Those who want to manage IT services professionally need more than solid process knowledge. ITIL® 5 connects established service management methods with current requirements from governance, AI integration, and digital transformation – providing a practical foundation for modern service organisations.

The modular certification paths enable step-by-step specialisation – from the Foundation level to strategic qualifications. IT professionals and managers can build targeted competence and sustainably advance their organisations.

ITIL® 5 Certification Paths

Putting ITIL® best practices to work in everyday operations. This certification path builds skills for planning, running, monitoring, and continuously improving modern IT services.

The following modules are included in the “ITIL® Practice Manager” certification:

  • ITIL® Foundation as a foundation,
  • a specialisation module* – choose from:
    • ITIL® Monitor, Support and Fulfill,
    • ITIL® Plan, Implement and Control,
    • ITIL® Collaborate, Assure and Improve,
  • as well as ITIL® Transformation for governing and delivering change initiatives.

*Coming soon. The specialisation module is matched to the individual’s role and professional context.

The path for holistic IT service management. Teaches how to purposefully develop, manage, and continuously optimise products, services, and digital experiences across their full lifecycle.

The following modules are required for the “ITIL® Managing Professional” certification:

ITIL® Strategic Leader centres on the strategic leadership of modern IT organisations. This path shows how to develop IT strategies purposefully, drive change effectively, and align service management consistently with business goals.

The following modules are required for the “ITIL® Strategic Leader” certification:

The ITIL® Master is the highest level of ITIL® 5 certification. It validates deep expertise in IT service management and the ability to successfully apply and advance ITIL® practices, governance, and service strategies in complex organisations.

The following certifications are required for “ITIL® Master” status:

  • ITIL® Practice Manager
  • ITIL® Managing Professional
  • ITIL® Strategic Leader

     

Managing Artificial Intelligence responsibly with ITIL®: The ITIL® AI Governance module brings established ITIL® principles together with the demands of modern AI governance. The focus is on strategies and best practices for transparent, secure, and responsible AI deployment.

Topics include risk management, transparency, accountability, compliance, and regulatory requirements. Practical approaches help organisations embed AI in a compliant and sustainable way.

The direct route from ITIL® 4 or ITIL® v3 to ITIL® 5: The Transition module refreshes existing competencies and brings knowledge of current best practices for modern IT service management up to date.

A prerequisite is ITIL® v3 Expert or ITIL® 4 Managing Professional certification. This direct route saves time and leads to ITIL® 5 Managing Professional certification without repeating all modules.


Which ITIL® 5 certification path do you need?

The ITIL® 5 certification paths are aligned with different roles and areas of responsibility in IT service management. Whether operational practice, strategic oversight, or subject-matter specialisation – each path offers a structured development route.

Certification Path
Suitable for
Practice Managers
Specialists, Process Owners, Service Desk Managers
Managing Professional
IT Service Manager, Service Owner, Delivery Manager
Strategic Leader
IT Leadership, CIO, Digital Transformation Manager
Master
Experienced ITSM Experts and Consultants
Frequently Asked Questions

Practice Manager focuses on specialising in individual ITIL® practices and optimising them operationally. Managing Professional takes a broader view, covering the planning, delivery, and ongoing development of digital services.

The ITIL® Strategic Leader is aimed at decision-makers who want to develop IT strategies, actively manage change, and closely align IT objectives with business goals.

Yes. The ITIL® Foundation is the shared starting point for all three advanced paths: Practice Manager, Managing Professional, and Strategic Leader.

No. ITIL® AI Governance is a standalone extension module. It complements the ITIL® 5 paths with topics on the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

The Transition module is intended for individuals who hold an ITIL® v3 Expert or ITIL® 4 Managing Professional certification and want to upgrade directly to ITIL® 5.

Up to 100% funding for your continuing education

Attractive funding opportunities are available for numerous continuing education programs – depending on the funding program, up to 100% funding is possible.
The requirement is that you live or work in Germany. Our funding opportunities are not available outside of Germany.

Funding opportunities are available for career starters, job seekers, career changers, startups, experienced professionals, those seeking career advancement, and specialists.


ITIL® 5 – Develop Purposefully, Grow Sustainably

The ITIL® 5 certification paths enable structured competence development in IT service management – tailored to role, experience, and goal. Whether entry level, deepening expertise, or strategic alignment: the modular structure provides direction and clear development paths for individuals and organisations.


Registration for all ITIL® courses requires taking an exam. The cost of the exam is already included in the course price.
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