What is change management certification?
Change management certification is a professional credential that demonstrates your knowledge, skills, and competence in effectively leading, planning, and managing organisational change .
Achieving a recognised change management certification indicates you have mastered frameworks and best practices to support individuals and organisations during transitions, such as technology rollouts, mergers, or process improvements.
These certifications are awarded by accrediting bodies or professional associations following completion of training and successful assessments.
Leading change management certifications
| Certification Provider | Credential | Main Features | Cost (indicative, GBP) | Prerequisites / Eligibility | Recertification |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prosci | Prosci Certified Change Practitioner | ADKAR methodology , focus on practical application, 3-day programme, assessment | £2,800–£3,300 | None, suitable for all professionals | Ongoing professional development recommended but not required |
| ACMP (Association of Change Management Professionals) | Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) | Global standard, requires experience, exam-based | £500–£750 (plus training costs) | 21+ hours of change training, 3 years change experience | Recertification every 3 years |
| APMG International | APMG Change Management Foundation/Practitioner | Based on CMI body of knowledge, exam focused | £1,300–£2,000 (including training) | None for Foundation; Practitioner requires Foundation pass | None (lifetime unless updating required) |
| CMI (Change Management Institute) | CMI Accredited Change Manager | Global accreditation, different levels for experience | £210–£500 (membership required) | Depends on level; experience and evidence required | Annual membership and professional development evidence |
Leading providers and their programmes
Prosci
Prosci is recognised globally for its proprietary ADKAR methodology . Its Change Practitioner certification is accessible to professionals from any background, delivered via accredited training organisations both online and in-person.
Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP)
The Association of Change Management Professionals offers the Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) credential. It is aligned with the ACMP Standard for Change Management and requires relevant training and work experience. Candidates must pass a certification exam to qualify.
APMG International
APMG International provides Foundation and Practitioner change management certifications based on the Change Management Institute’s (CMI) body of knowledge. Training can be taken through an accredited training organisation, with assessments in exam format.
Change Management Institute (CMI)
CMI offers accreditation recognising capability at Foundation, Specialist, and Master levels. Entrants must demonstrate experience in real-world organisational change and maintain ongoing professional development.
How to get change management certification
- Choose a certification provider (e.g., Prosci, ACMP, APMG International, or CMI) and select the credential that matches your career goals.
- Check eligibility requirements , such as prior experience, training hours, or prerequisite qualifications.
- Complete required training via an accredited training organisation, either in-person or via online certification programmes.
- Register for and schedule your certification exam where required. Some credentials involve coursework assessment instead.
- Sit the exam or finish required assessments . Exams may be delivered online or at testing centres.
- Maintain your credential by fulfilling recertification or continuing professional development requirements if applicable.
Steps to obtain certification
Here are the typical steps to obtain certification:
- Review certification providers and eligibility
- Undertake required training
- Complete application and documentation
- Pass examination or assessment
- Receive and maintain your certification
Benefits of change management certification
- Validates your expertise in the change management process and best practices
- Enhances career prospects for roles such as change practitioner or project manager
- Recognised by employers as evidence of professional skills and commitment to organisational change