MSP® Foundation Course 5th Edition

What does the course cover?

Course contents

MSP® Foundation course – online

The MSP® Foundation training course offers a structured and comprehensive introduction to the MSP® project management methodology, in a format the suits you. Gain your certification online with Training ByteSize.

The online course should take between 10 and 15 hours complete, which includes notetaking, exercises and exam practice. It is assessed through a multiple-choice examination that includes 60 questions, which you will need to complete within one hour.

MSP® course includes

In choosing to study the MSP® Foundation course online with Training ByteSize, you will have six months of online access to the course, including:

• 10 modules covering the MSP® Foundation syllabus.
• Exam practice module
• Downloadable documents
• Sample questions
• The official MSP® Foundation examination.

Course format

You will have six months of access to our comprehensive online MSP® Foundation course, featuring engaging videos, interactive animations, exercises, downloadable resources, and a dedicated exam practice module with sample questions.

The modular format lets you advance at your own speed, revisiting any modules as needed for a deeper level of understanding. After mastering the training materials, you can use the exam practice module to evaluate your knowledge with a range of sample exam questions.

When you feel confident with the training materials, you can schedule your official online exam easily through our online booking form.

All you require is a computer, webcam, and internet connection.

MSP® Foundation training in Nantwich

With state-of-the-art training facilities in the heart of rural Cheshire, courses at our Nantwich head office are a viable alternative to travelling to a larger city.

During the day, your training will be delivered at our brand-new offices. There is free onsite parking, as well as free Wi-Fi and a separate room for breakout sessions, lunches, and refreshments.

Virtual MSP® Foundation course

If you’re unable to make the course in person, we have the option to attend the same course virtually from the comfort of your own home or office.

To accommodate this, there is a dedicated, high-performance ceiling-mounted camera that tracks the trainer and streams the course throughout the day. The trainer will also use a radio microphone, and there are microphones located throughout the room, so you’ll be able to hear the discussions in the sessions clearly.

This means that you will be able to ask questions and communicate with the course trainer and those attending the course in person all day, so you’ll feel like you’re there – just from your own space.

All you need is a Zoom account, an internet connection, webcam, and microphone.

Before the course

Once you’ve booked your place on the course, you will receive a confirmation email and then a booking form for you to sign. You will have the opportunity to inform us of any dietary requirements, any additional needs and any reasonable adjustments for your exams.

A thorough, clear and professional course support pack with stationary including pre-course materials and further instructions for the course will be sent three to four weeks before the course commences.

During the course

Each day, the course will start at 9:00 in the morning.

You will be guided through the course syllabus by one of our expert trainers, who will help to ensure that you understand all the information. There will be questions and activities throughout the course to reinforce the learning.

The trainer will be on hand in the evenings to answer any further questions that you may have about what you’ve covered that day.

You can sit your exam on the last day of the course, or you can defer the exam and take it online at a later date. However, we would encourage you to take them as soon as possible whilst the information is still fresh.

There will be a break at around 10:30, and another at 14:30, with lunch at 12:30.

Lunch is ordered from a local company who provide an array of sandwiches, fruit, scones and a different selection of cakes each day. Crisps, breakfast bars and chocolate bars are also provided throughout the day. Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and water are available.

Travel, parking and directions

There is free parking at the Training Bytesize offices where the training centre is located. If you are staying at The Cheshire Cat Hotel, there is also free parking for guests.

If you’re driving, here are the addresses you might need:

• To the Training Bytesize Training Centre: Sat Nav Postcode CW5 6GD; 5 George House, Princes Court, Beam Heath Way, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6GD.
• To The Cat Hotel: Sat Nav Postcode CW5 5ED; The Cheshire Cat, 26 Welsh Row, Nantwich, CW5 5ED. Tel. 01270 623020.

If you are travelling by train, you can arrive at either Crewe or Nantwich train station.

Crewe train station: It’s around seven miles from Crewe train station to Nantwich, so we usually recommend getting a taxi to the training centre, which should take around 15 minutes. There are usually taxis waiting at the station or you can book one in advance. If you’d like further information, please contact us on 01270 626330 and we’ll be happy to help.

Nantwich train station: There are trains from Crewe to Nantwich every hour and Nantwich train station is located just five minutes away from the town centre on foot. It’s a 25-minute walk to the Training ByteSize training centre, or just five minutes in a taxi. It’s a small unattended station, so you will need to book any taxis in advance. Please contact us for more details.

Residential Nantwich courses

If you don’t want to travel back and forth but still want the in-person training experience, we offer residential courses where you can stay at a local hotel – The Cheshire Cat – for the duration of the course. This accommodation is included in the price of the residential option.

Accreditation information

Training ByteSize is proud to be an accredited PeopleCert training provider for the MSP® Foundation qualification.

This means that all our course materials have been evaluated to ensure they meet PeopleCert standards, and we are authorised to administer the MSP® Foundation exam as outlined in our accreditation.

FAQs

How to pass MSP® Foundation – top tips

Passing the MSP® Foundation exam requires a good understanding of the MSP® framework and thorough preparation. Here are some our top tips at Training ByteSize to help you pass the MSP® Foundation exam:

Understand the exam format

• Exam Structure: The exam consists of multiple-choice questions.
• Time Management: You will have a limited amount of time to complete the exam, so practice managing your time effectively.

Study materials

• Training Course: Enrol in our accredited MSP® Foundation training course to gain structured learning and insights from our experienced trainers.
• Practice Exams: Use our practice exam simulator to familiarise yourself with the question format and assess your knowledge.

Key concepts to focus on

• Principles: Understand the seven principles and their applications.
• Governance Themes: Study the nine governance themes and their role in program management.
• Transformational Flow: Learn the six processes within the transformational flow and how they integrate with program management activities.

Study techniques

• Study Schedule: Create a study schedule that covers all topics and stick to it.
• Regular Revision: Regularly review key concepts, principles, and themes.
• Review Mistakes: Analyse your mistakes in practice exams to identify weak areas and focus on improving them.

Exam strategies

• Read Questions Carefully: Pay close attention to the wording of questions and answer choices.
• Eliminate Wrong Answers: Narrow down your choices by eliminating obviously incorrect answers.
• Flag Difficult Questions: If you’re unsure about a question, flag it and return to it later if time permits.

By combining a thorough understanding of the MSP® framework with consistent practice and revision, you can increase your chances of passing the exam. Good luck!

Does MSP® Foundation expire?

All PeopleCert Business and IT certifications must be renewed within three years of their original certification date.

There are two ways in which you can renew your certification:

• You can upgrade to PeopleCert’s Plus Plan membership to gain access to the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program, which allows you to maintain your certifications by logging CPD points for daily professional activities.
• Alternatively, you can keep your certifications current by attending another course and passing an exam within the same Product Suite before your certification’s renewal date.

What level qualification is MSP® Foundation?

The MSP® Foundation qualification is considered an entry-level certification within the MSP® framework. It is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the principles, governance themes, and transformational flow processes of the MSP® methodology.

Is the MSP Foundation 5th Edition right for me?

Target audience

Getting certified in the MSP® Foundation course can benefit a wide range of professionals, especially those involved in managing and delivering programmes and projects within an organisation. Those who would particularly benefit include:

Programme Managers

• Responsibility: Programme managers overseeing multiple related projects can benefit from a structured framework like MSP® to ensure alignment with organisational goals and effective management of interdependencies.
• Skill enhancement: Training enhances their skills in strategic planning, risk management, and benefit realisation.

Project Managers

• Transition to programme management: Project managers looking to transition into programme management roles will find MSP® training valuable for understanding the broader scope of programme management.
• Broader perspective: It provides them with a broader perspective on managing multiple projects within a programme framework.

Senior Executives and Directors

• Strategic alignment: Senior executives responsible for aligning projects and programmes with business strategy can use MSP® to ensure that all initiatives contribute to strategic objectives.
• Informed decision making: It helps them make informed decisions about prioritising and resourcing programmes.

Portfolio Managers

• Integration: Portfolio managers, who oversee a collection of projects and programmes, benefit from understanding how MSP® integrates with portfolio management to optimise resource allocation and achieve strategic goals.

Change Managers

• Change management: Change managers involved in organisational transformation projects can use MSP® to manage change effectively across multiple projects and ensure that change initiatives are coordinated and aligned.

Business Analysts

• Requirement management: Business analysts involved in programme-level analysis and requirement management will find MSP® useful in understanding how to align business needs with programme outcomes.

PMO (Project Management Office) Staff

• Standardisation: PMO staff responsible for establishing and maintaining project and programme management standards can use MSP® to implement best practices across the organisation.
• Support functions: They can better support programme managers and project managers by providing standardised processes and tools.

Consultants

• Advisory roles: Consultants who provide advisory services on programme and project management will benefit from MSP® knowledge to guide their clients in implementing effective programme management practices.

Team Leaders and Members

• Awareness: Team leaders and members working on projects can benefit from understanding the programme’s overarching framework, enhancing their awareness of how their work fits into the bigger picture.

Anyone Involved in Programme Delivery

• Comprehensive understanding: Any professional involved in the delivery of programmes, regardless of their specific role, will benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the MSP® framework, improving their effectiveness in contributing to programme success.

Prerequisites

The MSP® Foundation exam does not have strict prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.

However, having some experience or knowledge in programme or project management and a basic understanding of management principles and practices can be beneficial.

Training ByteSize testimonials

‘Fatollah was a great tutor, made the large amount of content we had to lean manageable and interesting, he integrated exam prep within the learning which made the exam far more easier. Overall great experience with the online classroom, didn’t feel at a disadvantage by not being in an in-person classroom.’ – George, 5 stars.

‘Outstanding facilities and very experienced tutors, their deliver is second to none and I would not hesitate to recommend their services to anyone wishing to undertake training in Project Management.’ – Nathan, 5 stars

Exam information

The MSP® Foundation exam assesses a candidate’s ability to understand and apply the MSP® framework’s principles, governance themes, and transformational flow. It ensures that candidates have a solid foundation in programme management and are prepared to contribute effectively to the successful delivery of programmes.

The foundation exam evaluates:

MSP® principles

• Understanding the seven principles that guide successful programme management.
• Ability to explain how these principles underpin the MSP® framework.

Governance themes

• Knowledge of the nine governance themes that ensure effective programme control and alignment with organisational strategy.
• Understanding the purpose and key concepts of each theme, including organisational structure, vision, leadership, and stakeholder engagement.

Transformational flow

• Comprehension of the six processes within the transformational flow and their sequence.
• Understanding how these processes interact to guide a programme from inception through to delivery and closure.

Roles and responsibilities

• Familiarity with the roles and responsibilities of key programme management positions.
• Understanding the significance of each role within the MSP® framework.

Programme lifecycle

• Knowledge of how to manage a programme throughout its lifecycle, including planning, delivery, and benefit realisation.
• Understanding the activities, controls, and deliverables at each stage of the programme lifecycle.

Benefits management

• Understanding the principles and practices of managing benefits within a programme.
• Knowledge of how to ensure benefits are identified, defined, tracked, and realised.

Risk and issue management

• Comprehension of the approaches to managing risks and issues within the MSP® framework.
• Understanding how to implement effective risk management strategies to minimise negative impacts on the programme.

Stakeholder management

• Knowledge of how to identify, analyse, and engage stakeholders.
• Understanding the importance of stakeholder communication and involvement for programme success.

Learning path

After passing the MSP® Foundation exam, the next logical step would be to pursue the MSP® Practitioner course. This advanced level of certification builds on the knowledge gained in the Foundation course and focuses on applying the MSP® framework in real-world scenarios.

Benefits of the MSP® Foundation certification

Benefits for the individual

Taking an MSP® Foundation course provides several benefits for students, particularly those involved in programme and project management. Here are some key advantages:

Comprehensive understanding of programme management

• Framework knowledge: Students gain a solid understanding of the MSP® framework, which provides a structured approach to managing complex programmes.
• Best practices: Exposure to best practices in programme management helps students apply proven methods to real-world scenarios.

Improved career prospects

• Certification recognition: MSP® certification is globally recognised and respected, enhancing the students’ credentials and making them more attractive to employers.
• Job opportunities: Certified individuals often have better job opportunities and can command higher salaries.

Enhanced skills and competencies

• Strategic alignment: Students learn how to align programmes with organisational strategy and objectives, ensuring that programmes deliver real value.
• Risk management: The course teaches effective risk management strategies, crucial for the successful delivery of programmes.
• Stakeholder engagement: Improved skills in managing and engaging stakeholders, which is essential for programme success.

Practical application

• Real-world scenarios: The course often includes case studies and practical exercises, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
• Project integration: Students learn how to integrate projects within a programme, ensuring that all projects contribute to the overall objectives.

Personal and professional development

• Confidence boost: Gaining new skills and knowledge can help to boost confidence in your abilities to manage complex programmes.
• Networking: Courses often provide opportunities to network with other professionals, fostering valuable connections and the exchange of ideas.

Preparation for advanced certification

• Foundation for higher levels: The Foundation course prepares students for more advanced MSP® certifications, such as the MSP® Practitioner, further advancing their knowledge and skills.

Benefits for an organisation

Organisations can gain numerous benefits from having employees certified in the MSP® Foundation course. Here are some of the key advantages:

Enhanced programme management

• Standardised approach: MSP® provides a consistent and standardised approach to programme management, ensuring that all programmes are managed uniformly.
• Best practices: Certified employees apply best practices, leading to more efficient and effective programme delivery.

Improved strategic alignment

• Alignment with objectives: Employees are trained to align programmes with the organisation’s strategic objectives, ensuring that programmes deliver real business value.
• Benefit realisation: Better focus on realising benefits and achieving strategic goals.

Risk management

• Proactive risk management: Certified employees are skilled in identifying, assessing, and managing risks, reducing the likelihood of programme failures.
• Issue resolution: Enhanced ability to handle issues promptly and effectively, minimising disruptions.

Increased efficiency and effectiveness

• Resource optimisation: Improved resource management, leading to optimal use of organisational resources.
• Reduced duplication: Streamlined processes reduce duplication of efforts and promote better coordination among projects within a programme.

Stakeholder engagement

• Effective communication: Certified employees are adept at engaging and communicating with stakeholders, leading to better stakeholder satisfaction and support.
• Transparency: Enhanced transparency in programme progress and decision-making processes.

Cost savings

• Budget management: Better financial management of programmes, helping to keep costs under control.
• Efficiency gains: More efficient programme execution can lead to significant cost savings over time.

Competitive advantage

• Market differentiation: Organisations with certified employees can differentiate themselves in the market as having a skilled and competent workforce.
• Client confidence: Increased confidence among clients and stakeholders in the organisation’s ability to deliver complex programmes successfully.

Continuous improvement

• Learning culture: Encourages a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organisation.
• Feedback loops: Systematic use of feedback and lessons learned to improve future programmes.

Employee morale and retention

• Professional development: Supporting employees in gaining certifications demonstrates a commitment to their professional growth, enhancing job satisfaction and loyalty.
• Career advancement: Employees see a clear path for career advancement, reducing turnover.

Foundation for advanced practices

• Preparation for advanced certifications: Employees who complete the Foundation course are well-prepared for more advanced MSP® certifications, further enhancing their skills.
• Scalability: The MSP® framework is scalable, supporting the organisation as it grows and faces more complex programme management challenges.

Learning outcomes

The key learning outcomes from the MSP® Foundation training include:

• Understanding MSP® principles: Grasp the fundamental principles of the MSP® framework.
• Governance themes: Learn about the governance themes that ensure effective programme management.
• Transformational flow: Understand the transformational flow and how to manage programme transitions.
• Strategic alignment: Align programmes with organisational strategy and objectives.
• Risk management: Identify, assess, and manage risks within a programme.
• Stakeholder engagement: Effectively engage and manage stakeholders throughout the programme lifecycle.
• Benefit realisation: Focus on realising benefits and achieving strategic goals.
• Integrated approach: Integrate multiple projects within a programme for cohesive management.
• Practical application: Apply MSP® concepts to real-world scenarios and case studies.
• Exam preparation: Prepare for the MSP® Foundation certification exam.

Why study with Training Bytesize?

As experts in delivering project management training through a range of study styles, your success is key to our success. We understand how people learn, we know how to train people to pass exams, we employ the best trainers and specialise in small class sizes to help you get the best from your investment. So, if you’re looking to enhance your project management skills and ensure you pass first time, Training ByteSize is a name you can trust.

As a family run business, project and programme management training is in our blood, and so is innovation. Our founders have been part of the industry since the 1990’s, specifically founding Key Skills and developing the world’s first accredited e-learning course for PRINCE2.

Today we are proud to continue with world firsts; with second generation Victoria at the helm, she had led Training ByteSize to ensure were the first company to develop and deliver e-learning options for accredited courses including Business Analysis Foundation, ITIL4, and AgilePM.  When we say we’re experts in project management training, we really do mean it.