Managing Successful Programmes courses

Master the MSP framework to enhance your programme management skills. Our courses combine theory with practical applications for real-world effectiveness.

Knowledge Train | Managing Successful Programmes courses (instructor-led)

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How MSP training can help you…

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Start a career in programme management
Plan your programme management career by learning about MSP. Get into programme management by gaining MSP certification.
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Learn to manage programmes effectively
Improve as a programme manager by learning a range of new tools and techniques. Learn to apply the MSP principles and processes on your programmes.
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Advance your career with an MSP certification
Demonstrate your abilities as an experienced programme manager. Show your commitment to professional development with an MSP certification.
Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) certification

Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) certification

What is Managing Successful Programmes (MSP)?

Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) was developed by AXELOS (the owners of the PRINCE2 method). MSP is a best-practice program management framework. It was designed to help align programmes and their constituent projects with organisational strategy.

MSP focuses on the delivery of beneficial outcomes. It mitigates much of the risk inherent to large, complex programmes by turning large enterprise-wide initiatives into a series of more manageable inter-related projects.

The MSP framework is incredibly flexible and can be tailored to suit any programme context.

What is MSP made up of?

MSP is composed of 5 different elements:

MSP Principles

  • MSP Principles are the thoughts and ideas which help keep MSP programmes consistent and productive. They are derived from lessons learned from previous programme experiences and underpin the success of any transformational change. When making decisions using the MSP framework, you can be confident that your choices are supported by decades of experience.
MSP Governance Themes
  • The MSP Governance Themes helps organisations pick the right leadership team and help ensure that all required controls and in place, mitigating risks and giving you the best chance of success. They are used to guide decision-making and planning.
MSP Transformational Flow
  • The MSP Transformational Flow describes what must be done at every step in the programme management lifecycle, guiding programme managers from conception through to the delivery of benefits.
MSP official guidance
  • Managing Successful Programmes (5th ed.)
MSP certification
  • A comprehensive certification scheme, including MSP Foundation and MSP Practitioner certifications.

When do organisations need to use MSP?

A programme is designed as a temporary, flexible structure created to coordinate a set of related projects. While small projects might be completed in a single day, programmes are likely to have a lifespan of several years.

To treat an initiative as a programme there must be a justification for introducing a layer of management between corporate portfolio management and project management.

Programmes often have the following characteristics:

  • They meet an important strategic need, and as such, require high-level leadership and direction.
  • They rely on the output of multiple smaller projects, each requiring a unique set of personnel, skills, and tools.

The need for an enterprise-wide initiative or change programme is often driven by:

  • A new policy initiative or change in organisational culture
  • The need to ensure compliance with new legislation, laws, and regulations
  • An effort to adapt to new, industry-changing technologies.
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Is MSP certification popular?

Is MSP certification popular?

Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) qualification is one of the leading programme management methods in the world.

MSP was developed using feedback gathered from leading programme managers to create an accessible, applicable framework based on learned experience and practical tools.

In the UK, the certification of choice for programme managers is MSP.

How can MSP help my organisation?

MSP, like PRINCE and other AXELOS products, is based upon proven best practices and is updated regularly to reflect modern thinking and approaches to programme management. The latest version of MSP was updated in 2020 (Managing Successful Programmes – 5th ed).

MSP offers the following benefits for organisations:

  • MSP provides step-by-step guidance for managing complexity and resources.
  • MSP aligns projects and programmes to organisational strategy.
  • MSP delivers strategic programmes and multiple projects to realise benefits.
  • MSP offers a proven, reliable, and repeatable approach to programme management.
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What is MSP certification?

What is MSP certification?

In addition to being a best-practice programme management framework, MSP is also a certification scheme. There are 2 levels of MSP certification: MSP Foundation certification and MSP Practitioner certification.

MSP Foundation certification

MSP Foundation certification candidates demonstrate their understanding of the MSP framework and MSP terminology. Successful candidates demonstrate their understanding of the guidance sufficiently to work in a team to deliver or manage a programme.

Who is it for?

MSP Foundation certification is for individuals interested to learn how to manage multiple projects and programmes successfully. This certification is designed to help the following people gain sufficient understanding of MSP to work effectively in large scale project or programme environments:

  • Programme managers
  • Project managers
  • Programme office staff
  • Business change managers
  • Programme and project delivery team members.
MSP Foundation exam
  • Style: Multiple-choice
  • Questions: 60
  • Pass mark: 60% (36/60)
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Materials allowed: Closed-book
  • Prerequisites: None.

MSP Practitioner certification

MSP Practitioner certification builds on the Foundation level. Successful candidates demonstrate their ability to apply the MSP framework to real-life scenarios.

Who is it for?

MSP Practitioner certification is for these managers who are interested to learn how to apply MSP to real-life programme scenarios:

  • Programme managers
  • Project managers
  • Business change managers.
MSP Practitioner exam
  • Style: Multiple-choice
  • Questions: 70
  • Pass mark: 60% (42/70)
  • Duration: 150 minutes
  • Materials allowed: Open-book
  • Prerequisites: MSP Foundation.

How to earn your MSP certification

To can earn your MSP certification by enrolling on an instructor-led MSP course. Our instructor-led courses take place in one of 2 ways:

  • As a traditional physical classroom course – you must travel to the training venue, or
  • As a virtual classroom course – you participate over the internet using a computer and headset (and optional video camera) using our advanced virtual learning technology.

In both types of instructor-led course you receive face-to-face tuition from one of our experienced programme management trainers.

Instructor-led courses

All instructor-led courses are taught by experienced MSP trainers and offer the benefits of face-to-face learning with an experienced tutor. To participate in an instructor-led MSP course, you must be able to commit to a fixed classroom schedule.

To check whether there is a classroom instructor-led MSP course in your area, or a virtual instructor-led course hosted on the internet, please check the dates on the MSP Foundation page or MSP Practitioner page.

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Self-paced learning

Self-paced learning

Self-paced learning has had many different names over the years, including distance learning, computer-based training (CBT), and e-Learning (or elearning). We prefer to use the term ‘self-paced’ because you can stop and start your MSP learning whenever, and wherever you want.

Read the benefits of self-paced learning below to learn more about why self-paced learning is a great way to learn about and gain your MSP qualification.

Self-paced training benefits

Self-paced training benefits

Saves you time
  • Especially if you are a busy professional, you often cannot afford the time to attend fixed-schedule MSP training course.
Saves you money
  • If you are a freelancer or contractor, you lose money if you take time off work to attend a fixed-schedule MSP classroom course.
Learn at your own pace
  • You can study MSP whenever and wherever you want and use any device (desktop, tablet, or mobile) on any platform (Windows, Mac, IOS, Android) with an internet connection.
Support provided
  • As a student on our self-paced MSP online courses, you have access to an expert trainer who aims to answer all questions within 1 business day.
Best practice design
  • Our online MSP courses are designed to engage your brain, with the aim to promote longer lasting and deeper understanding of core MSP concepts.
Long validity
  • You have access to our self-paced MSP online courses for 12 months and can take your MSP certification exam any time within this period.
Online exam
  • Your self-paced online course includes the MSP exams taken online so you can gain your MSP qualification from home.
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About self-paced training

About self-paced training

Learning technology

These self-paced online MSP courses have been designed with the latest web technologies. The courses are fully responsive and fit any device and screen size. No browser plugins or installation files are required.

Best practice design

Our self-paced online MSP courses are highly interactive, and exercises have been designed to aid a deeper understanding, leading to longer-lasting learning.

These self-paced online MSP courses have been designed using the latest best practices in instructional design, including:

Micro-learning

These are short chunks of content taking just a few minutes to complete.

Gamification

Selective use of gamified elements to promote playful elements into the learning process.

Learning Management System (LMS)

A modern LMS which remembers where you are and allows you easy access to all your learning content.

Quizzes

Lots of quizzes to check your knowledge at the end of each topic.

Audio

Selective use of audio to enhance, which avoids ‘overloading’ the student with ‘too much information’.

Accessibility standards

Meeting many of the recommended accessibility standards from the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

Many companies develop online training cheaply just by filming a trainer in a classroom. We do not think that’s a good way to help students learn, nor does it engage learners.

We are confident that our interactive MSP elearning will help you gain an understanding of programme management so that you can sit your MSP exams with confidence.

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MSP Foundation course details

Course format

  • Instructor-led or self-paced online training.

Course includes

  • Accredited instructor-led tuition from an experienced MSP trainer, or accredited self-paced MSP Foundation online course
  • MSP manual – Managing Successful Programmes (5th ed.) digital copy
  • Sample MSP Foundation exams
  • MSP Foundation exam.
  • 1-month free AXELOS membership with every used Foundation exam voucher.

Course times

  • Instructor-led classroom MSP Foundation courses are held over 2 days from 9 am to 5 pm.
  • 1-year access to self-paced online MSP course.

Learning outcomes

  • This MSP Foundation training teaches students sufficient understanding of the MSP framework and MSP terminology to work in a team to deliver or manage a programme.

Course content

This MSP Foundation course covers the following topics:

  • MSP terminology
  • Key concepts relating to programmes and MSP
  • How the MSP principles underpin the MSP framework
  • The MSP themes and how they are applied
  • The MSP processes and how they are carried out.

Prerequisites

  • None.
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MSP Practitioner course details

Course format

  • Instructor-led or self-paced online training.

Course includes

  • Accredited instructor-led tuition from an experienced MSP trainer, or accredited self-paced MSP Practitioner online course
  • Sample MSP Practitioner exams
  • MSP Practitioner exam.
  • 1-month free AXELOS membership with every used Practitioner exam voucher.

Course times

  • Instructor-led classroom MSP Practitioner courses are held over 2 days from 9 am to 5 pm.
  • 1-year access to self-paced online MSP course.

Learning outcomes

  • MSP Practitioner training teaches students how to apply the MSP framework to real-life programme scenarios.

Course content

This MSP Practitioner training covers the following topics:

  • How to apply the MSP principles in context
  • How to apply and tailor relevant aspects of the MSP themes in context
  • How to apply and tailor relevant aspects of the MSP processes in context.

Prerequisites

  • MSP Foundation.
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Our trainers

If you choose to gain your MSP certification by attending an instructor-led classroom course, you’ll receive some of the very best training provided by a team of professional trainers and expert programme managers.

The instructors include the following.

Michelle Rowland

Knowledge Train | Consultants Trainers | Michelle Rowland

Jumoke Ogunbekun

Knowledge Train | Consultants Trainers | Jumoke Ogunbekun

MSP training – frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Does my MSP certification expire?

Both MSP Foundation and Practitioner certifications must be renewed every 3 years.
To stay current, choose any of these options from PeopleCert:

  1. Retake the same exam before your renewal date.
  2. Earn another PeopleCert certification in the same suite.
  3. Collect and log CPD points through PeopleCert membership.

Certifications issued before June 2020 had a renew-by date of 1 July 2023. Expired Foundation certificates remain valid as exam pre-requisites.

Do I get support to help me pass my MSP exams?

Our MSP trainers are experts who coach you to exam success.

You’ll receive:

  • Official sample exams matching PeopleCert’s format
  • Session recordings (for virtual courses)
  • Access to an expert trainer by email (1-day response)

Self-paced courses include identical sample papers and interactive modules to help you learn and retain information quickly.

How can I prepare for the MSP course?

Before your MSP course, we’ll send introductory reading to help you understand key programme management concepts.

It takes around 2-3 hours and covers the main topics you’ll meet on day one.

How do I get MSP certification?

To get MSP certification, follow these steps:

  1. Research: Review the MSP certification requirements, accredited training providers, and the levels of certification (Foundation) and (Practitioner).
  2. Select a training provider: Choose an accredited MSP training provider that offers your desired level of certification.
  3. Enrol in a course: Register for an MSP course, either online or in person.
  4. Study: Learn the MSP framework, principles, and best practices from the course materials.
  5. Attend training: Participate in the sessions and complete any exercises or assignments.
  6. Take the exam: Sit the MSP certification exam (multiple choice and scenario-based).
  7. Pass the exam: Achieve a passing score to earn your certification.
  8. Maintain certification: Continue professional development to keep your MSP certification valid.

Always check the latest requirements from your training provider or certification body for the most up-to-date details.

How long do I have to complete my online MSP training?

You have 12 months of access to your self-paced MSP course materials from the purchase date.

How long does Managing Successful Programmes last?

The MSP certification is valid for three years.

To maintain your qualification, you must either retake the MSP Practitioner exam before expiry or maintain your status through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.

CPD points can be earned by:

  • attending conferences and workshops,
  • completing online courses, or
  • joining professional development programmes.

By earning CPD points, you can maintain your certification and continue demonstrating your expertise in programme management.

Is Knowledge Train accredited for MSP training?

Yes. Knowledge Train is a PeopleCert Accredited Training Organisation for Managing Successful Programmes (MSP).

Is MSP a good qualification?

Yes, MSP is a highly respected qualification, especially for professionals seeking work as programme managers in the UK.

Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) is the leading programme management qualification, valued by employers as proof of knowledge and capability in managing strategic change and large-scale initiatives.

Is MSP better than PRINCE2?

MSP and PRINCE2 serve different purposes:

  • MSP is a programme management framework used to manage organisational change across multiple related projects.
  • PRINCE2 is a project management methodology used to manage individual projects.

In large organisations, MSP coordinates multiple PRINCE2 projects to deliver strategic benefits. They complement each other rather than compete.

Is MSP certification worth it?

Yes, MSP certification is worth it.

In the UK, it’s the most valuable programme management certification. Employers actively seek candidates with MSP certification as evidence of professional programme management expertise.

Investing in an MSP course not only strengthens your CV but also develops your ability to manage complex change programmes successfully.

Is MSP the same as PRINCE2?

No, MSP is not the same as PRINCE2.

  • MSP is used to manage programmes of change at the organisational level.
  • PRINCE2 focuses on managing individual projects.

Together, they form a complete framework for managing both strategic programmes and tactical projects.

Is there any homework on MSP training?

Yes. During instructor-led MSP training, expect 1-2 hours of homework daily, including readings, quizzes, and revision exercises to reinforce key concepts.

Should I take an instructor-led or self-paced MSP course?

Choose the MSP course format that fits your schedule and learning style:

Instructor-led MSP training – ideal if you:

  • Prefer live interaction with a trainer
  • Want to certify quickly
  • Enjoy structured, social learning.

Self-paced MSP online training – ideal if you:

  • Need flexible study hours
  • Can’t travel to a venue
  • Prefer independent learning.

Both options cover the same syllabus and fully prepare you for the MSP exams.

Should I take a Foundation or Practitioner MSP course?

Choose your MSP course by experience:

  • Foundation – for programme or project managers, business change managers, delivery team members, and PMO staff wanting to learn MSP principles.
  • Practitioner – for those ready to apply the framework to real programmes, including portfolio staff and specialist programme roles.

Start with Foundation, then progress to Practitioner to learn practical application of MSP in real projects.

What is MSP (Managing Successful Programmes)?

MSP (Managing Successful Programmes) is a globally recognised framework for programme management.

It provides best-practice guidance to help organisations deliver complex change and transformation successfully.

MSP offers a structured, flexible approach to managing multiple related projects so that they collectively achieve strategic goals and realise measurable business benefits.

Key components of MSP

  1. Principles – Foundational best practices such as focusing on benefits, maintaining a clear vision, and engaging stakeholders effectively.
  2. Governance themes – Emphasises leadership, accountability, risk and issue management, and effective programme organisation.
  3. Transformational flow – Defines a lifecycle of processes from identifying and defining a programme to delivering outcomes and realising benefits.
  4. Roles and responsibilities – Outlines clear roles such as the Programme Manager, Business Change Manager, and Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) to ensure accountability.
  5. Benefits realisation – Central to MSP, ensuring programmes deliver tangible outcomes aligned with organisational strategy.

Why organisations use MSP

  • Aligns all projects with strategic business objectives.
  • Strengthens governance and stakeholder engagement.
  • Reduces risks through structured oversight.
  • Enhances adaptability for programmes of any scale or industry.

MSP is not a rigid methodology but a flexible framework that can be tailored to suit different organisational needs and contexts.

It is widely adopted by both public and private sector organisations to improve programme success rates and deliver strategic change efficiently.

When can I take my MSP exam?

If you’re on an instructor-led MSP course, your trainer may schedule exam time during training, but you can book it whenever convenient.

Self-paced students can sit their online exam any time within 12 months of purchase.

When do I receive my MSP certificate?

All MSP exam results and certificates are issued by PeopleCert.

  • Foundation: digital certificate within 1 working day
  • Practitioner: within 3 working days

You’ll be notified by email when your certificate is ready to download.

When do I receive my MSP handbook?

UK students: receive a printed MSP handbook by courier before your course.

Outside UK: receive a digital copy by email (with optional printed version for a postage fee).

Both formats contain the full MSP syllabus used during training.

Why choose Knowledge Train for MSP training?

Knowledge Train’s award-winning MSP trainers are experienced programme management professionals with real-world expertise.

Our instructor-led courses deliver practical, high-quality learning trusted by thousands of professionals across the UK.

To see our approach, call +44 (0)207 148 5985 and request a free observer place on an upcoming virtual class.

Why use Managing Successful Programmes?

Organisations use Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) because it provides a structured, proven framework for managing complex change. Key benefits include:

  1. Strategic alignment: Ensures all programmes support organisational objectives.
  2. Benefits realisation: Focuses on delivering measurable business value.
  3. Effective governance: Enables robust decision-making and risk control.
  4. Improved management: Offers structure for managing large-scale change effectively.
  5. Stakeholder engagement: Promotes clear communication and buy-in.
  6. Risk management: Identifies and mitigates issues proactively.
  7. Adaptability: Can be tailored for different industries and contexts.

Overall, MSP helps organisations achieve better outcomes by aligning projects to strategy and ensuring real benefits are delivered.

IT Learning Library™ online training

MSP course overview and essential skills

An MSP course provides essential MSP skills for project and programme management. The MSP curriculum and MSP development support MSP education with structured MSP learning. Choose an MSP online course, MSP class, or MSP workshop for flexible MSP training. MSP certification training helps delegates achieve MSP certification, recognised globally by employers.

MSP classes, seminars, and learning options

MSP classes and MSP seminars use elearning, virtual classroom, and instructor led training options. MSP course content covers Agile, PRINCE2, risk management, and Agile project management to meet sector needs. MSP course materials and MSP course outline enable delegates to understand objectives and engage with multiple related projects.

MSP course content, objectives, and booking

MSP courses focus on implementation, control, and communication with stakeholders. Data-driven MSP course description, studies, and examples provide effective learning. Completion of the MSP program includes exams, mock examination, and resit opportunities. MSP 5th edition foundation and practitioner modules are offered in public and private sessions. MSP course booking is available in EUR, NZD, and other currencies.

MSP training delivery and global reach

Secure your MSP training today to enhance your career. MSP course content is delivered across the United Kingdom and globally.

Flexible learning and certification options

Learning is engaging, measurable, and focused on transformation and growth. MSP certification is used under licence by PeopleCert Group. Virtual courses, online learning, and e-learning platforms allow flexible access. Choose the perfect MSP course for your needs and order today.

Comprehensive Overview of the MSP Course

Detailed Insights into the MSP Course Curriculum

Overview Of MSP Course

The MSP course provides a structured programme for programme managers seeking practical governance skills. The MSP course framework aligns with recognised programme management standards.

Who Should Take This Course

This course suits project and programme professionals seeking recognised certification and practical outcomes. The MSP course supports career development for managers in complex environments.

Key Benefits Of MSP Certification

MSP certification boosts governance capability, career progression, and benefits realisation across complex programmes.

Choosing An MSP Training Online

When selecting an MSP training online programme compare curriculum, assessment style and delivery features.

How To Compare Providers?

Evaluate sample modules, trainer credentials and real-world case studies to judge MSP course quality.

Course Formats And Delivery

Providers offer instructor led training, online learning, seminars and blended workshops to suit different needs. Each MSP course format provides distinct advantages.

Virtual Classroom And LMS

Check learning technology, assessment tools and analytics for engagement and progress tracking in your MSP course.

Course Content And Skills

Core content of the MSP course covers governance, risk management, benefits realisation and programme lifecycle techniques.

Typical Modules

Modules often include programme planning, stakeholder engagement and governance frameworks relevant to MSP certification.

What Are Entry Requirements?

Entry usually requires demonstrable project experience or prior qualifications depending on course level and MSP training provider.

Assessments And Assignments

Assessments include exams, case studies and group assignments to test applied MSP course skills.

Career Pathways

Graduates often move into programme management, portfolio roles and business change functions following MSP certification.

Project planning is essential for programme success and supports the MSP course objectives.

Security and GDPR compliance affect online delivery choices for MSP training courses.

Business analysis improves decision making and scope definition within the MSP course framework.

For hands-on practice choose an MSP course with verified assessments and tutor feedback.

An MSP course with blended delivery helps balance work and study.

Many learners prefer an MSP course that offers practical case studies and exam support.

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