Introduction
The CAPM and PMP certifications are the globally recognised credentials offered by PMI (Project Management Institute), which aim to help professionals improve their skills in managing large complex projects. Getting certified lets professionals crack high-paying job opportunities and transform them into irreplaceable assets in the organisation they work for.
In the professional world, there is always a comparison between whether to opt for PMP or CAPM certification. Professionals always wish to filter out the right certification that suits their project setting and the one that benefits their career.
While planning to enrol in the CAPM Certification and PMP Certification Training courses, professionals need to make sure that they go with the ATP (Authorized Training Partners) of PMI for learning. One should be aware of the difference between these certifications, the benefits professionals can expect, and how they can uplift their career to the next level. In general, CAPM is helpful for professionals who find it difficult to meet the experience requirements of PMP. In this article, we will attempt to explain why one should take CAPM certification before PMP. Let’s get started.
Reasons to Become CAPM Certified First
The key reasons that influence professionals to choose the CAPM certification before the PMP are listed below:
- Lack of Experience
- Different Background
- The Gap in Experience/Experience hours Expired
- Not Prepared to Attempt PMP
- Save Time
Let’s look at each of these:
Lack of Experience
For those who are new to project management or have only limited experience in this field, then going for a foundation-level certification like CAPM will be a logical decision.
Different Background
If you are from a different background and looking for a career in project management, then CAPM certification will prepare you with the very basic concepts.
The Gap in Experience/Experience Hours Expired
Due to some uncertain circumstances, some professionals will find it difficult to evidence their hours of experience due to changing job functions or the unemployment gap in their careers. In that case, they can restart their careers by attending CAPM certification training from an Authorized Training Partner of PMI.
Not Prepared to Attempt PMP
Professionals can choose CAPM certification if they are not well prepared enough to attempt a major certification like PMP without understanding the fundamental principles and terminologies in project management. The CAPM will prepare you with the basic concepts and principles of project management. Eventually, after attaining the necessary concepts, you can apply for PMP certification.
Save Time
The PMP is a significant certification in the context of project management. The process to get certified is a bit lengthy compared to the CAPM. You can save time applying for the PMP certification exam by opting for CAPM.
Does Exam Difficulty Matter?
While talking about exam difficulty, the CAPM exam is less complex than the PMP exam because it is for entry-level professionals in project management. PMP is widely taken by professionals with a couple of years of experience in project management. So, the difficulty of the exam varies for both certifications. At the same time, both certifications test the capability of professionals to manage projects in real-life contexts. To crack the PMP examination on your first attempt, you can take PMP certification training from any Authorized Training Partner of PMI. Such training programs provide updated study materials, doubt-clearing sessions, expert guidance, exam tips, and case studies that will help prepare you to efficiently manage projects with the right skills and tools.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s your decision whether you take CAPM or PMP certification at first. The benefits and reasons why you have to opt for CAPM at first are detailed in this article. You can either wait to acquire the experience and prerequisites required to take the PMP test or else quickly start your career in project management with the CAPM certification. The CAPM helps professionals build strong foundational knowledge and save time to enter the project management world.
The demand for project management job roles is increasing. Both certifications offer a career growth opportunity and help professionals stand out among others. The CAPM-certified employees will become competent in PMI’s frameworks and processes that prepare them to pursue PMP certification later. So, it’s your choice to take CAPM first or proceed directly with the PMP certification. Both options are right, but you need to identify which option is right for you, considering the factors we discussed in this article.