This blog is your comprehensive guide to the best facilities management courses available in 2025, designed to help facility managers and facility professionals enhance their skills, drive operational efficiency, and achieve peak performance in building and infrastructure management. Whether you're pursuing a certificate in facilities management, aiming to become a certified facility manager, or simply looking to sharpen your project management, strategic planning, or energy management expertise, this curated list has something for everyone.

We cover a wide range of courses across key categories including fundamentals, facilities operations, maintenance, sustainability, building systems, construction management, technology, health and safety, financial and business management, and real estate. You’ll also find several programs backed by respected institutions such as the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) and other global management associations.

Importantly, we’ve included free facilities management training options and affordable certificate programs, so every student and working professional has access - regardless of budget or experience level. Whether you're an aspiring facility management professional or an experienced manager seeking certification, these learning resources will help you advance your career, improve knowledge, and better manage complex systems and operations.

Let’s explore the best ways to develop your expertise in facilities management and stay competitive in the evolving industry.

Basic facilities management courses

Successful facilities management requires diverse skills and competencies that enable managers to maintain efficient operations, ensure safety, and enhance overall facility performance. Below are the core competencies and skills that every facilities manager should master:

• Operational efficiency: Understanding and optimising building systems and processes to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Preventive maintenance: Implementing regular maintenance schedules to prevent equipment failures and prolong the lifespan of assets.
• Sustainability practices: Adopting green building strategies and energy-efficient practices to reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
• Technological proficiency: Leveraging facility management software, IoT, and data analytics to make informed decisions and improve operational outcomes.
• Health and safety compliance: Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations to create a safe working environment.
• Financial acumen: Managing budgets, controlling costs, and optimising asset management for financial sustainability.
• Project management: Planning and executing projects efficiently, from minor repairs to major renovations.
• Leadership and communication: Leading teams effectively and communicating clearly with stakeholders to achieve organisational goals.

Mastering these competencies unlocks significant value in facilities management operations, improving efficiency, reducing costs, enhancing safety, and achieving greater sustainability.

Now that we have outlined the essential skills for facilities managers, let's explore the best courses for facilities management. These courses are designed to train you in various categories, ensuring you gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their roles.

Basic facilities management courses

Understanding the fundamentals of facilities management is crucial for anyone looking to enter or advance in this field. These facilities management courses for beginners provide a comprehensive introduction to the roles of a facilities manager, best practices, and foundational knowledge of building systems and maintenance. Whether you're new to the field or looking to solidify your foundational knowledge, these courses are the perfect starting point. Be sure to check out the free facilities management courses included.

1. Facility management course by Management Study Guide

Hosted on Udemy, this facility management course by Management Study Guide covers the essentials of facility management, including its importance, key functions, and principles. The course also explains the roles and responsibilities of a facilities manager and different management models. With 42 minutes of on-demand video, this course is accessible on mobile and TV and provides a certificate upon completion. It's ideal for facility managers, maintenance managers, and service department staff.

Price: Approximately $6

Link: Facility Management Course on Udemy

2. Fundamentals of facilities management - Live virtual learning course

This comprehensive fundamentals of facilities management course is offered as a live virtual learning experience hosted by BOMA New York. Spanning four weeks, it is designed to provide a solid foundation for anyone looking to build a career in facilities management. The course covers the importance of facilities management in business operations, strategies for internal marketing, and how to structure and manage operations and maintenance programs. Additionally, it focuses on effective personnel management, project management, and leadership skills. Participants will learn to align facility operations with information management, cost controls, and budgeting strategies, equipping them to make informed decisions and lead successful projects.

Price:

• BOMA New York scholarship student: Free
• BOMA NY member firm employee (Member rate): $1,300
• Non-member rate: $1,450

Link: Fundamentals of Facilities Management - Live Virtual Learning Course

3. Free facilities management short course

Oxford Home Study Centre offers a comprehensive facilities management short course that is completely free of charge. This introduction to facilities management course is perfect for those already in a facilities management role or individuals looking to explore this field. The course covers essential topics such as the functions and objectives of facilities management, the characteristics of a successful facilities manager, and the development of an effective management philosophy. It includes all study aids, learning resources, and dedicated tutor support, ensuring a high-quality learning experience. This course is a great opportunity to advance your career without any financial commitment.

Price: Free

Link: Facilities Management Short Course

Best practice 1: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

These courses focus on preventive maintenance, building systems management, and energy management strategies. They equip facilities managers with the skills to ensure efficient operations, minimise downtime, and optimise energy use. Now, let's explore some top courses in this category.

4. Healthcare equipment management and maintenance course

The healthcare equipment management and maintenance course, offered by the Hospital Engineering Academy, is designed to provide you with essential skills for managing and maintaining healthcare equipment. This course covers various types of healthcare equipment, maintenance techniques, safety considerations, regulations, standards, and inventory and asset management. Whether you are a healthcare professional, biomedical engineer, technician, or equipment manager, this course will equip you with the knowledge required to ensure optimal healthcare equipment performance, safety, and reliability. With expert guidance and interactive online discussions, you'll be well-prepared to excel in this field.

Price: €890

Link: Healthcare Equipment Management and Maintenance Course

5. Facility management - maintenance and repairs free online course

This course provides an in-depth introduction to the basics of facilities management, focusing on maintenance and repair duties. This course covers essential topics such as lease purchase, vendor management, health and safety, and the importance of having maintenance schedules. It also explores the impact of a well-managed workplace on employee productivity and behaviour. By the end of the course, you will understand the key responsibilities of a facilities manager and how to maintain and promote sustainability in an organisation. This CPD-accredited course includes 1.5-3 hours of learning and a final assessment.

Price: Free

Link: Facility Management - Maintenance and Repairs

6. IFMA's operations and maintenance course

This course provides in-depth training on the crucial aspects of facility management. It covers the identification of building deficiencies, including structures, exteriors, systems, interiors, and grounds, focusing on health, safety, security, and environmental considerations. You will learn about the acquisition, installation, maintenance, operation, and replacement of assets, and how to develop and monitor occupant service performance expectations. Additionally, the course includes guidance on selecting service providers, negotiating service-level agreements, monitoring performance, and resolving contract disputes. With 15 training hours and 1.5 IACET CEUs, this is an excellent advanced facilities management course, awarding a certificate upon completion.

Price: $650 (IFMA full member price: $525)

Link: IFMA's Operations and Maintenance Course

Sustainability and environmental management courses

These courses provide training on green building practices, waste management, and energy efficiency for sustainable facilities management. They equip professionals with the knowledge to implement eco-friendly strategies and optimise resource use. Now, let's explore the top courses in this category.

7. Sustainable facilities management course

Koenig Solutions offers a comprehensive sustainable facilities management course designed to equip learners with the skills necessary to manage facilities in an environmentally responsible and resource-efficient manner. The course covers various topics, including energy efficiency, sustainable building design, resource and waste management, and implementing green practices. Participants will learn to develop, measure, and monitor sustainable strategies, ensuring facilities adhere to high environmental standards. This course is ideal for facilities managers, environmental sustainability officers, and building operations managers looking to enhance their expertise in sustainable facility management.

Price: $200 per participant

Link: Sustainable Facilities Management Course

8. Environmental sustainability skills for facilities managers

The environmental sustainability skills for facilities managers course, offered by IWFM, is a two-day training designed to help facilities managers and supervisors understand their role in environmental sustainability. This course equips participants with the knowledge to improve their organisation's environmental performance. Sustainability experts deliver the course and include practical examples to ensure the training is relevant to workplace and facilities management professionals. Upon completion, participants can evaluate drivers for change, apply sustainability knowledge across the value chain, and implement resource efficiency strategies.

Price: £370 + VAT (member), £425 + VAT (non-member)

Link: Environmental Sustainability Skills for Facilities Managers

9. Introduction to sustainability free online course

9. Introduction to sustainability free online course

This free course, hosted on Coursera and led by Dr. Jonathan Tomkin from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, provides a foundational understanding of sustainability. It explores how human societies can endure amidst global change, ecosystem degradation, and resource limitations. Key topics include population, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics, policy, ethics, and cultural history. By examining these areas, participants gain insights into the principles of long-term welfare and the cross-disciplinary nature of sustainability, integrating humanities, sciences, and technical systems.

Price: Free

Link: Introduction to Sustainability

Courses on leveraging technology for efficient facilities management

These courses focus on utilising facility management software, integrating IoT, and leveraging data for decision-making. They equip professionals with the technological skills needed to enhance operational efficiency and streamline facility management processes. Now, let's explore some reputed courses in this category.

10. AutoCAD facilities management (space management)

This course on LinkedIn Learning is designed to teach you how to use AutoCAD for effective space management. Led by Autodesk certified instructor Shaun Bryant, this course guides you step-by-step through a real-world computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) project. You will learn to set up drawings, define spaces using polylines, create tables for data housing, and annotate drawings. You can export space management data to applications like Microsoft Excel for further analysis by the course's end. This course is ideal for beginners and intermediate users looking to enhance their AutoCAD skills in space management.

Price: Part of LinkedIn Premium subscription

Link: AutoCAD Facilities Management: Space Management

11. Facility information management and technology management course

IFMA's facility information management and technology management course equips facility managers with the skills to leverage digital tools and analyse facility data effectively. This course covers essential topics such as secure and efficient data collection, technology needs assessments, and the decision-making processes for updating or replacing technology. Participants will learn to communicate with the IT function and other stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the organisation's core business objectives. This course is ideal for facility managers looking to enhance their knowledge of modern facility technology solutions.

Price: $350 (IFMA full member price: $275)

Link: IFMA's Facility Information Management and Technology Management Course

Health, safety, and risk management training courses

These courses provide essential training on compliance with safety standards, risk assessment, and promoting health and wellness in the workplace. They equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure a safe and healthy environment. Now, let's explore some high-quality courses in this category.

12. Safety and security in facility management course

The LP Centre's safety-related course is an intensive one-week online program designed to equip facility managers with essential skills and knowledge. This course covers safety and security principles, risk management, emergency response planning, security staffing, electronic surveillance, and compliance with quality standards and legal requirements. Participants will learn to manage safety and security in their organisations effectively, ensuring business continuity and the protection of people, processes, and property. This course is ideal for facility, property, security, operations, and health and safety managers.

Price: £1,350

Link: Safety and Security in Facility Management

13. IFMA's risk management course

The IFMA risk management course is designed to equip facility managers with the knowledge and skills to support their organisation's risk management strategies and build resilience. Participants will learn to identify and assess vulnerabilities, prioritise risks, and develop mitigation plans. The course covers essential competencies, including emergency preparedness, business continuity planning, and training FM staff for business interruptions. This program, consisting of four eLearning chapters, quizzes, and a final assessment, ensures a comprehensive understanding of risk management in facility management.

Price: $350 (IFMA full member price: $275)

Link: IFMA's Risk Management Course

Financial management courses for facilities managers

These courses focus on budgeting, financial planning, cost control, and asset management in facilities management. They equip professionals with the financial skills needed to manage resources effectively and optimise operational costs. Now, let's explore the top courses in this category.

14. Budgeting for facilities management work plan course

This course on Udemy offers practical strategies for preparing, presenting, and negotiating funds for FM activities. It is led by Steven Ee, an IFMA Fellow, and provides FM practitioners with strategic budgeting skills, efficient estimation techniques, and practical solutions to common budgeting challenges. It covers operating and capital budgets and offers a systematic guide through the FM budgeting cycle. With one hour of on-demand video, it stands out among facilities management short courses for those seeking to enhance their budgeting skills quickly.

Price: Approximately $22

Link: Budgeting for Facilities Management Workplan

Real estate and property management courses

Real estate and property management courses provide essential training for facilities managers on real estate fundamentals, lease management, tenant relations, and space optimisation. These courses equip professionals with the skills needed to manage properties effectively and enhance tenant satisfaction. Let’s explore some of these top property and facilities management courses.

22. Property and facilities management - operations and maintenance

This course enhances your knowledge and skills in facility operations and maintenance, ensuring functionality, comfort, safety, and efficiency in a built environment. Focused on public sector contexts such as school boards and municipal environments, this course covers essential topics like legislative and regulatory requirements, sustainable building practices, and preventive maintenance programs. This course will give you the expertise needed to manage maintenance functions effectively, make informed decisions on building materials, and implement environmental initiatives.

Price: £955

Link: Property and Facilities Management - Operations and Maintenance

23. IFMA's real estate course

Facilities represent a large part of any organisation's assets. The IFMA real estate course equips facility managers with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of real estate management. This course delves into how real estate decisions impact facility management and the achievement of organisational goals. Participants will learn to develop and implement a real estate strategy, covering aspects such as acquiring, managing, and disposing of physical assets. Additionally, the course addresses project management principles for overseeing new construction and other major projects.

Price: $350 (IFMA full member price: $275)

Link: IFMA's Real Estate Course

24. Master real estate and property management course

This comprehensive course on Udemy, led by experienced property manager Harriet Payne, equips you with the essential skills to master real estate and property management. Covering topics from choosing the right property to ongoing management, this course provides a high-level overview and actionable insights to maximise your rental income. Participants will learn to prepare properties for rent, understand insurance and lease terms, and choose letting agents. With 1.5 hours of on-demand video, downloadable resources, and lifetime access, this is one of the most value-for-money property facilities management courses designed to turn your real estate investments into profitable ventures.

Price: Approximately $22

Link: Master Real Estate and Property Management

Strategic planning and business continuity courses

These courses are essential for facilities managers aiming to develop robust strategies, ensure uninterrupted operations, and effectively manage vendors. They equip professionals with the tools needed to anticipate challenges, maintain business operations during disruptions, and streamline vendor relations for optimal performance. Some top course recommendations include:

25. A brief guide to business continuity and disaster recovery

This course on Udemy provides essential knowledge on creating business continuity and disaster recovery plans. You will learn the differences between these two types of plans, what information each requires, and how to gather this information. The course also covers risk identification, understanding the impact of downtime, and strategies to mitigate it. It's designed for employees and business owners looking to protect their businesses from disasters, making it accessible to everyone regardless of prior knowledge in this area.

Price: $35

Link: A Brief Guide to Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

26. Facilities management strategies course

This comprehensive course on Mind Luster covers essential strategies for effective facilities management, focusing on developing and implementing robust plans. It includes 14 lessons, each designed to provide practical knowledge and skills for facilities managers. One of the key modules is dedicated to business continuity planning and management, equipping professionals with the tools to ensure uninterrupted operations during disruptions. The course offers valuable insights into strategic planning, risk management, and vendor relations, making it an indispensable resource for facilities managers aiming to optimise their operations and enhance their strategic capabilities.

Price: Free

Link: Facilities Management Strategies

27. Shifting from fixed to fluid course

The course "Shifting from Fixed to Fluid" addresses the evolving landscape of workplace management post-COVID-19. This training session explores new facility management and workplace optimisation strategies as businesses rethink the traditional office environment. Participants will learn how to adapt to fluid work models, understand the changing role of real estate, and drive business success through strategic facility management. This course is essential for professionals looking to stay ahead in a rapidly transforming industry, offering insights into managing key dilemmas and maximising workplace efficiency.

Price: $50 (IFMA full member price: $35)

Link: Shifting from Fixed to Fluid

Career advancement and certification courses for facility management

Reputable certification courses, such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM) and Facility Management Professional (FMP), are vital for career growth in facilities management. These courses focus on exam preparation and provide valuable credentials that enhance professional credibility and open new industry opportunities. Let's explore some top facility management certification online courses designed to elevate your career.

28. Certified facility manager (CFM)

The certified facility manager (CFM) credential from IFMA, accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board, is the globally recognised certification for facility management professionals. This comprehensive program validates your expertise and demonstrates your leadership and strategic abilities by covering 11 core competencies, including operations and maintenance, project management, finance, and sustainability. Achieving the CFM designation significantly enhances your professional credibility and career prospects, making it the industry standard in facility management certification.

The CFM certification process includes a rigorous exam that tests your knowledge and practical skills. With a minimum requirement of five years of facility management experience, this credential sets the benchmark for excellence in the industry. Many CFMs report salary increases and career advancement post-certification, joining a distinguished group of over 3,400 active professionals.

Price: The certification costs $595 USD for full members and $880 USD at the standard rate.

Link: Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

29. Certified professional maintenance manager (CPMM)

The certified professional maintenance manager credential validates the skills of facilities engineering professionals, focusing on maintenance and reliability management. It covers core competencies like predictive maintenance, CMMS, and reliability-centered maintenance. Ideal candidates include building operations managers, chief engineers, and maintenance supervisors.

Eligibility requires relevant work experience and education; different pathways are available based on your background. CPMM certification holders often report career advancements, underscoring its industry value.

Price: Members $2,000, Non-members $2,500

Link: Certified Professional Maintenance Manager

30. Certified restaurant facility professional (CRFP) certification program

Established in 2010, this certification program aims to elevate standards and increase core competencies in restaurant facility management. This credential designates professionals who demonstrate the essential knowledge and skills necessary to manage restaurant facilities effectively.

The CRFP designation provides a competitive career advantage, showcasing your expertise in the industry. New CRFPs are recognised in RFMA's Facilitator magazine and at the annual conference awards session, with a formal letter sent to your employer. Additionally, you gain access to the CRFP network and the authority to use the CRFP designation on professional materials.

To earn the CRFP, candidates must pass a competency-based exam covering 14 areas of knowledge, such as building components, kitchen equipment, HVAC systems, and financial planning.

Price: RFMA Members $300, Non-RFMA members $450

Link: Certified Restaurant Facility Professional

How do you integrate quality training into your facility management career development plan?

Ensuring your career in facilities management progresses effectively requires more than just taking courses. It's about how you incorporate that learning into your daily practice. The following insights will help you seamlessly blend training into your professional growth strategy.

Practical tips for making the most of facilities management training courses

To fully leverage these courses for career advancement in facilities management, professionals should strategically integrate them into their development plans. Here are some logical and valid strategies:

• Align courses with career goals: Select courses that directly align with your long-term career objectives, ensuring each step you take moves you closer to your desired role.
• Apply new learnings quickly: Use the knowledge and skills gained from the courses in your current job to reinforce learning and demonstrate your growing expertise to your employer.
• Commit to continuous learning: Regularly enrol in relevant courses to stay updated with the latest industry trends and regulations, showcasing your commitment to professional growth.
• Network with industry peers: Utilise courses as networking platforms to connect with industry professionals, instructors, and potential mentors who can provide guidance and support.
• Pursue recognised certifications: Aim for well-regarded certifications in the industry to enhance your professional credibility and competitiveness in the job market.

Harness the power of AI with Lingio’s training platform

Lingio, an innovative AI-powered frontline training platform, is designed to revolutionise training for facilities management professionals. It enables rapid course creation and distribution, ensuring vital information is delivered efficiently and effectively.

Facilities management involves numerous hazards and changing compliance standards. Lingio’s innovative AI Course Creator allows you to swiftly transform any text or document into an interactive course, ensuring employees receive crucial information immediately.

Success story: ISS and Lingio

ISS, a world leader in facility management services, partnered with Lingio to boost employee integration and enhance language skills. With over 100 nationalities within its workforce, ISS leveraged Lingio’s advanced AI-powered language training to improve communication and inclusivity. This partnership highlights Lingio’s effectiveness in providing high-quality training that supports diversity and operational excellence.

Lingio’s AI-driven platform is a game-changer for facilities management training, offering flexibility, speed, and comprehensive tracking. Embrace the future of training with Lingio and boost facility management operations.

Final thoughts on advancing your facilities management career

Ongoing learning and professional development are crucial in the dynamic field of facilities management. Investing in quality training, such as a certified facility manager course online, boosts your skills and opens up new career opportunities and advancements.

We encourage you to explore the diverse range of online facilities management courses we have curated for you.

Whether you're a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an experienced professional aiming to specialise further, there is likely a course on the list to meet your needs. By thoughtfully integrating these courses into your career development plan, you can enhance your expertise, achieve your career goals, and stay competitive in the job market.

To supercharge your learning journey, try Lingio today, our AI-powered Course Creator that revolutionises training for facilities management professionals.

FAQs

1. What is a facilities management course?

A facilities management course is an educational resource designed to teach professionals how to manage and maintain buildings and infrastructure effectively. It covers key topics such as operational efficiency, preventive maintenance, sustainability, health and safety, financial management, and technology use. These courses aim to equip learners with the skills needed to improve facility performance, ensure regulatory compliance, and support organisational objectives.

2. What are the benefits of taking facilities management courses?

Facilities management courses enhance your skills in areas like operational efficiency, maintenance, sustainability, and safety. They improve your ability to manage budgets, projects, and teams effectively. These courses help you stay updated with industry trends and technologies, increasing your job performance and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, certifications from these courses can boost your professional credibility and marketability.

3. Are online facilities management courses as effective as in-person courses?

While in-person courses offer direct interaction and networking opportunities, online facilities management courses provide several distinct advantages. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and schedule, which is ideal for busy professionals. They often include interactive elements, practical exercises, and comprehensive resources accessible anytime. Additionally, online courses can be more cost-effective and accessible, eliminating the need for travel and accommodation. These benefits make facilities management online courses a highly effective and convenient option for professional development in the field.

4. Are free facilities management courses effective for career advancement?

Yes, free facilities management courses are effective for career advancement. They provide essential knowledge and skills in key areas like maintenance, sustainability, and operational efficiency, helping you build a strong foundation. These courses are a great starting point if you're budget-constrained and want to test this type of training before investing in paid options. While they may not offer certifications, they demonstrate your commitment to professional development and can enhance your resume. By keeping up with industry trends and practices through these courses, you increase your value to employers and improve your career growth prospects.