UMPSA’s Bachelor of Project Management programme obtains international accreditation from PMI GAC for 5 years

GAMBANG, 16 January 2025 – Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) has made history with its Bachelor of Project Management with Honours Programme, under the Faculty of Industrial Management (FPI), receiving international recognition.

The programme successfully obtained full accreditation from the Project Management Institute, Global Accreditation Center (PMI GAC) for five years, from May 2024 to April 2029.

This recognition places the programme among the best in the field of project management at the undergraduate level.

This success follows the second accreditation audit conducted from 20 to 22 November 2024.

According to the Head of the Project Management Programme, Dr Nurhaizan Mohd Zainudin, the audit process involved three experienced evaluators from PMI GAC, who comprehensively assessed aspects such as the programme structure, curriculum, and learning outcomes.

“This process proves that UMPSA’s programme meets global standards and maintains academic excellence.

“This accreditation opens doors for students and graduates to explore wider opportunities in the global job market.

“Graduates of this programme are now better equipped to take on roles such as project executives, project officers, project coordinators, and assistant project managers, enabling them to build strong foundational experience in the field of project management.

“With relevant work experience, graduates can advance their careers to higher positions such as project managers, project consultants, or project strategy specialists in the future,” she said.

One of the programme’s industry panel members noted that graduates will possess significant competitive advantages, making them valuable assets to relevant organisations.

Dr Nurhaizan added that students would also enjoy exclusive benefits, such as opportunities to obtain certifications like the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), recognised worldwide.

“They will also gain access to key industry reference materials, such as the 7th Edition of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), which serves as an essential guide in the field of project management.

“Academic staff also benefit through PMI membership, enabling them to expand professional networks and access the latest resources in this field.

“The UMPSA Bachelor of Project Management programme further strengthens its reputation with a curriculum aligned with the PMI Talent Triangle,” she explained.

She elaborated that the programme integrates three main elements—business acumen, ways of working, and power skills—into its teaching structure to ensure graduates are equipped with comprehensive knowledge, skills, and competencies.

“This approach ensures that students are prepared to face industry challenges and lead projects with effective strategies,” she said.

Beyond meeting PMI GAC accreditation requirements, this approach enhances the quality of the programme by preparing students who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of managing projects at the international level.

The full accreditation from PMI GAC further solidifies UMPSA’s status as a world-class higher education institution.

The Dean of the Faculty of Industrial Management, Dr Mohd Hanafiah Ahmad, expressed pride in this achievement.

“We are very proud of this accomplishment and are committed to ensuring that the programme remains relevant and meets the demands of the rapidly evolving industry.

“With this achievement, the UMPSA Bachelor of Project Management programme has emerged as one of the top choices for individuals aspiring to build careers in project management.

“The integration of a comprehensive curriculum, global career opportunities, and the advantage of international certification makes this programme a valuable asset for students and graduates,” he said.

He added that this recognition is not merely a testament to academic excellence but also a reflection of UMPSA’s commitment to providing world-class education.

“The Faculty of Industrial Management at UMPSA is now on the right track to continue producing competitive future project leaders at the global level,” he said.

By: Dr Nurhaizan Mohd Zainudin, Faculty of Industrial Management

Translation by: Dr.  Rozaimi  Abu  Samah, UMPSA Press