PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a structured project management methodology developed and owned by Axelos. It gives project managers a repeatable, scalable framework for planning, delegating, monitoring, and controlling projects — regardless of sector, size, or complexity. Version 7, released in 2023, updated the framework to reflect modern delivery environments including agile, hybrid working, and sustainability considerations.
PRINCE2 certification is particularly prevalent in the Irish public sector, HSE, EU-funded projects, construction, and infrastructure. Many public sector tenders and EU grant programmes specify PRINCE2 or equivalent as a prerequisite for project leads. Unlike PMP, PRINCE2 does not require experience hours to sit the exam — making it accessible to professionals at any stage of their career.
Choose based on your current PRINCE2 knowledge and what you need the credential for.
| Feature | Foundation | Practitioner | Combined (F+P) |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it covers | Core PRINCE2 principles, themes, and processesBest for: understanding the framework | Applying PRINCE2 in real project environmentsBest for: active project managers | Both levels in one programmeBest for: starting from scratch |
| Prerequisite | None | PRINCE2 Foundation (or equivalent) | None — Foundation included |
| Exam format | 60 multiple choice · 60 mins · closed book | 68 objective testing · 150 mins · open book | Two separate exams (F then P) |
| Pass mark | 55% (33/60) | 55% (38/68) | 55% on each |
| Duration (IPM) | 3 days | 2 days (post-Foundation) | 5 days |
| IPM course fee | From €895 | From €895 | From €1,795 |
| Axelos exam fee | Confirm with IPM | Confirm with IPM | Confirm with IPM |
Level 1 · Entry point
Learn everything about how to manage and execute projects successfully.
Level 1 · Entry point
PRINCE2® Foundation
Level 2 · Advanced
Advance at managing multiple projects and strategic PMO thinking.
Level 2 · Advanced
PRINCE2® Practitioner
Foundation + Practitioner
Go a step further and reach the top of the ladder as a Project Director.
Foundation + Practitioner
PRINCE2® Combined
Both exams are delivered online via PeopleCert — you can sit them remotely or at an approved test centre..
The two most recognised project management credentials in Ireland serve different markets. Here's how they compare.
The Irish verdict: If you work in or with the public sector, HSE, local government, construction, or EU-funded programmes — PRINCE2 is the more immediately useful credential. If you work in a multinational, tech company, or pharma — PMP tends to carry more weight and commands a higher salary premium. Many Irish project managers hold both. IPM delivers both — see the PMP Passport for the PMP track.
The short answer: yes — particularly if you work in or around the public sector. Here is the data.
The full cost includes the IPM course fee and the Axelos exam fee. Here is the breakdown per level.
| Cost component | Foundation | Practitioner | Combined (F+P) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPM course fee | From €895 | From €895 | From €1,795 |
| Axelos exam fee | [Confirm current Axelos exam fee with IPM before publishing — do not hard-code] | ||
| PRINCE2 manual | Included in IPM course fee | ||
| Re-sit fee | [Confirm re-sit policy and fee with IPM] | ||
| Estimated total | Confirm with IPM | Confirm with IPM | Confirm with IPM |
⚠️ Axelos exam fees are set by PeopleCert and change periodically. IPM will confirm the current total cost on enquiry. Monthly instalment options may be available on the course fee — ask at booking.
IPM offers diplomas (NFQ Level 8 and 9), PMI certifications (PMP, CAPM), PRINCE2, IPMA, agile and short courses. Programmes range from one-day sessions to 16-week diplomas, available in Dublin or online.
IPM's professional diplomas range from €2,395 to €2,750. Short courses and one-day academy sessions cost less. Group rates are available for organisations booking several places.
Yes. IPM is the National Body for IPMA in Ireland and partners with PMI®, PRINCE2® and TU Dublin, so its qualifications are recognised across Europe and worldwide.
Yes. Every Dublin classroom programme is also delivered Live Online with the same trainer, cohort and dates. Many courses are also available On Demand to study at your own pace.
It depends on your experience and goals. The Certified Project Management Diploma suits new and aspiring project managers, while PMP, PRINCE2 and IPMA suit those wanting a specific global framework. An IPM advisor can help you choose.
Short courses run from one day, certification prep courses take a few days to a few weeks, and IPM diplomas run for up to 16 weeks.
No experience is needed for entry-level courses such as the Certified Project Management Diploma. Advanced diplomas and some certifications, like PMP, require prior project experience.
Eligible employers may be able to access Skillnet Ireland funding for subsidised places. Speak with our team to check what applies to you.
20
20
Speak with our team to confirm which level suits you and get the current total cost including the Axelos exam fee.
All Courses
Upcoming Course Dates
Professional Courses
Academy & Short Courses
IPM Courses
PMI Courses
IPMA Courses
Prince2 Courses
Corporate Training
Corporate Partnership
University Partnership
Strategic Partnership
IPM Competency Pathway
Growth Partner
IPMA Certification
PMI Certification
IPM CPM Level 1
IPM CPM Level 2
IPM CPM Level 3
IPM-AI
IPM-Sustainable
IPM-SCRUM
IPM-PMO
IPM-AGILE
IPM-ASSOCIATE
About IPM Hub
IPM Membership
EMEA Monthly Events
Mentorship Programme
IPM Jobs Portal
All Insights & Resources
Expert Insights
Ebooks, Templates, and Toolkits
Publish Your Work
Who We Are
Faculty of Excellence
Global Advisory Board
Become a Lecturer or Volunteer
Become an Intern or Student Partner
Speak to an Advisor
