Who should take the MSP® Foundation and Practitioner Course?

This course is ideal for professionals involved in programme management, business transformation or strategic change, including: Programme Managers Senior Project Managers PMO Managers Portfolio Managers Change Managers Business Transformation Managers Project Directors Senior Leaders responsible for organisational change It’s also suitable for experienced project managers looking to progress into programme management roles.

What careers can MSP® certification lead to?

MSP® certification can support career progression into roles such as: Programme Manager Senior Project Manager PMO Manager Portfolio Manager Head of Programmes Business Transformation Manager Strategic Delivery Manager Programme Office Lead Many organisations actively seek professionals with recognised programme management qualifications when recruiting for leadership roles.

MSP® Foundation and Practitioner Course

Become a Certified MSP® Foundation and Practitioner

The MSP® Foundation and Practitioner Course is designed for professionals who want to develop the knowledge and practical skills required to successfully manage complex programmes and large-scale organisational change. Combining both Foundation and Practitioner levels into one comprehensive learning journey, this course prepares you to understand the MSP® framework and confidently apply it in real-world programme environments.

Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®) is an internationally recognised best practice framework that helps organisations deliver transformational change in a structured, controlled and benefits-focused way. Unlike project management, which focuses on delivering individual projects, programme management coordinates multiple related projects to achieve wider strategic objectives and long-term organisational benefits.

Throughout the course, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of the MSP® principles, governance themes and transformational flow that underpin successful programme management. You’ll learn how to establish effective governance structures, engage stakeholders, manage programme risks, realise measurable benefits and maintain alignment with organisational strategy.

The combined Foundation and Practitioner course provides the opportunity not only to understand the MSP® framework but also to develop the confidence to apply it in realistic workplace scenarios. Through practical examples, discussions and exam preparation, you’ll learn how MSP® can be used to successfully lead business transformation programmes across both the public and private sectors.

Whether you’re responsible for delivering digital transformation, organisational change, infrastructure programmes or strategic business initiatives, MSP® provides a proven framework for managing complexity while ensuring programmes remain aligned with business objectives.

By the end of the course, you’ll understand how to establish, govern and lead successful programmes, enabling organisations to deliver strategic change while maximising long-term business value.

Managing Successful Programmes 5th Edition Foundation and Practitioner candidates will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Managing Successful Programmes and techniques. Key areas are:

Introduction to MSP®
Organisation & Programme Office
Vision
Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement
Benefits Management
Blueprint Design and Delivery
Planning & Control
The Business Case
Risk & Issue Management
Quality & Assurance Management
Transformational Flow
Examination Approaches

Newly Appointed Programme Managers
Department Managers
Business Change Managers
Senior Responsible Owners
Change implementers/enablers (e.g. portfolio, programme & project managers)

Multiple choice format
75 questions per paper including 5 Trial questions
35 marks or more required to pass (out of 70 available) – 65%
60 minutes duration
Closed-book
Take your exam online with ProctorU, find out more on our exams page

Objective testing format format
8 questions per paper
80 marks available in total
40 marks required to pass
2.5 hours duration
Open-book (MSP® Guide)
Take your exam online with ProctorU, find out more on our exams page

Organisations are continually adapting to new technologies, changing customer expectations and evolving business priorities. Successfully managing this level of change requires more than effective project management, it requires strong programme management.

The MSP® Foundation and Practitioner qualification equips you with internationally recognised programme management knowledge that enables you to coordinate multiple related projects, manage organisational change and ensure strategic objectives are successfully achieved.

MSP® is one of the world’s leading programme management frameworks and is recognised by employers across both the public and private sectors.

Achieving MSP® Foundation and Practitioner certification demonstrates that you understand programme management best practice and can confidently apply the MSP® framework within complex organisational environments.

For employers, it provides confidence that you possess recognised programme management knowledge. For professionals, it demonstrates commitment to continuous development and industry best practice.

Programme management skills are increasingly sought after by organisations delivering complex transformation initiatives.

MSP® certification can support progression into roles including:

Programme Manager
Senior Project Manager
PMO Manager
Portfolio Manager
Business Transformation Manager
Change Manager
Head of Programmes
Programme Office Lead
Strategic Delivery Manager

The qualification is particularly valuable for professionals working within government, financial services, healthcare, construction, defence, technology and large corporate organisations where structured programme governance is essential.

The course helps you develop practical skills that can immediately be applied within your organisation, including how to:

Align programmes with organisational strategy
Govern multiple projects effectively
Prioritise programme objectives
Manage programme risks and dependencies
Engage senior stakeholders
Realise measurable business benefits
Lead organisational change with confidence
Support strategic decision-making

These skills not only contribute to successful programme delivery but also help you become a more effective leader capable of driving long-term organisational success.

Holding both Foundation and Practitioner certification demonstrates more than theoretical knowledge. It shows that you understand how to apply recognised programme management best practice to real workplace situations.

As organisations continue investing in transformation programmes, professionals with accredited programme management qualifications are increasingly valued for their ability to deliver strategic change while maintaining effective governance and achieving measurable business outcomes.

Organisations benefit from employees who understand structured programme management because they can:

Improve governance and accountability
Deliver strategic initiatives more effectively
Manage multiple projects under a single programme
Improve stakeholder engagement
Increase the likelihood of successful change adoption
Maximise benefits realisation
Reduce programme risk
Support consistent decision-making across complex programmes

Whether you’re looking to progress into a senior programme management role or strengthen your existing leadership capabilities, MSP® Foundation and Practitioner provides the knowledge and confidence to help you deliver successful organisational change.

By completing the MSP® Foundation and Practitioner Course, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to successfully manage programmes that deliver strategic organisational change. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the MSP® framework and learn how to apply programme management best practices in real workplace environments.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

Learn MSP® from experienced programme management professionals

Choosing the right training provider is just as important as choosing the right qualification. At Training ByteSize, we combine expert tuition, outstanding learner support and flexible learning options to help you achieve your MSP® certification with confidence.

Accredited MSP® training

As an accredited training organisation, our MSP® Foundation and Practitioner courses are fully aligned to the latest PeopleCert syllabus. Your training includes official course materials, exam preparation and guidance from experienced instructors who understand how the framework is applied in practice.

Learn from experienced practitioners

Our trainers bring years of real-world experience delivering programmes across a wide range of industries. Rather than simply teaching the theory, they explain how MSP® is used to manage complex programmes, business transformation initiatives and organisational change in real working environments.

Through practical examples, discussions and case studies, you’ll gain valuable insights that help bridge the gap between the exam syllabus and day-to-day programme management.

Focused on exam success

We understand that achieving your certification is important. Our trainers break down complex concepts into clear, manageable learning, providing practical exam techniques, revision guidance and ongoing support to help you approach both the Foundation and Practitioner exams with confidence.

Flexible learning to suit your schedule

Whether you prefer to learn in the classroom, attend a live virtual course or study online at your own pace, we offer flexible learning options designed around your needs. You’ll receive the same high-quality learning experience whichever format you choose.

Outstanding learner support

From your initial enquiry through to certification, our friendly team is here to support you. Whether you need advice on choosing the right course, help accessing your learning materials or guidance after your training, you’ll always have someone to turn to.

Trusted by organisations across the UK and beyond

Training ByteSize has helped thousands of professionals and organisations develop programme and project management capability. From individuals looking to advance their careers to organisations investing in large-scale transformation programmes, we’re trusted to deliver engaging, practical and results-focused training.

The MSP® Foundation and Practitioner Course combines both levels of the internationally recognised Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®) qualification into one training programme. You’ll first learn the principles and framework before progressing to applying MSP® in realistic programme management scenarios.

This course is ideal for professionals involved in programme management, business transformation or strategic change, including:

Programme Managers
Senior Project Managers
PMO Managers
Portfolio Managers
Change Managers
Business Transformation Managers
Project Directors
Senior Leaders responsible for organisational change

It’s also suitable for experienced project managers looking to progress into programme management roles.

The Foundation qualification assesses your understanding of the MSP® framework, terminology and principles.

The Practitioner qualification builds on this knowledge by testing your ability to apply the MSP® framework to realistic programme management scenarios and make informed decisions.

Yes. This combined course is designed to take you from beginner to Practitioner level in one structured learning programme. Completing both qualifications together provides a more comprehensive understanding of programme management and is often more cost-effective than booking each course separately.

The Practitioner exam is more challenging than Foundation because it focuses on applying the MSP® framework rather than recalling knowledge. However, our experienced trainers provide practical examples, exam techniques and revision support throughout the course to help you prepare with confidence.

For professionals involved in delivering organisational change, digital transformation or strategic initiatives, MSP® is one of the most respected programme management qualifications available. It demonstrates your ability to manage complex programmes, align projects with business strategy and realise organisational benefits.

MSP® certification can support career progression into roles such as:

Programme Manager
Senior Project Manager
PMO Manager
Portfolio Manager
Head of Programmes
Business Transformation Manager
Strategic Delivery Manager
Programme Office Lead

Many organisations actively seek professionals with recognised programme management qualifications when recruiting for leadership roles.

Your MSP® certification is subject to the current PeopleCert certification and renewal policy. We recommend checking the latest guidance or contacting our team if you would like advice on maintaining your certification.

No previous MSP® qualifications are required to enrol on the combined Foundation and Practitioner course. However, experience working on projects or programmes can help you relate the concepts to real-world situations.

Training ByteSize combines accredited course content with experienced trainers, practical examples, flexible learning options and dedicated learner support. We focus on helping you understand how MSP® works in practice, not just preparing you to pass the exams, so you can confidently apply your new skills in the workplace.

5 George House, Princes Court,
Beam Heath Way, Nantwich,
Cheshire CW5 6GD

Training teams is what we do really well, so if you have more than one person to train it may be more cost effective for you to consider our corporate solutions. Courses are offered online, on-site or virtually; there are so many options so it’s best for you to email us at [email protected] with your requirements and we will send you a tailored quote.

Online learning is a great way to study and our e-learning courses are interactive and engaging.

Studying for your qualification online is a viable option for so many project managers:

Learning is completely flexible to suit your busy schedule
The interactive online course consists of voice-over and animation to keep you engaged throughout the learning
You can access it anywhere in the world and take your exam online at a time that suits you best
The Managing Successful Programmes Foundation and Practitioner e-learning will take around 25 hours to complete and includes a quiz bank which contains a range of questions to test your knowledge and understanding of the course prior to sitting the official exams
Our pass rates are well in excess of the national average (nearly 100%!), there is really no reason you should fail!

Online learning is a great way to study and our e-learning courses are interactive and engaging.

Studying for your qualification online is a viable option for so many project managers:

Learning is completely flexible to suit your busy schedule
The interactive online course consists of voice-over and animation to keep you engaged throughout the learning
You can access it anywhere in the world and take your exam online at a time that suits you best
The Foundation e-learning will take around 10 hours to complete and includes a quiz bank which contains a range of questions to test your knowledge and understanding of the course prior to sitting the official exam
Our pass rates are well in excess of the national average (nearly 100%!), there is really no reason you should fail!

Our Virtual Course platform delivers accredited and certified training, led by leading subject matter experts, direct to your home, mobile, computer or office without the hassle of travelling or staying away. It is so easy to fit in an online class into your busy schedule; simply log in from home, the office, or even while you are travelling.

Students can ask questions using a headset, webcam or a chat window, and get their questions answered, just like in a traditional classroom. Questions can be lined up and answered at intervals, without interrupting the teacher’s flow of thought. There is no difference in the level of interaction – in fact distractions are significantly reduced because of this way of teaching. Our trainers have a minimum of 10 years training experience, plus have previously run and managed live projects, so have real-life experience they bring to the virtual session.

Download our virtual classroom course brochure to find out more.

If you would like to find out more about this option please complete this short form and we’ll come right back to you.

Classroom learning is a great way to study

Please enquire with us directly for details of forthcoming dates, by emailing [email protected] or call 01270 626330.

Classroom courses with Training ByteSize are a cut above the rest

Included in the price of your training is:

Pre course learning materials
A thorough, clear and professional course support pack with stationery
Lunch each day
Snacks and refreshments throughout the day

Virtual

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.

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 clearly.

You will be able to ask questions and communicate with the trainer and those attending the course in person all day, so you’ll feel like you’re there!

All you need is a Zoom/Microsoft Teams 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 or any additional needs or reasonable adjustments for any 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.

Our friendly, expert trainer will guide you through the course syllabus ensuring 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.

Exams can be taken on the last day of the course, or they can be deferred and taken online at a later date. 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 Cheshire 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.

Sometimes taking two days out of the office just doesn’t work, especially if you have a large group of people going through training. So we’ve come up with a tried and tested solution which combines the very best distance learning with onsite training, ensuring your company experiences the least impact on general day to day business. Additionally the bespoke blended option offers you a more cost effective way to train you team, so it’s a win-win.

If you would like to find out more about this option please call our team on 01270 626330 or complete the short form that will appear when you select Get in Touch and we’ll come right back to you.

MSP Foundation and Practitioner Course 5th Edition