What is IRM accreditation and what are the benefits?

Find out the benefits of IRM accreditation for professionals seeking to work and progress in the risk management field. 

Risk management is one of the most pivotal parts of an organisation. It ensures that any risks and threats to the organisation are identified, analysed, and mitigated; and any available opportunities are capitalised and maximised. There is a risk potential in almost every division — be it operational, strategic, compliance, financial, or even cybersecurity risks.

Risk management is also important to ensure that the day-to-day business and the profitability of the company remain unaffected, which is why it is such a sought-after role and can be applied in almost every industry.

Is doing an MSc worth it?

Doing an MSc requires a lot of time and effort, but it is worth it! It ensures that you have a strong foundation when establishing yourself in the workforce and are trained to deal with any problems faced by an organisation.

The University of Portsmouth offers an online, IRM-accredited MSc in Risk, Crisis and Resilience Management, enabling you to earn a degree as you work. When you graduate, you can choose from an array of roles such as risk analysts, crisis management analysts, operation resilience managers, and more.

What is the IRM?

The IRM (Institute of Risk Management) is a professional body that provides accreditations to risk management professionals ensuring that they are meeting the standards of the industry. It is also the first body to provide international recognition for risk management.

The IRM aims to ensure that proper risk management can offer positive change for employees and companies. Its qualification also ensures that you are equipped with the right tools, techniques, and skills to manage risk and protect the company.

What is IRM accreditation?

The IRM accreditation is offered by the Institute of Risk Management and outlines the basic skills and expertise one must achieve to be a proficient risk management professional. The accreditation is recognised by employers across the world and lets them know that you have the necessary knowledge to excel in the field. It also opens many networking opportunities with other risk professionals.

What are the benefits of accreditation for professionals working in the risk field?

IRM accreditation indicates that your course was up to the standards of the industry and offers the following benefits:

• It provides you with an IRM certificate that also lets potential employers know you’ve got the right skills for your role.

• It is a great way to improve your reputation at work and while networking.

• It opens a host of professional opportunities.

• Upon getting your accreditation you also become a part of a network that is constantly on par with the latest evolvements in the industry.

Whether you are a working professional or a student, you will find that the IRM accreditation and connected courses will help you achieve the skills and techniques you need to understand and navigate the ever-changing business environment.

How do you become IRM accredited?

By signing up for the part-time, online MSc in Risk, Crisis and Resilience Management, you will be automatically enrolled for IRM accreditation. This means that when you graduate, you will be exempted from all six modules of the International Diploma in Risk Management.

Additionally, you can further apply for a GradIRM membership upon graduation. Once you get three or more years of relevant experience, you can even move up to get a Certified Membership.

Why should you choose an IRM-accredited Risk, Crisis and Resilience Management course?

As aforementioned, an IRM accreditation helps prove to employers that your course adheres to the standards set by the industry and that you are an efficient risk manager.

The University of Portsmouth’s online, part-time MSc in Risk, Crisis and Resilience Management starts right from the basics — you will learn what exactly constitutes a risk, what software and skills are required to identify them, and how to mitigate the risk within the company.

You will learn about managing risks, coming up with appropriate strategies and solutions, creating a strong risk culture that ensures good risk management, understanding different points of view when approaching risk, and even how to lead the team during a crisis.

The University of Portsmouth’s part-time online MSc in Risk, Crisis and Resilience Management is a distance learning programme that can be accessed from anywhere, meaning you can be flexible with your learning and study at your own time: