The University of Sunderland in London first partnered with Prodigy Learning to offer certification exams to staff and students during the 2021/2 academic year. This year, a successful pilot of the PMI Project Management Ready® exam supported the authenticity, validity and reliability of the assessments in the MSc Project Management and Engineering Management programmes, while providing students with an additional valuable credential.

Since the launch of the PMI Project Management Ready® exam this academic year, 84 students have enrolled, with a pass rate of 75%. Moreover, 16 of them have already taken at least one more certification exam, on track to achieve the Assistant Project Manager certification pathway which includes four more certifications, in addition to PMI Ready®: Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Communication Skills for Business.

Student feedback highlights that the PMI Project Management Ready® exam questions were aligned with and complemented the content taught during their classes. The certification exam provided students with the opportunity to test their knowledge and gain more exposure to realistic and challenging scenarios. The exam was described as requiring critical thinking, so it enabled the students to not only prove their knowledge, but also their ability to apply concepts in practical situations. In addition, students really appreciated the practice tests on GMetrix, which helped them prepare for the exam.

Manesha Peiris, Senior Lecturer/Programme Manager (Project Management) said “As the Programme Manager for MSc Project Management and Engineering Management, I am proud to see our students actively pursuing PMI certifications. Our programmes are meticulously designed to cultivate the next generation of project managers, equipping them with industry-relevant practical skills and enhancing their employability across various industries. The growing interest in PMI certifications among our students is a testament to their commitment to professional development and the value these qualifications bring to their careers. It is incredibly encouraging to witness our students engaging with certifications that are so integral to their field, opening up a wealth of opportunities for their future.”

Eugene Khartey, MSc Engineering Management student, said “I believe that obtaining certifications while pursuing my master’s degree in engineering management gives me a competitive edge during job applications. The specially curated certifications available will position me well to begin my dream career as a project manager. I have already passed the PMI Project Management Ready and Communication Skills for Business certifications, which has significantly boosted my confidence. I look forward to completing the remaining exams before the end of my studies to finalize the project manager pathway and enhance my job prospects.”

Andrew Lenehan, Account Manager, Prodigy Learning added, “I cannot commend the University of Sunderland in London, Digital Learning team enough, for the outstanding initiatives they offer to students, not only in terms of digital certification through, PMI, Microsoft Office Specialist and Adobe certification but the university’s own in-house digital skills courses. These certification programmes and courses align perfectly with the demands of the modern workplace.

By integrating cutting edge technology, courses and certification into the curriculum, the University of Sunderland in London not only equips students with essential competencies but also ensures they remain competitive and adaptable in the ever-evolving digital landscape. This commitment to enhancing digital literacy empowers students to harness the power of technology. The university’s proactive approach to bridging the digital skills gap is evidence of its commitment to student success, not only whilst studying at university but vitally, in the world of work post-graduation.”

About the University of Sunderland in London

Based near Canary Wharf, the University of Sunderland in London offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses on a range of subjects, including Business, Tourism, Nursing and MBA’s. Ranked as a Top 50 university in the Guardian University Guide 2024, the University provides life-changing experiences for its students.

In early 2025, the University will expand its presence in the Canary Wharf area by moving a new, larger campus building – offering an enhanced learning, teaching, and working environment

Part of a global Sunderland community

The University is part of the University of Sunderland, which has 25,600 students based at campuses in Sunderland, London and Hong Kong, as well as through global learning partnerships in 15 countries and online learning.

The University is proud of its positive contribution to economic and social change. Its graduates leave equipped with the knowledge, skills, confidence and connections to make a positive difference in the wider world.