In the UK there are three main routes to becoming certified in Project Management.  Each has its benefits and the route you choose will be dictated by your present organisation and role, the sector you work in and your future plans.

The Association of Project Management (APM) 

APM offers two entry-level qualifications in Project Management; Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) and Project Management Qualification (PMQ).  These are knowledge based qualifications based on the APM Body of Knowledge.

PFQ offers a fundamental awareness of project management terminology and is for those wishing to gain a broad understanding of the principles of the profession.  This qualification will allow the individual to make a positive contribution to any project.  No previous knowledge or experience is required to study for this qualification.  PMQ allows individuals to demonstrate understanding of all elements of project management and how the project fits into the strategic and commercial environment.  Candidates usually have some previous knowledge of project management but a pass at PFQ level is not pre-requisite.

More information on APM Qualifications can be found here  APM Qualifications

APM-PFQ syllabus           APM-PFQ syllabus

APM-PMQ syllabus         APM-PMQ syllabus

Agile Project Management (APMG)  

Agile Project Management is characterised by starting with a rough idea of what is required and by delivering part in a short period of time, clarifying the requirements as the project progresses. These frequent iterative processes are a core characteristic of an agile project and, because of this way of working, collaborative relationships are established between stakeholders and the team members delivering the work.  Scope has to be adaptable where no detailed requirements exist initially, but agile still has processes to ensure that, at each stage, the work to be done is defined and in-line with client needs.  The Agile methodology is most suited to projects where the detailed outputs are unclear such as software projects.  Agile Project Management is split into two levels Foundation (which explores the underpinning philosophy, terminology and lifecycle) and Practitioner (which concentrates on applying the terminology).  A pass at Foundation level is a pre-requisite to taking the Practitioner exam.

AgilePM syllabus             AgilePM Syllabus v2.0

PRINCE2 

The most established Project Management methodology in the UK, PRINCE2 is a process-based method which focuses on business justification, the organisational structure, controlling the project via stages and providing flexibility that can be adapted for any project.  It provides a common approach, regular reviews against a plan and assurance that the project continues to have business justification.  There are two levels Foundation (which teaches the themes, principles and processes) and Practitioner (which concentrates on applying the terminology).  A pass at Foundation level is a pre-requisite to taking the Practitioner exam.