The need for highly qualified, certified project management professionals (PMP) is growing rapidly, with demand for project managers at an all-time high. Project Management Institute (PMI) research on the PMP certification page indicates that “employers will need to fill nearly 2.3 million new project-oriented roles each year through 2030.” PMP certification is the best indicator a prospective employer can have that a candidate has the proven leadership experience and expertise to handle even the most complex and challenging projects.
PMP certification is recognized globally as representing a high level of expertise in project management. Considered the gold standard in project management certifications, the PMP offered by PMI is a rigorous test and covers everything a professional needs to prove their capabilities.
Obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in project management is one of the best ways to ensure graduates are fully prepared for the certification process. Avila University offers a fully online MBA with a concentration in Project Management program that helps students build a portfolio and obtain the skills needed in communication, negotiation, budgeting, organization and problem-solving.
What Is PMP Certification?
Globally recognized as the leading authority on project management, PMI notes that the PMP certification process requires a project manager to meet certain requirements and then pass a 180-question exam. To be eligible for the PMP exam, candidates must have a four-year college or university degree, 36 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years, and 35 hours of project management education/training or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification. Alternatively, a candidate can have a high school or secondary school diploma with 60 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years, and 35 hours of project management education/training or CAPM certification.
The application process will require documentation on projects the candidate has led and training that has been completed. Preparation for applying is one of the elements that Avila University’s online MBA in Project Management program provides.
Important Skills a Certified Project Manager Requires
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that the most highly sought-after skills a successful project manager needs include analysis, communication, critical thinking, organization, problem-solving and time management. Some employers emphasize great communication skills since the successful project leader must be a skilled communicator. Other employers include risk management skills and the ability to track to a budget in this list. Flexibility and agility are crucial since even the most carefully planned project require change.
The project management triangle includes the three factors of scope, time and cost. The “three Ps” of project management are people, processes and products. Different sources will stress different disciplines that are essential to successful project management, but the picture is clear: project management is a complex career that requires great leadership skills and expertise in many related areas.
Benefits of Earning PMP Certification
In a competitive market, highly qualified and experienced individuals have a great advantage. PMP certification proves that a project manager is at the highest level of qualification. Some organizations with major projects on the horizon even require PMP certification as a prerequisite.
PMP-certified project leaders earn more money. In fact, the median salary for PMPs in the U.S. is 32% higher than those without certification. Respondents to a salary survey from PMI also reported that their salaries increase at least 5% yearly.
There are 1,400,000 PMP certification holders worldwide, per the PMP certification page, and this global community offers opportunities to network and mentor with some of the best in the field. Although this seems like a huge talent pool, it’s not enough to meet the demand.
Advance Your Career and Prepare for PMP Certification
Having a PMP certification sets job candidates apart from the pack. Recruiters divide resumes into two piles: candidates with PMP certification and those without. When a candidate needs an edge to stand out, PMP certification is the biggest differentiator available. The online MBA in Project Management program from Avila University is ideal for working professionals who want to acquire cutting-edge project management tools and techniques to help set them apart and make them leaders and influencers.
Learn more about Avila University’s online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management program.
