Choosing between the CAPM and PMP certifications depends on certain parameters. Both certifications are accredited by PMI and provide global recognition in the project management field. If you are a project management professional, you need to decide which course you want to pursue based on your experience and professional goals.
Senior professionals in project management can choose the PMP, whereas if you have less experience or are just starting your career in project management, then opt for the CAPM training course. Here, we discuss both certifications to clearly understand the differences, so you can make an informed decision.
CAPM Vs PMP
CAPM certification is for developing the fundamental project management knowledge that helps you start a project management career. Therefore, you can consider the CAPM a career turning point that opens doors to professional growth. You can learn the key concepts of projects and gain credibility in project roles that help in the future.
However, PMP is primarily for experienced professionals and for managing leadership roles in projects. The course helps professionals focus on stakeholder management, cost management, and risk mitigation to ensure timely project completion.
Conceptual Differences
As stated earlier, CAPM certification signifies basic-level project management skills. Suppose you have minimal experience in project management, then you can choose the certification to build skills and confidence in managing projects.
On the other hand, PMP certification demonstrates your ability to lead projects effectively using appropriate tools and techniques. Through this certification, you can boost your career as a leader who manages the whole team at a time and satisfies customers by completing projects on time.
Prerequisite or Eligibility Differences
The main difference between CAPM and PMP is the prerequisite criteria to pursue the certification. You can consider it a determinant of which one you will choose. CAPM requires a basic level of education and 23 hours of project management training. It does not require any mandatory experience in project management.
For PMP requisites, 3 years of project management experience for four-year degree holders, and 5 years of project management experience for high school diploma holders. However, 35 hours of project management training are mandatory for both cases. In this segment, if you have already completed CAPM, then you can directly apply for PMP; no training is required.
Salary Differences
It is well known that as responsibilities increase, so does salary. Therefore, the PMP-certified professionals earn more than CAPM holders. PMP certification signifies extensive knowledge and experience of individuals in managing complex projects and leading teams. Their knowledge and experience make them more in demand in the global job market.
According to Payscale, the average salary of project managers in the USA is around $121k/ year. Similarly, the average CAPM-certified professional salary in the USA is around $77k/ year.
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Exam Patterns & Difficulties
The CAPM is easier than the PMP exam because it is intended for people new to project management or considering a career in this industry. The PMBOK® Guide, which lists PMI’s global project management standards, and other sources specified in the test reference materials are the sources of the questions on the CAPM exam.
The PMP certification exam, on the other hand, is more difficult because it is intended for people at different levels of expertise, from those just starting out to those who have been working in the field for a long time. The test includes questions from the PMBOK® Guide and other questions that measure a candidate’s competence to handle projects in the real world.
Final Thoughts
Both qualifications are helpful, but they have distinct implications depending on your professional goals and level of experience. The CAPM can help you learn to manage projects and feel more confident. The PMP certification can help you become a leader in your field, earn more money, and strengthen your leadership skills.
So, make the final decision and pick something that fits with what you already know, your career ambitions, and the path you want to take in project management. You can be successful on either route; the important thing is to choose one quickly and get started.
