Get an Edge with PMP Certification

2007-03-08 10:33:40

( Education )



Because of the highly complex and timebound nature of projects, there is currently an increasing demand for especially trained professionals called project management professionals or PMPs.

A PMP Certificate is credible proof of a project manager's demonstrated competence to handle specific tasks from beginning to end. It is obtained by meeting certain eligibility requirements and by passing a tedious examination.

Eligibility Requirements for Taking the Examination

The minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma. You must have also completed a minimum number of work hours dedicated to leading and directing specific tasks, as well as a minimum period of project management experience.

If you have only a high school diploma, you also need to attend 35 hours of PMP training and need to possess a much longer period of experience than if you had a bachelor's degree. This training requirement is optional to college degree holders.

The PMP Certification Examination

Administered by the Project Management Institute or PMI, this four-hour examination can be taken online and is available in ten languages. The test contains 200 multiple choice questions, covering these areas: planning, initiating, executing, monitoring and controlling, closing, ethics and social responsibility. The questions are mostly situation-based, so you are tested on your ability to put your project management knowledge to actual practice.

You can apply for the examination online with PMI and pay the corresponding fees. Upon your application, you also need to download a copy of the PMP Credential Handbook and Code of Ethics, as well as a list of other references that serve as the basis for the examination questions.

There are sites which offer free sample questions to help you prepare for the test.

Once you pass the examination, you are asked to take an oath to support the PMP Code of Professional Conduct. Then you are given PMP certification and membership to PMI's network. This membership will enable you to participate in various seminars and receive updates of your profession.

The Continuing Certification Requirement

Like any other licensed professional, you also need to renew your certification by completing 60 professional development units every three years. You need to fill out a renewal application as well as reaffirm the PMP Code.

Advantages of Being Certified

Possessing PMP certification has great rewards. Your PMP certificate tells your current as well as prospective employers that you are professionally capable of the task. Like a doctor or a lawyer, you have tangible proof of being a licensed professional. You have more career opportunities, as the field of project management is currently experiencing labor shortages.

Your professional status also entitles you to a salary scale that is much higher than that of non-certificate holders.


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