APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) - Classroom (exam included)

APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) - Classroom (exam included)

Our APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) course is aligned to the APM Body of Knowledge 7th Edition and provides a solid understanding of project management. It’s an introductory and internationally recognised qualification that teaches valuable skills for those new to the field or looking to formalise their knowledge. This is a 2-day live classroom course.

About the course

This course delivers a comprehensive overview of key project management concepts, terminology, and roles and responsibilities. With this introductory training, you’ll develop a foundation in the principles and practices required for successful project delivery. Perfect for those starting their project management journey or looking to learn new skills. By completing this course, you’ll acquire essential knowledge of project management, from initiation to completion. Learn the skills needed to confidently contribute to a project’s success.

Key features

• Course and material in English 
• Beginner - Intermediate level for aspiring project professionals 
• 2-day (8 hours/day) accredited course with a certified PFQ trainer
• 20 hours of recommended study time
• Licensed course materials, Training slides in pdf format
• Tutor support
• Online pre-course work
• APM (PFQ) certificate of completion
• APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) exam included

Learning Objectives

During this course you will learn how to:

• Project management and the operating environment 
• Project life cycles 
• The roles and responsibilities within projects 
• Project management planning 
• Project scope management 
• Resource, scheduling and optimisation in a project 
• Risk and issue management in the context of a project 
• Quality in the context of a project 
• Communication in the context of a project 
• Leadership and teamwork within a project

Who should attend?

The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) is an entry-level certification designed for individuals looking to gain a basic understanding of project management principles. It is ideal for:

• Beginners in Project Management – Individuals with little or no prior experience who want to learn the fundamentals.
• Aspiring Project Managers – Those considering a career in project management and looking for a strong starting point.
• Project Team Members – Employees involved in projects who need to understand key project concepts.
• Business Professionals – Individuals in roles that involve project-based work, such as administrators, coordinators, and assistants.
• Graduates & Students – Those looking to build their project management knowledge before entering the workforce.

Prerequisites

The APM PFQ has no formal prerequisites and is open to anyone interested in learning the basics of project management.

Course agenda

Overview of Project Management

• What is a project?
• Key characteristics and the project environment
• The difference between projects, programs, and portfolios

Project Lifecycles & Approaches

• The linear (waterfall) and iterative (agile) approaches
• Project lifecycle phases: Concept, Definition, Development, Handover & Close

Project Roles & Responsibilities

• Key project stakeholders
• The role of a project manager
• Governance and team structures

Project Planning & Scheduling

• Importance of planning
• Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
• Scheduling techniques (Gantt charts, critical path)

Risk & Issue Management

• Identifying and assessing risks
• Mitigation strategies
• Difference between risks and issues

Project Scope, Quality & Change Control

• Defining and managing scope
• Quality assurance and control
• Managing changes in a project

Cost & Resource Management

• Budgeting and cost estimation basics
• Managing resources effectively

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Importance of stakeholder identification and engagement
• Communication methods and strategies

Project Handover & Closure

• Evaluating project success
• Lessons learned and continuous improvement

Exam Preparation & Practice

• Overview of the APM PFQ exam format
• Sample questions and discussion
• Exam-taking strategies

Exam Details:

• Format: Multiple-choice exam
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Questions: 60 (one mark each)
• Pass Mark: 60% (36/60)
• Open Book: No reference materials allowed

Licensing and accreditation:

APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) course offered by ILX Ltd based upon Partner's Agreement and complies with the accreditation requirements.

Equality policy

APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ). Candidates requiring accommodations should refer to the APM terms and policies at their website

FAQ

What is PFQ in APM?

The Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) is the APM’s entry-level certification. That means that you don’t need any project management experience or knowledge to take this course. It's ideal for people starting out in the project profession. It is based on the APM Body of Knowledge (BoK) 7th Edition and is ideal for individuals new to project management.

The APM PFQ is recognized across industries and provides a solid foundation for those pursuing a career in project management.

What are the benefits of obtaining the APM PFQ?

• Builds foundational knowledge of project management
• Enhances career prospects in project-related roles
• Recognized certification across industries
• Prepares learners for more advanced qualifications like APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ)

What is the difference between APM PFQ and APM PMQ?

• Choose APM PFQ if you're new to project management and want to gain a basic understanding.
• Choose APM PMQ if you have some experience and want to develop a comprehensive knowledge of project management practices.

Is APM PFQ better than PMP?

APM is well-regarded in sectors like construction and engineering due to its emphasis on technical project management skills. Conversely, PMP is highly valued in industries such as IT, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing due to its globally recognized best practices

PMQ: Unlike the PMP, the PMQ does not expire and does not require recertification. However, APM members are encouraged to participate in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activities to keep their knowledge up-to-date and relevant.
Benefits of APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ)

• Ideal for Beginners – No prior experience needed; great starting point for project management.
• Globally Recognized – Issued by APM, valued across industries.
• Builds Core Knowledge – Covers project lifecycle, planning, risk, and stakeholder management.
• Enhances Career Prospects – Boosts employability for coordinators, team members, and aspiring PMs.
• Develops Transferable Skills – Improves problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.
• Pathway to Advanced Certifications – Leads to APM PMQ and Chartered Project Professional (ChPP).
• Flexible Learning & Quick Completion – Can be done in 1–2 days with multiple study options.
• Supports Organizational Growth – Helps teams work efficiently and improve project success.