How to Get a Project Management Certification: Your Guide
If you’ve begun to work with projects or are thinking of moving into a project management role, it’s likely that you are wondering how to get a project management certification.
We have created this short guide to help you get started on achieving a respected project management certification.
Do I need a project management certification?
Many people become project managers on an unofficial basis. They grow into or inherit a role that requires them to handle projects regularly.
It is certainly possible to manage projects well without formal training and certification.
However, achieving a project management certification is essential in order to obtain a high level of confidence, support, and recognition.
For more guidance around the top reasons to get certified, we recommend reading the Professional Development article, “5 Benefits of Project Management Certification”.
What is the Best Project Management Certification?
This is a frequently asked question about certification, and the answer varies from person to person.
There is no “best choice” for project management qualifications, only the option that fits your needs precisely. In order to find this certification, you’ll need to carry out some research.
There are many excellent project management certifications on the market. It’s wise to begin your research by identifying your own goals and priorities.
The most important thing to consider is whether the training and certification you choose will help you achieve the skill-set you want, and move your career in the right direction.
How Do I Get Certified?
The process varies from certification to certification, but most boil down to a simple, 4-step process:
1. Attend Training
Our project management courses range from 2 – 5 days, ensuring your training time is focused and intensive.
By attending training, you’ll gain the guidance and advice of an experienced project management trainer.
You’ll also acquire the knowledge and understanding of a recognised project management methodology.
2. Study Period
On average, the study period following most of our courses is between 4 and 6 weeks. This can be longer or shorter depending on the certification.
For example, PRINCE2® Certification requires some pre-course reading and study during training, but usually has a short post-course study period.
3. Complete Exam or Assessment Work
Most certifications involve an exam, but our QQI Project Management Course requires assessment work submission instead.
4. Achieve Certification!
Congratulations; If you have passed your exam or assessment, you are now a certified project manager!
How Long Does it Take to Get a Project Management Certification?
The time frame for achieving certification differs depending upon the certification and the amount of time you can dedicate to study and exam preparation following training.
Our courses and exam preparation programmes are designed to streamline your path to achieving certification. Most of our delegates achieve project management certification within a 3-month period of beginning training.
Getting Started
If you’re keen to take action and begin your path to project management certification, we have 2 suggestions:
1. Read our 3-minute article “What is the Best Project Management Course?” to help identify your priorities for choosing a course and certification.
2. Get in touch with our training consultants for advice on choosing the best fit for your project management career.
You can call us on Freephone 1800 910 810, or click below to Ask a Question.