PRINCE2 Agile Certification Course Syllabus 2025: A Detailed Overview

Embarking on a journey to earn the PRINCE2 Agile certificate marks a pivotal step in the career of any project management professional. This esteemed certification blends the flexibility and responsiveness of agile methodologies with the structured governance of PRINCE2, offering a comprehensive approach to Agile project management. As organizations increasingly adopt Agile practices to navigate complex projects, holding a PRINCE2 Agile certificate signifies your ability to manage projects efficiently, adapt to change swiftly, and deliver value continuously.

This comprehensive guide explains the PRINCE2 Agile syllabus that covers the updated curriculum for both the PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and Practitioner sections, tailored to meet individuals' needs across all project management expertise levels. From beginners to seasoned professionals, we offer a deep dive into the syllabus's duration and structure.

PRINCE2 Agile Syllabus Overview

The PRINCE2 Agile Exam syllabus explores PRINCE2's two main components: PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner.

This detailed outline of the PRINCE2 Agile syllabus emphasizes the essential concepts within each section. Through this comprehensive examination of the PRINCE2 Agile modules, project managers and those aspiring to enter the field can understand the PRINCE2 Agile framework and its significance in successful Agile project management.

PRINCE2 Agile Foundation Syllabus

As per AXELOS guidelines, mastery of the following PRINCE2 Agile Foundation course outline is essential for successfully achieving the Foundation certification:

Learning Outcome	Topic
1. Understand key concepts relating to projects and PRINCE2	1.1 Recall the PRINCE2 principles: Continued business justification Learn from experience Defined roles and responsibilities Manage by stages Manage by exception Focus on products Tailor to suit the project environment
	1.2 Explain the purpose of the PRINCE2 themes: Business case Organization Quality Plans Risk Change Progress
	1.3 Explain the purpose of the PRINCE2 processes. Starting up a project Initiating a project Directing a project Controlling a stage Managing product delivery Managing a stage boundary Closing a project
	1.4 Explain the purpose of the following PRINCE2 management products. Business case Checkpoint report Highlight report Project brief Project initiation documentation Project product description Work package
	1.5 Explain the responsibilities of the following PRINCE2 roles. Project board Executive Senior user Senior supplier Project manager Team manager
2. Understand key concepts relating to projects and PRINCE2 Agile	2.1 Explain how PRINCE2 Agile is used in a project context and explain the difference between projects and business as usual (BAU).
	2.2 Recall which Agile ways of working are suitable for use with PRINCE2 Agile. Kanban Lean startup Scrum
	2.3 Describe the need to ‘blend and weave’ PRINCE2 with Agile at all levels of a project (project direction, project management and product delivery) including the eight guidance points.
	2.4 Describe the roles, responsibilities and competencies of the PRINCE2 Agile delivery team. Customer subject matter expert Customer representative Supplier subject matter expert Supplier representative
3. Understand how PRINCE2 principles, themes, processes and management products are tailored and/or applied in an Agile context	3.1 Explain how the PRINCE2 principles will be applied in an Agile context. Continued business justification Learn from experience Defined roles and responsibilities Manage by stages Manage by exception Focus on products Tailor to suit the project environment
	3.2 Explain the PRINCE2 Agile behaviors. Transparency Collaboration Rich communication Self-organization Exploration
	3.3 Explain the PRINCE2 Agile guidance for each theme. Business case Organization Quality Plans Risk Change Progress
	3.4 Explain the PRINCE2 Agile guidance for each process. Starting up a project Initiating a project Directing a project Controlling a stage Managing product delivery Managing a stage boundary Closing a project
	3.5 Explain the PRINCE2 Agile guidance for tailoring the following PRINCE2 management products. Business case Checkpoint report Highlight report Project brief Project initiation documentation Project product description Work package
	3.6 Explain what to fix and what to flex, including setting tolerances and the five targets. Fix and flex tolerances Be on time and hitting deadlines Protect the level of quality Embrace change Keep teams stable Accept that the customer doesn’t need everything
4. Understand the Agile ways of working, key terms and techniques	4.1 Recall the definition of the following Agile terms. Backlog (sprint, release & product) Benefit (value) Epic Information radiator Spike Stand up meeting Timebox (sprint, release) Velocity Waterfall methodology
	4.2 Explain key Agile concepts and techniques. Scrum Lean Startup (incl. MVP) Retrospectives User stories (incl. Definition of ‘ready’ and ‘done’) Workshops Burn charts Agile Estimation (points and T-Shirt sizing) Working Agreements
5. Understand the focus areas in an Agile context	5.1 Explain the PRINCE2 Agile focus areas. Agilometer Requirements Rich communication Frequent releases

The PRINCE2 Agile Foundation course encompasses vital topics such as Agile project management techniques and blending traditional PRINCE2 approaches with Agile methods to enhance flexibility and responsiveness. Completing the PRINCE2 Agile Foundation course empowers individuals with a robust foundation in combining PRINCE2's structured project management framework with Agile's adaptability. This equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage projects in dynamic environments, ensuring projects are delivered with efficiency, adaptability, and a strong focus on delivering value.

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including

Key Concepts of Projects and PRINCE2 Agile: Understanding the fundamental principles of projects and how PRINCE2 Agile integrates with these projects, differentiating between projects and business as usual (BAU), and the suitable Agile methodologies like Kanban, Lean Startup, and Scrum.
Blending and Weaving PRINCE2 with Agile: Describing the necessity to integrate PRINCE2 with Agile at all project levels and outlining the eight guidance points for this integration.
Roles and Responsibilities within PRINCE2 Agile: Detailing the roles, responsibilities, and competencies required in a PRINCE2 Agile delivery team, including customer and supplier subject matter experts.
Tailoring PRINCE2 for Agile Environments: Explaining how PRINCE2 principles, themes, processes, and management products are adapted for Agile contexts, emphasizing behaviors such as transparency, collaboration, rich communication, self-organization, and exploration.
Agile Ways of Working and Key Agile Concepts: Introducing agile terminology, concepts, and techniques like Scrum, Lean Startup, retrospectives, user stories, workshops, burn charts, Agile estimation, and the importance of working agreements.
Focus Areas in an Agile Context: Elucidating PRINCE2 Agile focus areas such as the Agilometer, managing requirements, enhancing rich communication, and encouraging frequent releases to maximize value delivery and responsiveness to change.

PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner Syllabus

As per AXELOS guidelines, mastery of the following PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner course outline is essential for successfully achieving the Practitioner certification:

Learning Outcome	Assessment Criteria
01	Explain the differences between projects and BAU (Business as usual) Describe agile and its common approaches, how and why agile approaches have developed, and where they are used Describe the history of agile, its contrast to the waterfall way of working, and how the Agile Manifesto fits in Describe the different levels of agile maturity and well-known agile frameworks Describe behaviors, concepts, and techniques that characterize agile Define the PRINCE2 Agile view of 'agile Describe Kanban, the Kanban method, and its six general practices, including the use of Cumulative Flow Diagrams (CFDs) Describe the core concepts of Lean Start-up Describe the use of workshops Describe how to transition to agile Define Scrum theory and explain the nature of the Scrum team, Scrum events, Scrum artifacts, and Sprints
02	Describe the Complementary strengths of PRINCE2 and the agile way of working Define who can benefit from using PRINCE2 Agile and in what contexts/situations Define the makeup of PRINCE2 Agile (frameworks, behaviors, concepts, techniques, focus areas Explain the eight' guidance points' Explain how PRINCE2 controls and governance can enable agile to be used in many environments Describe what a typical PRINCE2' project journey' looks like in an agile context
03	Explain the purpose and use of the Agilometer throughout a project Define who can benefit from using PRINCE2 Agile and in what contexts/situations Define the makeup of PRINCE2 Agile (frameworks, behaviors, concepts, techniques, focus areas Explain the eight' guidance points' Explain how PRINCE2 controls and governance can enable agile to be used in many environments Describe what a typical PRINCE2' project journey' looks like in an agile context
04	Describe how to use the ‘hexagon’ in relation to the six aspects of project performance Explain the use of tolerances in terms of what to 'fix' and what to 'flex' about the six aspects of project performance Describe in detail each of the five targets that underpin the use of the hexagon Explain why the 'fix and flex' approach is good for the customer
05	Describe in detail the five PRINCE2 Agile behaviors (Transparency, Collaboration, Rich Communication, Self-Organization, Exploration) Explain that agile needs to be incorporated in all seven PRINCE2 processes and all seven themes but that the amount appropriate to each will vary depending on the project context Describe the two common organization roles of Scrum master and Product owner Explain how to adjust roles, including the use of specialist roles and the options for team organization in a project Define the makeup of a typical delivery team Describe servant leadership, its use, and importance Describe how to define working agreements Describe quality setting techniques, including 'definition of done' and the use of acceptance criteria Describe quality testing, quality checking, and management techniques Describe approaches to planning and typical planning techniques Describe approaches to risk and how agile concepts mitigate many typical risks Describe how blending PRINCE2 with agile approaches controls, responds to, and minimizes the impact of change, including risk management and configuration management Describe how empowered self-organizing teams handle change dynamically within set tolerances Describe common feedback loops and their importance Describe progress monitoring techniques, including use of 'work in progress' boards, burn charts, information radiators Describe in detail agile techniques that may apply to each PRINCE2 process, including Cynefin Describe how to flex the 'Direct a Project' stage and the benefits of collaborative working Describe how to 'manage by exception' with emphasis on empowerment, quantity of deliverables, rich information flows, and value of deliverables Explain why PRINCE2' stages' may not be required, including the use of timeboxes and Scrum of scrums Describe typical output mechanisms when 'Controlling a Stage' and 'Managing a Stage Boundary' Describe the use of retrospectives and how to make them effective Describe approaches to managing product delivery, including Scrum and Kanban Explain how to define work packages, product descriptions, quality criteria, and tolerances Give guidance on behaviors, risk, and the frequency of releases Explain how to manage stage boundaries and the similarities between a stage and a release Explain how to assess the quantity, quality, and benefits of stage deliverables Explain how to effectively close a project, including evaluation of the use of agile Describe how to tailor PRINCE2 products, including work packages, highlight reports and checkpoint reports Describe in detail agile techniques that may apply to each PRINCE2 theme, including requirements, defining value, and user stories Describe guidance on the use of contracts Describe PRINCE2 Agile delivery roles Explain how to use the health check Describe the fundamental values and principles of agile Outline tips for the PRINCE2 Agile project manager

The PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner syllabus offers a comprehensive exploration into the seamless integration of the structured project management methods of PRINCE2 with Agile's flexible and iterative approaches. This curriculum is designed to give learners a deep understanding of how these methodologies can coalesce to enhance project delivery in an ever-evolving business landscape.

By navigating through this course, individuals are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage projects adeptly by leveraging the strengths of PRINCE2 and Agile methodologies, ensuring a balance between governance and agility.

The curriculum delves into several key areas, such as:

Differences Between Projects and BAU: It lays the groundwork by distinguishing projects from regular business operations, emphasizing the unique characteristics and objectives that set project work apart.
Agile Methodologies and Their Evolution: The course covers the origins and development of Agile methodologies, detailing why and how these practices have come to be preferred over traditional methods in certain project contexts.
Historical Context of Agile: Learners are taken through the history of Agile, contrasting it with the waterfall model and positioning the Agile Manifesto as a pivotal moment in the evolution of project management practices.
Agile Maturity and Frameworks: It provides insights into the various levels of Agile maturity, introducing well-known Agile frameworks to give a comprehensive overview of the agile landscape.
Agile Behaviors, Concepts, and Techniques: The syllabus goes on to describe the behaviors, concepts, and techniques that are central to Agile practices, offering a deep dive into the principles that drive successful Agile projects.
PRINCE2 Agile's Interpretation of 'Agile': This section defines what 'agile' means within the context of PRINCE2 Agile, underscoring how the framework integrates agile principles to enhance project management.
Introduction to Kanban and Lean Start-up: Learners are introduced to specific agile methodologies such as Kanban and Lean Start-up, including their practices and core concepts, to understand their application in project management.
The Role of Workshops in Agile: The use of workshops for engagement, planning, and problem-solving in agile projects is explored, highlighting their value in fostering collaboration and innovation.
Transitioning to Agile Practices: Guidance on how organizations can transition to Agile methodologies from more traditional approaches is provided, addressing the cultural and operational shifts required.
Scrum Theory and Practice: The course covers Scrum theory, detailing the roles, events, artifacts, and sprints that constitute this popular Agile framework and illustrating how it facilitates project management.

Through engaging with these topics, professionals will emerge with a nuanced understanding of how PRINCE2 Agile can be applied to manage and deliver projects with greater agility, efficiency, and responsiveness to change while maintaining the structure and governance provided by the PRINCE2 framework.

Conclusion

The PRINCE2 Agile syllabus, with its integration of Agile methodologies within the structured framework of PRINCE2, presents an innovative approach to project management. Though the amalgamation of PRINCE2 and Agile principles may initially appear complex, it is a navigable path to mastering Agile project management when approached with proper guidance, a well-defined learning trajectory, and committed preparation.

Participating in a dedicated PRINCE2 Agile certification course offers individuals a unique opportunity to enhance their Agile project management capabilities, leveraging the best of both PRINCE2 and Agile worlds. This prepares professionals for successful certification and sets them on a path to achieving excellence in their project management careers.

FAQs for PRINCE2 Agile Foundation & Practitioner Syllabus

1. What is PRINCE2 Agile?

PRINCE2 Agile combines the flexibility and responsiveness of agile with the governance of PRINCE2. It is designed for individuals looking to apply agile methods in their projects while ensuring the structure and discipline of project management.

2. Who should take the PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and Practitioner courses?

This course is ideal for project managers, team leaders, and anyone involved in project delivery or project management. It is particularly beneficial for professionals who integrate Agile methodologies within their project management practices.

3. What are the prerequisites for the PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner course?

To enroll in the Practitioner course, you must have passed one of the following: PRINCE2 Foundation, PRINCE2 Agile Foundation, Project Management Professional (PMP)®, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)®, or International Project Management Association (IPMA) certification.

4. How long are the PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and Practitioner certifications valid?

The PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner certification needs to be renewed every three years through a re-examination or AXELOS membership and continuing professional development (CPD) points. The Foundation certificate does not expire.

5. Can I take the PRINCE2 Agile courses if I’m new to project management?

Yes, the PRINCE2 Agile Foundation course is designed to be accessible to those new to project management. However, having a basic understanding of project management concepts can be beneficial.

6. What topics are covered in the PRINCE2 Agile syllabus?

The syllabus covers various topics, including the PRINCE2 methodology, agile concepts and frameworks (such as Scrum and Kanban), blending PRINCE2 with agile, tailoring PRINCE2 for agile environments, and managing projects focusing on flexibility and delivery.

7. How do the Foundation and Practitioner courses differ?

The Foundation course introduces the basics of PRINCE2 Agile, preparing you for project management in an agile context. The Practitioner course goes deeper, focusing on applying PRINCE2 Agile in real-world scenarios and preparing you to lead agile projects.

8. What is the examination format for these certifications?

The Foundation exam is a multiple-choice test, whereas the Practitioner exam involves scenario-based questions requiring more in-depth responses. Both exams assess your understanding and ability to apply PRINCE2 Agile principles.

9. How can I prepare for the PRINCE2 Agile exams?

Preparation should include:

Studying the official PRINCE2 Agile manual
Attending accredited training courses
Practicing with sample exam papers
Understanding both PRINCE2 and agile principles thoroughly is crucial for success