Deciding between the CAPM® vs PMP® certification can be tricky. Like many working professionals, you are pursuing career progression through certifications.
It is predicted that over 15 million project management jobs will be created by 2020.
Both CAPM® and PMP® are project management certifications, but, have different requirements.
When deciding between CAPM® vs PMP®, remember that hiring managers across all industries seek qualified project managers that can make a positive impact in their organizations.
Let’s look at the two certifications.
The Project Management Professional, PMP®
In 1984, the PMI developed the PMP® certification. In the nearly 40 years since it’s creation, the PMP® has become a highly sought certification.
It is the most recognized project management certification globally and is recognized across multiple industries.
In 2007 the PMP® certification program earned ISO/IEC 17024 accreditation, which is great news. This accreditation means that the PMP® is recognized in over 85 countries that follow the ISO standard.
If you have experience as a project manager with responsibility for all aspects of project delivery, leading and directing cross-functional teams, then you should consider obtaining your PMP® certification.
The Certified Associate in Project Management, CAPM®
Then, in 2003, the PMI developed the CAPM® qualification. Although this is a project management certification, think of it like an entry-level certification for project managers.
The CAPM® certification allows aspiring project managers, who don’t yet meet the PMP® qualifications, demonstrate their familiarity with the Project Management body of knowledge, processes, and terminology.
Think of CAPM® like a stepping-stone into project management for the less experienced professional.
CAPM® is a highly valued and recognized certification. No matter what stage your career is at, having a CAPM® certification adds value.
The certification is an asset that will set you apart from others in the job market and adds to your credibility and effectiveness of working on, or with, project teams.
The Exam: CAPM® vs PMP®
When deciding between choosing CAPM® vs PMP®, many candidates find it helpful to know the difference between the CAPM® Exam and the PMP® Exam.
PMP® Exam
A large portion of the PMP® Exam is based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK®) guide content.
The exam tests both your experience in and knowledge of project management.
The PMP® Exam is considered difficult, and many candidates find taking an instructor-led course helps them to navigate the intricacies of the exam.
The PMP® Certification Exam is experience based.
To successfully pass the exam, candidates must apply knowledge from their working experience as project managers to answer the exam questions correctly.
In addition to the knowledge contained in the PMBOK® Guide, the PMP® exam has several situational-based questions.
The PMP® Exam can be tricky, because the questions are not asking for the perfect answer, but for the best answer of all the options provided.
Candidates should be prepared to answer questions that will ask them what the best course of actions is in each situation.
CAPM® Exam
Although the questions in the CAPM® exam are also based on the PMBOK® Guide, the CAPM® questions are generally less difficult than the PMP® Exam.
Candidates need only study the PMBOK® Guide, as the questions are based on the PMBOK® only.
The CAPM® exam is shorter than the PMP® exam, is only 3 hours long, and valid for 5 years.
To re-certify, candidates must successfully pass the exam every 5 years.
| PMP® | CAPM® | |
| Questions | 200* multiple-choice questions | 150 multiple-choice questions |
| *of these 200 questions, 25 are used for research purposes and do not count towards the final score | ||
| Time | Exam must be completed in the 4-hour time limit | Exam must be completed in the 3-hour time limit |
| Cost | $405 USD for members $555 USD for non-members | $225 USD for members $300 USD for non-members |
| Closed/Open Book | Closed book. No reference materials allowed | Closed book. No reference materials allowed |
| Content | PMBOK® Domains: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, Closing | PMBOK® Chapters 3-13 of the PMBOK® guide |
CAPM® vs PMP® Requirements
CAPM®
The CAPM® certification is designed for candidates early in their career.
It is ideal for recent graduates with little to no project management experience.
Or, it is also great for current students who want to demonstrate a commitment to a project management career.
A candidate must have a secondary degree and 1,500 hours of project experience, or, 23 hours of project management education completed by the time of the exam.
- Minimum secondary degree (high school diploma, associate degree or the global equivalent)
- 1500 hours project experience OR 23 hours project management education
Candidates must have either 23 hours of project management education or 1500 hours project experience before taking the exam.
Complete the project management education with an online course that fits into your schedule.
PMP®
The PMP® requirements are more rigorous, and depend on whether you have a secondary degree, or a post-secondary degree.
Secondary degree:
- A secondary degree (high school diploma, associate degree or the global equivalent)
- 7,500 hours leading and directing projects
- 35 hours of project management education
Post-secondary degree:
- Four-year post-secondary degree
- 4,500 hours leading and directing projects
- 35 hours of project management education
Candidates who hold a four-year degree require fewer hours leading and directing projects.
PMP® candidates with a secondary degree must have 7,500 hours of experience in leading and directing projects to qualify.
Those with a four-year degree are required to have 4,500 hours of experience.
The PMP® certification also requires 35 hours of project management education.
CAPM® vs PMP® Benefits
PMP®
The PMP® credential can be incredibly beneficial to your career. Project managers are in high demand across a broad range of industries.
Those with certification have higher earning potential than those without.
PMP® certified project managers have better job opportunities, access to a large professional network, and are better project managers.
CAPM®
If your goal is to become a Project Manager, the CAPM® puts you on the right path to accomplish this goal.
CAPM® certification demonstrates your credibility to potential employers.
It increases your potential for the on-the-job experience needed to qualify for the PMP® exam.
Not to mention, CAPM® certification increases your knowledge and understanding, making you a better project manager.
By taking and passing the CAPM® Certification exam, holders will be able to demonstrate their dedication in the field of project management.
Make sure to read our article on the Benefits of CAPM® certification.