What are the pros/cons between the two certifications? Other than price of course. I am looking to get certified myself, but want to do what's best. And is the PMP a better option over the CAPM? Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
If you have the required experience then of course PMP is far more better option for two reasons:
1- CAPM is more or less a knowledge based certification while PMP carries more value because it experience based (Simple comparison: CAPM is like a bachelor degree while PMP is like Masters - Somehow).
2- As far as I am aware, CAPM expires in 5 years and you will have to redo the examination. This is not the case with PMP where you can renew you certification every 3 years by maintaining 60 PDU’s so in terms of long term investment, PMP is more feasible.
Bare in mind that more or less, the material for CAPM is the same as that of PMP ... The exam is different in terms of difficulty, that’s all.
Good Luck ! Saving Changes...
Russell JamesManager, Business Intelligence| Trillium HealthCanandaigua, Ny, United States
If you're new to project management and its formal methodology, the CAPM is a nice yardstick to aim for to ensure you understand the core fundamentals, terms, and workflows. I got the CAPM certification when I was younger and first starting out, and despite not being the PMP, having it was a source of pride that I at least conceptually knew what I was talking about. As Rami pointed out though, it will eventually expire (as mine did!), but by then, you should be more than ready to take the PMP exam.
If you're already an experienced PM, then skip the CAPM and go straight for the PMP. Saving Changes...
Depends on why you wish to pursue a certification, Jennifer, but in general, the PMP is frequently referenced in job postings whereas the CAPM is very rarely asked for...
Kiron Saving Changes...
Luis AssadAdvisor| Barueri City AdministrationBarueri, São Paulo, Brazil
CAPM is a certification for those who are new to project management, while PMP is for those more experienced in the area. That´s basically the market vision of these certifications.
If you have the required experience, then you should definitely go for the PMP certification - check the requirements on PMI site to see if you qualify. If that´s not the case, then apply for the CAPM certification, while you gather the experience needed for the PMP credential.
Be aware that the study material for the CAPM credential exam is basically the latest version of the PMBOK guide. Study it, and you should do just fine. For the PMP credential the content required goes beyond the PMBOK guide, including statistics, quality control, finance, management theories, etc. Additional study material - like the acclaimed, well-known book by Rita Mulcahy - is strongly recommended, if not necessary. Enrolling in a PMP preparation course might also be good.
Either way, I wish you good luck in your journey! Saving Changes...
Tamer Zeyad SadiqAssistant Cost Manager| Turner & TownsendRiyadh, Ar Riyad, Saudi Arabia
As per colleagues said, it depends your experience. If you are a fresh graduations, try CAPM. But if you have two or three of experience, go to PMP. PMP is the best one!!! It is a strong and famous certificate to recognize your knowledge, skills and experience!!!
I agree with what everyone else said! I acquired the CAPM last year - and it really just understanding the terminology and knowledge areas. If you don't have the requirements for the PMP yet, CAPM was a great place to start to get my mind thinking and applying while gaining experience/hours to take the PMP. Saving Changes...
Anish AbrahamPrivacy Program Manager| University of WashingtonAuburn, Wa, United States
I concur with my colleagues here.
It all depends on your experience. Anyway good luck to you!! Saving Changes...
Drew CraigSr. Agile & Product Coach| VanguardPhiladelphia, Pa, United States
The PMP is a higher-level designation and is viewed more favorably. The CAPM is more 'entry-level'. If you meet the criteria to pursue the PMP, go for it. If not, starting with the CAPM may be an option.
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