11 Best Project Management Courses in the UK (2026)

Qualification	Best for	Entry requirements
CMI Project Management	Managers and professionals delivering projects	None
APM PMQ	Early to mid-career professionals	2–3 years project experience recommended
PRINCE2	All levels, especially structured project roles	None
PMI (CAPM/PMP)	Professionals with project experience	Foundational course or project hours
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)	Agile teams and tech environments	None
CompTIA Project+	Entry-level professionals	None
IAPM (Certified Project Manager)	Entry-level traditional PMs	None
PPM (GAQM)	Experienced managers	None
Six Sigma	Process improvement roles	None
BCS Foundation Certificate	IT and digital project managers	None
AL for Project Managers	Project managers using AI tools	None

 

1. Chartered Management Institute (CMI) 

About CMI 

With over 100,000 members globally, CMI is renowned for setting professional standards in leadership and project management.  

CMI's qualifications, including the coveted Chartered Manager status, offer international recognition and tailored learning paths that cater to professionals at all career stages. 

CMI is widely regarded as the gold standard for management and project leadership training, helping learners develop strategic planning, delivery and resource management skills across sectors. 

CMI Entry Requirements 

There are no formal entry requirements for the CMI Level 5 Project Management qualification, although it’s most suitable for those already managing teams or projects. 

This makes it an excellent choice for professionals looking to formalise their skills or progress into project management leadership roles. 

CMI – Pros & Cons 

Pros 

• Internationally recognised and respected by employers 

• Aligned with Chartered Manager status 

• Industry-focused and highly practical 

• No strict entry barriers 

• Flexible online study options through MOL Learn 

Cons 

• Coursework assessment can be demanding 

• May not suit learners seeking purely theoretical study 

Why CMI Is the Best Choice 

CMI qualifications go beyond project delivery — they develop complete management capability. 

They combine people leadership, planning, risk, and stakeholder management into one comprehensive course, ensuring learners can deliver strategic outcomes, not just projects. 

A CMI Project Management course is an investment to develop your PM skills for your career. 

Enrolling in the CMI Project Management course really changed everything for me. The way it was set up allowed me to learn at my own speed, and getting my CMI qualification has created some brilliant opportunities for me as a Project Manager! 

- MOL learner 

2. Association for Project Qualifications (APM PMQ) 

About APM 

The APM (Association for Project Management) is the only chartered body for the project management profession and currently has over 30,000 individual members.   

Completing a qualification with APM means you’ll have the opportunity to achieve Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) status, which demonstrates an elevated level of technical knowledge, professional practice, and ethical behaviour.  

APM qualifications are recognised by employers and project managers worldwide, enhancing your career opportunities, confidence, and credibility as a project manager.  

APM entry requirements 

There are no entry requirements for the APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ), however, they’re recommended for those with 2-3 years of experience in a project environment. 

APM – pros & cons 

Pros 

• Worldwide recognition 

• Preferred qualification by UK employers 

• Career advancement 

• Enhanced skills 

• Enhanced career and salary opportunities 

Cons 

• APM courses may involve tuition fees 

• Involves a broad scope, so might not be ideal for those with more experience who want to specialise 

3. PRINCE2 Qualifications 

About PRINCE2 

PRINCE2 is a project management method that was first developed by the UK government in 1989 and has since been updated on a yearly basis. 

It can be adapted for projects of any size, scope, complexity, or sector, making it a versatile tool for project managers around the world. 

PRINCE2 outlines seven key principles, created to make the project management process smoother. The framework also covers seven themes that should be addressed throughout any project, and the seven phases of organising a project. [DK1]  

PRINCE2 Entry Requirements 
  
The Foundation course is designed for anyone, regardless of experience or education. 

The PRINCE2 Practitioner course builds on the knowledge learned in the Foundation course and applies it to real-life projects in varied sectors. These qualifications can be studied flexibly online, and even include a budget-friendly combined foundation and practitioner course. 

PRINCE2 – pros & cons 

Pros 

• Recognised worldwide 

• Structured career development 

• Can reach chartered status 

• Widely respected by employers 

Cons 

• Can be costly 

• Time consuming 

• Often preferred in the USA 

• Can be rigid in its framework 

4. Project Management Institute (PMI) Qualifications 

About the PMIQualification 

The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) qualification is offered by the Project Management Institute. The course will end with an exam that has 150 multiple-choice questions. If you pass, keep in mind that you'll need to retake the exam every five years. 

Who is the PMI course for? 

It’s geared towards less experienced learners than the PMP qualification (the Project Management Professional certification) but requires applicants to pass an introductory course in project management Basics. 
  
The CAPM can help you qualify for the PMP and is a fantastic introduction to project management. 

PMI – pros & cons 

Pros 

• Globally recognised 

• Improves career and salary prospects 

• Prestigious qualification 

Cons 

• Strict prerequisites and rigid assessment process 

5. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) Qualification 

About CSM Course 

Agile workplaces and Scrum methodologies are on the rise in today's business world. While Agile was created in the early days of software development, it’s now used in many non-tech industries. 

For those who want to learn more about these principles, there are several certifications available, but Certified ScrumMaster is one of the most popular. 

This course was designed by Scrum Alliance, a non-profit organisation dedicated to changing the way we work for the better. 

Certified ScrumMaster Entry Requirements 

With a foundational understanding of Agile working and Scrum, you can enrol in a certification course. 

You will be asked to answer 35 questions on the exam to become certified. If you’re successful, your membership with the Scrum Alliance will expire every two years and must be renewed. 

ScrumMaster– pros & cons 

Pros 

• This course can save you time from a project management perspective. 

• The effective collaboration and communication offered by this framework leads to improved prioritisation. 

• The Scrum methodology can be helpful for staff morale and productivity as large tasks are broken into more manageable chunks. 

Cons 

• Costly 

• Lack of real-world application 

• Requires ongoing certificate maintenance 

• Not universally Recognised 

6. CompTIA Project+  

About CompTIA Project+ 

CompTIA Project+ is a certification that consolidates the knowledge and skills of professionals in the field of project management. 

It’s a vendor-neutral certification, recognised internationally and designed for individuals who want to show their expertise in project management practices. 

This certification course is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of project management; drawing upon multiple frameworks and soliciting feedback from experts in the IT industry, research institutions, government, and independent experts. 
  
You can expect to gain knowledge and skills in managing the project life cycle, documentation, stakeholder coordination, and communication through this course. 

CompTIA Project+ entry requirements 

The CompTIA Project+ certification is perfect for entry-level project managers or anyone who typically manage small projects. 

CompTIA Project+ - pros & cons 

Pros 

• Applicable in many industries 

• Entry level accessibility 

• International recognition 

• CV enhancement 

• Increased salary opportunities. 

Cons 

• Limited depth 

• Not as well recognised as its competitors. 

7. Certified Project Manager (IAPM) Qualification  

About IAMP 

The Certified Project Manager qualification is offered by the International Association of Project Managers (IAPM), which is a professional association that provides global certification for project management. 

IAMP Entry Requirements 

There are no set entry requirements. 

The International Association for Project Management (IAPM) has four certification levels, which are split into two categories: traditional project management and agile project management. 

The Certified Project Manager qualification falls under the first category. 

IAMP - pros & cons 

Pros 

• Internationally recognised 

• Practical focus 

• CV enhancement 

• Good for entry level project managers 

Cons 

• Limited employer recognition 

8. Professional in Project Management (PPM)   

About PPM 

The Professional in Project Management course offered by the Global Association for Quality Management (GAQM) is perfect for those with experience in middle management or a similar role. 

The curriculum covers essential project management topics like effective communication and resource allocation, as well as more advanced concepts like risk and crisis management. 

PPM entry requirements 

Although the exam is often regarded as one of the more difficult amongst its competitors, requiring a 75% to pass, the course has no entry requirements. 

PPM - pros & cons 

Pros 

• Internationally recognised 

• Diverse skill set 

• Career advancement 

• Professional network of industry peers 

Cons 

• Not preferred by many employers 

• Regarded as more difficult than competitors 

• Requires renewal every few years 

9. Six Sigma Qualifications 

About Six Sigma 

Six Sigma focuses on improving company processes to avoid defects and save money, which in turn benefits employees, project managers, and the business. 

The term Six Sigma was first used in the 1980s by the Motorola team. It’s a more complete framework than other alternatives which gives it a competitive advantage. 
There are three ‘belts’ that those aiming to become Six Sigma certified can achieve. These are based on the martial arts ranking system, which go from White Belt, all the way to Master Black Belt.  

The training is focused on the idea that it's cheaper to spend time improving processes, instead of having issues later down the line with customer satisfaction or internal mistakes. 

Six Sigma Entry Requirements 

This course is open to any learner, as it has no entry requirements. 

Six Sigma - pros & cons 

Pros 

• Global recognition 

• Increased knowledge and skills 

• Increased career opportunities 

Cons 

• Not suitable for all organisations 

• Not as highly perceived as its competitors 

10. British Computing Society (BCS) Qualifications 

About the BCS Course 

The British Computer Society (BCS) is the leading Chartered Institute for IT in the UK, dedicated to enhancing education and skills for IT professionals across the globe. 

BCS offers various qualifications, including the highly regarded BCS Foundation Certificate in IS Project Management. If you’re interested in pursuing a role in IT project management, this could be the qualification for you. 

This certification is popular across industries and focuses on flexible, effective IT project management methodologies. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a way to gain practical, modern project management skills. 

BCS Entry Requirements 

This certification is designed for anyone involved in IT and doesn't have any specific entry requirements, but it's a good idea to get training from a provider that’s accredited by BCS. 

BCS– pros & cons 

Pros 

• Being recognised in the industry can make you look more credible and attractive to employers. 

• You’ll gain important knowledge about IT project management principles that are essential for understanding the framework. 

• The course is available online, so you can learn at your own pace and schedule. 

Cons 

• It might not go deep enough if you already have experience and want to learn more advanced topics. 

• The focus is mainly on IT, so it doesn’t cover other project management methods much. 

• If you're looking for a broader view of project management, this course might not be the best fit. 

11. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Project Managers 

About AI for Project Managers course 

This course, from The Knowledge Academy, helps project managers apply AI to decision-making, automation, and data analysis. 

AI for Project Managers – pros & cons 

Pros 

• The course teaches project managers how to use AI in practical ways, making it easier to apply what you learn to your projects. 

• You’ll learn new tools and methods that help you make smarter choices, use resources wisely, and improve how your projects run. 

• Includes important knowledge about AI, helping you keep up with new tech and stay ahead of the game. 

Cons 

• If you don’t have a background in AI, you might find some parts of the course tough, and it may not cater to everyone’s learning needs. 

• The course requires commitment, which could be a challenge for busy professionals trying to balance work and learning. 

Learn more: Why CMI Qualifications Are Crucial in the AI Era 

Project Management Course FAQs 

What is the best project management qualification in the UK? 

For most professionals, the CMI Project Management qualification offers the best balance of recognition, flexibility, and practical learning. 

Is CMI better than PRINCE2? 

Yes, for professionals seeking broader management and leadership development. PRINCE2 focuses mainly on frameworks, while CMI builds full managerial competence. 

Which project management qualification is most recognised internationally? 

PMI and PRINCE2 lead globally, but CMI is increasingly recognised across international markets. 

Can I study project management online? 

Yes. MOL Learn’s CMI Project Management course offers full online flexibility with tutor support. 

Become a project management pro with MOL 

While there are advantages to the other qualifications we’ve discussed, the CMI Level 5 Project Management certification stands out as the top choice. 

CMI is recognised around the world for offering the very best training, including important project skills, resource management, and team leadership, making it more comprehensive than other programmes. 

If you’re ready to take the jump to develop your skills and gain an industry recognised project management qualification, take the next step with MOL and enrol with us today!