Is ILM or CMI a better Management Qualification?

If it’s time to level up your management skills then there are plenty of options for further study to enhance your leadership approach. The main two options available are from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) or the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).

Whilst they may be similar, there are a few key differences between CMI and ILM management qualifications that may affect which one you choose to study. That’s why DLC Training is here to help you navigate your next steps and help you to become the manager you’re capable of being.

 CMI Management Qualifications

An internationally recognised qualification, the CMI management qualifications help enhance management performance, improve leadership qualities and aim to make businesses more efficient. With CMI courses you will have fewer units to complete as credit value is high,  but this also means the books are more in-depth than ILM and they will take longer to complete. With CMI, there is also the option of studying towards Chartered Manager status, only awarded by CMI, the highest accolade you can achieve as a manager.

CMI is favoured by companies in the private sector and recognised across the globe as an indication of high management skills. Strategic in design, these qualifications are best suited to established leaders who are looking to take a deeper dive into their professional skills.

ILM Management Qualifications

ILM is another highly respected awarding body in management that provides a great foundation for leadership best practices. Less focused on wider business efficiency, these qualifications concentrate more on the individual’s ability to move up the career ladder. ILM courses are also more practical and best suited for those just starting out in management compared to CMI. 

Unlike CMI, ILM courses will require you to complete more units as the credit value for each is usually around 3 to 5. However, the units are more condensed so you will be able to complete them at a quicker pace. 

ILM courses tend to be favoured by companies in the public sector, for example, the NHS and local government councils.

The Pros and Cons of CMI or ILM

Let’s summarise and help you create your own pro-con list for choosing your management qualification.

The Main Differences:

The main differences to consider when choosing between CMI or ILM are;

  • The course content – units of the courses cover different topics with ILM having a more practical focus;
  • The number of units required to complete the qualification – ILM is more condensed and is quicker to complete;
  • CMI is best for the private sector whilst ILM is more suited to the public sector;
  • The depth of each unit is reflected in the credit value of each unit.

What’s Similar?

The similarities between CMI management qualifications and ILM include:

  • Both are highly respected forms of improving leadership skills;
  • CMI and ILM both offer a variety of industry-leading qualifications that cover a range of levels;
  • You can get the same level of bespoke support whichever course you choose with DLC Training;
  • You will benefit from a range of membership benefits across both awarding bodies.

Which One Is Better?

No one can say which management qualification is best suited for you except for you. Doing your research and mapping your personal career goals against what each has to offer is the best way to make an informed decision that suits your needs and helps you get to where you want to be within your career.

 Study CLM or ILM Management Qualifications with DLC Training

Ready to take the plunge? At DLC Training we provide both CLM or ILM management training paired with bespoke support so you can truly make your studying your own. Explore the full range of management qualifications we offer and enquire today to kickstart the next step in your career.