PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Syllabus 6th Edition

PRINCE2 is a widely adopted process-based methodology in project management, comprising two distinct sections: PRINCE2 Foundation and PRINCE2 Practitioner. These sections serve different purposes and cater to specific roles in project management.

We will delve into the overview of the PRINCE2 syllabus by understanding the updated curriculum and duration of the PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner. and address frequently asked questions. 

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced project manager, this post will provide valuable insights into the PRINCE2 framework.

PRINCE2 Syllabus Overview

The PRINCE2 Foundation Exam syllabus provides a comprehensive understanding of the two distinct sections of PRINCE2: PRINCE2 Foundation and PRINCE2 Practitioner. 

This section offers a detailed PRINCE2 syllabus outline, highlighting key concepts for each of the sections. By exploring these PRINCE2 modules, project managers and aspiring professionals can clearly understand the PRINCE2 framework and its relevance in effective project management.

Prince2 Foundation Syllabus Overview

According to AXELOS, the below mentioned PRINCE2 Foundation course outline must be mastered in order to successfully complete the Foundation certification:

Section Topic Sub-Topics
Understand key concepts relating to projects 1.1 Recall
  • The definition and characteristics of a project.
  • The six aspects of project performance to be managed.
  • The integrated elements of PRINCE2: principles, themes, processes and the project environment.
  • what makes a project a PRINCE2 project
1.2 Describe
  • The features and benefits of PRINCE2.
  • The customer/supplier context on which PRINCE2 is based
Understand how the PRINCE2 principles underpin the PRINCE2 method 2.1 Explain the PRINCE2 principles
  • Continued business justification.
  • Learn from experience.
  • Defined roles and responsibilities.
  • Manage by stages.
  • Manage by exception.
  • Focus on products.
2.2 Explain which aspect of the project to be tailored
  • Who is responsible?
  • How are tailoring decisions documented?
Understand the PRINCE2 themes and how they are applied 3.1 Business Case theme
  • Purpose of the business case theme business case, benefits management approach
  • PRINCE2 minimum requirements for applying the business case theme
  • Key concepts related to business justification, and the differences between them: outputs, outcomes, benefits & dis-benefits
3.2 Organization theme
  • The purpose of the organization theme and communication management approach.
  • What PRINCE2 requires as a minimum requirement for applying the organization theme.
  • The roles and responsibilities of project board, executive, senior user senior supplier, project assurance, change authority, project manager, team manager, project support.
  • Key concepts related to organizations like stakeholders and the three project interests
3.3 Quality Theme
  • The purpose of the quality theme, product description, project product description, quality management approach, quality register.
  • PRINCE2 minimum requirements for applying the quality theme.
  • Key concepts related to quality, and the differences between them such as quality planning and quality control, project assurance and quality assurance, customer quality expectations and acceptance criteria.
3.4 Plans Theme
  • The purpose of the theme, project plan, stage plan, exception plan, team plan.
  • PRINCE2 minimum requirements for applying the plans theme.
  • Recall the steps in the recommended approach to planning
3.5 Risk Theme
  • The purpose of the risk theme includes the purpose of a risk budget, risk management approach, risk register.
  • PRINCE2 minimum requirements for applying the risk theme.
  • Define key concepts related to risk, and the differences between them.
  • Describe the recommended risk management procedure.
3.6 Change Theme
  • The purpose of the change theme includes the purpose of a change budget, change control approach, configuration item record, issue register, issue report, product status account.
  • PRINCE2 minimum requirements for applying the change theme.
  • Describe types of issue, the recommended issue and change control procedure.
3.7 Progress Theme
  • The purpose of the progress theme. Learn about the daily log, lessons log, lessons report, work package, end stage report, end project report, checkpoint report, highlight report,exception report.
  • PRINCE2 minimum requirements for applying the progress theme.
  • Key concepts related to progress like event-driven and time-driven controls tolerances and exceptions, including how tolerances are set and exceptions are reported.
Understand the PRINCE2 processes 4.1 Explain the purpose of PRINCE2 processes
  • Starting up a project, including the purpose of the project brief.
  • Directing a project, including the purpose of the project initiation documentation (PID).
  • Initiating a project.
  • Controlling a stage.
  • Managing product delivery.
  • Managing a stage boundary.
  • Closing a project.
4.2 Explain the brief objective of the processes
4.3 Explain the context of the PRINCE2 processes

Duration

The training program typically has a duration of 2 days. During these two days, participants receive comprehensive training on the fundamental principles, concepts, and terminology of PRINCE2. 

The course covers essential topics such as project organization, planning, risk management, and quality control. By completing the PRINCE2 Foundation course, individuals gain a solid foundation in PRINCE2 methodologies and are better equipped to contribute to successful project management endeavors.

Interested to know more about the PRINCE2 exam? Check out the Latest PRINCE2 exam format Now!

PRINCE2 Practitioner Syllabus Overview

According to AXELOS, the following PRINCE2 Practitioner course outline must be mastered in order to successfully complete the Practitioner certification:

Section Topic Sub-Topics
1. Apply the PRINCE2 principles in context 1.1 Analyze the application of PRINCE2 principles in context.
2. Apply and tailor relevant aspect of PRINCE2 themes in context 2.1 Business Case Theme
  • Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for the business case theme, demonstrating an understanding of:
    1. Benefits management approach & business case.
    2. The recommended roles and responsibilities.
    3. Outputs, outcomes, benefits and dis-benefits.
  • Assess whether an approach to applying the business case theme is effective and fit for purpose.
2.2 Organization Theme
  • Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for the organization theme, demonstrating an understanding of:
    1. Communication management approach.
    2. The recommended roles and responsibilities.
    3. The recommended project management team structure.
  • Assess whether an approach to applying the organization theme is effective and fit for purpose.
2.3 Quality Theme
  • Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for the quality theme, demonstrating an understanding of:
    1. Product description, project product description, quality management approach, quality register.
    2. Recommended roles and responsibilities.
    3. Quality planning, quality control, quality assurance.
  • Assess whether an approach to applying the quality theme is effective and fit for purpose.
2.4 Plans Theme Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for applying the plans theme, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • Project plan, stage plan, exception plan, team plan.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • The recommended approach to planning, including the recommended approach to defining and analyzing the products.
2.5 Risk Theme Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for applying the risk theme, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • Risk management approach, risk register.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • The recommended risk management procedure.
2.6 Change Theme Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for applying the change theme, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • Change control approach, configuration item record, issue register, issue report, product status account.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • The recommended issue and change control procedure.
2.7 Progress Theme Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for controlling progress, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • Checkpoint report, daily log, end project report, end stage report, exception report, highlight report, lessons log, work package.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • Tolerances and raising exceptions
3. Apply and tailor relevant aspect of PRINCE2 processes in context 3.1 Starting up a project Carry out the starting up a project process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.
3.2 Directing a project Carry out the directing a project process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.
3.3 Initiating a project Carry out the Initiating a project process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.
3.4 Controlling a stage Carry out the controlling a stage process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.
3.5 Managing product delivery Carry out the managing product delivery process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.
3.6 Managing a stage boundary Carry out the managing a stage boundary process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.
3.7 closing a project Carry out the directing a project process activities, demonstrating an understanding of:
  • The recommended associated actions.
  • Recommended roles and responsibilities.
  • How the themes may be applied.

Duration

The PRINCE2 Practitioner course is designed to be completed within 2 days. This intensive training program builds upon the knowledge gained in the PRINCE2 Foundation course, focusing on the practical application of PRINCE2 principles in real-world project scenarios.

Professionals learn advanced techniques for tailoring and implementing the PRINCE2 methodology, refining their project management skills and decision-making abilities. 
By the end of the course, individuals are prepared to take the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam and demonstrate their proficiency in applying PRINCE2 concepts to complex project environments.

Conclusion

While the PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Syllabus (6th Edition) may seem daunting with its advanced project management terminology, it is entirely conquerable with the right guidance, a structured learning path, and diligent exam preparation. 

By enrolling in our PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner certification course, you can elevate your project management skills and embark on a successful journey in the field. Take the opportunity to join us, embrace the PRINCE2 methodology, and unlock new career possibilities in project management.

FAQs for PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner 6th Edition Syllabus

1. Is the PRINCE2 Syllabus 6th Edition different from previous editions, and what are the updates?

The PRINCE2 6th Edition syllabus brings updates and improvements compared to previous editions, incorporating the latest industry best practices and lessons from project management experiences. These updates enhance the clarity and applicability of the methodology, providing practitioners with an up-to-date framework for effective project management.

2. What are the main topics covered in the PRINCE2 Foundation syllabus?

The main topics covered in the PRINCE2 Foundation syllabus include the seven principles of PRINCE2, project organization, the role of the project manager, project planning, risk management, change control, and quality control. The syllabus provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and processes necessary for successful project management using PRINCE2.

3. Are any sample questions or practice exams available to prepare for the PRINCE2 certification exams?

Sample questions and practice exams are available to help individuals prepare for the PRINCE2 certification exams. We at Invensis Learning provide the PRINCE2 assessments to check one's caliber. These resources allow candidates to familiarize themselves with the exam format, test their knowledge, and identify areas for improvement.

4. Which accredited body decides the PRINCE2 Foundation Course Syllabus format?

Axelos as PRINCE2® is the registered trademark of AXELOS Limited.

5. Who can take up this Foundation & Practitioner exam?

Prince2 Foundation & Practitioner Prerequisites set by PRINCE2 governing body allows Project managers, aspiring project managers, project board members including senior responsible owners, team managers like product delivery managers), project assurance managers, business change analysts, project support staff, project and program office personnel, and operational line managers and staff to take up this exam.

Syllabus of PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Certification 6th Edition Training

Areas of Study

  • Managing projects using globally-recognized PRINCE2 methodology
  • Delivering projects that meet budget, timelines, quality, and minimize risks
  • 7 principles, processes, and themes described in the PRINCE2 guidelines
  • Managing interdependencies and identifying new opportunities within a project
  • Using standard approaches with controls to deliver projects successfully, and more
  • There are no pre-requisites to take up PRINCE2 Foundation Exam. But, in order to sit for the PRINCE2 Practitioner examination you must have passed any of the below mentioned exams:
  • PRINCE2 Foundation Exam Format:
  • Multiple choice format 60 questions
  • Examination duration: 1 hour
  • Questions are based on the 2017 edition of ‘Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2’
  • 33 marks or more are required to pass (out of 60 available), equivalent to 55%
  • Closed book
  • PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam Format:
  • Objective testing
  • 68 questions - 10 question items per
  • question, each worth one mark
  • 38 out of 68 required to pass, equivalent to 55%
  • Exam duration: 150 minutes (two-and-a-half hours)
  • Open book exam (official PRINCE2 manual ‘Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2 2017 Edition’ only)

PRINCE2 Exam Fees is as follows:

  • PRINCE2 Foundation 6th Edition: USD 525
  • PRINCE2 Practitioner 6th Edition: USD 600
  • PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner 6th Edition: USD 1125

Job roles that can benefit from PRINCE2 training include, but are not limited to:

  • Project Managers
  • Aspiring Project Managers
  • Project Board members
  • Product Delivery Managers
  • Project Support Staff
  • Operational Line Managers
  • Team Leads / Team Managers

FAQs on PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner Certification (7th Edition)

Who should take up the PRINCE2 Foundation course?

Job roles that can benefit from PRINCE2 Foundation training include, but are not limited to:

  1. Project Managers
  2. Aspiring Project Managers
  3. Project Board members
  4. Product Delivery Managers
  5. Project Support Staff
  6. Operational Line Managers
  7. Team Leads / Team Managers

According to the PRINCE2 7th edition, there are no prerequisites to take the PRINCE2 Foundation certification examination.

PRINCE2 Foundation certification does not have prerequisites as such, which essentially means a candidate can enroll in a certification prep program. After the completion of the certification from the Axelos ATOs(Accredited Training Organization), they can appear for the PRINCE2 Foundation certification exam.

PRINCE2 Foundation Exam Format:

  1. Exam duration: 60 minutes
  2. Number of Questions: 60 Questions
  3. Passing Criteria: 55%, i.e, approximately 33 out of 60 questions should be answered correctly
  4. Exam Type : Closed Book

Yes, PRINCE2 certifications can be a very good boost to your professional and financial growth along with project management skills.

Yes, the exam can be tough. But, going through an online ATOs PRINCE2 Certification Training can help you learn and study for the exam in a structured way.

Job roles that can benefit from PRINCE2 training include, but are not limited to:

  1. Project Managers
  2. Aspiring Project Managers
  3. Project Board members
  4. Product Delivery Managers
  5. Project Support Staff
  6. Operational Line Managers
  7. Team Leads / Team Managers

There are several eligibility criteria that must be met before writing the PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam. Once the eligibility criteria are fulfilled, the candidate can follow the same procedure as they did for PRINCE2 Foundation Certification.

To sit for the PRINCE2 Practitioner examination you must have passed any one of the below-mentioned exams:

  1. PRINCE2 Foundation
  2. Project Management Professional (PMP)
  3. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
  4. IPMA Level A® (Certified Projects Director)
  5. IPMA Level B® (Certified Senior Project Manager)
  6. IPMA Level C® (Certified Project Manager)
  7. IPMA Level D® (Certified Project Management Associate)

PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam Format:

  1. Exam duration: 150 minutes
  2. Number of Questions: 68 Questions
  3. Passing Criteria: 55%, i.e, approximately 38 out of 68 questions should be answered correctly
  4. Exam Type: Open Book

The PRINCE2 practitioner certification is valid for 3 years.

You can either take the PRINCE2 practitioner exam before the expiry date, or you can go for the CPD points and a digital badge to maintain the certification which will cost around 50 EUR.

The PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner certification costs are as follows:

  1. PRINCE2 Foundation 7th Edition - USD 525
  2. PRINCE2 Practitioner 7th Edition - USD 600
  3. PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner 7th Edition - USD 1125

For more details on how to book the exam and queries related to certification training, reach out to us at support@invensislearning.com

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