Project Management Institute Certifications Overview
PMI administers a globally recognized professional credential program that promotes professional development and maintains an ISO 9001 certification in Quality Management Systems.
Earlier this year, PMI's leadership as the global certification body for project management was further advanced when the Project Management Professional (PMP®) credential process received ISO 17024 accreditation. This distinction benefits PMI members and PMP holders in several ways:
- It elevates the status of PMP holders on projects, within organizations and within the global project management community
- It allows organizations that employ PMP holders to reference the ISO 17024 certification as a qualifier for competence and capability of their employees
- It assures those professionals considering PMP certification that PMI's certification system is recognized in the global business community
Project Management Professional (PMP®)
One of the most valued credentials in project management, the PMP credential assures employers that you are committed to project management. Earning and maintaining this credential demonstrates a solid foundation of experience in effectively managing projects.
Candidates for the PMP credential:
- Perform their duties under general supervision and are responsible for all aspects of the project for the life of the project.
- Lead and direct cross-functional teams to deliver projects within the constraints of schedule, budget and resources.
- Demonstrate sufficient knowledge and experience to appropriately apply a methodology to projects that have reasonably well-defined project requirements and deliverables.
Qualifying for the PMP Exam
To be eligible for the PMP credential, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. All project management experience must have been accrued within the last eight consecutive years prior to your application submission.
Educational Background |
Project Management Experience |
Project Management Education |
High School Diploma, associated degree or global equivalent |
Minimum 5 years/60 months unique non-overlapping professional project management during which at least 7,500 hours were spent leading and directing project tasks. |
35 contact hours of formal education (obtained through attending this PMP exam prep course) |
Bachelor’s degree or global equivalent |
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35 contact hours of formal education (obtained through attending this PMP exam prep course) |
Maintaining Your Credential
PMI’s certification maintenance through the Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program sets its credentials apart. And in a competitive job market, the right credential can mean the difference between getting the job or not.
The Institute requires individuals to maintain their credential’s active status. Individuals who do not maintain this status allow their credentials to expire and are no longer allowed to refer to themselves as PMP holders. While nothing is required to maintain an academic degree, continuing education is a requirement for maintaining most PMI credentials. Participation in continuing education activities indicates to your peers, employers and employees that you are committed to professional development. |