PMI-ACP Vs CSM both are globally recognized certifications in the field of agile project management. Both the certifications are well respected and sought-after by employers. However, there are some key differences between the two, which are important to understand before making a decision about which one to pursue.
It is not uncommon for individuals in the project management field to hold more than one certification. This can be due to the fact that there are a variety of certifications available, and many professionals want to be as well-rounded as possible. Two of the most popular project management certifications are the PMI-ACP® and CSM.
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CSM: The Certified Scrum Master (CSM) designation is a certification offered by the Scrum Alliance to individuals who have completed a CSM course and demonstrated their understanding of the Scrum framework.
PMI-ACP®: The PMI-ACP® is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to individuals who have completed a PMI-ACP course and demonstrated their understanding of the Agile framework.
The PMI-ACP®PMI-ACP and CSM are both widely recognized certifications in the field of project management. While they both signify a certain level of expertise and experience, there are some key differences between the two that are important to understand.
The Core Differences – PMI-ACP Vs CSM
The PMI-ACP® and CSM are both globally recognized certifications in the field of project management. Although both credentials denote a certain level of expertise and experience in managing software development projects, there are some key differences between the two.
The PMI-ACP® is a credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), while the CSM is offered by the Scrum Alliance. The PMI-ACP® focuses on giving project managers the knowledge and skills necessary to manage software development projects using agile methodologies, while the CSM focuses specifically on scrum methodology.
1. The Focus Of Each Credential: As mentioned above, the PMI-ACP® focuses on agile methodologies in general, while the CSM focuses specifically on scrum.
2. The Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for the PMI-ACP®, candidates must have 2,000 hours of general project experience and 1,500 hours of agile project experience. There is no such work experience requirement for the CSM.
3. The Exam Format: The PMI-ACP® exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, while the CSM exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.
4. The cost of each credential: The PMI-ACP® costs $435 for PMI members and $495 for non-members. The CSM costs $325 for Scrum Alliance members and $450 for non-members.
5. The renewal process: The PMI-ACP® must be renewed every 3 years, while the CSM does not expire.
Although both the PMI-ACP® and CSM are globally recognized credentials in the field of project management, there are some key differences between the two. The PMI-ACP is a credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), while the CSM is offered by the Scrum Alliance.
The PMI-ACP® focuses on giving project managers the knowledge and skills necessary to manage software development projects using agile methodologies, while the CSM focuses specifically on scrum methodology.
How Do the Two Certifications Compare?
The PMI-ACP® is a more comprehensive certification than the CSM. It covers a wider range of topics, including but not limited to:
- Agile principles and practices
- Agile tools and techniques
- Working with agile teams
- Stakeholder engagement
The CSM, on the other hand, is focused specifically on the Scrum framework. It covers topics such as:
- The Scrum framework and its practices
- The roles and responsibilities of a Scrum Master
- Working with Scrum teams
- Facilitating agile ceremonies
While both certifications are valuable, the PMI-ACP® is generally seen as the more prestigious of the two. This is likely due to its broader scope and focuses on multiple agile frameworks.
The PMI-ACP® is also a more difficult certification to obtain. The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 3 hours to complete it. The passing score is not publicly available, but PMI has stated that candidates need to score at least 61% to pass.
In contrast, the CSM exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 2 hours to complete it. The passing score is 70%.
How to Get Started With The PMI-ACP® Certification
The PMI-ACP® certification is one of the most popular certifications for agile project management. It is designed to help practitioners increase their skills and understanding of agile principles and practices, and to improve their ability to deliver successful projects.
#1. Read the Exam Content Outline
The first step to getting started with the PMI-ACP® certification is to read the Exam Content Outline. This document provides an overview of the topics that will be covered in the exam and will help you determine if you are ready to take the exam.
#2. Study for the Exam
Once you have determined that you are ready to take the exam, the next step is to begin studying for the exam. There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the PMI-ACP® exam, including books, online courses, and practice exams.
#3. Register for the Exam
Once you have studied for the exam and feel confident that you are prepared, the next step is to register for the exam. You can register for the exam online or by phone.
#4. Take the Exam
After you have registered for the exam, you will need to schedule a time to take the exam. The PMI-ACP® exam is offered year-round at testing centers around the world.
What’s Next?
Once you have passed the PMI-ACP® exam, you will need to maintain your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years. You can earn PDUs by attending conferences, taking courses, or participating in other activities that help you stay up-to-date on agile practices.
Which Certification is Right For You?
The PMI-ACP® and CSM are both great certifications for agile project managers. However, there are some key differences between the two certifications.
The PMI-ACP® is more focused on agility principles and practices, while the CSM is more focused on scrum. If you are not sure which certification is right for you, we recommend taking our free Certification Quiz to help you decide.
If you are interested in becoming a certified agile project manager, the PMI-ACP® certification is a great place to start. By following the steps outlined above, you can get started on your journey to becoming a PMI-ACP® certified professional.
Conclusion – PMI-ACP Vs CSM: Understanding The Core Differences
The PMI-ACP® and CSM are both great certifications for agile project managers. However, there are some key differences between the two certifications.
The PMI-ACP® is more focused on agility principles and practices, while the CSM is more focused on scrum. If you are not sure which certification is right for you, we recommend taking our free Certification Quiz to help you decide.
If you are interested in becoming a certified agile project manager, the PMI-ACP® certification is a great place to start. By following the steps outlined above, you can get started on your journey to becoming a PMI-ACP® certified professional.
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