At MentorCruise, we have mentors who have managed teams in different capacities and led organizations of different sizes. They guide professionals like you who want to grow in their field.
In this article, we'll cover:
- What management certifications are
- Why management certifications are important
- Benefits of management certifications
- What to consider about management certifications
- Top 17 management certifications
Let’s get started!
What are management certifications?
Management certifications are specialized qualifications awarded by professional bodies. These qualifications show that its owner can lead teams in a certain management role.
For example, the Certified Professional in Management (CPM), by the American Management Association, is given to anyone who passes the exam as proof that they have gained critical thinking, communication, coaching and conflict management skills, and are qualified to manage teams effectively.
Why management certifications are important
Business owners and recruiters need to know that whoever they hire as a manager can effectively lead their teams towards set goals.
And certifications from professional bodies can influence their choice of a candidate.
Researchers have noted that managers consider voluntary certification an important criterion when they make decisions about recruiting, promoting and salary range.
Certifications can be also included as part of the job requirement for a particular role.
Shows job posting on Indeed requires project management certification
It can be used to screen candidates during resume reviews, substituting for education or experience.
Project management certifications can boost careers and help companies succeed. Certifications like PMP and PRINCE2 provide key skills and knowledge, making them more marketable and increasing their earning potential.
These management certifications make sure that project managers understand industry standards, leading to better project results, more efficiency, and happier clients.
Hiring certified project managers also cuts down on training costs and makes project management processes more aligned across teams.
Benefits of management certifications
Improve employability
Getting a management certification is worth it because it improves your value in the job market. Without it, your scopes of applying get limited even if you have the skills and years of experience needed.
Stand out among other qualified candidates
A management certificate makes you a preferred candidate over those without one.
If you're on par with other applicants in terms of degree and years of experience, management certifications could be the tie breaker that gives you an edge over your peers.
Increase your earning potential
Management certifications can also serve as a bargain chip for demanding a higher pay.
A survey by Project Management Institute shows that the average salary of managers who are certified is 32% higher than that of uncertified project managers in the United states.
Show your commitment to growth
Beyond competence, companies want to hire candidates with a growth mindset and forward-thinking approach. Getting a certification shows that you’re committed to improving your knowledge and skills, so you can contribute more to the workplace.
Criteria to consider when choosing management certifications
Before getting certified by an organization in your industry, there are some things you need to consider.
Your goals
It’s important to have clear goals guiding your pursuit of professional certifications. Think about the company you’d like to work for in the future, and the kind of teams you’d love to manage.
With this key information at the back of your mind, research about companies and roles to see their management styles and required certification.
You can also find a mentor here at MentorCruise to help you choose which management certifications suits your dream role and company.
Requirements of the certifying body
You also need to consider the eligibility requirements. Each certifying body has its own set of requirements for obtaining certification.
This may include a certain amount of work experience, educational qualifications, or passing an exam.
An example is the PMP certification by Project Management Institute. Before you can apply, you need to meet at least one out of two sets of criteria:
It’s either you have a four-year college/university degree and 36 months of experience as a project lead, or you have a high school or secondary school diploma and 60 months of experience as a project lead, with both requiring 35 hours of project management training.
Be sure to research the specific requirements for the certification you're interested in to check if you meet the criteria.
Difficulty of the management certification process
The difficulty level of getting a management certification can vary widely. Some certifications require rigorous exams, comprehensive coursework, and a lot of time commitment.
An example is the comparison between the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification that many consider to be hard, and the Certified Scrum Master (CSM) certification exam. The PMP exam has 180 questions and the exact pass score is not known, while the CSM exam has only 50 questions, out of which you must answer 37 correctly to get certified.
It’s important for you to assess your readiness and availability to prepare adequately for the certification process.
Duration of the certification process
You can complete some certifications, like the CSM, in just a few weeks, while others might take several months or even years.
Consider how much time you can realistically dedicate to completing the certification and how it fits into your current schedule. A longer certification process may offer more in-depth knowledge, but it's important to balance this with your other commitments.
Cost of the certification program
Management certifications can be a great investment. Costs may include application fees, exam fees, study materials, and potentially even training courses.
Consider your budget and weigh the costs against the potential benefits, such as increased job opportunities and higher salary potential.
Expiration of the certification
Some certifications have an expiration date and require periodic renewal to maintain their validity. This may involve additional coursework, exams, or continuing education units (CEUs).
Be sure to factor in any ongoing commitment to maintain your certification.
Top 17 management certifications you should go for
Considering the aforementioned factors, we’ve rounded up a list of top 17 management certifications organized by industries and management roles.
Management certifications for IT professionals
1. CompTIA Project+
Eligibility requirements: The CompTIA Project+ certification is suitable for IT professionals with at least 6–12 months of project management experience in an IT firm. It covers a broad range of project management concepts beyond specific methodologies, making it versatile for handling various projects.
Duration of the certification process: You can achieve the certification relatively quickly. The exam itself consists of a maximum of 90 questions and is scheduled for 90 minutes, making the process efficient for those already familiar with the material.
Difficulty of the exam: The exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions. With a passing score of 710 out of 900, it needs a solid understanding of project management principles. However, it's entry-level, making it accessible for those new to project management.
Cost of the certification program: The standard exam voucher for CompTIA Project+ is priced at $369. Additional costs may include study materials and preparation courses, which can vary based on the chosen provider.
Expiration of the certificate: One of the key benefits of CompTIA Project+ is that the certification is "good for life," meaning it does not require renewal or continuing education credits. This lets you apply your skills without worrying about maintaining the certification.
Similar management certifications for IT professionals
2. PRINCE2 Foundation
The PRINCE2 Foundation certification provides a structured approach to project management, focusing on clearly defined processes. It's suitable for those working in a PRINCE2 environment or intending to implement it.
The certification lasts for 3 years, after which you’ll need to recertify.
3. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
While primarily a cybersecurity certification, CISSP includes critical elements of project management, especially in security-related projects. It requires at least five years of work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
These certifications provide various pathways for IT professionals to enhance their project management skills, depending on their career goals and industry requirements.
Project management certifications
4. Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional certification, offered by Project Management Institute, is one of the most valuable management certifications worldwide. It's highly regarded across industries and serves as an all-in-one certificate.
Eligibility requirements: To be eligible for the PMP certification, you must meet one of the following sets of criteria:
- A four-year degree, 36 months of project management experience, and 35 hours of project management education/training or CAPM certification.
OR
- A high school diploma, 60 months of project management experience, and 35 hours of project management education/training or CAPM certification.
Duration of the certification process: The duration depends on your preparedness and experience. Studying for the exam can take several weeks to months, depending on your background and the time devoted to preparation.
Difficulty of the exam: The PMP exam consists of 180 questions and tests candidates on their ability to manage people, processes, and business priorities in a project setting. It's challenging and demands a deep understanding of different project management methodologies, including predictive, agile, and hybrid approaches.
The exact pass score is undisclosed, but many speculate that you need to get around 70% to pass.
Cost of the certification program: The exam fee is $284 for PMI members and $575 for non-members. Additional costs include study materials, courses, and membership fees if you choose to become a PMI member for the reduced exam fee.
Expiration of the certificate: The PMP certification is valid for three years. To maintain the certification, you must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) during each three-year cycle.
5. Certified Project Manager (IAPM)
Eligibility requirements: The Certified Project Manager (IAPM) certification does not need prior project management experience, making it accessible for those new to the field. It shows that you have knowledge in traditional project management practices, including both technical and interpersonal skills.
Duration of the certification process: The certification process involves an online exam with 120 questions to be completed in 80 minutes. You can prepare at your own pace using the recommended web-learning platforms.
Difficulty of the exam: The exam includes multiple-choice questions with a passing threshold of 65%. It covers topics like project environment, stakeholder management, project phases, and soft skills.
Cost of the certification program: The cost varies based on the candidate's country of citizenship, ensuring affordability worldwide. It’s about $550 for US citizens.
Expiration of the certificate: The IAPM certification is valid for life, with no need for recertification. This rids you of recurring costs and periodic renewals.
6. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
Eligibility requirements: The CSM certification requires completion of a Certified ScrumMaster course taught by a Certified Scrum Trainer or an Agile Certified Coach. There are no prerequisites for the course, so beginners can access it.
Duration of the certification process: The course spans 16 hours over 2-3 days, followed by an online exam. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and candidates must score at least 74% to pass.
Difficulty of the exam: The exam tests foundational knowledge of Scrum and its principles. While the pass rate is relatively high, thorough preparation is recommended to understand Scrum roles, artifacts, and events.
Cost of the certification program: Course costs range from $250 to $2,495, depending on the provider and delivery format. The fee generally includes two attempts at the exam.
Expiration of the certificate: You must renew your CSM certification every two years. To maintain certification, you need to earn Scrum Education Units (SEUs) and pay a renewal fee.
Product management certifications
7. Certified Product Manager (CPM)
Eligibility requirements: The CPM certification is open to all professionals involved in product management. It does not have strict prerequisites, making it accessible to individuals at various career stages.
Duration of the certification process: This varies based on preparation time. You can prepare through a self-study online course or live instructor-led courses. The program covers crucial product management topics, such as market planning, competitive analysis, and product launch strategies.
Difficulty of the exam: The CPM exam tests comprehensive knowledge of product management principles, focusing on real-world application. It includes multiple-choice questions and case studies.
Cost of the certification program: The cost varies depending on the chosen course provider and method of study. An example is the offering by Product Drive which costs $520.
You can check with the Association of International Product Marketing & Management (AIPMM) or training partners to compare pricing.
Expiration of the certificate: The CPM certification does not expire, providing a lifelong credential for certified individuals.
Similar product management certifications
8. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
Offered by Scrum Alliance, CSPO focuses on the role of a product owner in Scrum teams. It covers the basics of agile and Scrum frameworks, where you need to participate in a two-day course.
9. Agile Certified Product Manager and Product Owner (ACPMPO)
Offered by AIPMM, ACPMPO combines agile product management and product ownership skills. It focuses on agile methodologies and best practices for managing product life cycles in an agile environment.
Program management certifications
10. Program Management Professional (PgMP)
Eligibility requirements: The PgMP certification requires one of the following:
- A four-year degree with at least 48 months of project management experience and 48 months of program management experience within the last 15 years.
OR
- A high school diploma or an associate degree with at least 60 months of project management experience and 48 months of program management experience within the last 15 years.
Duration of the certification process: The certification process includes a two-step assessment: a panel review of your experience followed by a multiple-choice exam. The preparation and review process can take several months.
Difficulty of the exam: The PgMP exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of program management. It is known for its rigor, requiring a deep understanding of managing multiple related projects.
Cost of the certification program: The cost for PMI members is $560, and for non-members, it is $700. Additional costs include study materials and preparatory courses.
Expiration of the certificate: The PgMP certification is valid for three years. To maintain the certification, you must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) in program management topics every three years.
Similar program management certifications
11. MSP (Managing Successful Programmes)
Offered by AXELOS, MSP certification focuses on program management and transformational change. It includes Foundation, Practitioner, and Advanced Practitioner levels.
12. Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP)
Also from PMI, PfMP certification focuses on portfolio management, providing advanced skills in managing multiple programs and projects aligned with organizational strategy.
13. Certified Project Director (CPD)
Provided by the Global Association for Quality Management (GAQM), CPD certification is for senior-level project managers and directors, focusing on strategic project and program management skills. It covers high-level project planning, control, and execution strategies.
Business management certifications
14. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
Eligibility requirements: You must have a minimum of 7,500 hours of business analysis work experience in the last 10 years. Additionally, you must complete at least 900 hours in four of the six BABOK Guide Knowledge Areas.
You must also complete at least 35 hours of professional development in the last four years and provide two references.
Duration of the certification process: The CBAP exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 3.5 hours. Preparation time varies based on individual experience and study habits.
Difficulty of the exam: The exam is challenging, and focuses on scenario-based questions that test practical knowledge in business analysis.
Cost of the certification program: The exam fee for IIBA members is $450, and for non-members, it is $575. There may be extra costs for study materials and courses.
Expiration of the certificate: You need to renew the CBAP certification every three years. To maintain the certification, you need to earn at least 60 Continuing Development Units (CDUs).
Other certifications for managers
15. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Eligibility requirements: You don’t need any prerequisites for the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification. You can choose between two paths: taking a single comprehensive exam or multiple smaller exams corresponding to different certification levels.
Duration of the certification process: The process duration depends on the chosen path. You can complete the single comprehensive exam option in one sitting, while the multiple exams path allows for gradual completion.
Difficulty of the exam: The exams cover a broad range of topics, including Six Sigma methodologies, lean enterprise concepts, and team leadership skills. The standard exam has 150 questions, while the self-paced option has multiple smaller exams.
Cost of the certification program: The cost ranges from $229 to $349, depending on the chosen exam path and any additional training or study materials.
The certification does not expire, so you don’t need to renew.
16. Agile Project Management (AgilePM) Certification
Eligibility requirements: There are no formal prerequisites for the AgilePM® Foundation level, making it accessible to newbies in agile methodologies. For the Practitioner level, you need to complete the Foundation exam.
Duration of the certification process: The Foundation course typically takes 2-3 days, while the Practitioner course adds another 2-3 days. The process includes both training and exams.
Difficulty of the exam: The Foundation exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and the Practitioner exam involves scenario-based questions requiring a deeper understanding of AgilePM principles.
Cost of the certification program: Costs vary based on the training provider and the inclusion of materials and exams. We advise you to check with accredited providers for precise pricing.
Expiration of the certificate: The Practitioner certification is valid for five years, after which re-certification is needed to maintain the credential.
17. AMA Certified Professional in Management (AMA-CPM)
Eligibility requirements: There are no specific prerequisites for the AMA-CPM certification, making it accessible to those with varying levels of management experience.
The certification process involves preparing for and passing an exam. The preparation can vary in length depending on the individual's experience and study habits.
Difficulty of the exam: The exam tests competencies in professional effectiveness, relationship management, business acumen, and analytical intelligence. It covers a broad spectrum of management skills.
Cost of the certification program: The cost of the exam is $450 with an additional $50 for processing of your application. There may also be additional costs for preparatory courses and study materials.
Expiration of the certificate: The AMA-CPM certification must be renewed every three years. Recertification involves earning Professional Management Units (PMUs) and paying a renewal fee.
How mentorship can help you achieve top management certifications
Regardless of which management role you’re eyeing, our mentors at MentorCruise will guide you to achieve the certification you want.
Expert guidance
Say you want to become a program manager. You can reach out to someone like Nik Andriiash, who is currently a lead technical program manager at MasterCard, and has 11+ years of experience.
By booking a mentorship session with him, he’ll tell you the certifications you need for your target role, and guide you towards achieving it.
Personalized certification roadmaps
The process of getting a management certification can be daunting, especially when you have to balance work and study. Our mentors like Matt Boyle and can help you create a personalized roadmap that breaks down the certification process into manageable steps.
From selecting the right study materials to preparing for the exam, our mentors will provide you with a clear path to follow, keeping you focused and motivated along the way.
Support and accountability
Our platform gives you a unique support system where your mentor acts as both a guide and an accountability partner. You get to chat with our mentors regularly and have 1-on-1 video calls. They’ll check in with you regularly, keep you encouraged, and help you overcome any obstacles that might come up.
Our mentors make sure that you stay on track to achieve your certification.
Practical insights and real-world applications
One of the most significant advantages of learning from an experienced mentor is the practical, real-world insights they bring to the table. Our mentors can help you apply the knowledge you gain from certification courses to actual management scenarios.
This not only helps you pass your certification exams, but also equips you with the skills you need to excel as a manager.
Ace your management certification journey with MentorCruise
Getting certified by professional bodies can help you advance in your career, with potential for more earnings. But it’s a choice you should think about carefully, considering a number of factors.
Make your job application easier by preparing for your management certification exams with our mentors on MentorCruise.