PMP Certifications, Are They Worth It?

What Other Jobs/Industries Use PMPs?

Project management professional (PMP) certification is an invaluable asset for many project managers in virtually any field. The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a nonprofit that handles PMP certification and education, and attaining certification is not necessarily a simple or inexpensive task. However, opportunities for project management professionals can provide a good return on your investment. In this section we will explore the value of PMP certification, the costs and requirements involved, and how it can be applied in cybersecurity and other industries.

How to apply your certification as a PMP

The PMP certification can be applied to any industry that requires a project lead or manager. This includes penetration testing, software development, charitable organizations, design firms, marketing agencies, and essentially any industry that requires team-directed projects. In cybersecurity, a project manager may lead a team of penetration testers to compromise a client organization and compile a report. In software development, a project manager oversees the design and implementation of key features. In any industry, the project manager must be able to balance resources with the budget and schedule of the project.There are many industries that need project managers, and some organizations may sponsor professional training for new hires and existing employees. While cybersecurity has been the focus, PMP certification can be applied outside the technology sector.For example:

• Marketing teams require project managers to direct campaigns according to the given schedule and budget.
• The entertainment industry requires project managers to plan and coordinate large events, ensuring everything is running smoothly and according to schedule.
• Banks rely on project leaders to direct teams for financial analysis, asset management, and other tasks that are complex and demanding.

In short, any industry that requires teams of professionals can employ a project management professional. This often entails complex or abstract tasks in a formal setting. These managers are most often employed in government or enterprise settings where team structures are complex and expansive across an organization, or when investors and/or stakeholders believe better management is necessary to succeed in the current market.If you have clear goals and the capital to get certified, PMP Certification can be a good investment. A passion to lead others and secure a coveted position can motivate PMP certification candidates towards good opportunities. Furthermore, sponsorship through a professional organization can streamline the process and cut back on costs in the long run. It’s important to carefully consider the facts before seeking PMP certification, and it’s equally important to have a long-term plan for applying your certification.

What it takes to get PMP certified

Generally speaking, 35 hours of training in a PMP course followed by a certification exam. Before you start your training, there are several expenses to consider. To begin, the certification exam can cost you a pretty penny. The initial fee is $550.00, and registering as a member of the Project Management Institute can reduce this to $405.00. The test can be re-taken for $375.00, and registering as a PMI member can reduce this to $275.00. However, registration fees total $139.00. In short, you can pay $550.00 as a non-member or $544.00 as a member to take the exam.TL;DR: The PMP certification can be a valuable resource for those seeking to work as project leads and managers. However, the process is not easy and can be costly. Many industries, including cybersecurity, employ project management professionals to oversee the completion of team-oriented tasks on time and on budget.