Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®) Foundation
What is MSP®?
A programme is a temporary structure created to deliver outcomes and benefits related to an organisation's strategic objectives. A programme is likely to last several years, and involve the coordination of many projects and their related change activities.
While a project manager is focused on the delivery of outputs, a programme manager will decide what projects to run and also plan the transition of the new outputs into the business.
Programmes usually last a lot longer than projects and will realise (and measure) the benefits that the project outputs have enabled. If a project is very large and complex then it is usually better to break it up into a programme of smaller projects.
Is this course for you?
MSP is an internationally recognised programme management qualification. Most candidates are either experienced programme managers wanting formal recognition of their skill or those that want to move into programme management, often project managers that want to 'move up' to take on a more strategic role.
We also see people who have been asked to work in a programme, maybe as a Business Change Manager, a Senior Responsible Owner/Sponsor or part of a programme office. They want to know how a programme works and what their responsibilities will be.
MSP Foundation is the first step in the programme management learning journey. It will give you an insight into the many different areas that need to be considered when managing or supporting a programme.
Accreditation / Qualification(s) offered
Successfully passing the exam will result in you being awarded the MSP 5th Edition Foundation qualification.
Awarding organisation
AXELOS’ certifications are globally recognised and highly sought after by potential employers.
What this course includes
PeopleCert Update:
With effect from 1st February 2022 PeopleCert are moving all examinations to their online system. This will mean that the official Managing Successful Programmes’ 5th Edition e-book along with the exam voucher will now be emailed to you upon booking your exam. Hard copy manuals will be available as an optional offering at an additional cost.
This price includes course registration, the official Managing Successful Programmes’ 5th Edition e-book, course materials, exam fee, and on successfully passing the exam, an official Managing Successful Programmes certificate from the examining body, PeopleCert.
You’ll also get exclusive white papers, CPD tools to map out a professional development path and professional endorsement through a digital badge aligned to your Managing Successful Programmes certificate.
Please note both the training and any exam are included in this price.
The MSP® Accredited Training Organization logo is a registered trademark of AXELOS Limited, used under permission of AXELOS Limited. The Swirl logo™ is a registered trademark of the AXELOS Limited, used under permission of AXELOS Limited. MSP® is a (registered) Trade Mark of AXELOS Limited. All rights reserved.
See dates & bookDelivery method:
Virtual ClassroomInstructor-led course
- 3 days
- See dates
- This is a virtual course with a live instructor. It includes interaction and group-work to embed learning. We encourage use of cameras, and have regular breaks to maintain freshness and engagement.
£1,250.00 excl. VAT
3 Days
Small Classes
PeopleCert Certificate
3 Year Certification


All prices are per person and exclude VAT.
The Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) Foundation course is a 3 day introduction to the world of programme management.
Candidates on this course will learn about the Principles of MSP and the steps in the programme lifecycle. There are also a number of Themes that need to be considered, such as agreeing a vision for the programme and writing a valid business case.
By the end of the course learners will have a better understanding of how to plan and manage the various projects needed to deliver the required outputs, and how to support the business through a potentially stressful change.
The exam is a 60 minute multiple choice paper.
While pre-reading is recommended, the course assumes no previous knowledge or experience.
Completion of this course will give learners the confidence to contribute meaningfully to a programme in whatever role they have been given.
The MSP Foundation qualification is a pre-requisite for the MSP Practitioner qualification, and this is the obvious next step for most learners.
Upcoming dates for Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) Foundation
Instructor-led
All prices are per person and exclude VAT.
VAT will be calculated at checkout.