Association for Project Management

UK project management association

The Association for Project Management (APM) is the chartered body for the project profession. It is the best-known project management association in the UK and is an educational charity.

In 2017 the Association received a Royal Charter and became known as the chartered body for the project profession.

APM membership

Membership of the APM is open to both individuals and organisations. In 2019, there were over 28,000 individual members as well as 500 organisations in its Corporate Partnership Programme.

APM FIVE dimensions

The APM is committed to developing and promoting project and programme management through its FIVE Dimensions of Professionalism - a framework that helps individuals develop their career.

The FIVE dimensions are:

Breadth

The APM Body of Knowledge (APMBOK) defines the knowledge needed to manage all types of project. It underpins many project management standards and methods including the National Occupational Standards in Project Management.

Depth

The APM Competence Framework provides a guide to the competences required by project managers. It maps levels of knowledge and experience to help career progression.

Achievement

APM qualifications are recognised across the profession and are aligned with IPMA’s Four Level Certification Program (IPMA is the International Project Management Association).

Commitment

The APM recommends Continuing Professional Development to develop an individual's project management practice. A targeted development plan can enhance a project manager's career.

Accountability

The APM Code of Professional Conduct outlines the ethical practices expected of a professional project manager. APM membership shows its members' commitment to the Code and sets them apart from non-members.

APMBOK standard

The APM has developed and maintains its own project management standard known as the APM Body of Knowledge (APMBOK). This is complimentary to a project management methodology such as PRINCE2.

APM certification

The APM offers a range of project management qualifications which are especially valued in the UK. The most well-known are the Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) and Project Management Qualification (PMQ).

APM exams

APM exams can be booked via an accredited training provider, or directly with the APM. The APM PFQ exam is a 1-hour multiple-choice exam. The APM PMQ exam is a 3-hour written exam.

The APM makes special allowances for students who already hold the PRINCE2 Practitioner qualification. This is because PRINCE2 Practitioner covers some of the same topics as the APM Project Management Qualification. Therefore, the APM offers a special version of the PMQ for PRINCE2 Practitioners. This is shortened 2-hour version of the standard PMQ examination.