There are no definite ‘best’ management qualifications because what is the best qualification for the individual will vary from person to person, and there are different qualifications to fit different learning styles and needs and cater to managers at different stages in their career.
The best management qualifications are arguably simply those that help prepare managers for the real-life challenges and practicalities of leading a team and undertaking managerial positions.
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business world, the need for effective managers within an organisation has never been more critical.
If you’re a professional marketer or manager looking to sharpen your skills and fast-track your career progression, you’ve probably considered taking a qualification management.
With numerous options, it’s essential to choose the right path to help you excel in your management position.
In this article we will explore the different options to help you choose one that aligns with your goals and provides you with the skills and knowledge to succeed and become a successful team leader.
Some of the best qualifications for management are:
Chartered Management Institute Qualifications (chartered manager qualification):
The CMI is the UK’s leading awarding body of management and leadership qualifications.
MMC Learning offers a range of CMI qualifications, suited to different levels of management professional from general manager to senior management level, their courses range from entry level to advanced management courses.
CMI courses available to study at MMC Learning include:
Certificates-
- CMI Level 5 Certificate in Management & Leadership: The CMI Level 5 Certificate in Management & Leadership equips aspiring managers with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in leadership roles. This qualification covers key management principles and practices, empowering individuals to drive organisational success and enhance team performance.
- CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management & Leadership Practice: The CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management & Leadership Practice is a high-level qualification for senior professionals seeking to sharpen their strategic acumen. This certificate hones strategic thinking and decision-making skills, enabling individuals to drive organisational change and achieve sustainable growth.
Diplomas-
- CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management & Leadership: Tailored for experienced managers, the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management & Leadership offers a comprehensive exploration of advanced management concepts. This diploma equips learners with the expertise to lead teams effectively, make strategic decisions, and navigate complex business challenges.
- CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership Practice: Designed for seasoned leaders, the CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership Practice offers an extensive exploration of advanced strategic management practices. This diploma equips senior professionals with the tools to develop and implement successful organisational strategies, fostering long-term success and innovation.
- Principles of Leadership and Management: The CMI Award in Principles of Leadership and Management provides a solid foundation for individuals aspiring to enhance their leadership skills. This qualification covers essential principles and techniques for effective management, empowering learners to lead teams with confidence and efficiency.
- Developing, Managing & Leading Teams: The CMI Award in Developing, Managing & Leading Teams is designed to equip managers with the knowledge and tools to build and lead high-performing teams. This award delves into team dynamics, communication strategies, and performance management, enabling learners to foster collaborative and motivated teams.
- Managing Projects to Achieve Results: The CMI Award in Managing Projects to Achieve Results is ideal for professionals involved in project management. This qualification imparts key project management methodologies and techniques, empowering individuals to plan, execute, and deliver successful projects within set parameters.
- Creating and Delivering Operational Plans: The CMI Award in Creating and Delivering Operational Plans equips managers with the skills to develop and execute effective operational plans. This award covers strategic planning, resource allocation, and performance monitoring, enabling learners to drive operational excellence.
- Managing Risk: The CMI Award in Managing Risk provides learners with valuable insights into risk management strategies and practices. This qualification helps individuals identify, assess, and mitigate risks, ensuring a proactive approach to managing uncertainties and challenges.
- Principles of Marketing Products and Services: The CMI Award in Principles of Marketing Products and Services introduces learners to fundamental marketing concepts. This award covers product/service development, market analysis, and promotional strategies, enabling individuals to contribute effectively to marketing initiatives.
- Managing Stakeholder Relationships: The CMI Award in Managing Stakeholder Relationships focuses on developing effective stakeholder management skills. This qualification equips learners to identify stakeholders, engage with them, and foster positive relationships, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Managing Change: The CMI Award in Managing Change addresses the complexities of organisational change. This qualification helps learners understand change management principles, communication strategies, and overcoming resistance, enabling them to lead successful change initiatives.
Project Management Professional (PMP):
Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the PMP certification is a globally recognised management qualification in project management.
PMP validates your skills and experience in leading and directing projects, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking to advance their project management careers.
Certified Management Consultant (CMC):
The Certified Management Consultant (CMC) is a prestigious certification offered by the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC).
This qualification demonstrates your commitment to ethical consulting practices, professional standards, and expertise in management consulting.
Obtaining a CMC certification can significantly enhance your credibility and marketability as a management consultant.
Degrees in Management and Leadership or Related Subjects:
Pursuing a degree in management and leadership or related fields, such as business studies, provides a strong foundation in essential management principles and practices.
These degrees often cover topics such as strategic management, organisational behavior, finance, marketing, and human resources, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to excel in various management roles.
Master’s in Management (MiM):
A master’s degree in Management (MiM) is a postgraduate qualification designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals looking to develop their management skills and gain a competitive edge in the job market.
MiM programs typically cover a wide range of management topics, including strategy, marketing, finance, and leadership. Graduating with an MiM degree can open doors to various management and leadership roles across industries
Certified Management Accountant (CMA):
The CMA certification, offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), is a globally recognised qualification for management accounting and finance professionals.
CMAs are skilled in financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics – making them valuable assets in any organisation.
Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) Qualifications:
ILM is a globally recognized provider of leadership and management qualifications.
ILM offers a range of courses, from Level 2 (ideal for aspiring leaders) to Level 7 (suited for senior managers and directors). ILM qualifications focus on developing leadership and management skills to drive organisational success.
Who are management qualifications for?
Management qualifications cater to a diverse range of individuals, including aspiring managers, mid-level professionals, senior executives, and entrepreneurs.
These qualifications are designed for those who want to develop their core management skills, and seek to advance their careers, transition to management roles, or enhance their leadership skills.
They are also beneficial for individuals from non-business backgrounds, such as engineers or healthcare professionals, who wish to gain a solid understanding of management principles and the technical skills and practices to excel in their fields.
Regardless of the industry, management qualifications can help professionals develop the necessary competencies to lead teams, make strategic decisions, and drive organisational success.
What should a good management qualification include?
A good management qualification should include a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential topics within business management, such as leadership, strategy, financial management, marketing, human resources, and operations.
It should also focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application.
A quality program should provide opportunities for networking with fellow professionals, interactions with experienced faculty, and access to resources and support services.
Finally, a well-regarded management qualification should have accreditation or recognition from relevant industry bodies, ensuring that the program meets high standards of quality and is valued by employers.
Why are professional management qualifications important?
Management qualifications are important because they help managers with their professional and career development.
If you’re looking to build a successful career in management, management qualifications can help learners develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in leadership roles and drive organisational success.
In the ever-evolving business landscape, you don’t just need professional experience, learning effective management skills are crucial to success.