PMP® stands - as you probably know by now - for "Project Management Professional." This means that the PMP certificate attests to a certain level of experience and knowledge and thus ultimately to a certain level of professionalism.
However, it also means that PMP is not for everyone.
The certification is aimed at people who have worked in project management for some time and have relevant experience.
For example, we often get inquiries from students fresh out of university who may even have a degree in project management and now want to complete PMP as soon as possible (which shows how respected and in-demand this certification is on the job market).
For aspirants who are just starting or aiming for their project management career, there are more suitable certifications such as the "Certified Associate Project Manager, CAPM® for short, " also awarded by PMI.
This lesson of our roadmap is aimed at those unsure whether the PMP or the CAPM is a better fit for them and should help clarify this question.
If you are not one of these candidates, you can move on to the next stop on our roadmap ...
PMP versus CAPM: The Basics
Let's start with the headline descriptions that the PMI themselves offer.
PMP®
The Project Management Professional (PMP)® is the most important industry-recognized certification for project managers.
The PMP is the gold standard of project management certification. Recognized and demanded by organizations worldwide, the PMP validates your competence to perform in the role of a project manager, leading and directing projects and teams.
CAPM®
Regardless of your career stage, the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® is an asset that will distinguish you in the job market and enhance your credibility and effectiveness working on — or with — project teams.
The CAPM demonstrates your understanding of the fundamental knowledge, terminology, and processes of effective project management.
So, PMP is the senior qualification. It marks you out as a fully-formed and capable project manager. It says you are ready to take on and lead the management of a project.
CAPM, on the other hand, is about understanding project management. It demonstrates that you have the basics that a project manager needs. But, by omission, suggests you are not yet ready to perform the role.
PMP versus CAPM: Which One is Right for Me?
The PMP® is a higher-level qualification. It is also more prestigious within the Project Management community. It is a badge that employers value too. So it will help you with both securing a role, and achieving higher remuneration.
So, if you meet the requirements, we recommend you try for PMP Certification rather than CAPM®.
But if you don't have the right experience, you may be eligible for the CAPM exam. It is easier to do, with a simpler syllabus and less demanding exam. So it also serves to boost your confidence, as a stepping stone to the PMP exam. CAPM certification will also help you get the roles you'll need, to get the experience that the PMP requirements demand.
Happily, the exam prep materials and resources for both qualifications are the same. You can buy and use the same exam prep books and courses for both certification exams!
If I don't yet qualify for the PMP® Exam, is CAPM® worth Getting?
Yes. CAPM can help you in many ways:
- At the very start of your career, you'll need at least 2-3 years of project management experience before you can take the PMP exam. Realistically, this can be nearer to 5.
- CAPM is a valuable qualification in its own right.
- The qualification will help you secure roles that will give you experience.
- You'll get a headstart in understanding the PMBOK Guide and the basic material.
- Practice taking the PMI exams, and therefore extra confidence.
- Buying, trying and owning some of the Exam prep resources.
- You can score CAPM Contact Hours for your PMP application.
Please refer to the following article to clear all those questions you might have:
The choice between CAPM® vs PMP® is a big one.
When you know the differences between the CAPM exam and the PMP exam, you can make the best decision for yourself and your career. You’ll be able to choose the right certification and that choice you make should be the one that aligns with your personal goals for your career path.
The article answers all the following questions:
- What is CAPM Certification?
- What Are the Requirements of the PMP and CAPM Certifications?
- How Are the Exams Different?
- Is the CAPM Exam Easier Than the PMP Exam?
- How Do I Upgrade from CAPM to PMP?
- What Is the Pass Rate for the CAPM Exam?
- How Much Do the CAPM and PMP Exams Cost?
- How Long Is My CAPM Certificate Valid For?
- How Do I Renew My CAPM Certificate and PMP Certificate?
- What Are the Benefits of CAPM vs PMP Certification?
- How Do PMP and CAPM Compare?
- What is Right For You: CAPM or PMP?
Conclusion
This is always going to be a personal career decision. For many readers, your strategy will be obvious. But if it's not, we hope we have given you the facts you need, to consider your choice carefully.
And, if still in doubt, write in the comments and ask for help. Someone in the community will pick it up and get in contact with you; as promised.
Regards,
Markus