CMI Level 5 Certificate in Project Management

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

• A minimum of 12 months experience in a middle managerial role, for example: operations manager, divisional manager, departmental manager, regional manager, specialist manager, e.g. HR manager/Business partner; finance manager, production manager, procurement manager, etc

OR

• A minimum of 36 months experience as a supervisor/team leader, such as Team Leader, Supervisor, Project Officer, Shift Manager/Shift Supervisor, or Foreperson.

OR

• A Business Owner

AND

• Level 3 qualification or higher. (i.e.: A level, access to higher education diploma, advanced apprenticeship, AS level, international Baccalaureate diploma, level 3 award, level 3 certificate, level 3 diploma, level 3 ESOL, level 3 national certificate, level 3 national diploma, or level 3 NVQ)

AND

• Have the ability to carry out independent research and complete assignments.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English-speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

   
• 1x evidence booklet to be completed (Unit 513)
• 1x business improvement project (Unit 524)
• 1x presentation (business improvement proposal to senior management within your organisation. It must be approved to complete unit 524)

Both units require independent reading and academic research outside class hours as well as completion of an assignment and a business improvement project.

Requires the learner to possess the confidence to study independently, utilise various learning resources for academic research, and demonstrate proficiency in business report writing, project management, and essay writing skills necessary for executing a business improvement project and completing an assignment.

The programme is designed to facilitate your development of a range of Project Management qualities that are highly valued in the workplace. 

Successful completion of this course will provide applicants with clear pathways for progression in training and employment, into such programmes as the CMI Level 7 course available within the college.

Enrolling in this Level 5 Project Management course, includes carrying out a business improvement project, which will enhance your employability by providing you with advanced project management skills and practical experience. You will learn to plan, execute, monitor, and close projects, gaining hands-on experience in managing real-world business improvement initiatives. This will enable you to analyse business processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop effective solutions.  

Additionally, the course will improve your leadership and teamwork abilities as you gain experience in leading projects and working with diverse teams. Your communication skills will also be enhanced through business report writing, presentations, and stakeholder interactions, making you proficient in conveying complex ideas clearly and effectively.  

Furthermore, the strategic thinking and problem-solving skills you acquire will help you align projects with business objectives and drive strategic initiative. Upon successful completion learners will obtain a CMI level 5 certificate in project management.

Unit 513 Managing Projects to Achieve Results

The ability to manage projects is a vital skill for all managers. This unit focuses on the knowledge and skills required to manage projects successfully and overcome problems and challenges. It requires the learner to evaluate the methods and tools for planning tasks and activities, as well as knowing how to implement and manage project activities, build stakeholder relationships, manage resources and risk, monitor progress and report on outcomes.

Unit 524 Conducting a Management Project

Research into approaches to management and leadership can lead to dynamic results. Innovation, product development, performance improvement, change, customer service excellence, strategy and problem solving are just some of the results. Without research business can stagnate. The aim of the unit is for the learner to conduct management research which will have an impact on individual and/or organisational practice. It is expected that learners will plan and manage a genuine project in the workplace or an academic enquiry relevant to an identified business need or challenge.