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Professional Consulting Level-5

CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting

Awarding Body: CMI 3–6 Months Min. 14 Credits 100% Online

The CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting is your gateway into a dynamic profession shaped by strategy, leadership, and measurable client impact. Designed for middle managers or professionals transitioning into consulting roles, this recognised qualification is aligned with the Chartered Management Consultant Competency Framework, providing a strong foundation for professional growth and credibility in the field.

CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting is a mid-level qualification that explores fewer modules than a Diploma but still offers a solid foundation in key management concepts. A great option if you're looking for a balanced and focused course, the course explores the core principles of consulting practice—defining the consultant's role, applying structured problem-solving, managing change, and supporting organisational analysis. You will also strengthen your understanding of leadership, decision-making, and programme management within the consulting context, all while operating to professional standards that guide ethical and effective practice.

Flexible and career-focused, the Certificate is designed to fit around your current responsibilities, enabling you to build consulting expertise without pausing your career. Whether you are aiming to enhance your practice or working towards Chartered Management Consultant (ChMC) status, this course provides the tools and insight to move forward with confidence.

At a Glance
Who is it for?
Experienced managers and aspiring consulting practitioners who want to build middle-level knowledge in management consulting principles.
Avg. Completion Time
3–6 Months, studying at your own flexible pace.
Support Period
10 Months full access to the course and support.
All-Inclusive Fees
Course fees cover all costs including assessment and registration.
Course Materials
Learning resources and study guides developed by approved tutors.
Elevate Grade
Comprehensive assessment feedback from your tutor to elevate your knowledge.
Personal Tutor Meeting
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want.
Flexible Learning
Study from anywhere at your own pace, 100% online.
Study Method
Study 100% online, at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited support from subject matter-expert tutors.
Dedicated Support Desk
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback.
Unlimited Live Classes
Schedule on-demand live online classes for each module.
Why study CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting?

A launchpad into the world of consulting, this course is designed to give you a solid foundation in the core skills every successful consultant needs: strategic thinking, client engagement, organisational analysis, and ethical decision-making. Whether you are just starting or transitioning into consulting, this Certificate helps you develop real-world expertise that you can apply immediately. What makes it exceptional is its alignment with the Chartered Management Consultant (ChMC) Competency Framework, setting you on the path to achieving one of the most respected professional titles in the industry. It is flexible, practical, and recognised by employers—making it a smart investment in your future as a trusted, high-impact consultant.
 CMI graduates achieve remarkable things:

  • 72% agree that their CMI qualification gave them a competitive edge in the job application process.
  • 89% agree they use the skills learnt on their accredited qualification in their current role.
  • 88% agree that the accredited qualification gave them good career prospects.
  • Recent CMI graduates earn a median of 28k compared to just 21k for a typical business studies graduate.
  • Employers highly value the qualifications awarded by CMI, and over 80% of managers agree that a CMI qualification is essential to becoming a professional manager.
What is included in CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting?
Learning Resources
Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors, covering all key aspects of the syllabus.
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited dedicated support from subject matter-expert tutors throughout the duration of your studies.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want for guidance, support and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Grade
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the course.
All-Inclusive Fees
All assessment and registration fees are included in the course fee. No hidden costs.
24-Hour Portal Access
24-hour access to the MyLearnDirect online learning portal for studying at your convenience.
10-Month Support Period

Full access for 10 months from enrolment.

Who is it for?

The CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting is designed for experienced managers and aspiring consulting practitioners who want to build a broader, middle-level foundation in the principles of management consulting.

  • Experienced Middle-Level Managers seeking a recognised qualification to build foundational consulting knowledge.
  • Individuals working towards a career in management consulting or advisory roles.
  • Employees identified for progression into consultancy or client-facing management roles.
  • Career changers with substantial management experience looking to move into consulting practice.
Experienced Middle-Level Managers Aspiring Management Consultants Client-Facing Practitioners Career Changers into Consulting
Course Benefits

For Learners

  • Equip you with an in-depth understanding of Management Consulting and mechanisms for its delivery.
  • Understand the role of change in Management Consulting, including drivers for change, factors which influence its success, and strategies to respond to barriers which occur.
  • Consider how professional codes of conduct and frameworks for consulting influence management consulting practice.
  • Understand how to deliver change through Management Consulting.

Organisation

  • Understand the rationale, scope and methods of organisational analysis.
  • Demonstrate their capability to undertake organisational analysis in Management Consulting

Why Choose CMI Qualifications at SBTL?

CMI (the Chartered Management Institute) is the UK's only chartered professional body focused exclusively on management and leadership. CMI sets the benchmark for management practice, and its qualifications are approved and regulated by Ofqual.

CMI qualifications run from Level 3 up to Level 8, offering a clear progression route from first-line management to senior strategic leadership. Learners also gain professional CMI membership and the opportunity to work towards Chartered Manager status — a distinction only a small proportion of UK managers hold.

Key reasons to choose CMI Qualifications:

  • Royal Chartered Body — As the UK's only chartered institute for management and leadership, CMI's awards carry a professional standing few other bodies can offer.
  • Ofqual Regulated — CMI qualifications are approved and regulated by Ofqual, so they meet demanding national quality standards.
  • Professional Membership Included — Learners typically receive CMI membership alongside their award.
  • Pathway to Chartered Manager Status — Learners can work towards Foundation Chartered Manager (FCMgr) status early in their career, progressing to full Chartered Manager (CMgr) status.
  • Employer-Trusted — CMI qualifications and membership are valued by employers across public, private, and third-sector organisations.
  • University Progression — Many CMI qualifications carry credit recognition, supporting progression onto degree and postgraduate management study.
Pathways & Progression
Academic Pathway
Progress to Higher Level Study
  • CMI Level 7 Diploma in Professional Consulting
  • Direct progression on successful completion
Professional Recognition
Ofqual-regulated UK qualification
  • RQF-aligned recognised internationally.
  • Progression opportunities to further CMI consulting and management qualifications.
  • Supports career and professional advancement.
Career Growth
Career Pathways
  • Management Consultant
  • Middle-Level Manager
  • Builds a foundation for progression into consulting, advisory, and client-facing management roles.
Industry Recognition
Professional Certification
  • Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 5 qualification
  • Awarded by CMI
  • Valued by employers across the UK and internationally
Career Paths
Management Consultant
Middle-Level Manager Role
Applies core consulting principles to support client and organisational outcomes.
Client Relationship Manager
Middle-Level Manager Role
Builds and manages client relationships informed by consulting principles.
Business Advisor
Middle-Level Manager Role
Applies foundational consulting knowledge to support organisational improvement.
Entry Requirements

To enrol in the CMI Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Management Consulting, learners must meet the following entry requirements.

  • Age Requirement

    Be 19 years of age and over.

  • Prior Qualification & Experience

    A previous Level 4 qualification or relevant management experience is required.

  • Course Capability

    Possess the ability to complete the Level 5 course.

  • English Language

    The course is offered in English. You must possess considerable competency in English.

Assessment

For each module you study, you will complete a written assignment of 2000 - 2500 words and submit it online at your MyLearnDirect learning portal. 

Written Assignment
Per Module
2,000–2,500 Words
Per assignment
Online Submission
Via MyLearnDirect
Tutor Assessed
Expert assessment
Syllabus

Learners must select at least two units to a minimum of 140 TUT hours to achieve this qualification. The minimum GLH is 38 hours, with 14 credits.

Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable.

Click on each unit below to read a summary of the learning outcomes.
1
540
Principles of Management Consulting
80 TQT 8 Credits
2
541
The Management Consulting Role
70 TQT 7 Credits
3
542
Project and Programme Management in Management Consulting
80 TQT 8 Credits
4
543
Principles of Management and Leadership in Management Consulting
70 TQT 7 Credits
5
544
Principles of Change in Management Consulting
80 TQT 8 Credits
6
545
Managing Problems and Decision Making in Management Consulting
70 TQT 7 Credits
7
546
Organisational Analysis in Management Consulting
70 TQT 7 Credits
8
548
Professional Development in Management Consulting
70 TQT 7 Credits
Study Mode

Our online learning gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with rich online learning resources and study guides developed by our expert tutors to provide structure, keep you motivated, and strengthen your understanding of the subject.

If you want a high level of structured guidance and support but can't attend scheduled live classes, then online learning is the perfect study method. You study at your own pace and set your own flexible schedule. We are dedicated to offering extensive learning support to simplify your learning journey, so we provide the option to schedule online personal meetings with your tutor at your convenience.

Our simplified online learning facilitates you to achieve high career growth without stress and dilemmas.

What's included in our online learning?
Learning Resources
Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors which cover all the key aspects of the syllabus.
Tutor Support
Dedicated support from expert tutors throughout the duration of your studies.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support, and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
You can raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Grade
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the programme.
Quality Learning Resources
Quality learning resources developed by expert tutors, which include learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies, etc., enabling you to apply your knowledge.
Assessment Resources
We offer comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines to support you through each module.
Resources & Support

We are committed to providing unwavering support throughout your educational journey. Our dedicated support team is a crucial link between tutors and learners, ensuring that guidance, assessment feedback, and additional study assistance are delivered promptly and effectively.

Induction
Online and flexible learning induction to help you settle in and prepare for your online studies.
Tutor Support
Dedicated support from expert tutors throughout the duration of your course.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want for guidance, support and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Knowledge
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve throughout the course.
Quality Learning Resources
Learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies and more.
Assessment Resources
Comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines provided.
Study Guides
Structured study guides for every unit, keeping you on track and strengthening your understanding as you progress.
Why should I choose SBTL?

We focus on providing a sophisticated, flexible learning experience. Our courses are designed with 100% online learning so your studies fit around your full-time work and other commitments, letting you study from anywhere, at your own pace.

You'll also get dedicated tutor support, scheduled personal tutor meetings whenever you need them, and access to our Dedicated Support Desk portal to raise queries or request a call back.

How does online learning work at SBTL?

Our online learning gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with rich online learning resources and study guides developed by our expert tutors to provide structure, keep you motivated, and strengthen your understanding of the subject.

If you want a high level of structured guidance and support without attending scheduled classes, then online learning is the perfect study method for you. You study at your own pace and set your own flexible schedule. Our simplified online learning helps you achieve high career growth without stress and dilemmas.

You can schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support and encouragement. When it comes to support, we have a dedicated support desk team so you can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance or assistance.

How will I get tutor support and other guidance?

You will have access to unlimited dedicated tutor support through our centralised Support Desk portal. You can schedule personal tutor meetings whenever needed and raise queries via the MyLearnDirect learning portal at any time.

  • Constructive formative feedback on every assignment to help you improve
  • Guidance on the proposed structure of your work
  • Regular discussion of your assignment progress throughout the course
  • Guidance on presentation — title page, contents, pagination, footnotes and Harvard referencing

What are the payment methods?

The fee can be paid in either of the following methods:

Debit Card/Credit Card

PayPal

Bank Transfer

Do you offer a monthly payment plan?

Yes. We offer flexible, low-cost and interest-free payment plans across all our courses and study methods, so you can spread the cost monthly and focus on learning.

Can I interchange the units?

As an approved centre, SBTL preselects the units for each course from those listed in the awarding body's specification, and the preselected units are shown on every course's details page.

If you'd like different units, you must request this before enrolment so we can confirm the learning resources are available. Once enrolment is complete, unit interchange requests can no longer be accommodated.

What are the steps I need to follow once I decide to join you?

              
1
Select your course — choose the course you want to pursue, making sure you meet the entry requirements.
              
2
Enrol — submit your order application via our website or by emailing admission@sbusinesslondon.ac.uk, then pay online or by bank transfer, as a single payment or in monthly instalments.
              
3
Get portal access — once payment and a compliance check (ID and eligibility) are complete, you'll receive your MyLearnDirect login, usually within 48 hours.
              
4
Induction — a comprehensive online induction helps you settle in and prepare for your studies.
              
5
Dedicated tutor — your allocated tutor and our academic support team assess your work and provide formative feedback before final submission.
              
6
Assessment — marks and grades are published via MyLearnDirect once your final submission is made.
              
7
Certification — receive your accredited certificate on successful completion, ready to progress your career or enrol on your next course with us.
            

What does the allocated tutor provide to me? 

  • Provide you with comprehensive guidance and support from start to finish of your course through the support desk portal.
  • Our tutors don't just provide academic support; throughout your learning journey, they strive to build confidence, foster aspiration, and encourage a love for learning
  • Offer constructive formative feedback on your assignments, which can help you to improve your assignments. 
  • Offer guidance on the proposed structure.
  • Discuss the progress of your assignments with you during the course.
  • Provide guidance on presentation, such as the title page, contents page, pagination, footnoting and Harvard Referencing.

What is the difference between Award, Certificate, Diploma or Extended Diploma?

CMI courses come in four different sizes. The size depends on the depth of the qualification and the duration you take to complete it. 

  • Award: A concise and short course, which the learners typically take two to four months to complete. 
  • Certificate: It provides substantial knowledge and skills and typically takes three to six months to complete.
  • Diploma: A broad learning programme which learners typically take six to ten months to complete.
  • Extended Diploma: A broad and extensive learning programme, which learners typically take twelve to fourteen months to complete.
Are CMI courses regulated?

 CMI is regulated by four regulators: Ofqual in England, CCEA in Northern Ireland, Qualifications Wales, and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) — meaning all qualifications awarded by CMI are regulated.

Which CMI professional consulting course is right for me?

The CMI Professional Consulting qualifications are designed to suit all levels and experience, allowing learners to take the next step on their professional journey.

A CMI qualification is the perfect choice if you want to build or advance your career in professional consulting. CMI qualifications symbolise a global benchmark for excellence, as CMI is the only Chartered professional body in Professional Consulting. By studying a CMI course, you join a network of over 143,000 members globally, gaining access to the mentoring, support, and globally recognised learning resources that come with CMI membership.

CMI qualifications in professional consulting range from Level 5 to Level 7, with different levels relating to learners' career positions, roles, and responsibilities. Course content is designed to provide the skills and knowledge required for your current and future positions, roles, and responsibilities. Below is an overview of the qualifications and the roles they cover.

CMI Level 5 Principles of Management Consulting
Designed for individuals wishing to develop their professional consultancy abilities, giving them the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to drive consultancy activities in a consulting capacity.

Two qualifications are available in this suite. Choose depending on your needs:

CMI Level 5 Management Consulting Practice
Designed for practising or aspiring Management Consultants wishing to formalise or develop their learning and progress toward Associate Chartered Management Consultant (ChMC).

Three qualifications are available in this suite. Choose depending on your needs:

CMI Level 7 in Professional Consulting
Designed for practising or aspiring Senior Management Consultants who want to develop their professional consultancy abilities, giving them the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to drive consultancy activities in a senior capacity.

Four qualifications are available in this suite. Choose depending on your needs:

What is the Chartered Management Consultant status?

Chartered Management Consultant is all about professional recognition and is the most elevated status that can be achieved in the management consulting profession. The Chartered Management Consultant is an accreditation developed and managed by the Management Consultancies Association and the CMI. The Chartered Management Consultant accreditation is relevant to the individual and the profession.

There are over 1200 consultants who have achieved the Chartered Management Consultant status to date, with another 2000 learners on their journey and more than 50 leading consultancy firms involved.

There are various routes offered by CMI to achieve Chartered Management Consultant (ChMC) status, depending on an individual's management consulting experience. One of the routes is the 'qualification route'. To be eligible to apply for ChMC status through the qualification route, you must:

  • Have successfully completed the Level 7 Extended Diploma in Professional Consulting
  • Have 5+ years of experience with a proven track record of delivering consultancy.
  • Be an exemplar of the profession, significantly contributing to the operational enhancement and commercial sustainability of the firm and its clients.
  • Have up-to-date knowledge of current practices and methods.
  • Be actively involved in the management consultancy profession.

What is Associate Chartered Management Consultant status?

Associate Chartered Management Consultant is all about professional recognition within the management consulting profession. To achieve Associate ChMC status, you can apply through various routes at CMI. 

The qualification route is one of the routes to achieving an Associate ChMC status. To be eligible to apply through the qualification route, you must:

  • Accomplish CMI Level 5 Diploma in Professional Consulting Practice
  • Demonstrate at least three years of management consulting experience and evidence of all Applied Level ChMC Competencies.

To apply for Associate ChMC status, you must be ‘professionally active’. This means you:

  • Have a proven track record of delivering consultancy.
  • Contribute to the operational enhancement and commercial sustainability of an organisation and its clients.
  • Have up-to-date knowledge of current practices and methods.
  • Are actively involved in the management consultancy profession.