IPMA Level C

IPMA® Level C: Certified Project Manager is an internationally recognised qualification offered by APM.

Previously aligned to the APM Practitioner Qualification (PQ), the IPMA® Level C: Certified Project qualification is designed for relatively experienced project professionals who can demonstrate an ability to manage moderately complex projects.

Who is this qualification for?

Individuals with a minimum of three years’ experience as a project manager within projects of a moderate complexity.

Or

Individuals with a minimum of three years’ experience in a responsible project management role assisting the project manager in complex projects.

All experience must have been acquired within the last six years. The evidence timescale can be extended by four years with justification.

Stage One

Step 1
Firstly, you will need to submit a CV for initial certification which includes personal details, career history, qualifications, training, professional memberships and any other relevant professional development.

Step 2
In addition, you must submit an Executive Summary Report of a maximum 15 pages, self-assessment form, complexity indicator evaluation and two referees who are familiar with your work.

Stage Two

Step 1
You will submit a 25-page report which focuses on the projects which have been referred to in the Executive Summary Report.

Step 2
You will then take part in a two-hour written exam which will ask short answer questions and will focus on your ability to apply knowledge.

Step 3
If successful, you will then partake in a 90-minute extended interview which relates to specific competence elements. There is also an opportunity to evidence the competence elements which may have not been sufficiently covered previously.

Step 4
A final evaluation will be undertaken by the assessor to determine if you have demonstrated sufficient knowledge, skills and abilities in a project management context and the relevant level of competence. You will receive a feedback report which will indicate whether the required standard has been met or whether you are deemed not yet competent. If you are deemed as not yet competent, the feedback will highlight areas of development that can be addressed prior to a potential re-entry.

What is assessed?

You will be assessed on 28 competences for project management via an exam, a report and an interview. To pass, you must evidence a minimum of 23 out of 28 competences.

The exam will cover seven competence elements, the report will cover 17 and the interview will cover four.

Syllabus

IPMA® Level C: Certified
Project Manager

How can I study for this qualification?

• You can apply and study for this qualification through one of APM’s Accredited Training Providers.
• You can also self-study for this qualification and apply directly to APM by completing an application form.
• The application process begins with reviewing the candidate guidance notes and other supporting information on our website. The application forms can then be completed and submitted to APM via email. 
  
  

Accredited training provider

Novare Consulting Ltd provide accredited training for IPMA Level C. Please visit their website for more information.

Stage 1

• Application form
• Reference declaration 
• Executive Summary Report – Project management
• Management Complexity Indicator form
• Project Manager - Applicant Self Assessment form

Stage 2

• Full report template – Project management

Candidate Support 

• Candidate guidance
• Exam techniques
• Sample papers
• Command words

Re-certification 

• Application form
• Reference declaration 
• CPD Log