If you are a project manager, you can get a project management certification by having related education, professional experience, and a good track record on project management. There are educational institutions and organizations that provide such certification but make sure you go to a reputable one that offers updated trainings. Employers will always go for the institution or organization that is known and has quality standard.
Project managers work in various companies and firms that conduct projects continuously. Every day, there are businesses that open branches in different parts of the world and they need competent individuals to manage their projects. They are required to handle and supervise daily activities and ensure they meet the deadline, do not exceed the budget and meet their outlined goals. To ensure they hire the right people for the job, they always look for project management certification from their applicants.
To avail of the project management certification, you need to have the required basic education and work experience. You will also undergo an extensive examination to test your knowledge. If you do not pass this exam, you will not get the certification. If you pass the exam, you will need to undergo continuous education on project management for the validity of the certification. This includes voluntary work in your community, additional classes and a renewal fee.
The most popular way of getting this certification is through the reputable organization, Project Management Institute (PMI). They give and administer the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. The PMI was founded in 1984 and their PMP certification is the first project management certification accepted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001. In order to avail of the PMP certification, PMI first has to verify your educational qualification and work experience. If you have acquired a bachelor’s degree, you need to accompany it with 3 years experience on project management. If you have an associate’s degree or just a high school diploma, you must have a work experience of five years.
There are other organizations that tender such certification such as the American Academy of Project Management. They also offer certification for project management training, international project management, and e-business. Another organization is the International Association of Project and Program Management which provides the same certification and other trainings for higher-ranking administrators and managers.
Being a project manager is fun and challenging. It is a work that tests your work ethics, professionalism, personality and knowledge. Having a project management certification will be your ticket to higher opportunities and bigger breaks given by your supervisors and employers in the field of project management.