There are various project management qualifications available, depending on location and specialty. Formal education and certifications, such as Project+ and PMP, can enhance skills and credibility. PMI is a leading association with prestigious certifications, including CAPM for beginners.
There are numerous project management qualifications that can be obtained by anyone wishing to enter the project management field. These qualifications vary depending on the country the project manager is located in and their specialty. The first universal project management qualification is a formal education in the field of project management. Many experienced project managers hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in business with a focus on project management, and will often have a master’s degree or equivalent in project management. In addition to an undergraduate degree, it is not uncommon to see a project manager with a graduate certificate from a local college or university.
In addition to completing a formal education, managers can increase their project management skills by earning a project management certification. For those starting a career in project management, a Project+ certification from CompTIA is a popular certification that demonstrates a person’s ability to manage projects. The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) also offers a Gold Seal certification in project management. A project management methodology entitled Projects in Controlled Environments 2 (PRINCE2), endorsed across the UK, allows project managers to be certified in the method. Similarly, the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) also has a Registered Project Manager (RegPM) certification that can help bolster one’s project management skills within the industry.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) is considered by many to be the world’s leading project management association. The association has over 500,000 members in over 185 different countries. PMI is also responsible for issuing the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, considered one of the most prestigious project management qualifications obtainable. The exam is arduous, and candidates cannot take the test unless they have a bachelor’s degree, at least 3 years of project management experience, and 35 hours of project management education.
For candidates who do not meet the project management qualifications for the PMP certification, PMI also offers a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) credential that is well respected in the industry. The CAPM is considered a basic certification and is designed for project managers with little or no experience. Unlike the PMP certification, candidates only need 1,500 hours of project management experience and at least 23 hours of project management education. Individuals who are serious about improving their project management skills can take an online PMP class from a PMI-authorized registered education provider.
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