Start with your goal: do you want a structured project method, broad project management knowledge, or an agile project delivery approach. PRINCE2 is a defined project management method with governance and controls, APM builds broad project management knowledge, and AgilePM/PRINCE2 Agile focus on agile delivery in project environments. If you’re unsure, use the comparison summaries on this page and then view the qualification page for full details and options.

PRINCE2 is a project management method with defined roles, stages and controls you can apply to run projects consistently. APM courses focus on broader project management knowledge and good practice across tools, techniques and professional terminology. If you want a step-by-step method for delivery, PRINCE2 is often a good fit; if you want a wider understanding that applies across many approaches, APM may suit you better.

Choose AgilePM if you want a structured approach to managing agile projects end-to-end, with practical techniques for planning and managing delivery in an agile way. Choose PRINCE2 Agile if you want PRINCE2-style governance and controls to work effectively alongside agile delivery practices in teams. If your organisation already uses PRINCE2 controls, PRINCE2 Agile is often the most natural fit.

If you want an entry route into qualifications, a Foundation-level course is usually the best starting point (for example PRINCE2 Foundation or APM PFQ). If you’d rather build confidence first without committing to a qualification route, a practical workshop can be a great first step. The best choice depends on your role goals, how quickly you need results, and whether you want a recognised qualification.4 Mar 2026

There are plenty of free project management introductions online, including short videos, articles and taster lessons. These can be useful for getting a feel for the basics, but they usually don’t include an accredited qualification or an official exam. If your goal is a recognised credential (such as PRINCE2, APM or similar), you should expect to pay for training and assessment. If you’d like a low-commitment way to explore the topic first, you can start with 1 month’s free access to our learning library and work through bite-sized project management lessons at your own pace.