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If you’re a project leader trying to advance your career, you’ve undoubtedly heard those three letters mentioned in every accreditation discussion you’ve had. But if you need to learn what PMP means or whether this certification is worthwhile, let’s delve into the specifics so you understand what the Certification program is, who really should apply, and how to become certified.
What is PMP Certification?
The Project Management Professional credential is a widely renowned credential issued by the Project Management Institute, a nonprofit professional organization based in the United States. It differs from other project management certificates in that it is not restricted to a certain region, industry, or technique.
Instead, you must grasp the best project management standards and procedures and demonstrate the necessary experience, ability, and capability to manage any project and accomplish the appropriate outcomes. The PMP certification is the most demanded credential among project managers due to its flexibility.
Because qualified project managers are in high demand in many sectors, the PMP certification is regarded as the national standard and, therefore, will distinguish you from non-certified experts.
To obtain the PMP certification, you must first satisfy the qualifications, then apply online through a three-step procedure, then undergo an audit (if chosen), and then take a 180-question, multiple-choice test based on the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK) reference.
Who Can Choose PMP Certification?
A project is a short-term undertaking to develop a product, service, or outcome. According to this description, many sectors, from construction to IT, require qualified project managers to achieve their project objectives. The Project management Certification validates your knowledge and skills and is required for all project managers or anybody who manages projects.
If you wish to work as a project manager, you must obtain the PMP certification:
- Increase your professional alternatives.
- Increase your earning capacity based on the earning capacity
- Project management professional project managers make 22% more than their counterparts on average.
- Develop your skills; the PMP certification takes extensive preparation, and you will discover industry best practices.
Do You Need Any Prior Experience to Get PMP Certification
To be qualified for the PMP Certificate Program, you must possess some experience in project management, proper learning, and project management training/education. The needed experience largely depends on your degree of formal education. More information is available in the PMI Certifications Handbook.
You must have 7,500 hours of experience managing and supervising projects and 35 hours of program management training if you possess a secondary degree (high school degree, equivalent qualifications, or the worldwide equivalent). Pursuing a four-year degree will require 4,500 hrs of experience in project management and 35 hrs of project management coursework.
When a person’s job title does not include “project manager,” they may become concerned. Remember that a project is only a short-term attempt to generate a product, service, or outcome; therefore, any professional experience you’ve had in developing any of those counts.
Is PMP Certification Worth It?
PMP certification has significant advantages, which are as follows:
- It instills trust in your employers and stockholders: the PMP certification assesses your proficiency as a project manager and raises the likelihood that you will complete the project objectives on schedule and budget.
- It broadens your job opportunities because the PMP is recognized and appreciated in any place or business. There will be no constraints on your path if you desire to change jobs.
- It keeps your abilities sharp: the PMP test demands you to completely comprehend and implement project management principles, and the credential is valid for 3 years. However, it is kept up by obtaining professional development units (PDUs). They are a technique of demonstrating that you are up to speed on project management innovations.
- You can access a wealth of information and networking possibilities as a PMI member. You will still have access to regional chapters in all urban centers across the world, as well as the opportunity to take part in group conferences, discussion boards, and conferences geared toward the acquisition of PDUs required to fulfill ongoing certification requirements (CCRs), ensuring that you continue to stay an active authorization holder in great standing status.
Different Types of PMP Certification You Can Choose
The PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP) is the most prominent and well-recognized certification. However, PMI provides several different certifications appropriate for individuals at various phases of their careers.
- Project Management Professionals
The PMP is one of this sector’s most well-known and respected credentials. The certification procedure comprises a demanding exam that assesses your understanding of people management, process management, and effective decision-making. Professionals with project management expertise who wish to advance their careers
- Certified Associate in Project Management
The CAPM is designed for those who want to accomplish tasks, take on additional accountability, or add skills in project management to their portfolio. The CAPM is available to professionals at any level of their project management careers, making it an excellent option for those just getting started.
- PMI Agile Certified Practitioner
The PMI-ACP validates your knowledge in Agile project management, a methodology that stresses short sprints and adaptability. The test includes 100 scored items covering topics including issue identification and resolution and adaptive planning—project managers with some Agile expertise who plan to use Agile in their teams or organizations.
How to Get the PMP Certification
If you want to get the PMP certification, here is a pathway to be followed:
- Meet With Eligibility Criteria
Each PMI certification has its own set of prerequisites to satisfy to take the exam. Before applying, ensure you have just documentation of any relevant experience in project management.
- Apply for Certification
Once you believe you are in a good enough position to take a test, you can sign up with PMI and register for certification. If you are authorized, you will pay the exam price and arrange an exam.
- Get Exam
Certification tests often last three to four hours and include multiple-choice, numerous different, corresponding, geolocation, and fill-in-the-blank questions. A committee review may be required as part of the certification procedure for some higher certifications.
- Consider Certification
Each PMI certification has a three-year validity period. You’ll need to obtain a certain number of PDUs (leadership development units) to keep your certification during that period. PDUs are hours spent learning, teaching, or volunteering in your field of project management certification. The number of PDUs required to maintain your certification
Bottom Line
Learning project management skills will help you become a more competitive job applicant and an effective leader in the business and for more such project management courses, you can visit Simplilearn. Moreover, the PMP certification allows you to earn a reputable job and better salary packages. You can opt for the type of PMP certification required to build a successful career.
