CAPM vs PMP: Eligibility, Exam Format, and Career Growth Explained
Commonly, aspiring project managers mention Certified Associate in Program Management (CAPM) and Project Management Professional (PMP). Both are provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and they are recognized by companies of all kinds.
If you are beginning to think about starting in project management, the CAPM could be an excellent way to begin. For those who have worked in project management for some years and wish to advance to leadership positions, PMP might be the right choice. In this discussion, we’ll compare CAPM vs PMP and cover who can take them, what the exams are about and how each boosts your career.
CAPM vs PMP? Here’s What They Actually Are
CAPM is short for Certified Associate in Project Management. You would mainly use this program if you have not done much with programming before. It proves that you know the key terms and ideas in project management and are equipped for different project roles.
Project Management Professional is what PMP refers to. It is a high level qualification designed for those who already handle project management. Leadership, deciding what to do and practical project exercise are all important parts of PMP. It informs potential employers that you can handle all the tasks in a real project, from the beginning to the end.
Let’s Talk Eligibility – Who Can Apply?
It is this part that is the main difference between CAPM vs PMP methods.
You do not need any past experience in project management to use CAPM. You only need to have a high school diploma (or its equivalent) and complete 23 hours of project management courses. That’s it. Because of this, CAPM is suited for students, fresh graduates and professionals looking to change careers.
There are tougher criteria for persons hoping to pursue PMP certification. To qualify as a project manager, you should have at least 36 months of project management experience with 35 hours of training, if your degree is four years (for example, a bachelor’s). If you lack a bachelor’s degree, you have to work for 60 months to qualify. PMP is for those in the profession who have already handled projects and want to progress further.
If you’re weighing CAPM vs PMP and unsure which to go for, ask yourself, have you actually managed a project or led a team? If not, CAPM is a better place to start.
What Is the Format Like for the Exam You Will Be Taking
The CAPM exam is not difficult. It includes 150 questions that are answered using multiple choice options and it goes on for 3 hours. Most of the questions you find come from the PMBOK® Guide which explains project management standards and processes. The test covers project terminology, methods and the tools you would use.
The PMP exam is both tougher and more hands on. There are 180 questions in the test which takes close to 3 hours and 50 minutes to complete. PMP covers situations that you face as a project manager in the real world, unlike CAPM. The interviewer will ask you what you would do in various scenarios, including settling conflicts among team members, working with stakeholders and changing your schedule. The point of the exam is to see if you can use what you have learned, not only remember it.
In the CAPM vs PMP comparison, CAPM measures the information you have, while PMP tests how you apply that knowledge in real work situations.
How Can These Certifications Help in Your Career?
Project management newbies often use CAPM qualifications to find projects like project coordinator or project assistant. Having a certification on your resume tells employers you know the basics of project management, regardless of your experience. You might not earn more immediately through CAPM, but it opens doors and gives you a good beginning in the field.
Alternatively, PMP qualifies you for positions such as project manager, senior project manager or program manager at a higher salary. It shows to the world that you are able to lead teams, deal with risks and deliver successful results. Twenty to twenty five percent more in average salary is what PMP certification offers according to PMI’s salary reports.
When it comes to CAPM vs PMP, both certifications have their advantages and the choice should depend on whether someone is just starting out or looking to grow more quickly.
Which is the best for you?
If you are not sure whether to choose, try this thought exercise.
Go for CAPM if you’re:
- Still studying or recently graduated
- New to project management
- Looking for your first project related job
Choose PMP if you:
- Have at least 3 years of experience managing projects
- Want to move into leadership roles
- Are looking for a salary boost or career growth
Some professionals even take both starting with CAPM and then moving on to PMP after gaining experience. You can move forward step by step.
Picking between CAPM vs PMP depends on your career goals, rather than trying to decide which one is better. If you are just entering the field, start with CAPM, but consider PMP after you have some experience. Both certificates are recognized, worthwhile and can help you get important career opportunities.
There is a certification available for every experience level in the world of projects just look at CAPM vs PMP. Pick the one suited to your skill level and continue learning and evolving from there.