There are certain requirements you will need to have before applying for the highly respected PMP. Follow this guide to see if you qualify for this world-leading project management certification.
Updated on 28th October 2019
What is the PMP?
The Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally-recognised and increasingly sought after certification for professionals in every industry. It is aimed at validating and developing an experienced project manager’s knowledge based on the teachings of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK).
Prerequisites
The PMP is not a certification for someone at the beginning of their project management career. There is a process in place to ensure that only certain professionals can obtain the certification, which is monitored through an application system.
There are two main prerequisite options:
- A bachelor's degree with 3 years of project management experience and 4500 hours of leading a project
- A high school diploma with 5 years of project management experience and 7500 hours of leading a project
In addition to one of these options, the professional is required to have a minimum of 35 hours of project management education. It is also important to note that although your job role does not have to have been ‘project manager’, you will need to have documented proof of your experience.
Examination
No matter the experience level of the project management, it is important to study extensively for the exam. You have 1 year to pass from the time your application is accepted, following the submission of your documented experience.
You are given 4 hour within which to complete the 200 multiple choice questions in the exam. These will cover the 5 main elements of project management, Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing. You have a maximum of 3 attempts to pass the exam, within the year period.
Alternatives for beginners
If you are lacking in the experience for the PMP, it is well worth investing in your project management education early on. Consider the CAPM certification, this is for project managers at all stages of their career, as a great introduction for beginners and also perfect for project managers looking to develop their skills.
Gaining the experience
As part of your enrolment on a project management course, like the CAPM certification, you will have full access to our student-exclusive Career Services. The aim of this service is to provide our students with the tools and confidence to carry out industry research, build a network, reach out to employers and to secure that dream role.
We encourage our students to utilise this service to boost your knowledge within the industry, perhaps finding out more about what career route you want to go down. Once you’ve got a clear pathway, our dedicated Career Services consultants will help personalise your CV, cover letter and LinkedIn profile to help open up new opportunities as a project manager. This experience, can later be used towards your PMP application.
Still unsure if you are eligible or looking for some advice on how to achieve it, do not hesitate to get in touch with one of our project management career experts.