Our Foundation level certification introduces you to the MSP framework, which is used to manage multiple projects and support strategic change across an organisation. It’s suited to professionals in programme delivery, change leadership, or operational roles who want to build practical skills and gain a respected qualification in programme management.
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MSP® Foundation
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Build confidence in managing programmes with MSP Foundation
Gain a clear understanding of programme management with this three-day course. You’ll explore how the MSP framework supports the delivery of change across multiple projects, while developing essential skills in governance, stakeholder alignment, and risk oversight. This is the first step towards becoming a confident and capable programme management professional.
Learning objectives
By completing this course, you’ll gain insight into:
- The purpose and value of programme management
- The structure of the MSP framework, including its key components
- How to use principles, themes, and processes to manage programmes effectively
- How to support strategic outcomes through governance and coordination
What you'll learn
This course introduces you to the MSP framework and how it supports programme delivery across multiple projects. You’ll discover how to lead programmes that support organisational strategy, deliver sustained benefits, and manage complex change effectively. The Foundation level gives you the skills and structure to take on programme leadership with clarity and confidence.
Understanding the MSP principles
At the core of MSP are seven principles that guide successful programme delivery. You’ll learn how these principles shape decision-making, support long-term direction, and help you respond to uncertainty. They provide a foundation for governance and planning, while keeping the programme aligned with business priorities.
Applying the MSP themes
MSP themes define how programme elements are structured, managed, and justified. You’ll explore how to build the right organisational setup, design outcomes and capabilities, and maintain a strong case for continuing investment. Each theme offers a practical lens through which to manage delivery at every stage.
Following the MSP processes
MSP breaks programme delivery into a series of logical steps. These include assessing the case for change, designing the desired future state, and embedding outcomes once projects are complete. You’ll see how this structured process supports control, consistency, and value from start to finish.
Core programme management skills
As you work through the course, you’ll build practical skills that support programme delivery in real-world contexts. You’ll learn how to manage risks that span multiple projects, engage key stakeholders, and maintain alignment between programme activities and strategic objectives. These skills are essential for anyone responsible for overseeing complex change and ensuring that planned benefits are achieved.
What's included
- MSP Foundation 5th Edition training
- MSP Foundation 5th Edition exam
- Official MSP manual
- MSP process map
- Access to tutor support
- Optional add-ons, including Take2 exam insurance
Key facts
Certification
MSP 5th Edition Foundation
Who it’s for
Professionals in programme and portfolio management, experienced and aspiring project managers, business change Managers, programme operations staff, and team members contributing to large-scale change or project delivery.
Prerequisites
No formal requirements are needed to sit the Managing Successful Programmes Foundation 5th Edition exam.
Exam information
60-minute multiple-choice assessment, closed book, with a 60% pass mark. Exams are taken online with remote invigilation.
Optional extras
Printed MSP manual, printed MSP process map, and Take2 exam insurance.
Pre-course
Completion of an online pre-course is required when selecting classroom or live virtual classroom training.
FAQs
This course introduces the principles, themes and processes of the Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) framework, giving you the knowledge and confidence to apply this programme management best practice framework professionally.
What is the Managing Successful Programmes Foundation certificate?
MSP Foundation covers the framework’s principles, theme and processes, providing essential knowledge for those wanting to develop programme management skills, progress their career, or support organisational change initiatives.
How long is my MSP Foundation certificate valid for?
The MSP Foundation certification must be renewed within three years of passing the exam. PeopleCert offers a range of recertification options, which can be found on their website.
How much time will I need to complete the MSP Foundation course?
The online self-paced course takes around 18 hours and provides 12 months’ access. Classroom and live virtual classroom study options are delivered over three days. All learners have up to 12 months from purchase to sit the exam.
What score do I need to pass my MSP Foundation exam?
The assessment is a 60-minute multiple-choice paper with 60 questions. It is closed book, and the pass mark is 60%, meaning you need at least 36 correct answers to achieve certification.
Do I need any experience to take MSP Foundation?
No prior programme management experience is needed. MSP Foundation is designed to introduce the core concepts, regardless of your background. Whether you’re exploring a new career path or want to formalise your understanding of programme structures, this course gives you the knowledge and framework to get started confidently.
Who is MSP Foundation suitable for, and why should I take it?
MSP Foundation is ideal for anyone involved in delivering change across multiple projects, whether you're starting your programme management journey or supporting transformation within an organisation. It’s particularly useful for project managers, change leaders, operations professionals, and those in governance roles who want to better understand how programmes are structured and managed. Gaining this certification helps you build a solid foundation in programme management, develop strategic insight, and position yourself for future career progression.
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