20 Best Project Management Certifications in 2024

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Best Project Management Certifications is an exciting, multidimensional discipline; becoming certified can significantly elevate one’s skills and credibility in this arena. At the forefront of project management certifications is the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential offered by Project Management Institute (PMI). This internationally acclaimed credential stands out among its competitors as an exceptional credential. PMP certification provides professionals with an in-depth knowledge of project management principles, methodologies and best practices.

Another notable certification is Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), which focuses on agile project management methods. Scrum Alliance provides Certified Scrum Masters as a valuable service to those involved with software development or other iterative project environments. PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environments), widely utilized across Europe, emphasizes an organized approach to project management.

Certifications provide project managers with validation for their expertise while opening up numerous career options and increasing earning potential within the competitive project management landscape. Aspiring project managers can select certifications which match up with their career goals and industry preferences in order to advance their professional journey.

What is a Project Management Certification?

Project Management Certifications are formal recognitions granted to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills and competency in project management. Such certificates may be granted by professional organizations or institutions with established standards for effective project management practices; typically requiring meeting education and experience requirements before passing a standardized examination before becoming certified.

Project management certifications come in many shapes and forms to accommodate various methodologies and approaches in project management. Some popular examples are Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environments), and Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP).

Earning a project management certification not only validates an individual’s understanding of project management principles but also increases their credibility in the industry. Professionals can demonstrate their dedication to ongoing learning and development by keeping up with industry best practices while standing out amongst a competitive job market by becoming certified.

How To Choose Best Project Management Certifications

Choosing the best project management certification depends on various factors, including your career goals, industry, preferred project management methodology, and the level of experience you have. Here are steps to help you make an informed decision:

Identify Your Career Goals: Consider your long-term career objectives and the type of projects you want to manage. Different certifications cater to specific industries and project management approaches.

Research Certification Options: Investigate the most recognized and respected project management certifications. Some well-known certifications include PMP, PRINCE2, Agile/Scrum certifications, and others.

Understand Certification Requirements: Review the prerequisites for each certification. Some certifications require a certain level of education, project management experience, or specific training. Choose a certification that aligns with your qualifications.

Consider Project Management Methodology: Understand the project management methodologies associated with each certification. For example, PMP is often associated with traditional project management, while Agile and Scrum certifications are more focused on iterative and flexible methodologies.

Evaluate Industry Relevance: Consider the industry or sector in which you work. Certain certifications may be more relevant and valued in specific industries. Research which certifications are commonly sought after in your field.

Check Certification Organization Reputation: Ensure that the organization offering the certification is reputable and recognized in the industry. Certifications from well-established organizations are more likely to be respected by employers.

Assess Time and Cost Commitments: Evaluate the time and financial investment required to obtain and maintain the certification. Consider your schedule and budget to ensure that you can commit to the necessary preparation and ongoing requirements.

Explore Exam Format and Difficulty: Understand the format of the certification exam and assess whether it aligns with your preferred learning and testing style. Consider the difficulty level of the exam and ensure that you are prepared for the challenge.

Review Recertification Requirements: Check the recertification requirements for each certification. Some certifications require ongoing professional development or the completion of continuing education units to maintain your certification status.

Seek Advice and Feedback: Talk to professionals in your industry who hold relevant certifications. Seek their advice and learn from their experiences. Online forums and communities can also provide valuable insights.

Consider Combining Certifications: Depending on your career goals, you may choose to combine certifications to broaden your skill set. For example, obtaining both PMP and Agile certifications can make you a well-rounded project manager.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision on the best project management certification for your specific needs and career aspirations.

Here Is List of Best Project Management Certifications in 2024

• PMP
• CAPM: Certified Associate in Project Management
• CSM: Certified ScrumMaster
• CompTIA Project+ certification
• PRINCE2 Foundation/PRINCE2 Practitioner
• APM: Associate in Project Management
• MPM: Master Project Manager
• PPM: Professional in Project Management
• CPD: Certified Project Director
• CPM: Certified Project Manager (IAPM)
• PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)
• Project Management in IT Security (PMITS)
• CPMP: Certified Project Management Practitioner
• Project Management Course Bundle (28 Courses in 1)
• ACP: Agile Certified Practitioner
• CSSGB: Certified Six Sigma Green Belt Certificate
• CSSBB: Certified Six Sigma Black Belt
• GPM-IPMA Levels A–D
• Google Project Management: Professional Certificate
• AgilePM Certification

20 Best Project Management Certifications in 2024

1. PMP

The PMP Certification is widely considered one of the premier project management courses, boasting more than 1 billion certificate holders worldwide and widely acknowledged as an authoritative standard in project management certification.

As a Project Management Professional (PMP), your certification tests your abilities to lead processes, manage people, and understand management principles. With your PMP credential in hand, you can work in almost any industry using any methodology and location.

2. CAPM: Certified Associate in Project Management

If you want a certification that can set you apart in the job market and add credibility as a project manager, CAPM is an ideal option to consider.

CAPM validates your knowledge, terminology and processes essential for effective project management – such as risk evaluation and communication management – while remaining valid for five years without the need to renew through Professional Development Units (PDUs).

3. CSM: Certified ScrumMaster

Since Agile project methodologies are rapidly being adopted by IT organizations, IT professionals are rapidly seeking certifications that will allow them to become Certified Scrum Masters for agile software development projects.

ScrumMaster certification is one of the premier agile project management certifications. As a certified ScrumMaster, you will become familiar with the Scrum framework as well as team roles, accountabilities, events, artifacts, communication rules and building an environment for Scrum Team to perform at its maximum capability in the workplace.

4. CompTIA Project+ certification

CompTIA Project+ certification is intended for IT business professionals coordinating or managing small to mid-sized projects in IT. It serves as an entry-level exam appropriate for those with one year of project management experience who oversee less complex endeavors.

Project+ is more versatile than other certifications as it covers essential project management concepts beyond any one methodology or framework. CompTIA certification helps you learn about Kanban boards, Gantt charts, constraints tools team collaboration documentation and change management among many others.

5. PRINCE2 Foundation/PRINCE2 Practitioner

PRINCE2 project management certificates are widely renowned and highly desired among potential employers. PRINCE2 certifications for project managers new to project management are designed specifically to be accessible, offering two distinct levels: Foundation and Practitioner.

PRINCE2 Foundation provides an ideal entryway. This introductory course gives participants a solid grasp of PRINCE2, its principles, processes, PM roles and responsibilities, as well as any related terminology.

Once you have mastered the fundamentals, PRINCE2 Practitioner takes your project management skills a step further. You’ll gain confidence to use PRINCE2 in real-world situations with greater ease.

The Foundation exam tests your knowledge of PRINCE2 theory, to make sure you comprehend its main concepts and principles.
However, the Practitioner exam measures your ability to use PRINCE2 on real projects by including scenarios designed to demonstrate how well you apply its principles practically. These exams serve as critical qualifications factors and allow us to measure both your theoretical knowledge of PRINCE2 and practical application when trying out test-driven development techniques.

6. APM: Associate in Project Management

The Associate in Project Management (APM)(tm) certificate is an entry-level credential for Project Management Framework. It certifies that candidates possess basic knowledge regarding entry-level project management strategies.

No matter where your career path lies – graduate, entry-level practitioner, or anyone simply interested in project management – AMP certification stands as an internationally recognised project management certification.

7. MPM: Master Project Manager

The American Academy of Project Management (AAPM) grants Master Project Manager (MPM) certification to applicants who fulfill its commission requirements regarding education, training, experience, industry knowledge ethics and continuing education.

Not just project managers but those with business analysis or technical responsibilities with a college degree may take part in this certification program.

8. PPM: Professional in Project Management

GAQM hosts an intermediate Professional in Project Management (PPM) course. This professional certification offers modules on planning, executing, controlling and concluding projects.

Training you to develop project schedules, marketing strategies and different approaches to leading and managing projects is also included. Furthermore, the course seeks to expand on existing knowledge while developing experienced project managers capable of dealing with risks, crises management and motivating teams towards maximum performance.

9. CPD: Certified Project Director

GAQM’s Certified Project Director (CPD) certification is internationally acclaimed and considered one of the highest levels of project management.

This course is tailored for senior and experienced project management practitioners with familiarity in handling complex project needs such as budget, scope creep, risk analysis and cost estimates. If your goal is to become an expert project manager beyond simply PPM then this course is definitely suitable.

10. CPM: Certified Project Manager (IAPM)

IAPM (International Association of Project Managers) is an internationally acclaimed certification body providing project management certifications that offer clear competitive advantages to both experienced project managers as well as those just beginning.

Certified Project Manager (IAPM) certification is for individuals looking to effectively oversee and execute projects. It serves as proof of their soft skills, hard skills, and theoretical project management knowledge.

11. PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)

The PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP) certification is a globally respected validation of an individual’s expertise in recognizing, analyzing, mitigating and responding to project risks.

Professionals looking to advance their careers in project management, risk management and related fields will find this certification an invaluable asset.

No matter where your project management career stands, the PMI-RMP certification can take your risk management abilities to new heights. By investing in this invaluable program, you can gain the knowledge and expertise needed to drive project success while furthering professional growth.

12. Project Management in IT Security (PMITS)

EC-Council offers Project Management in IT Security (PMITS) certification as a means to demonstrate your ability to successfully oversee IT security projects.

This certification will primarily target people and organizations looking to make changes in their project management style for team collaboration or IT security.

13. CPMP: Certified Project Management Practitioner

CPMP, developed and provided by the Chartered Management Institute, aims to promote organizational progress by developing management and leadership competencies within organizations. It’s ideal for Sales Managers, Marketing Managers, Advertising professionals and Executives looking to broaden their managerial and leadership abilities.

This course, offered by the only charted professional body in Canada, provides online certification that provides tutor support. It aims to enable professionals develop technical leadership and project management capabilities so that projects run successfully.

14. Project Management Course Bundle (28 Courses in 1)

Online Project Management Training Certification Bundle encapsulates various courses under one training program and can provide 28 certifications upon successful completion of all 28 courses.

This online course gives you access to lifelong access, 20 mock tests to prepare for, 300+ hours of video tutorials and mobile access – as well as being flexible enough for mobile use and adjusting pace of courses accordingly. Coverage areas include project scheduling, integration management, quality management, scope management and equipping you with skills needed to implement all of today’s latest project management software and technologies available today.

15. ACP: Agile Certified Practitioner

This certification is offered directly by PMI and follows an agile project management approach while emphasizing its use and supporting Agile skills and methodology for project management.

With this course, you will gain an extensive overview of Agile practices such as Kanban and Scrum (software development), extreme programming techniques such as extreme programming as well as its usability along with how they should be implemented. This coursework is ideal for agile organizations and teams and contains various training modules which teach individuals about implementing Agile practices within the Scrum framework.

16. CSSGB: Certified Six Sigma Green Belt Certificate

Certified Six Sigma Black Belt certification is one of the most significant of all Certified Six Sigma credentials, administered by a Council for Six Sigma Certification and designed to build your problem solving abilities as a project manager.

The Green Belt Body of Knowledge encompasses six key areas, such as organizational overview, project definition, measurement, real-time data analysis, improvement and control – covering such aspects as Lean principles, statistical hypothesis testing project management as well as sustain improvements for process capability.

Based upon the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) framework, this certification can take two forms – either through in-depth knowledge of a “Body of knowledge” or via self-study guides available free to all candidates. Both options suggest excellence in process analysis, project planning, resource management and performance monitoring.

17. CSSBB: Certified Six Sigma Black Belt

CSSBB certification is another internationally-recognized project manager certification offered by the Council for Six Sigma Certification, following similar criteria as for Green Belt certificate acquisition.

This open-book format examination can be taken both online and at testing centers throughout the world. A candidate has three attempts at passing, so they should devise an effective plan in order to score at least 420 out of 600 on this examination and obtain certification, providing many high-paying employment opportunities.

18. GPM-IPMA Levels A–D

By virtue of GPM certification, IPMA traces its roots back to this association and finds inspiration within them.

Though German in origin, this certification is internationally respected. With Level A to Level D options to choose from, find one that best reflects your expertise.

19. Google Project Management: Professional Certificate

Google Certification has become increasingly popular within project management culture with their six course series and is highly recommended to anyone seeking to enter project management as a profession or gain invaluable insight.

Your learnings encompass concepts like quality management, strategic thinking, risk management, project management, time management and stakeholder(corporate) management – among many others. Although this certification is widely recognized by leading companies worldwide, due to not being accredited, some employers might not consider it valuable addition to your skill set.

20. AgilePM Certification

One of the most renowned certifications in Agile Project Management, AgilePM training from APMG offers two levels of certifications; AgilePM Practitioner and Foundation. Both levels share equal importance; this course guarantees deep knowledge about becoming an Agile project manager by blending agile practices with complete governance and control of Project Management.

While studying for this certification you gain practical understanding of its principles and philosophy; applying this in real-life industries will further your comprehension of roles and responsibilities.

Benefits of having a Best Project Management Certifications 

Attaining project management certifications can bring numerous advantages to professionals looking to advance their careers in this area. Some key benefits may include:

Credibility and Recognition: Project management certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) are widely acknowledged within the industry, adding credibility and showing your dedication to excelling in project management. Holding these renowned designations adds prestige and shows your dedication to project excellence.

Career Advancement: Employers often value project management certifications and require them for certain positions or promotions. Gaining these credentials could open doors to more opportunities and boost your chances of climbing the career ladder.

Skill Enhancement: Certification processes involve intensive study and preparation, leading to a deeper understanding of project management methodologies, tools, and best practices – knowledge which can directly apply in real world situations to further your skills as a project manager.

Global Recognition: Certifications like PMP are widely acknowledged worldwide, making it easier for professionals to collaborate internationally on projects with teams from diverse nations and industries.

Increased Earning Potential: Certified project managers often command higher salaries than non-certified counterparts, as employers recognize the increased expertise proven through credible certifications.

Networking Opportunities: Certification programs often provide networking opportunities through forums, events and networking groups. Establishing relationships among your certified peers can offer invaluable advice and assistance throughout your career journey.

Adaptability to Industry Trends: Many project management certifications, particularly those related to agile methodologies, emphasize adaptability to changing industry trends. Being up-to-date on the most effective project management approaches is vital in today’s ever-evolving business environment.

Professional Development: Certifications often mandate ongoing professional development through continuing education or renewal processes to keep certified professionals abreast of industry developments and ensure they maintain a high-level of competence throughout their careers.

An investment in project management certifications provides both immediate and long-term benefits in terms of career advancement, knowledge accumulation and industry recognition.

Do You Need a Management Certification?

Recruitment firms today need a method for narrowing down candidates applying for jobs. Management certification and job experience are two such filters; others may include salary expectations or residential location.

Management certification proves exposure and experience with managing projects; it demonstrates familiarity with key topics while possessing all necessary skills needed to become certified by an institute; furthermore it shows dedication and willingness to learn new things for better performance – increasing chances of standing out amongst peers.

Features Of Best Project Management Certifications 

The features of the best project management certifications often include a combination of rigorous standards, broad recognition, and a focus on industry-relevant skills. Here are some common features to look for in top project management certifications:

Global Recognition: A reputable project management certification should be recognized and respected on a global scale. This ensures that your certification holds value regardless of your location or the industry you work in.

Industry Relevance: The certification should align with industry best practices and be relevant to the type of projects you are likely to manage. Consider certifications that are widely accepted in your specific industry.

Comprehensive Body of Knowledge: A top certification typically covers a comprehensive body of knowledge, encompassing various aspects of project management. This includes project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.

Education and Experience Requirements: Look for certifications that have clear education and experience requirements. This ensures that certified professionals have a solid foundation of knowledge and practical experience in project management.

Standardized Exam: A standardized exam is a hallmark of a credible certification. The exam should be well-structured, challenging enough to validate skills, and cover a range of relevant topics within the field of project management.

Renewal or Recertification Process: Many reputable certifications have a renewal or recertification process, requiring professionals to demonstrate ongoing commitment to professional development. This ensures that certified individuals stay current with industry trends.

Professional Code of Conduct: A certification program often includes a professional code of conduct or ethics that certified individuals are expected to adhere to. This emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior in project management.

Continuing Education Opportunities: Look for certifications that provide opportunities for continuing education. This can include workshops, seminars, webinars, and other resources that help certified professionals stay up-to-date with the latest developments in project management.

Recognition by Employers: The best certifications are recognized and valued by employers. They may even be listed as preferred qualifications in job postings. Check the demand for the certification in your industry.

Association with Reputable Organizations: Certifications offered by well-known and respected professional organizations in project management add to their credibility. For example, certifications from the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the Scrum Alliance are highly regarded.

Versatility in Methodologies: A top certification should be adaptable to different project management methodologies. Whether you are involved in traditional project management, Agile, Scrum, or other approaches, the certification should enhance your skills in various contexts.

Community and Networking Opportunities: Certifications often come with access to a community of certified professionals. This networking can be valuable for sharing insights, seeking advice, and staying connected with others in the field.

Best Project Management Certifications Conclusion

Pursuing project management certifications is an investment in professional growth and career advancement. These certifications serve as powerful credentials that not only validate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in project management but also elevate global credibility. Selecting an appropriate certification must take into account personal career goals, industry requirements and preferred project management methodologies. Benefits of Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification can be seen across a variety of fields – be they Agile certifications or any other credible credentials.

From increased earnings and career opportunities, to staying abreast of industry trends and fostering a network of certified professionals, project management certifications make a valuable addition to a well-rounded and accomplished project management career. By supporting continued learning, upholding ethical standards and garnering global recognition with these certifications, professionals become leaders within this ever-evolving field of project management.

Best Project Management Certifications FAQ