High salaries are another good reason for seeking to enter the project management profession. In the UK in 2021, the average salary of a project professional was £47,500 per annum [2].
See the Related articlesAPM salary calculator tool for more information about salaries for project professionals in the UK.
Is a project career right for you?
Changing career directions can be tough process. That’s why it’s important to make the right decision. Before considering a career change into the project profession, you need to understand some of the skills needed in project roles.
Skills required in project roles
Project professionals require multiple skills to help them plan, manage, control, direct, or support projects. These include (but it not limited to):
- Communication
- Analytical ability
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- See the big picture
- Leadership
- Budgeting.
As you can see from this list, project professionals require a broad range of Uncovering the benefits of PESTLE analysis for informed decision-making‘soft skills’ , many of which are ones that you can learn from other roles. If you are thinking of moving into the project profession, you might already have many of these skills already.Simon Buehring
In addition to these skills there is some basic project knowledge that you need to get a project role. These are what we will discuss next.19 Feb 2026
How can APM help you start a project career?
APM offers a broad range of project management qualifications that can be of benefit to anyone wanting to start a project career.What is a business analyst?
In particular, the Project Fundamentals QualificationSimon Buehring (APM PFQ) provides a basic introduction to the most fundamental aspects of project management. The APM PFQ should be the starting qualification for anyone seeking to start a project career.19 Feb 2026
Applying the concepts, tools and techniques provided by the APM BoK will make your project role considerably easier because you do not have to re-invent the wheel every time.Exploring the impact of the McKinsey 7S model on organisational performance
The APM BoK is based upon modern best practices in project management, and as such it means you are learning from the very best minds in project management, and the most experienced project managersSimon Buehring.3 Mar 2026
Advance your career with an APM qualification
APM complements other qualifications
APM and PRINCE2
In the UK, the most popular project management qualification is PRINCE2. However, PRINCE2 is a methodology and does not describe the practical tools and techniques that project managers need for their daily role. PRINCE2 describes who does what and when.
The APM BoK describes how the project manager should plan and manage the many different aspects of a project.
Although the APM and PRINCE2 provide different perspectives on project management , the two are complimentary to each other, and having an existing PRINCE2 qualification can be enhanced with an APM qualification.
In fact, holding the PRINCE2 Practitioner qualifies you for a shorter version of the APM PMQ examination, since some of the topics in both examinations are the same.
APM demonstrates your dedication to professional development
Gaining an APM qualification shows employers that you are committed career development. This is a very positive thing for you to show your employer. It proves your commitment to developing your own skills and knowledge which is needed in your profession.
APM Competence Framework
To truly understand which APM qualification would complement your existing skills and experience, check out the +44 (0)207 148 5985APM Competence Framework . This sets out the competences required for effective project, programme, Or chat with us using the link at the bottom of the screen.portfolio managementContact us with questions about the courses on this page, or about which project management certification or training is best for you. and Finance FAQsproject management officeContact (PMO).Cookies
The framework consists of 27 competences based around outcomes that project professionals need to achieve. Each competence includes a series of criteria covering knowledge and the application.Privacy
It also includes a Ratings Scale, a simple 5-point scoring system for assessing performance against the application and knowledge criteria (aware, practiced, competent, proficient and expert).Terms
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APM qualifications are recognised internationally
APM qualifications are highly renowned by multi-national organisations, NGOs, and government institutions across the world.[email protected]
If you’re searching for new work abroad, want to begin freelancing or work in an international consultancy, APM qualifications can help you secure that dream role.Join Our Team