In any project management career, continuous professional education becomes essential, especially related to PM certifications.
In a similar manner as other technical certs, companies want to know that a candidate truly knows their stuff. Additionally, it helps managers stay abreast of the latest innovations in this area, including Agile, Scrum, and more.
With a goal of keeping your managerial career trending upwards, peruse this list of the best project management certifications. Continuing education needs to be an important focus of anyone working in technology, with project managers as no exception. Earning a few relevant certifications ensures your management skills never become obsolete.
Here are the Best Project Management Certifications
The PMP Remains The Gold Standard in Project Management Certifications
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification continues to be one of the most popular certifications in the technology field. The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers courses and exams to earn a PMP. Any project manager with a few years of experience needs to consider quickly earning it when qualified. Many open PM positions, especially in asset management, list a PMP as a requirement.
Notably, a PMP helps project managers enjoy a lucrative career. A recent PMI study highlights that the median annual salary for those with a PMP is $116,000. The top 25 percent of the study’s respondents enjoy median salaries closer to $140,000 each year. Other studies within the tech industry also highlight the value of the PMP when it comes to lucrative salaries. In short, it’s a must for any project manager.
Not surprisingly, the PMP boasts extensive requirements. These include a four-year degree, 4500 hours of leading projects, and 35 credit hours of project management education. Those without a bachelor’s degree need 7500 hours of experience leading projects along with PM education. The rigorous exam contains 200 questions while taking 4 hours. Critically, certification holders also need 60 professional development units over each three-year period to retain their PMP designation.
Emerging project managers or tech pros interesting in that career path need to explore PMI’s Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) designation. Fewer requirements and an easier exam make this certification perfect for those beginning their managerial career.
The CSM For Project Managers Working at Agile Companies
Project managers employed at companies leveraging Agile, Scrum, or its variants need to explore the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification. The Scrum Alliance offers the CSM and other related certs covering a variety of IT roles on Agile projects. Notably, the prerequisites are less vigorous compared to the PMP. Completing a two-day course and passing a 60-question, one-hour test earns you the certification.
Ready to Grow Your Career in Project Management?
If you need help with your next tech job search, contact the team at The CERES Group. As one of the top technology staffing agencies in Boston, we know the companies looking for project management talent. Connect with us soon!