PMP certification is highly sought after. PMP certificate holders made an average of 16% more than their peers in 2011 according to the PMI. This information is derived from the 2013 PMI Industry Growth Forecast: Project management between 2010 and 2020. There are a few requirements for this certificate, including education and relevant work experience. One of these options is the Certified Associate in Project Management certificate. This blog will help you choose the right one for you.
To begin, here are some quick facts and statistics about CAPM and PMP:CertificateProject Management Professional (PMP)Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)Certificate Holders (Jul 2015)665,65129,038 Eligibility Requirements (via PMI.org) Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or the global equivalent)
7.500 hours of experience in project management
35 hours of project management education must be completed before you sit for the exam
OR4 year degree
4,500 hours of leading and directing projects Secondary degree (higher school diploma or the global equivalent)
1,500 hours of experience in project management
OR23 hours of project administration education completed before you sit for the exam
Average Annual Salary in the U.S. (via Infosec Institute)$105,000$101,103 Why PMP & CAPM Have Different Entry-Levels
The entry requirements for PMP certification and CAPM certifications indicate the required experience levels. PMP certification is only for experienced project managers. These managers are looking to improve their careers or keep up with industry best practices. CAPM is for project team members who want to take on more responsibility. It is also for recent college graduates who are interested in a career as a project manager.
This distinction is evident in the way candidates are evaluated. Both exams are based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge. The difference is between theoretical understanding and practical knowledge. CAPM tests knowledge of processes and tools like the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). PMP, on the other hand, focuses on how to manage a project from start to finish. This includes managing stakeholders, conducting meetings and assessing risks. The PMI website has detailed exam outlines for both PMP and CAPM. Why Should You Take Both Qualifications?
This blog should have highlighted the main differences between PMP and CAPM. You may be wondering if there is any benefit to obtaining both certifications. With the help of PMBOK, CAPM can be a solid introduction to project management best practices. It can be a great starting point for PMP certification. This clear learning path will help you find work in your industry. The CAPM certificate is not accepted towards PMP’s formal education requirements. We offer accredited learning solutions for PMP candidates. With the help of multimedia and interactive learning material, our e-learning allows you to design your own course of study. Click here to learn more about the PMP online course. Click here to learn more about the CAPM online course.

What requirements do I need to meet in order to be eligible for PMP and CAPM?