
MSP® Foundation
- For aspiring and practising Programme Support staff and Programme Managers
- Specialise in the leading Programme Management framework built on best practice in the UK and globally
- Enhance your confidence and skills to become a robust, effective Programme Professional
- Qualify and validate your skills with the support of expert Tutors, Study Coaches, and Recruitment Advisors

MSP® Foundation
Managing Successful Programmes (MSP)® can be likened to a film director: just as a film director oversees all aspects of production from scene to scene and through to the final product, the MSP® certification oversees all aspects of project and programme delivery to ensure it meets the desired outcomes.
The MSP® Foundation certification will equip you with the knowledge you require in order to successfully manage, deliver, and realise the benefits of programmes. If you would like to ensure you possess all the skills needed to effectively manage a programme, this is the certification for you!
Once completing your MSP® Foundation, you will benefit from progressing to the MSP® Practitioner if you are working in varied programme environments to validate your skills as a flexible, credible Programme Professional.

What’s included?
- Consultation with a Career Consultant to corroborate your course choice
- Unlimited, 3-month access to the MSP® Foundation Course
- Official MSP® Foundation Exam
- The MSP® 5th Edition Foundation Core Guidance eBook with your exam purchase
- Certified Tutor to provide assistance with course queries
- Access to a full Support Team for assistance with examination, notes, and study queries
- 1 months’ free subscription to MyAxelos filled with industry news, case studies, exam preparation materials, tools & templates, and digital badges
- A professional, Project Management-oriented CV rewrite
- A LinkedIn profile overhaul to maximise your new networking opportunities
Certification: MSP® Foundation
Vendor: PeopleCert on behalf of Axelos
Course prerequisite: There are no formal prerequisites to study this qualification
Study time: 20 – 30 hours
Key learning objective: You will learn about the principles, themes, and processes that provide a clear roadmap for the programme lifecycle, including larger, more strategic, complex, or multiple projects.
Why study with us?
We care about your return on investment
From the moment you enquire, we want to ensure that you are making the right decision about where you invest your time and resources – that’s why we consult with you to ensure your development goals align with your skills and experience.
We value quality
Our staff comprises of certified professionals who are passionate about your success, and our learning materials have been rigorously assessed to ensure adherence to industry standards. We value quality and want to ensure you get the best out of your learning journey.
We have the experience
With thousands of reviews, a consistent TrustScore of 4.9 out of 5, and having helped professionals realise their potential since 2007, we want you to have peace of mind regarding your course and career decisions.
Certification details
ITonlinelearning is a verified PeopleCert & Axelos Accredited Training Organisation (ATO), which means that this certification has been rigorously assessed and approved to meet industry standards.
Accrediting body
PeopleCert is the global leader in the delivery of examination and accreditation services, delivering millions of exams in over 200 countries for over 20 years. PeopleCert develops and delivers market-leading Business & IT and Language exams worldwide, enabling individuals to reach their full potential and realise their life ambitions through learning. In July 2021, PeopleCert acquired Axelos, a joint venture company created in 2013 by the Cabinet Office on behalf of Her Majesty’s Government (HMG) in the United Kingdom and Capita plc (CPI.L).
Certification expiry
As of 2023, PeopleCert Best Global Practice certifications need to be renewed after 3 years of having obtained your qualification. This is to ensure your certification remains in line with current best practices within your industry.

We are an Accredited Training Organisation (ATO) for the UK’s most esteemed learning providers
Our courses have been developed in collaboration with industry-leading experts and are created by ITonlinelearning for you, exclusively.
MSP® Foundation
What You Will Learn
Managing Successful Programmes serves as a guide of best practice in programme management. This Foundation certification provides the framework from which strategic outcomes can be formed, helping the organisation to realise critical benefits!
Introduction
This module provides an overview of the concepts, principles, and benefits of programme management, including the definition and purpose of programmes, the different types of programmes, and the key roles and responsibilities of programme managers.
Organisation & Leadership
This module covers the organisational structures and leadership styles that are most appropriate for different types of programmes. It also covers the importance of effective governance and the role of governance bodies in programme management.
Processes & Products
This module covers the different stages of the programme life cycle, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring & controlling, and closing. It also covers the different types of products and deliverables that are produced during each stage of the programme life cycle.
Stakeholder Management & Communication
This module covers the importance of effective stakeholder management and communication in programme management. It includes information on how to identify and engage stakeholders, how to manage their expectations, and how to communicate effectively with them throughout the programme.
Programme Planning & Control
This module covers the techniques used for planning and controlling programmes, including work breakdown structures, critical path analysis, and earned value management. It also covers the importance of monitoring and controlling programmes, including the use of performance metrics and the management of change.
Business Case Management
This module covers the importance of creating a robust business case for a programme, including how to identify and evaluate the benefits, costs, and risks associated with the programme.
Benefits Management
This module covers the importance of benefits management in programme management, including how to identify, plan for, and realise the benefits of a programme.
Risk Management & Issue Resolution
This module covers the importance of risk management in programme management, including how to identify, assess, and manage risks throughout the programme life cycle. It also covers the importance of issue resolution, including how to identify, prioritise, and resolve issues that arise during the programme.
Quality Management
This module covers the importance of quality management in programme management, including how to establish quality standards and how to monitor and measure the quality of products and deliverables.
Mock Exam Simulator
This module provides a simulated exam environment that allows learners to test their knowledge and prepare for the MSP Foundation certification exam.
Your Success is Assured
Expert Career Consultants
Our expert Career Consultants select qualifications that align perfectly with your aspirations by collaborating with you to identify your desired end-goal.
Certified Tutors
Our certified Tutors are there to assist you with course questions, exam queries, and revision so you have all the support you need to ace your exams.
Study Coaches and Mentors
Your Study Coach and Mentor is dedicated to guiding and supporting you throughout your journey by providing motivation, encouragement, and monitoring progress.
Experienced Recruitment Advisors
Your Recruitment Advisor will provide you with the tools you need to succeed, like an industry-oriented CV, Linkedin profile overhaul, and exclusive resources.
Speak to a Career Consultant
We care about your career success.
Trying to determine the best course of action for your development journey can be a daunting process – but we’re here to help! Let us carry out an appraisal of your skills and goals to corroborate the best route for you.
Career and Progression Prospects
Project Management is used in a plethora of sectors, but here are a few roles you’re qualified to explore with this certification:
Programme Manager
Programme Support Officer
Programme Assistant
Assistant Programme Manager
Programme Administrator
Operations Manager

Why Choose ITonlinelearning?
You will benefit from our perfected learning & development formula by enjoying support that forms the crux of our values and mission. Our TrustScore of 4.9 has remained consistent with thousands of 5-star reviews, so we’re happy to report that our customers agree.
When we say accredited, we mean that official experts from our licensed organisations have evaluated and approved our training material to ensure it meets their refined standards. These qualifications thus make you a credible and reliable professional.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving personal and professional goals. You deserve career consulting and employability advice tailored toward your specific skills, experience, and aspirations – luckily, this is our forte.
To drive your success forward to the finishing line of your goals, our team comprises of professionals available at the press of a button to provide clarity on questions you have regarding your exam booking and preparation, portal and logins, assignments, as well as quizzes. You can also access one-to-one Tutor and Mentor Support so that your queries can be resolved swiftly and comprehensively. Our Tutors are experienced and certified in their fields, too!
Your certification will provide you with a significant competitive advantage by validating your skills and knowledge – with that, you can either contribute toward your current company or grow in another one.
You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your lifestyle in order to advance your skills. With your development at the forefront of our mission, we have personalised financing options so that you can live comfortably whilst investing in your future.
Projecting Your Salary
We want to help you achieve the best outcome in your studies so that you can flourish in your selected development pathway.
per year
Junior Programme Manager
per year
Programme Manager
per year
Senior Programme Manager
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Managing Successful Programmes/MSP® Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions, and we have all the answers
Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®) is a programme management methodology that provides a framework for managing programmes effectively. It outlines a series of steps, processes, and best practices to ensure that programmes are aligned with business objectives, deliver benefits, and achieve the desired outcomes. MSP® is perceived to be a holistic process; you might use MSP® to plan and coordinate a series of related projects or initiatives that aim to achieve a strategic goal.
MSP® Foundation is targeted at anyone who manages programmes, or anyone looking to be a part of a Programme Team. It’s key for other staff involved in the design, development, and delivery of programmes, too.
The MSP® Foundation certification is assessed and awarded by means of an examination. This exam comprises of 60 multiple choice questions (meaning you will have to select your answers from the options you are provided with). Your exam will be 60 minutes long, and you will be required to score 60% (36 out of 60) or higher in order to pass. This is a closed-book exam.
This certification serves as an introduction to the MSP® framework and will essentially validate your knowledge and understanding of the MSP® so that you are able to work with, or as part of, a programme management team in a large-scale project environment. It will enhance your coordination, adaptability, communication, and management skills.
As of 2023, PeopleCert Best Global Practice certifications need to be renewed after 3 years of having obtained your qualification. This is to ensure your certification remains in line with current best practices within your industry.