Leaving the Armed Forces is the beginning of an exciting new chapter. While transitioning into civilian employment can feel like a significant change, many Service leavers already possess the leadership, planning and decision-making skills that employers value highly. Gaining a recognised project management qualification can help you demonstrate those skills in a way that civilian employers understand and recognise.
The Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) enables eligible Service personnel to use Enhanced Learning Credits towards approved higher-level learning, helping them gain recognised qualifications that support their future careers.
As an MOD-approved ELCAS Learning Provider (Provider Number 6776), Training ByteSize has supported hundreds of military learners through their transition into civilian employment. We deliver accredited project and programme management qualifications through classroom, virtual classroom and online learning, offering flexible options to suit different circumstances and commitments.
In this guide, we’ll explain what ELCAS is, how the application process works, the project management qualifications available through the scheme, and how to choose the right course for your career goals.
What is ELCAS?
The Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) is part of the Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme, which promotes lifelong learning amongst members of the Armed Forces.
The scheme enables eligible Service personnel to claim financial support towards approved learning at Level 3 and above, helping them gain qualifications that support their resettlement and future career development.
Training ByteSize is proud to be an approved ELCAS Learning Provider, offering a range of accredited project management, programme management and business change qualifications from awarding bodies including:
- Association for Project Management (APM)
- APMG International
- PeopleCert
These internationally recognised qualifications help learners build professional knowledge that can be applied across a wide range of industries.
Why project management is a popular career choice for service leavers
Military experience develops many of the same skills required to manage successful projects.
Throughout your career in the Armed Forces, you’ve likely gained experience in:
- Leading teams
- Planning complex activities
- Managing resources
- Assessing and managing risk
- Working with multiple stakeholders
- Solving problems under pressure
- Delivering objectives within strict timescales
These transferable skills make project management a natural career path for many Service leavers.
Qualified project professionals work across sectors including:
- Defence
- Construction
- Rail
- Engineering
- Utilities
- Healthcare
- Government
- Technology
- Manufacturing
- Financial Services
A recognised qualification can help demonstrate your existing capabilities whilst providing the project management knowledge and terminology used across civilian organisations.
Which project management qualification should you choose?
Every learner has different career aspirations, so choosing the right qualification depends on your experience and the type of role you’d like to move into.
APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ)
If you’re new to project management, the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) provides an excellent introduction.
You’ll develop an understanding of core project management concepts including planning, governance, communication, stakeholder engagement and risk management.
Ideal for:
- Service leavers beginning a project management career
- Team members supporting projects
- Individuals wanting a recognised introduction to project management
APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ)
The APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ) is aimed at those looking to develop a deeper understanding of project management principles and techniques.
It is widely recognised throughout the UK and is suitable for those progressing into project management roles or wishing to formalise existing experience.
Ideal for:
- Aspiring Project Managers
- Current project professionals
- Experienced military leaders transitioning into civilian project roles
PRINCE2®
PRINCE2 is one of the world’s most recognised project management methodologies.
It provides a structured framework for managing projects and is widely used throughout government, defence and many private sector organisations.
AgilePM®
Many organisations now use Agile approaches to deliver projects more flexibly and respond quickly to changing business needs.
An AgilePM qualification develops an understanding of Agile project delivery and collaborative ways of working, making it valuable across technology, digital transformation and business change environments.
Why choose an ELCAS approved learning provider?
Choosing an approved provider means you’ll receive training that meets the standards required by the ELCAS scheme.
Training ByteSize has many years of experience supporting Service personnel throughout their learning journey.
When you choose Training ByteSize, you’ll benefit from:
- MOD-approved ELCAS Learning Provider (Provider Number 6776)
- Accredited qualifications from APM, APMG International and PeopleCert
- Classroom, virtual classroom and online learning options
- Experienced trainers with extensive industry knowledge
- Dedicated learner support throughout your course
- Friendly guidance through the ELCAS application process
- Flexible learning designed to support military learners
Our aim is not only to help you achieve your qualification but also to support your transition into civilian employment through practical, engaging and supportive learning.
Flexible learning designed around military life
We understand that military life doesn’t always follow a predictable schedule.
Many of our learners are balancing deployments, resettlement, family commitments or changing responsibilities whilst preparing for civilian careers.
That’s why we offer flexible learning options designed to fit around your circumstances.
Depending on your chosen course, you may benefit from:
- Classroom, virtual classroom or online study options
- Up to 12 months’ access to online learning materials
- Interactive quiz banks to support exam preparation
- Tutor support throughout your learning
- Access to our online learner community
Where operational duties or postings affect your studies, we’ll always work with you wherever possible to minimise disruption and help you continue your learning journey.
How to apply for an ELCAS course
Applying for ELCAS funding is straightforward once you’ve selected your course.
The general process is:
- Choose an approved Training ByteSize course.
- Submit your ELCAS claim through the official ELCAS website.
- Send your completed claim to your Education Staff at least 25 working days before your course start date.
- Once your Claim Authorisation Note (CAN) has been approved, provide this to Training ByteSize.
- We’ll guide you through the remaining enrolment process and help prepare you for your course.
If you’re unsure which course is right for you, our team is always happy to help.
Supporting you every step of the way
Choosing your next career is a significant decision, and we understand that everyone’s journey is different.
Our team has worked with hundreds of Service leavers and understands the unique challenges involved in transitioning into civilian employment.
Whether you’re exploring project management for the first time or looking to build on existing leadership experience, we’ll help you choose the qualification that best supports your career goals.
From your initial enquiry through to completing your qualification, we’re here to make the process as straightforward and supportive as possible.
Start your civilian career with confidence
Your experience in the Armed Forces has already equipped you with many of the skills needed to succeed in project management.
An accredited qualification can help you build on that experience, develop recognised industry knowledge and prepare for your next career opportunity.
As an approved ELCAS Learning Provider, Training ByteSize is proud to support Service personnel and veterans with flexible, accredited training and dedicated learner support throughout their transition into civilian employment.
If you’d prefer to talk things through, we’d love to hear from you.
📧 Or get in touch through our website and one of our friendly team members will be happy to answer your questions, explain the ELCAS process and help you find the most suitable qualification.
Explore our full range of ELCAS-approved project management, programme management and business change qualifications here:
Frequently asked questions
What is ELCAS?
ELCAS (Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service) enables eligible members of the Armed Forces to claim Enhanced Learning Credits towards approved higher-level learning.
Is Training ByteSize an approved ELCAS provider?
Yes. Training ByteSize is an MOD-approved ELCAS Learning Provider (Provider Number 6776) and offers a range of eligible accredited qualifications.
Can I study online using ELCAS?
Yes. Many of our ELCAS-approved courses are available through virtual classroom or online learning, allowing you to study flexibly around your commitments.
Which project management qualification should I choose?
This depends on your experience and career goals. Our team is happy to discuss your background and recommend the most appropriate qualification for your next career step.
What happens if I’m deployed or my circumstances change during my studies?
We understand that military commitments can change unexpectedly. Wherever possible, we’ll work with you to minimise disruption to your learning and discuss the most suitable options available.
Who can help me with my ELCAS application?
Our experienced team can guide you through the application process, answer your questions and help you choose the right course before you submit your claim.
