Similarly, the Global Association for Quality Management claims project management certification holders often benefit from a salary increase of 20 percent or more [2]. PMI is not the only organization offering project management certification. Each certifying organization has its own education and experience requirements depending on the certification type and may require membership. You may find how to become a project manager a number of general and specialty project management certifications from a variety of certifying organizations beyond the PMP. You might consider earning more than one certification from various certifying organizations as you move forward in your career. Read on to learn more about available certifications, their costs, career benefits, and the steps to become a certified project manager.
- The Google Project Management Certificate can be completed in three months working approximately 20 hours per week, or in six months working 10 hours per week.
- Join thousands of PMs using our award-winning software—sign up now and get 30 days free.
- Currently, there are more than one million PMP® certification holders worldwide, and some estimate that there are more than 476,000 certified scrum professionals globally.
- Before you take your exam, ensure that you’re feeling your best by getting a good night’s sleep, eating something, and staying hydrated.
If you are just starting out in your career and want to learn more about project management or progress to the next stage in your career, these certifications are an excellent starting point. You can find project manager certifications through professional organizations, schools, and IT vendors. Since PMI is recognized as the top project management organization in the world, getting your PMP could give your credibility an instant boost so you can take your career to new heights.
Common Tools for Project Managers
It is applicable to project managers in virtually any industry, including health, construction, information technology (IT), and business. As you will see later, there are a number of different certifications relevant to project managers—each with a particular framework behind it. Your certification signifies that you have a solid grasp of that framework.
This cost vs. benefit analysis can help you understand whether PMP certification would be worth it for you. If you’re interested in IT project management, consider the IBM IT Project Manager Professional Certificate. This Profesional Certificate is a nine-course series covering project management, project lifecycle, Scrum Master essentials, and more. Upon completing either program, gain a shareable certificate to add to your resume, CV, or LinkedIn profile.
Frequently asked questions
Some people may not know where to start or have questions about the certification process. It’s worth noting that the best tools often depend on the specific needs and nature of the project, the methodologies in use (like Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall), and the preferences of the team and organization. Moreover, the ecosystem is ever-evolving, with new tools emerging regularly. Successful project managers stay updated on these tools and are adept at integrating them into their workflows to enhance efficiency and collaboration. Remember, while this pathway provides a structured approach, the world of software development values practical experience and problem-solving skills.
Project management is a skill that lends itself to many different types of roles in numerous industries with many opportunities for career growth. In this program, you’ll learn in-demand skills that will have you job-ready in less than six months. Project management certifications officially recognize a person’s project management competence. Project managers earn these certificates by taking exams or completing a training course. Some organizations view them as essential to progress in specific careers.
How to Sign Up for PMP Certification
For generalist certifications for project managers, exam fees range from approximately $130 upwards to $1,000 or more. The price varies according to where you are in the world, but in the US, it costs $555 for non-members to take the exam or $405 for PMI members. The simple answer to that question is yes, as a project management certification offers several benefits.
