Guest Author
This blog post addresses similarities, differences, and common misconceptions about the CompTIA Project+, PMP® and CAPM®.
The Real Debate: CAPM® vs Project+
Project+ more closely aligns with PMI’s Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® certification than PMP®. PMP® is designed for experienced Project Managers. CAPM® and Project+ are intended for entry-level/novice project managers, team members, and other pros seeking fundamental project management skills and comprehension. A past post called “What is Project+?” explains how both certifications serve as informal prerequisites for PMP®.
For CAPM®, PMI® requires candidates to have a secondary degree (high school diploma or GED) and a minimum of 1,500 hours of project experience or a minimum of 23 hours of project management education.
For Project+, CompTIA recommends candidates have minimal experience and understanding of project management fundamental terms and concepts. However, there are no requirements for work experience and education.
By observing the prerequisites for each certification, you may lean towards taking Project+ because CompTIA does not require experience or education to sit for the exam. By earning the certification you may position yourself favorably in front of HR managers for starter positions in project management.
Why CAPM® May Fit Your Career Goals
Once commentor in a TechExams forum thread “Is it really worth it to become Project+ certified?”, said;
“Use the CAPM instead, it’s perfectly in line with the PMP requirements and I’ve seen it mentioned in job postings before (I have never seen Project+).”
Since PMI® designed the CAPM® as well, then it does align with PMP® compared to Project+. Although this is true of CAPM®, having the CAPM® certification is not a requirement to sit for the PMP® exam.
Despite the quote above expresses, both accreditations offer value. Project+ is a newer certification. CAPM® has been around for a while. So it isn’t surprising that job postings aren’t requiring it yet. Yet Project+ still has the backing of a respected accreditation body in CompTIA.
The Plus for Project+: No Certification Renewal
Project+ is a lifetime certification. Once you pass the exam, you never need to renew the certification again.
For CAPM®, you need to retest for the certification every five years. This commitment may not suit the professional interested in a project management, but not fully committed yet. Also, if you plan on pursuing the PMP®, then you may not want to concern yourself with the CAPM® renewal process.
Once you observe these factors, Project+ may seem like the better option of the two.
See if you are ready to take a Project+ course with us by taking this free and short Project+ quiz. Don’t worry, if you don’t pass this quiz an email with the correct answers and explanations will be sent to you. This way you can take the assessment again and pass with ease.