Certifications

For most beginners the best first certification is the CAPM or the Google Project Management Certificate; the PMP is the gold standard but requires experience you probably don't have yet.

For a complete beginner, start with the cheaper, gentler Google Certificate; add the CAPM for a recognized exam credential. And since the Google course counts toward CAPM's education requirement, many people do both.

Get the CAPM if you're new and lack the experience the PMP demands; get the PMP once you qualify, because it's the more respected credential — and holding a CAPM waives part of the PMP's requirements.

Choose PSM I if you want the cheaper, rigorous, no-expiry option you can self-study; choose CSM if you'd benefit from a mandatory two-day course and your employer is paying.

Yes, for a complete beginner who wants an affordable, structured way into project coordination roles. No, if you already have PM experience or expect the certificate alone to land you a manager job.

Yes, for beginners and career-changers who want a recognized PMI credential without needing work experience — it's an affordable stepping stone to the PMP. No, if you already qualify for the PMP or only need to learn the basics.

For experienced project managers, yes — the PMP is the field's most recognized credential and is tied to higher pay. For beginners or people not doing project work, no: you can't qualify yet, and it won't help.

Yes, for almost anyone targeting agile or Scrum roles: the PSM I is affordable, respected, never expires, and you can self-study it. No, if your target jobs are traditional, plan-driven project management — a PMI credential fits better.

The PMP exam costs $425 for PMI members and $675 for non-members in 2026, but the realistic all-in cost — with training, materials, and membership — is usually $700 to $2,500.

To sit the PMP you need 35 hours of project management education plus experience: 36 months with a four-year degree, or 60 months with a secondary diploma — counted from the last 10 years.