect resources

Cons:

• It may be considered basic for seasoned managers looking for advanced skills

2. Business and Management Degree

A Business and Management Degree is a comprehensive academic programme providing a broader understanding of business principles, strategy and leadership. This managerial course is suitable for those looking for a deep dive into various aspects of management.

Average price: Around £9,250 per year in the UK.

Duration: Typically a three-year full-time course, or longer if pursued part-time. One year for foundation degrees.

Aimed at:

• Individuals aspiring to pursue managerial roles in various industries
• Those looking for a solid foundation in business and management principles
• Students interested in gaining a holistic view of organisational operations
• Individuals seeking to develop critical thinking skills in a business context
• Professionals aiming to enhance their career prospects by acquiring a formal qualification
• Aspiring entrepreneurs who want to gain the knowledge and skills to run their own businesses
• Those interested in specialised areas within management, such as human resource management, marketing, finance or operations
• Younger people who have the opportunity to take three years out to study full time

Pros:

• Offers a well-rounded education with a focus on critical thinking and analysis
• Widens career prospects with a recognised degree
• Opportunities for specialisation in areas like marketing, finance or human resources
• Well-respected qualification

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to shorter-term courses
• Time-consuming, making it less feasible for those wanting immediate career advancement
• Not the best option for those who want a quick career change into management

3. PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Project Management

The PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner combined course is focused on project management methodology, providing a structured approach to planning, executing and closing projects.

Average price: Around £1,200 to £1,500.

Duration: Typically a five-day intensive course, with additional self-study required for certification.

Aimed at:

• Project managers and aspiring project managers
• Professionals involved in project management activities
• Individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of PRINCE2 methodologies
• Those aiming to enhance their project management skills and qualifications

Pros:

• Internationally recognised certification
• Emphasis on practical application in project settings
• Ideal for those wanting specialised skills in structured project management

Cons:

• Intensive schedule may be challenging for those with time constraints
• Primarily suitable for those involved in project management roles rather than general management
• Methodology-specific, teaching one framework rather than broader management capability
• More commonly referenced in public sector and enterprise environments; the CMI qualification tends to be preferred by UK employers for general management roles

4. ILM Level 2 Award in Leadership and Team Skills

The ILM Level 2 Award in Leadership and Team Skills is a foundational qualification fostering leadership and teamwork abilities. Aimed at individuals starting their leadership journey, it equips them with essential skills for effective team collaboration and leadership in various contexts.

Average price: Around £430.

Duration: Approximately three weeks.

Aimed at:

• Aspiring leaders and supervisors
• Entry-level managers
• Individuals beginning their leadership journey
• Those seeking foundational skills in team collaboration and leadership

Pros:

• Establishes foundational leadership and team skills
• Suitable for entry-level managers and aspiring leaders
• Practical insights for effective teamwork and leadership
• Enhances communication and collaboration abilities

Cons:

• Limited in-depth coverage compared to higher-level courses
• May not be sufficient for advanced leadership roles
• Requires additional courses for comprehensive leadership development

5. ILM Level 3 Certificate in Leadership and Management

This intermediate-level course is designed to cultivate effective leadership and management skills. Tailored for individuals in supervisory roles or aspiring to such positions, the programme covers key aspects such as team motivation, communication and strategic decision-making. Participants gain practical insights to enhance their leadership capabilities and contribute to the success of their teams and organisations.

Average price: Between £900 and £1,200.

Duration: 12 months.

Aimed at:

• Supervisors and team leaders
• Individuals aspiring to managerial roles
• Those seeking to enhance their leadership and management skills
• Professionals at an intermediate career stage

Pros:

• Intermediate-level content for a deeper understanding of leadership and management
• Tailored for supervisors and aspiring managers
• Practical insights into team motivation, communication and strategic decision-making
• Enhances skills crucial for career progression

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those seeking basic leadership skills
• Limited coverage compared to more advanced leadership courses
• Requires a time commitment for successful completion

6. CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership

For mid-level managers aspiring to enhance their leadership capabilities, the CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership course is an excellent choice. Building on foundational principles, it provides a more in-depth understanding of managerial responsibilities and is the equivalent of a foundation degree. MOL holds a 95% pass rate for this qualification.

Average price: From £174 per month interest-free with MOL.

Duration: Depending on the number of units you take, the course is between 5 weeks and 12 months long.

Aimed at:

• Experienced and departmental managers
• Operations managers and senior supervisors
• Professionals seeking to enhance their strategic management skills
• Those responsible for managing teams at a strategic level
• Individuals looking to develop a broader understanding of organisational management
• Anyone aiming to progress into senior management roles

Pros:

• CMI accreditation ensures high-quality content and a recognised qualification
• Foundation degree equivalent, carrying genuine academic weight
• Emphasis on strategic thinking and decision-making
• Leads to ACMI post-nominals and opens the pathway to Chartered Manager status
• Networking opportunities with fellow mid-level professionals

Cons:

• Requires a significant time commitment, potentially challenging for those with busy schedules

Which managerial course should I choose?

The right course depends on where you are in your management career and what you want to achieve.

If you are new to management or preparing for your first leadership role, the CMI Level 3 gives you a structured, employer-recognised foundation. If you are an experienced manager looking to develop strategic skills and progress to senior roles, the CMI Level 5 is the stronger option. For those with specific responsibilities in project delivery, the CMI Level 5 Certificate in Project Management offers a focused qualification that leads to Chartered Project Professional status.

The CMI accreditation guarantees a curriculum meticulously crafted to meet professional benchmarks, offering a thorough grounding in contemporary management methods. With decades of experience, MOL has the staff, knowledge and expertise to help you achieve your professional goals.

If you want to become a manager or gain a managerial qualification, get in touch with our Qualifications Advisors or enrol today.