If you’re looking to move into the project management profession or develop knowledge in this area, a qualification can help you stand out in the job market. APM and PRINCE2® are two distinct project management qualifications that are globally recognised and designed to equip you with the skills you need for a career in this area. In this article, we discuss the benefits of each of these courses to help you decide which course is right for you.
What is APM?
APM stands for the Association for Project Management. With over 35,000 members, APM is the only Chartered body for the project management profession.
Benefits
APM is a project management qualification which is industry-recognised worldwide by project managers and employers. Achieving a qualification with APM gives you the opportunity to become a the Chartered Project Professional (ChPP), enabling you to significantly increase your earnings and demonstrate you have a high level of professional practice, technical knowledge, and ethical behaviour. Completing the APM course will enhance your credibility as a project manager and increase your career opportunities.
The APM curriculum includes a wide range of topics. You will learn planning and monitoring techniques, such as Critical Path and Earned Value, which are not covered in the PRINCE2 course. You will also learn project management ‘people’ skills, which are highly valued by employers. The APM course is detailed, taking into account project-specific topics. Undertaking this course will test your ability to project manage efficiently and successfully.
Things to Note
The APM course is best suited to individuals who do well in exam conditions. The qualification is knowledge-based and allows candidates to demonstrate knowledge across all aspects of project management. The exam is a closed-book, essay-style format.
What is PRINCE2?
PRINCE2 stands for Projects In Controlled Environments. It is an internally recognised project management certification that offers all the fundamental skills required to become a successful and competent project manager.
Benefits
PRINCE2 is not prescriptive in any particular techniques, which makes it ideal for organisations which have their own tools and methods. With PRINCE2, students can access templates for key project information and documentation. The course is completely scalable, with the most recent update ensuring it can be more easily tailored to each project undertaken.
The PRINCE2 course is well suited to individuals who do not perform at their best during exams, as it involves an objective, multiple-choice test. This test requires you to understand the contents of the guidance as well as the terminology. It is an open-book exam to reflect the work environment you are being prepared for.
Things to Note
Compared to the APM course, PRINCE2 is less specific in terms of project management processes and techniques. If you wish to become fully qualified, you will need to complete both the PRINCE2 Foundation and PRINCE2 Practitioner courses. This will require you to demonstrate how to apply the method to real-world projects. Project managers are required to renew their certification every three years.
What are the Key Differences Between APM and PRINCE2?
APM covers a broad range of concepts related to project, programme, portfolio, and risk management, whereas PRINCE2 is a methodology – a definitive guide with defined content that only covers project management.
As an APM Accredited Training Provider, Oxford College of Management offers the full suite of APM qualifications, from the Project Fundamentals Qualification to our Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) Support Packages. We also offer the PRINCE2 Foundation and the PRINCE2 Practitioner, both of which are both clear indications to employers and recruiters that you’re a skilled professional.
Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or you’re looking to move into the industry, our APM and PRINCE2 qualifications will empower you with the skills you need to successfully deliver a wide range of projects. Get in touch with our team of course advisers to find the best project management course for you today.