What Is a Project Management Certification?

What Is a Project Management Certification?
If you're interested in breaking into the project management profession, you may be wondering: what is a project management certification? Do I need one? If so, which one should I pursue, how difficult is it to achieve, and what can I do with it?
If you’re new to the field or want to move into a project management position, getting a certification is a smart way to demonstrate your abilities and distinguish yourself from other candidates. If you already have informal project management experience, getting certified in project management can add depth, breadth, and value to your current skill set, helping you transition into a formal project manager role. Not only that, but certified project managers are in high demand — and they make more money. Project Management Professional (PMP) certified project managers in the US earn an average of 16% more (approximately $14,500) than their non-credentialed peers.
Types of certification
There are many different types of project management certifications, but among the most well-known are:
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
- PgMP (Program Management Professional)
- PfMP (Portfolio Management Professional)
- PMI-ACP (PMI Agile Certified Practitioner)
Whichever certification is right for you, make sure you check the accreditation and pursue a program with a PMI Registered Education Provider.
Further Reading:
A milestone in project management is a significant point within a project’s life cycle used to track progress toward the final goal. It marks key events such as phase completions, stakeholder approvals, or major deliverables. Milestones help break projects into manageable phases, guide decision-making, and keep stakeholders informed of critical achievements.
A PDU, or Professional Development Unit, is a measure of ongoing learning and development in project management. Project Management Professionals (PMPs) must earn 60 PDUs over three years to maintain their certification, which can be achieved through courses, seminars, webinars, self-directed learning, or volunteering. PDUs ensure that project managers continue to grow their skills and stay current with industry practices.
PMI, the Project Management Institute, is a global nonprofit that sets project management standards and offers certifications, including the PMP credential. Founded in 1969, it publishes the PMBOK Guide detailing best practices and methodologies. PMI membership and certification provide project managers with resources, training, and a professional network to support career growth and ongoing development.
The PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, offered by PMI, is a globally recognized credential that validates expertise and experience in project management. Aligned with the PMBOK Guide, it demonstrates the ability to lead and manage projects effectively. PMP holders must earn continuing Professional Development Units (PDUs) and renew the certification every three years.
