What Is PMP Designation?

PMP designation is sponsored by the Project Management Institute.

PMP designation is a certification program by the Project Management Institute to prepare project managers for the workplace. To obtain credentials as a project management professional, applicants must complete higher education courses, professional development units and logged work hours as a project manager prior to the PMP exam.

Eligibility Requirements

Project managers seeking PMP credentials must possess a bachelor's or associate's degree in addition to three to five years experience as a project manager. The credential process for PMPs includes logging 4,500 to 7,500 hours of project management in the workplace prior to taking the PMP exam.

Project Management Training

To acquire PMP designation, project managers must first complete 35 hours of professional development courses, as mandated by the Project Management Institute. Coursework includes units on project initiation, controlling and executing as well as professional and social responsibilities of a project manager. Project management courses are available at institutions of higher education and PMI-approved facilities.

PMP Exam

The final stage of the PMP credential process is the PMP exam. Applicants who have met the eligibility requirements and completed the required training are eligible to take the 200-question multiple choice test through the Project Management Institute. Prior to the exam, the PMI recommends that applicants review the credentials handbook on its website. The handbook offers sample test questions, information about the credential process and exam procedures and policies.

PMP Exam Training

Preparation for PMP designation and the PMP exam can take months for project managers. The PMP exam covers both the core tasks of project management and the knowledge areas of project managers, including project integration, communication, costs, risk, quality and time. In addition, project managers should study processes associated with project execution, integration, monitoring and closing.

PMP Credentials

Once a professional has successfully passed the PMP exam, he is designated as a PMP. The credentials, though, are dependent upon each project manager's ability to complete professional development units each year. The Project Management Institute reviews professionals each year to assess eligibility for renewal of credentials.

References

• Project Management Institute: PMP Exam Prep