No matter your IT role, obtaining a project management certification can significantly enhance your career. Behind every successful IT project, there is a highly skilled project manager. Whether it’s hardware and software upgrades, ongoing security patches, application development, or software rollout, project managers keep teams on track and productive. Almost any IT professional can benefit from earning a project management certification, demonstrating their ability to plan, schedule, budget, execute, deliver, and report on IT initiatives.
This guide outlines the most popular project management certifications, their requirements, and associated costs to help you develop your skills and add value this year.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional certification is widely regarded as the gold standard in project management credentials. Offered by a leading project management institute, this rigorous exam covers all essential aspects of managing the “triple constraints” of time, cost, and scope. The PMP certification validates your leadership experience and expertise, demonstrating your ability to help organizations work more efficiently and improve performance.
Exam Coverage
The exam includes topics such as managing conflict, leading and building effective teams, training and empowering team members and stakeholders, executing projects to deliver business value, assessing and managing risks, engaging stakeholders, and planning and managing budgets and resources.
Requirements
Candidates need either a four-year secondary degree plus three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education or CAPM certification, or a high school diploma with five years of project management experience, 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education.
Exam Fee
The computer-based exam costs $405 for members and $555 for non-members.
Professional in Project Management (PPM)
The Professional in Project Management certification is a mid-level credential offered by a global association focused on quality management. The PPM emphasizes effective resource allocation, clear direction, adaptability to change, communication skills, and ensuring quality deliverables with minimal risk. It covers project planning, execution, control, schedule management, team leadership, risk and crisis management, time management, leadership skills, communication strategies, and knowledge management.
Requirements
There are no formal education or experience requirements, but candidates should have some project management experience. The exam requires completion of a body of knowledge study and an e-course.
Exam Fee
The exam fee is $340.
PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Certifications
Projects in Controlled Environments (PRINCE2) certifications are most recognized outside the United States, particularly in the United Kingdom and government entities. Offered by a major certification body, PRINCE2 focuses on directing, managing, and delivering projects across all phases: pre-project, initiation, delivery, and final delivery.
The Foundation certification tests basic project management terminology and methodology, while the Practitioner certification tests advanced knowledge for those who have already passed the Foundation level.
Target Audience
These certifications are intended for aspiring project managers, project board members, team managers, project assurance professionals, project support staff, and operational line managers.
Requirements and Fees
The Foundation certification requires completing a course, and the Practitioner requires holding the Foundation certification or equivalent credentials such as PMP, CAPM, or IPMA certification. Exam fees vary depending on location.
PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and Practitioner Certifications
These certifications are designed for professionals working in agile environments, combining PRINCE2 governance with agile concepts like Scrum, Kanban, Lean Startup, and Cynefin. The Foundation certification covers the basics of PRINCE2 and agile methodologies. After passing the Foundation exam, candidates become eligible for the Practitioner exam, which tests their ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Requirements and Fees
There are no prerequisites for the Foundation exam. However, the Agile Practitioner exam requires passing the Foundation exam. Exam fees vary by location.
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
Agile methodologies are now standard in many IT projects, making Certified ScrumMasters highly sought after. The CSM certification from a nonprofit alliance dedicated to agile practices provides an excellent starting point for project managers in agile environments. The organization supports Scrum adoption through user groups, learning events, and professional development resources.
Exam Fee and Requirements
The exam fee varies by training provider, usually ranging from $995 to $1,395. Candidates should have a general familiarity with Scrum and must complete a two-day training course.
CompTIA Project+
The CompTIA Project+ certification is an entry-level credential for IT professionals managing smaller or less complex projects. The certification covers project basics, constraints, communication, change management, tools, and documentation, making it suitable for project coordinators, team members, business analysts, managers, and directors.
Requirements and Exam Fee
Candidates should have at least 12 months of cumulative project management experience or equivalent education. The exam fee is $348.
Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP)
The Agile Certified Practitioner certification is offered by a leading project management institute to validate knowledge of agile principles and practices. The exam covers a wide range of agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, Extreme Programming (XP), and Test-Driven Development (TDD). This certification is designed for professionals who work on agile teams or within agile organizations.
Focus Areas
The exam emphasizes seven key knowledge domains: agile principles and mindset, value-driven delivery, stakeholder engagement, team performance, adaptive planning, problem detection and resolution, and continuous improvement.
Requirements and Exam Fee
Candidates must have a secondary degree, 21 contact hours of training in agile practices, and at least 12 months of general project experience within the past five years, or eight months of agile project experience within the past three years. Holding a Project Management Professional (PMP) or Program Management Professional (PgMP) certification can satisfy the experience requirement but is not mandatory. The exam costs $435 for members and $495 for non-members.
Associate in Project Management (APM)
The Associate in Project Management certification is an entry-level credential from a global quality management organization that validates fundamental knowledge of the project management framework. This certification is ideal for those with little to no project management experience. Candidates must complete an online course before taking the exam. The course covers project management fundamentals, training, and basic roles and responsibilities.
Target Audience
The certification is designed for project team members, entry-level practitioners, managers, students, and anyone interested in starting a career in project management.
Requirements and Exam Fee
There are no formal education or experience requirements. Candidates must complete the body of knowledge study and an e-course. The exam fee is $175.
BVOP Certified Project Manager
The Business Value-Oriented Principles (BVOP) framework is an agile-based approach that has gained popularity in the UK. BVOP emphasizes delivering business value in all project management activities. The Certified Project Manager credential is targeted at senior practitioners experienced in both project and people management.
Unique Focus
This certification distinguishes itself by prioritizing a people-oriented culture. It is suitable for senior project managers, agile professionals, product managers, Scrum masters, and business analysts. The BVOP approach fosters collaboration and leadership skills, combining project, program, and product management knowledge.
Exam Fee and Requirements
The exam fee is $130. No prior professional project management experience is required. Free study guides and preparation materials are available online.
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
Administered by a leading project management institute, the Certified Associate in Project Management certification serves as a stepping stone to the more advanced Project Management Professional certification. It is suitable for professionals without a college degree or with limited project management experience who want to gradually advance their credentials.
Requirements and Exam Fee
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, with at least 1,500 hours of project management experience or 23 hours of project management education. The exam fee is $225 for members and $300 for non-members.
Certified Project Director (CPD)
The Certified Project Director credential is the highest-level project management certification offered by a global quality management organization. It is designed for experienced project managers who oversee multiple complex projects and programs. This certification emphasizes budgeting, scope management, risk assessment, and successful delivery across interdependent projects.
Requirements and Exam Fee
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree and possess one of the following certifications: Professional in Project Management (PPM), Project Management Professional (PMP), PRINCE2 Practitioner, or Certified Project Manager (CPM). The exam fee is $280.
Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP)
The Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) certification is an essential credential for professionals working in agile environments or on agile teams. Offered by a globally recognized project management body, ACP aims to validate your understanding and practical application of agile principles, practices, and tools across various agile methodologies.
Background and Importance of Agile Certification
Agile project management has transformed the way projects are managed, especially in software development and IT sectors. It emphasizes flexibility, customer collaboration, rapid delivery, and continuous improvement, contrasting with traditional waterfall methods. Organizations adopting agile frameworks need practitioners who understand and can implement agile techniques effectively. The ACP certification serves as proof of this expertise, enhancing your credibility and employability.
Scope of the ACP Exam
The exam tests knowledge across multiple agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, Extreme Programming (XP), and Test-Driven Development (TDD). It assesses your ability to apply agile concepts to real-world scenarios, manage agile teams, engage stakeholders, plan adaptively, and resolve problems proactively.
The exam focuses on seven primary knowledge domains:
- Agile principles and mindset
- Value-driven delivery
- Stakeholder engagement
- Team performance management
- Adaptive planning
- Problem detection and resolution
- Continuous improvement
Benefits of ACP Certification
ACP holders are recognized as capable of leading agile teams and guiding organizations through agile transformations. The certification helps professionals:
- Gain an in-depth understanding of agile concepts and practices
- Enhance project delivery speed and quality
- Improve team collaboration and stakeholder communication
- Increase marketability and career advancement potential
Exam Structure and Preparation
The exam typically consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, completed in three hours. Candidates must demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and practical experience with agile methodologies.
Preparation involves:
- Completing 21 contact hours of agile training
- Gaining 12 months of general project experience within the last five years or 8 months of agile-specific experience within the past three years
- Studying official Agile Practice Guides and other preparatory materials
- Engaging with agile communities or practice groups for hands-on exposure
Exam Fees and Eligibility
The exam fee is approximately $435 for members and $495 for non-members of the administering institute. While a secondary degree is required, holding a PMP or PgMP certification can fulfill some experience requirements but is not mandatory.
Associate in Project Management (APM)
The Associate in Project Management certification is an ideal starting point for individuals entering project management. Offered by a global quality management organization, this entry-level certification is designed for those with little to no experience, providing a foundational understanding of project management principles and frameworks.
Overview and Target Audience
APM caters to students, entry-level practitioners, project team members, and anyone interested in pursuing a project management career. It is particularly useful for professionals who support projects in assistant or coordinator roles, helping them understand core project management concepts to contribute more effectively.
Course Content and Exam Coverage
Before the exam, candidates complete an online course covering:
- Project management fundamentals
- Project lifecycle phases
- Roles and responsibilities of project managers and teams
- Basic tools and techniques for planning, scheduling, and risk management
- Communication and stakeholder management
The exam tests knowledge on these subjects to ensure candidates grasp essential project management frameworks and terminology.
Benefits of APM Certification
Earning the APM certification allows individuals to:
- Demonstrate foundational project management knowledge
- Prepare for more advanced certifications in the future
- Enhance career prospects by validating essential skills
- Support project teams more effectively
Eligibility and Exam Fee
No formal education or project management experience is required. The course and exam fee is approximately $175, making it an accessible certification option for beginners.
BVOP Certified Project Manager
The Business Value-Oriented Principles (BVOP) certification is a growing agile-based credential, especially popular in the United Kingdom. It focuses on delivering business value throughout project and product management activities, emphasizing a people-centric approach.
What Sets BVOP Apart?
Unlike many project management certifications that focus primarily on processes and tools, BVOP stresses the human side of project management. The philosophy behind BVOP encourages leadership that promotes collaboration, innovation, and continuous value delivery.
Certification Audience
The BVOP Certified Project Manager credential is intended for experienced project managers, agile practitioners, product managers and owners, Scrum Masters, and business analysts who seek to deepen their leadership and agile skills.
Curriculum and Exam Structure
The BVOP certification process covers:
- Business value principles in project delivery
- Agile frameworks and methodologies
- Leadership and people management skills
- Program and product management concepts
- Practical collaboration techniques
The exam includes scenario-based questions requiring candidates to apply both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in leadership, team management, and agile delivery.
Benefits of BVOP Certification
Certification holders gain:
- Recognition as skilled leaders who prioritize business outcomes and team wellbeing
- Enhanced ability to foster high-performing teams
- Improved stakeholder communication and value delivery
- Competitive advantage in agile-driven industries
Exam Fee and Requirements
The exam costs $130, with no prerequisite professional experience required. Study guides and materials are freely available online, making preparation accessible.
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
The Certified Associate in Project Management credential is a fundamental certification for those new to project management or those looking to build a strong foundation before pursuing more advanced certifications. Administered by a leading project management institute, CAPM acts as a stepping stone toward the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Who Should Consider CAPM?
CAPM is ideal for:
- Recent graduates entering project management roles
- IT professionals and other practitioners involved in project work
- Individuals without a four-year degree seeking project management credentials
- Those wanting to demonstrate their commitment to project management as a career
Exam Content and Focus Areas
The CAPM exam covers foundational project management knowledge based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide). It includes topics such as:
- Project integration, scope, time, cost, quality, and risk management
- Procurement and stakeholder management
- Communication and human resource management
- Project lifecycle and processes
Certification Benefits
CAPM credential holders demonstrate:
- Basic understanding of project management concepts and terminology
- Preparedness to contribute to project teams effectively
- A foundation for future career advancement and certification
Eligibility and Fees
Candidates need a high school diploma or equivalent and must have either 1,500 hours of project experience or 23 hours of project management education. Exam fees are $225 for members and $300 for non-members.
Certified Project Director (CPD)
The Certified Project Director certification represents the highest level of project management certification from a global quality management organization. It is designed for senior project leaders who manage multiple complex projects and programs across various industries.
Role and Responsibilities of a Project Director
A project director oversees portfolios, manages resources at scale, mitigates interdependent risks, and ensures alignment between projects and organizational strategy. The certification emphasizes advanced competencies in leadership, budgeting, scope management, risk assessment, and delivering successful outcomes.
Who Should Pursue CPD?
This certification targets:
- Senior project managers and program directors
- Professionals responsible for strategic project oversight
- Individuals managing multiple complex projects simultaneously
Certification Curriculum and Exam Focus
CPD coursework and exam cover:
- Advanced project and program management techniques
- Budgeting and financial management at the portfolio level
- Risk management for interconnected projects
- Leadership strategies for managing diverse teams and stakeholders
- Methods for assessing project alignment with business goals
Requirements and Exam Fee
Candidates must have a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree and hold one of the following certifications: Professional in Project Management (PPM), Project Management Professional (PMP), PRINCE2 Practitioner, or Certified Project Manager (CPM). The exam fee is approximately $280.
Certified Project Management (CPM)
The Certified Project Management certification, offered by a prominent cybersecurity and IT organization, is designed to validate project managers’ ability to handle complex projects using a variety of management techniques and tools. It uniquely combines project management with a focus on information security and cyber resilience.
Background and Purpose
Established post-9/11 to address emerging cyber threats, this certification addresses the increasing need for project managers who understand the intersection of project delivery and cybersecurity. As cyber risks continue to rise, project managers with skills in secure project execution become invaluable.
Certification Content and Learning Approach
The CPM program offers multiple learning options:
- On-demand instructor-led training videos
- Online practical labs simulating real-world scenarios
- Continuing education video subscriptions
- Live instructor-led training, both online and in-person
Course topics include:
- Project management fundamentals
- Risk management with an emphasis on cybersecurity
- Stakeholder communication and collaboration
- Tools and techniques for managing complex IT projects
Exam Structure and Packages
Three course packages are available:
- Basic: Includes video courses, labs, e-courseware, and the certification exam
- Mid-tier: Adds continuing education and live training
- Premium: Includes additional certification courses, exam insurance, and prep sessions
The comprehensive structure ensures candidates gain hands-on experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
Exam Fee and Requirements
Costs range from $999 for the basic package to $3,499 for the premium bundle. No prior project management experience is required, making this certification accessible to a broad audience, particularly those focused on IT and cybersecurity projects.
Certified Project Manager (CPM-IAPM)
Offered by the International Association of Project Managers, the Certified Project Manager certification provides foundational knowledge and skills required to plan, organize, and execute projects effectively. This credential is ideal for those aspiring to enter project management or advance their understanding.
Certification Levels and Framework
The IAPM offers multiple certifications:
- Certified Junior Project Manager for beginners
- Certified Project Manager (CPM-IAPM) for those with some knowledge and experience
- Certified Senior Project Manager for advanced practitioners
The CPM-IAPM focuses on the entire project lifecycle, emphasizing both hard skills such as cost estimation, scheduling, and risk analysis, and soft skills including leadership and communication.
Exam Content and Topics
The certification exam covers areas like:
- Project environment and structure
- Steering committees and core team roles
- Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
- Budgeting and cost breakdown
- Risk identification and mitigation
- Project review and reporting
Preparation and Resources
Candidates can prepare through self-study workshops that explain concepts in detail. The curriculum is designed to ensure a strong theoretical foundation as well as practical applications.
Fees and Requirements
Exam fees are based on the candidate’s country GDP; in the United States, the cost is approximately $514. There are no strict prerequisites, making it accessible to many professionals.
Master Project Manager (MPM)
The Master Project Manager certification is aimed at experienced project professionals who seek to demonstrate their advanced skills in project management leadership and execution. It focuses on practical application and strategic thinking.
Certification Purpose and Audience
MPM is suited for senior project managers, team leaders, and program managers who are responsible for complex projects. The certification validates a candidate’s ability to manage resources effectively, handle project challenges, and deliver successful outcomes.
Curriculum and Exam Focus
Coursework and examination cover topics such as:
- Advanced project planning and control
- Leadership and team motivation
- Risk management and problem-solving techniques
- Budgeting and financial oversight
- Communication strategies for stakeholders at all levels
Benefits of MPM Certification
Holders of the MPM certification can expect:
- Recognition as seasoned project management professionals
- Improved leadership capabilities
- Greater opportunities for senior roles
- Enhanced credibility with clients and employers
Requirements and Exam Fees
Requirements often include several years of project management experience and formal education in project management or related fields. Exam fees vary by provider but generally fall within the mid-range spectrum.
Program Manager Professional (PgMP)
The Program Manager Professional certification is a highly respected credential for project professionals managing multiple related projects to achieve strategic business objectives. It focuses on program governance, risk management, and alignment with organizational goals.
Role of a Program Manager
A program manager oversees interrelated projects, ensuring they collectively deliver value beyond what individual projects can achieve alone. This requires advanced coordination, stakeholder management, and strategic planning skills.
Certification Focus Areas
The PgMP exam evaluates knowledge in:
- Program strategy alignment
- Benefits management and delivery
- Stakeholder engagement and governance
- Risk and issue management at the program level
- Leadership and team performance
Eligibility and Preparation
Candidates need significant project and program management experience, typically several years, alongside prior certifications such as PMP. Preparation involves studying program management frameworks, case studies, and scenario-based questions.
Exam Cost
Exam fees are generally higher than standard project management certifications, reflecting the seniority and complexity of the role.
Professional in Project Management (PPM)
The Professional in Project Management certification is a mid-level credential offered by a global quality management organization. It is designed for project managers who have some experience and want to strengthen their knowledge in project execution and leadership.
Certification Overview
The PPM focuses on broad project management knowledge, emphasizing resource allocation, risk mitigation, and team leadership. It is ideal for project managers involved in managing day-to-day project activities and handling risks or crises effectively.
Core Topics Covered
Candidates will study:
- Project planning and scheduling techniques
- Developing project performance measures
- Risk and crisis management strategies
- Leadership skills and effective communication
- Quality assurance and stakeholder management
Exam Details and Requirements
The PPM exam fee is around $340. While there are no formal education prerequisites, candidates are advised to have some project management experience to ensure success on the exam.
PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner
PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments) is a widely adopted project management methodology, especially in the UK and Europe. The certifications come in two levels: Foundation and Practitioner.
PRINCE2 Foundation
This entry-level certification introduces candidates to basic project management concepts, terminology, and the PRINCE2 methodology. It’s aimed at those new to project management roles or working as part of a project team.
PRINCE2 Practitioner
The Practitioner certification is for those who have completed the Foundation level and want to demonstrate their ability to apply PRINCE2 principles in real-world projects. It covers directing and managing projects through all phases from initiation to closure.
Certification Benefits
These certifications are valued in government and large organizations, providing:
- A structured approach to project management
- Enhanced ability to manage resources and risks
- Recognition of practical project management skills
Exam Fees and Requirements
Exam fees vary by location. To sit for the Practitioner exam, candidates must have passed the Foundation level or hold other recognized project management certifications.
PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and Practitioner
The PRINCE2 Agile certifications blend the structured PRINCE2 framework with agile methodologies like Scrum, Kanban, and Lean Startup.
PRINCE2 Agile Foundation
This certification covers the fundamentals of combining PRINCE2 governance with agile concepts. It is suitable for project managers working in agile environments who need to understand both traditional and agile approaches.
PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner
The Practitioner certification builds on the Foundation level by testing candidates’ ability to apply PRINCE2 Agile principles in managing agile projects, including adapting techniques to specific situations.
Who Should Consider These Certifications?
They are designed for:
- Project managers in agile teams
- Scrum Masters transitioning to formal project roles
- Professionals seeking to blend agile flexibility with PRINCE2 control
Exam Costs and Prerequisites
Costs vary by region. The Agile Practitioner exam requires passing the Agile Foundation first.
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
Scrum is one of the most popular agile frameworks, and the Certified ScrumMaster certification is a respected credential for agile practitioners.
Overview
The CSM certification, offered by a leading agile alliance, focuses on teaching Scrum principles, roles, and ceremonies. It prepares candidates to facilitate Scrum teams and remove impediments.
Course and Exam
Candidates must complete a two-day training course followed by an exam. The training emphasizes hands-on learning, including practical exercises and team collaboration.
Benefits of CSM Certification
- Recognition as an agile practitioner
- Improved team facilitation skills
- Access to a global community of Scrum professionals
Exam Fees and Requirements
The exam fee ranges roughly from $995 to $1,395 depending on the training provider. A general understanding of Scrum is recommended before training.
Final Thoughts
Project management certifications offer significant advantages regardless of your current IT role or career stage. They validate your ability to plan, execute, and lead projects effectively, helping you stand out in a competitive job market.
Each certification serves a unique purpose, catering to different experience levels, industries, and project methodologies. Whether you prefer traditional frameworks like PRINCE2, agile approaches such as Scrum, or comprehensive credentials like PMP, these certifications demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and mastery of project management principles.
Investing in certification not only boosts your credibility with employers and clients but also equips you with the tools and knowledge to drive successful projects that meet time, budget, and quality goals. Moreover, many certifications foster valuable networks and communities, offering ongoing learning and support.
When selecting a certification, consider your career goals, project environment, and preferred methodologies. By choosing the right credential, you’ll enhance your skills, expand your opportunities, and contribute more effectively to your organization’s success.
In today’s dynamic IT landscape, a project management certification is more than a resume booster—it’s a critical asset that empowers you to lead with confidence and deliver real business value.