PMI-ACP, CAPM, PSM I, PMP: Which Certification Suits You?

Project management certifications boost your skills and career prospects. With options like PMI-ACP, PMI-CAPM, PSM I, and PMI-PMP, choosing the right one can be tricky. This concise guide compares their knowledge, challenges, and opportunities to help you decide.

PMI-ACP: Agile Expertise

Knowledge: Covers Agile frameworks (Scrum, Kanban, XP) for dynamic projects. PMI’s 2023 report notes 71% of organizations use Agile.

Challenges:

• Steep learning curve for multiple Agile methods.

• Requires 12 months general and 8 months Agile experience.

• Exam tests practical Agile application.

Opportunities:

• 20% salary increase, per PMI’s 2024 Salary Survey.

• Ideal for IT and Agile-driven roles.

• Globally recognized in 80+ countries.

Requirements: 21 hours Agile training, 12 months project experience, 8 months Agile experience.
Cost: $435 (members) or $495 (non-members).

PMI-CAPM: Entry-Level Foundation

Knowledge: Introduces PMBOK-based fundamentals, covering project lifecycle and knowledge areas.

Challenges:

• Broad PMBOK scope overwhelms beginners.

• No experience needed with 23 hours education, but applying theory is tough.

• Requires renewal every 5 years.

Opportunities:

• 25% higher pay than non-certified peers, per PMI 2023.

• Gateway to PMP.

• Valued in construction, healthcare, engineering.

Requirements: Secondary degree, 23 hours education or 1,500 hours experience.
Cost: $225 (members) or $300 (non-members).

PSM I: Scrum Focus

Knowledge: Deep dive into Scrum roles, events, and artifacts for Agile teams.

Challenges:

• Self-study demands discipline.

• 85% pass score with scenario-based exam.

• Scrum-only focus limits versatility.

Opportunities:

• 87% of holders report career growth, per Scrum.org 2024.

• Affordable at $200 per attempt.

• Access to Scrum.org’s global network.

Requirements: No prerequisites; Scrum knowledge recommended.
Cost: $200.

PMI-PMP: Leadership Standard

Knowledge: Advanced PMBOK-based skills for predictive, Agile, and hybrid projects.

Challenges:

• Needs 36 months leadership experience (4-year degree) or 60 months (high school).

• Complex 180-question exam.

• 60 PDUs every 3 years for renewal.

Opportunities:

• Median salary $120,000, 32% above non-certified, per PMI 2023.

• Suits senior roles in IT, finance, construction.

• Recognized in 100+ countries.

Requirements: 4-year degree, 36 months leadership, 35 hours education (or CAPM); or 60 months with high school diploma.
Cost: $405 (members) or $555 (non-members).

Your Next Step

PMI-ACP fits Agile pros, CAPM suits beginners, PSM I targets Scrum experts, and PMP is for experienced leaders. Choose based on your experience and goals. 

Let's try PMI-PMP Free Test first! If you think PMP is the right choice for you, please buy the premium practice set with just 5USD in our course list.