What is a PRINCE2 course?

Are you considering a PRINCE2 qualification to help you advance your career?

It can be a difficult decision to make, but one that could give you a professional edge. If you are looking to become a certified project manager then a PRINCE2 course may be your key to success.

We'll dive into the specifics of a PRINCE2 certification, weighing its worth against other certifications available on the market today. This can help you decide if this qualification is worthwhile for your career journey.

What is a PRINCE2 qualification?

PRINCE2 stands for Projects in Controlled Environments.

It is the most popular project management certification in the United Kingdom and one of the most popular in the world.

A PRINCE2 qualification is a certification received after successfully completing and understanding the PRINCE2 methodology taught in a PRINCE2 course.

The course teaches participants the principles, processes, themes, and tailoring that can guide projects of any size, scope, and complexity.

A PRINCE2 course is popular among project managers as it provides a structured approach that ensures the delivery of projects successfully.

Investing in your professional development by pursuing a PRINCE2 qualification is a smart choice in today's fast-paced job market.

Why should you consider a PRINCE2 Qualification?

This globally recognised certification is designed to equip you with practical knowledge and the skills for managing successful projects.

Here are the reasons why you should opt to do a PRINCE2 course:

Who should do a PRINCE2 course?

If you are already working in a project management role or aspire to progress in this field, a PRINCE2 course can benefit you greatly.

A huge benefit of a PRINCE2 course is that it is applicable in every single industry. If the industry has projects, then the PRINCE2 methodology will be applicable!

So, whether you work in IT, construction, finance, or any other industry, the PRINCE2 methodology can be easily tailored to your specific project requirements.

PRINCE2 courses are also suitable for individuals who wish to attain formal accreditation in project management.

In addition to formal accreditation, PRINCE2 training can help you to enhance your practical skills and improve your project management techniques. You will learn valuable skills such as risk management, stakeholder management, quality management, and more.

Applying these skills to your projects can help you to achieve better results and increase your overall project success rate.

Overall, irrespective of your age, or your level of experience then a PRINCE2 qualification can enhance your career prospects.

Different levels of PRINCE2 courses

PRINCE2 courses are split into two progressive courses and two exams.

• PRINCE2 Foundation
• PRINCE2 Practitioner

The Foundation exam provides an introduction to the PRINCE2 methodology, whilst the Practitioner course is more in-depth and focuses on practical implementation.

• PRINCE2 Foundation Course

  The PRINCE2 foundation certification can help boost your project management career by gaining in-depth knowledge about project management skills. It serves as an essential starting point and entry-level qualification for individuals seeking to develop a solid understanding of the PRINCE2 methodology.

  It confirms one's familiarity with PRINCE2 terminology, overall comprehension of project management concepts, and ability to contribute effectively as a member of a project management team. It is highly beneficial for all project stakeholders to have the opportunity to undergo PRINCE2 foundation training.

  To advance to the next level, the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification, passing the PRINCE2 Foundation examination is a prerequisite. There are no specific requirements for taking the PRINCE2 foundation exam.

• PRINCE2 Practitioner Course

  The PRINCE2 practitioner course is an advanced programme designed for professionals who want to enhance their project management skills. This practitioner training course builds upon the foundation exam and provides students with a deeper understanding of PRINCE2 methodologies.

  It's not just about theory-based learning, this course offers practical guidance that can help students succeed in real-world scenarios. This accredited training targets project managers and professionals operating in project management roles.

  In contrast to other qualifications and degrees, the PRINCE2 certification requires periodic renewal every three years. Failure to renew the certification will result in its expiration, forfeiting your status as a certified PRINCE2 Practitioner. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your certification remains valid by renewing it every three years, to cement your position as a certified PRINCE2 Practitioner.

Overview of the PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Course

There are two levels of the PRINCE2 course and both levels cater to different aspects of project management methodology and skills. These specific points can also help support project managers and other members of the team:

Foundation course:

• Understand principles.
• Learn key phrases and terms.
• Receive theoretical knowledge.

Practitioner course:

• Adapt principles as per project.
• Understand practical application.
• Learn how to run a team.

Upon successful completion of the PRINCE2 accredited training programme, you will be awarded a certification that verifies your depth of knowledge and comprehension of the PRINCE2 project management methodology. This certification serves as evidence that you possess the necessary skills to tailor your approach to resolving real-world project management challenges.

What does the PRINCE2 methodology teach?

The PRINCE2 methodology is a widely accepted project management framework that originated in the UK but has been implemented across the globe.

The methodology is based on seven principles:

• Continued business justification.
• Learn from experience.
• Defined roles and responsibilities.
• Manage by stages.
• Manage by exception.
• Focus on products.
• Tailoring to suit the project environment.

The methodology uses a defined process model, with several stages such as initiating a project, directing a project, managing a stage boundary, and controlling a stage.

By following the PRINCE2 methodology, a project manager can ensure that projects are completed within a defined time frame, budget, and scope. The methodology also plays great importance in communication and stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle.

To sum it up, the PRINCE2 methodology provides a proven and structured approach to project management, which can help organisations to deliver projects more efficiently and effectively.

What is the value of PRINCE2 Qualification?

The PRINCE2 qualification is a valuable credential that demonstrates a practitioner's understanding of the methodology and their ability to apply it in real-world projects.

• Firstly, it provides a common language and framework for project management within an organisation. When all team members are well-versed in PRINCE2, communication and collaboration can be more effective, leading to better project outcomes.
• Secondly, A PRINCE2 qualification enhances a practitioner's employability and career progression opportunities. Many organisations prefer to hire those with some project management experience, especially those who are PRINCE2 certified, as it assures them of the candidate's expertise in the methodology.
• Thirdly, PRINCE2's emphasis on continuous improvement ensures that projects are delivered with high quality and within budget and time constraints. This leads to increased customer satisfaction and a positive reputation for the organisation.

Therefore, the value of PRINCE2 qualification extends beyond just a certification. It equips practitioners with a framework, language, and skills to manage projects effectively and deliver successful outcomes.

Where can I study PRINCE2 Course?

With numerous accredited training providers offering the course in a virtual format, studying PRINCE2 has never been more accessible. So, whether you want to dive into project management for the very first time or looking to enhance your skills, an online PRINCE2 course could be the perfect way to take your career to the next level.

e-Careers is an accredited training organisation and is the most trusted provider of PRINCE2 qualifications. Thousands of individuals and businesses have gained their PRINCE2 certification through e-Careers.

e-Careers offers multiple study options for a PRINCE2 course.

If you are an individual, you can study PRINCE2 with e-Careers by:

• Tutor-led virtual classrooms (online course)
• Self-paced e learning course

If you are a business and are looking to train your team, then e-Careers offers further options:

• On-site face-to-face delivery (can also be bespoked around your organisational objectives)
• Tutor-led virtual classrooms (online course)
• Self-paced e-learning course

Job prospects once you are PRINCE2 certified?

Having a PRINCE2 certification can open up a world of exciting job opportunities.

With this certification, you'll have the skills and knowledge to manage projects like a pro, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget and to the highest quality.

Typical jobs include:

• Project Administrator
• Project Coordinator
• Operations Manager
• Project Analyst
• Program Manager
• Project Manager
• Product Owner
• Project Engineer
• Head of Project Management.

Conclusion

If you're still contemplating the value of a PRINCE2 certification, speak to our PRINCE2 Course Consultants who can help answer any questions you may have and go through your options.

Good luck on your journey of becoming a successful Project Manager!

If you want more information about PRINCE2 courses, you can contact us at +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 or visit our PRINCE2 Project Management Training Courses page.