Are you ready to take your project management career to the next level? Project management certifications are widely recognized for their value in the business world. Statistically, projects that are run by project managers and formal project management principles are much more likely to succeed than projects which are not. The business world understands this. So it makes sense that the key to unlocking new opportunities, increasing your earning potential, and standing out in a competitive job market is to have relevant PM certs. These demonstrate value to hiring managers.
The Hottest Project Management Certs in 2024
As of 2024, some of the hottest project management certifications to have for your career include:
The Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
This is the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the project management field and can greatly enhance your career prospects. Most job descriptions asking for project managers start with requiring the PMP certification. Go to PMI’s website for all the requirements and details about the PMP certification.
This is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the project management field and can greatly enhance your career prospects. Most job descriptions asking for project managers start with requiring the PMP certification. Go to PMI’s website for all the requirements and details about the PMP certification.
As a project manager myself, I sought and obtained the PM certification. This immediately opened many doors for me! My main study guide was Rita Mulcahy’s PMP Exam Prep (pictured below with a link to Amazon). I had actually used a variety of sources in preparing for my PMP exam. In hindsight, I realize that all I needed was this resource. It is hands down the most complete, exhaustive review on the principles of project management and how they apply to exactly passing the PMP exam. I highly recommend it if you’re serious about passing the exam.
Certified ScrumMaster (CMS) certification
Agile and Scrum methodologies are becoming increasingly popular in project management. Having a CSM certification can demonstrate your expertise in these areas. There are many additional certifications relatd to Scrum as well, with one, Product Owner, that I discuss below. Scrum Alliance is a good source for understanding this cert and other ones related to it.
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) Project Management Certification
This entry-level certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) can be a good starting point for those new to project management. Again, the source of truth for this cert is PMI.
SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) Project Management Certification
SAFe is a framework for implementing Agile at scale in large organizations. Having a SAFe certification, such as SAFe Agilist (SA), SAFe Practitioner (SP), or SAFe Product Owner/Product Manager (POPM), can demonstrate your proficiency in implementing Agile practices at an enterprise level. Check out scaledagile.com for more information.
PMI Agile Certified Practioner (PMI-ACP) Project Management Certification
The Project Management Institute (PMI) designed this cert for project managers with Agile experience. It demonstrates your ability to lead Agile projects and teams effectively. PMI.ORG is again the source of truth for this cert.
I obtained this certification myself and it really opened doors for my project management career! The primary study guide I used was a hard copy book called PMI-ACP Exam Prep by Mike Griffiths (pictured below with a link to Amazon). This is great resource and teaches you the important concepts of agile in clear instructions and great arts and charts.
Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
This certification is focused on the product owner role in Scrum teams. It can be beneficial for project managers who work closely with product owners and stakeholders. Refer to Scrum Alliance’s website for more.
Lean Six Sigma Certification
Lean Six Sigma combines Lean principles and Six Sigma methodologies to improve efficiency and quality in project management. Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt can enhance your project management skills and make you more marketable in various industries. There are many websites describing the different flavors of Sig Sigma certification available. The best thing to do is conduct some research. One place to start is ASQ.ORG. Another is ISAAC.ORG.
The above list of certs is not an exhaustive one, but it contains those I’ve found most relevant to my career. They are a great way to invest in yourself, increase your professional equity, and be taken seriously. Remain current and competitive by considering one or more certs!
What certifications have you found valuable? Please share your experience in the comments! 👍🙂
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One response to “Project Management Certification Must-Haves for Project Managers”
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