MSP® Practitioner Course 5th Edition

What does the course cover?

Course contents

Online MSP® Practitioner course

The MSP® Practitioner course builds on the foundational knowledge acquired in the MSP® Foundation course, providing in-depth training on applying the MSP® framework to real-world scenarios in your workplace.

Equipping participants with advanced skills in governance, risk management, benefits realisation, and stakeholder engagement, MSP® Practitioner ensures you can manage complex programmes effectively and align them with organisational strategic objectives.

Achieving the certification not only enhances your professional credentials but also significantly contributes to the success and efficiency of the programmes that are being managed, ultimately driving organisational growth and transformation.

The online course should take between 10 and 15 hours complete, which includes notetaking, exercises and exam practice. It is assessed through an objective testing examination that includes 70 questions, which you will need to complete within 2 hours 30 minutes.

MSP® Practitioner course includes

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

• 10 modules covering the MSP® Practitioner syllabus
• Sample exam papers
• Downloadable documents
• The official MSP® Practitioner exam.

Course format

You will have six months of access to our online course, which features engaging videos, interactive animations, exercises, downloadable resources and sample papers.

The course is formatted to let you advance at your own speed; revisiting topics as needed for a deeper understanding. After mastering the training materials, you can use the sample papers to test your knowledge and practice for the official exam.

MSP® Practitioner training in Nantwich

We offer MSP® Practitioner courses at our Nantwich head office, in the heart of rural Cheshire.

Your training will be delivered at our state-of-the-art offices, where there is free parking and Wi-Fi to help make your learning journey as smooth as possible.

Virtual MSP® Practitioner course

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

A dedicated high-performance, ceiling-mounted camera tracks the trainer and streams the course throughout the day. The Training ByteSize trainer will use a radio microphone to ensure everyone – in-person or virtual – can hear their insights.

With a Zoom account, an internet connection, webcam, and microphone, you’ll be able to ask questions and communicate with the trainer and attendees throughout the day.

Before the course

When you have booked your place on the MSP® 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, with questions and activities throughout the course to reinforce the learning.

Exams can be taken on the last day of the course, or they can be deferred and taken online later. However, we encourage you to take the exam as soon as possible whilst the information is still fresh from your course.

Lunch is ordered from a local company who provide a selection of sandwiches, fruit, scones and cakes. Crisps, breakfast bars, chocolate bars, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and water are available throughout the day.

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:

• Training Bytesize Training Centre: Sat Nav Postcode CW5 6GD; 5 George House, Princes Court, Beam Heath Way, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6GD.
• 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.

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.

Residential courses in Nantwich

To take some of the travel stress away, we offer residential MSP® Practitioner courses where you will stay at a local hotel – The Cheshire Cat – for the duration of the course. With our residential courses, accommodation is provided in the cost of the course.

There is a bar and restaurant at the hotel, but if you fancy something different, there are a variety of pubs and restaurants in the town centre which are nearby.

FAQs

What is MSP® Practitioner?

The MSP® Practitioner certification is the next level after the MSP® Foundation certification. It is designed for professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to apply the framework to real-world program management scenarios.

It builds on the knowledge acquired at the Foundation level, focusing on the application of principles, governance themes, and transformational flow processes in practical situations.

Does MSP® Practitioner 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:

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.

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® Practitioner?

The MSP® Practitioner qualification is considered an intermediate-level certification within the framework. It is aimed at professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to apply the MSP® principles, governance themes, and transformational flow processes to real-world program management scenarios.

Is the course right for me?

Target audience

Training in the MSP® Practitioner course can benefit a wide range of professionals involved in programme and project management. Here are some specific groups who would particularly benefit from this training:

• Programme Managers: Professionals responsible for managing multiple related projects within a programme to achieve strategic business objectives.
• Project Managers: Project managers looking to advance their careers by gaining expertise in programme management and understanding how projects align with broader strategic goals.
• Senior Managers and Executives: Senior leaders involved in setting strategic direction and overseeing large-scale change initiatives, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
• Portfolio Managers: Managers responsible for overseeing a portfolio of projects and programmes, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and strategically.
• Change Managers: Professionals focused on managing organisational change and transformation initiatives, ensuring that changes are implemented smoothly and deliver intended benefits.
• Business Analysts: Analysts who need to understand how their work on individual projects fits into larger programmes and contributes to organisational strategy.
• Stakeholders in Programme Management: Key stakeholders, including sponsors, governance bodies, and team members, who need to understand programme management principles and practices to support successful programme outcomes.
• Consultants and Advisors: Consultants specialising in programme and project management, providing expert advice and support to organisations implementing MSP® frameworks.
• Aspiring Programme Managers: Individuals seeking to transition into programme management roles and looking to build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in managing successful programmes.
• IT and Infrastructure Managers: Managers in IT and infrastructure sectors overseeing complex projects and programmes that require alignment with business strategy and efficient resource management.
• Public Sector Professionals: Government and public sector employees involved in large-scale public programmes and initiatives, ensuring effective delivery of services and benefits to the public.

Prerequisites

To take the MSP® Practitioner exam, candidates must have successfully passed the MSP® Foundation exam. The Foundation level provides the necessary understanding of the MSP® framework, principles, governance themes, and transformational flows.

This ensures that candidates have a solid grounding in the basic concepts and terminology of the MSP® framework before advancing to the more complex and practical application skills tested at the Practitioner level.

Training ByteSize testimonials

‘Excellent in-person course for MSP foundation and practitioner. The tutor Fatollah really knew the area and the TrainingByteSize staff were always very helpful. The course was great exam preparation and also included tips for real world application.’ – Hannah, 5 stars

‘Easy to book onto the course (and we were quite short notice!) and materials received in advance. These were all useful and extensive. Our trainer, Bill, was very good and made what is an intense week rather enjoyable! Highly recommended.’ – Jenna, 5 stars

‘Very engaging course, making the subject easily digestible for a complete beginner. I really recommend joining the course in the classroom, it was easy to collaborate and get ideas from those who joined online too.’ – Lucy, 5 stars

Exam information

The Managing Successful Programmes® Practitioner exam assesses a candidate’s ability to apply the MSP® framework in real-world scenarios. Specifically, the exam evaluates:

Application of MSP® principles

• Understanding and applying the MSP® principles to various programme management situations.
• Tailoring the principles to suit different programme environments and contexts.

Understanding of governance themes

• Knowledge of the MSP® governance themes and how to apply them to manage and control programmes effectively.
• Implementing appropriate governance structures and processes.

Programme management techniques

• Application of techniques and tools for managing programmes, including planning, risk management, quality management, and benefits realisation.
• Ability to develop and maintain programme plans, including vision, blueprint, and benefits realisation plan.

Transformational flow

• Understanding the MSP® transformational flow and how to apply it to guide programmes through their lifecycle from start to finish.
• Managing transitions between different stages of the programme lifecycle effectively.

Stakeholder management

• Engaging and managing stakeholders throughout the programme.
• Ensuring effective communication and support to meet stakeholder needs and expectations.

Problem-solving and decision-making

• Analysing programme scenarios and making informed decisions based on MSP® practices.
• Identifying, assessing, and resolving programme issues and risks.

Tailoring and adapting MSP®

• Adapting the MSP® framework to different organisational contexts and specific programme needs.
• Understanding when and how to tailor MSP® practices to suit unique programme challenges.

Integration and coherence

• Ensuring that all elements of the programme work together coherently to achieve strategic objectives.
• Aligning individual projects within the programme to the overall programme goals and benefits.

The exam typically involves scenario-based questions that require candidates to demonstrate their practical understanding and ability to apply the framework to complex programme management challenges.

Learning path

After passing the MSP® Practitioner exam, there are several advanced courses and certifications that you can pursue to further enhance your programme management skills and career prospects. Here are some options:

P3O® (Portfolio, Programme and Project Offices) Certification

Foundation and Practitioner: This course provides guidance on establishing, developing, and maintaining a support structure for managing portfolios, programmes, and projects within an organisation.

PRINCE2® (Projects IN Controlled Environments) Certification

Practitioner: If you haven’t already, obtaining the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification can enhance your project management skills, complementing your programme management expertise.

Change Management Certification

Change Management Practitioner: This certification is ideal for those looking to enhance their skills in managing organisational change, which is a critical aspect of successful programme management.

ITIL® Governance and Management

ITIL® Certification: ITIL® certifications focus on IT service management, which can be beneficial if you manage IT programmes.

Choosing the right next step depends on your career goals, the industry you work in, and your interests. Each of these certifications and courses can build on the skills and knowledge you’ve gained through the MSP® Practitioner course and help you advance in your career.

Accreditation information

Training ByteSize is proud to be an accredited PeopleCert training provider for the MSP® Practitioner 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® Practitioner exam as outlined in our accreditation.

Benefits of the MSP® Practitioner certification

Benefits for the individual

Taking the MSP® Practitioner course offers several significant benefits to students:

• Deeper understanding of MSP® framework: The Practitioner course delves deeper into the MSP® framework, building on the foundation level to provide a thorough understanding of how to apply MSP® principles, governance themes, and transformational flows in real-world scenarios.
• Enhanced analytical skills: Students learn to analyse complex programme scenarios, identify potential issues, and apply MSP® principles to resolve them effectively.
• Real-world application: The course emphasises practical application, enabling students to use MSP® techniques and tools in their workplace. This hands-on experience is invaluable for managing actual programmes.
• Scenario-based learning: The Practitioner course often involves working through realistic scenarios, which helps students develop the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
• Increased employability: Having an MSP® Practitioner certification enhances a learner’s resume, making them more attractive to employers looking for skilled programme managers.
• Career progression: For those already in project or programme management roles, this certification can lead to career advancement opportunities, such as promotions or higher-level responsibilities.
• Industry recognition: The certification is widely recognised in the industry, establishing the student as a knowledgeable and skilled programme management professional.
• Professional credibility: Achieving this certification demonstrates a commitment to professional development and a high level of expertise in programme management.
• Risk mitigation: The course teaches students how to identify and manage risks more effectively, reducing the likelihood of programme failures.
• Professional network: Taking the course provides opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices.
• Community engagement: Becoming part of the MSP® certified community allows access to forums, events, and resources that can support ongoing professional development.

Benefits for an organisation

Organisations benefit significantly from having Managing Successful Programmes® Practitioner certified employees. Here are the key advantages:

• Consistent approach: The MSP® framework provides a standardised approach to programme management, leading to more consistent and predictable outcomes across the organisation.
• Higher programme success: With certified employees applying MSP® principles, organisations can expect higher success rates for their programmes, reducing the likelihood of failure and increasing the return on investment.
• Risk management: Certified practitioners are trained to identify, assess, and manage risks more effectively, which helps in mitigating potential issues before they escalate.
• Better alignment with organisational goals: MSP® Practitioners ensure programmes are aligned with the strategic objectives of the organisation, leading to more coherent and focused efforts across various initiatives.
• Benefit realisation: Certified employees can help ensure that the intended benefits of programmes are realised, contributing to the overall growth and success of the organisation.
• Optimised resource management: MSP® Practitioners are skilled in managing resources efficiently, ensuring that time, budget, and human resources are used effectively to achieve programme goals.
• Cost savings: By applying efficient programme management practices, organisations can reduce waste and avoid unnecessary costs, leading to significant financial savings.
• Improved governance structures: MSP® provides a robust framework for governance, ensuring that programmes are managed within the established structures and comply with organisational policies.
• Accountability and transparency: Certified employees bring a high level of accountability and transparency to programme management, fostering trust and confidence among stakeholders.
• Professional development: Investing in certification demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to employee development, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.
• Collaborative culture: The framework encourages a culture of collaboration and communication, improving teamwork and coordination across different departments and programmes.
• Client confidence: Having certified professionals on board can enhance client confidence and trust, potentially leading to more business opportunities and partnerships.
• Innovation and improvement: Certified employees are equipped to drive continuous improvement and innovation within programmes, contributing to the organisation’s ongoing development and success.

Learning outcomes

The key learning outcomes of the MSP® Practitioner course include:

• Application of MSP® principles: Ability to apply principles, governance themes, and transformational flow to real-world programme scenarios.
• Tailoring MSP® framework: Knowledge of how to tailor the framework to suit the specific needs and context of different programmes.
• Advanced risk management: Skills in identifying, assessing, and managing programme risks effectively.
• Programme planning: Competence in developing and maintaining programme plans, including defining the vision, blueprint, and benefits realisation plan.
• Stakeholder engagement: Expertise in engaging and managing stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and support throughout the programme lifecycle.
• Programme governance: Understanding of how to establish and maintain robust governance structures and practices.
• Benefits management: Ability to ensure that programmes deliver their intended benefits and contribute to strategic objectives.
• Resource management: Skills in managing programme resources efficiently, including budgeting, scheduling, and allocation of human resources.
• Change management: Capability to manage and implement change effectively within programmes, ensuring smooth transitions and adoption.
• Problem-solving: Enhanced problem-solving skills to address and overcome challenges within programmes.
• Continuous improvement: Focus on driving continuous improvement and innovation within programmes.
• Assessment and evaluation: Proficiency in evaluating programme performance and making necessary adjustments to ensure success.

These learning outcomes prepare professionals to manage complex programmes effectively, align them with strategic goals, and deliver tangible benefits to their organisations.

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.