Are you a project management professional looking to take the next step in your career but unsure whether to choose PgMP or PMP certification?
Navigating the complex landscape of project management presents several challenges and rewards, especially when it comes to advancing your career. Choosing between the Project Management Professional (PMP) and Program Management Professional (PgMP) credentials is crucial, as both certifications are highly respected within the industry but cater to distinctly different professional paths.
Did you know that the PgMP certification is frequently pursued by professionals who want to improve their ability to manage and navigate complex, multifaceted projects spanning multiple functions of an organisation, whereas the PMP is more focused on project execution and delivery?
In this blog, we’ll look deeper into these certifications, helping you decide which one best fits your professional goals and career trajectory.
Table of Contents
PgMP vs PMP: Roles and Salary Comparison
When considering advancing in project management, understanding the roles and potential earnings associated with PgMP (Program Management Professional) and PMP (Project Management Professional) certifications can significantly impact your career decisions.
PgMP Roles:
- Strategic Program Oversight: PgMP-certified professionals oversee a collection of related projects that are coordinated to meet strategic business goals. They work at a higher level of complexity, ensuring that all projects fit together to function as a cohesive program.
- Stakeholder Management: These professionals also focus on engaging with stakeholders across the organisation and beyond to align expectations and ensure the realisation of project benefits as per the organisational goals.
PMP Roles:
- Project Execution and Delivery: PMP-certified professionals focus on the tactical aspects of managing individual projects. This includes detailed project planning, day-to-day management of operational tasks, and problem-solving to keep projects on track towards their specific goals.
- Budget and Schedule Management: They are adept at managing project budgets, schedules, and resource allocations, ensuring that projects are delivered within agreed timeframes and budgets while meeting the set quality standards.
Salary Comparison
Here’s a detailed look at the salary differences between professionals holding PMP and PgMP certifications. As you progress from managing specific projects to overseeing broader programs and portfolios, the potential for higher earnings increases significantly.
Certification | Typical Roles | Average Salary (USD) |
---|---|---|
PMP | Project Manager, Programme Manager, Portfolio Manager | $122,000 |
PgMP | Programme Manager, Portfolio Manager | $122,543 |
The data illustrates that while PMP-certified professionals earn an impressive average of $122,000 annually, those with PgMP certification see a slight increase to $122,543. This increment, though modest, reflects the additional responsibilities and strategic oversight required in roles that qualify for PgMP certification.
For a deeper dive into how these certifications impact earning potential and to understand the nuances behind these figures, be sure to visit our PgMP Salary blog.
PgMP vs PMP Certification- Difficulty Level
When deciding between the PgMP (Program Management Professional) and PMP (Project Management Professional) certifications, it is important to consider the difficulty level of each exam. Although the goal of both tests is to verify the candidate’s proficiency in project and program management, their structure and level of difficulty vary greatly.
PMP Exam:
The PMP exam is a comprehensive test that evaluates a candidate’s ability to manage individual projects efficiently and effectively. It is globally recognised and widely respected in the field of project management.
- Format: The exam consists of 180 questions to be answered over 230 minutes.
- Content: It covers five domains of project management.
- Nature: Known for its rigour, the exam tests practical knowledge and real-world experience in managing projects.
PgMP Exam:
The PgMP exam goes beyond the fundamentals of project management and delves into the complexities of managing multiple overlapping projects that contribute to the strategic objectives of an organisation.
- Format: This exam is a two-part process that includes a panel review followed by a 170-question test taken over four hours.
- Content: The exam demands a comprehensive understanding of managing multiple projects and aligning them with strategic business objectives.
Difficulty Comparison Table
Certification | Exam Components | Number of Questions | Duration | Complexity Level |
---|---|---|---|---|
PMP | Single exam | 180 | 230 mins | High |
PgMP | Panel review + Exam | 170 | 240 mins | Higher |
Which is harder?
While both exams present their challenges, the PgMP is often viewed as the more demanding certification to obtain. This impression comes from its wider range of expertise, the difficulty of overseeing multiple connected projects, and the special panel review element, which necessitates a thorough, program-level comprehension of project management.
Eligibility Criteria for PgMP and PMP Certification
The eligibility criteria for PgMP (Program Management Professional) and PMP (Project Management Professional) certifications are intended to ensure that candidates have sufficient project management experience and education. A thorough tabular comparison of the criteria is provided below:
Certification | Required Experience | Educational Requirement | Management Hours |
---|---|---|---|
PMP | – 3-5 years of project management experience, depending on educational background. | Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree) or a four-year degree. | 4,500 to 7,500 hours leading and directing projects. |
PgMP – Set A | – 4 years of project management experience or PMP; – 7 years of program management experience within the last 15 years. | High school diploma or associate’s degree. | N/A as specific hours are not delineated just cumulative years of experience. |
PgMP – Set B | – 4 years of project management experience or PMP; – 4 years of program management experience within the last 15 years. | Four-year college or university degree. | N/A as specific hours are not delineated just cumulative years of experience. |
The PgMP certification has stricter requirements, making it ideal for professionals with significant experience in program management. In contrast, the PMP is more accessible for professionals looking to advance their project management skills.
PgMP vs PMP – Exam Pattern
When deciding which certification to pursue, it is essential to understand the format of both the PMP (Project Management Professional) and PgMP (Program Management Professional) exams. Here’s a breakdown of both exam patterns:
Criteria | PgMP | PMP |
---|---|---|
Number of Questions | 170 | 180 |
Question Types | Multiple-choice | Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, matching, scenario-based |
Focus | Program management alignment with strategic business objectives | Traditional project management, covering five domains |
Exam Challenge | Two-part process: panel review and written exam | Broader scope, tests application of project management in real-world scenarios |
Ideal For | Professionals with extensive experience managing multiple related projects | Professionals in structured, traditional project settings |
PgMP vs PMP Certification – Cost Comparison
When deciding between the PgMP and PMP certifications, it’s important to consider the total investment required, which encompasses the exam fees, training, study materials, and recertification costs.
PMP Certification Costs:
- Exam Fee for Members: Approximately $550.
- Exam Fee for Non-Members: Approximately $700.
- Study Materials and Training: Costs vary but are essential for preparation.
- Recertification: Required every three years, with fees depending on the renewal requirements.
PgMP Certification Costs:
- Exam Fee for Members: Approximately $800.
- Exam Fee for Non-Members: Approximately $1,050.
- Study Materials and Training: Generally higher than PMP due to the advanced nature of the content.
- Recertification: Similar to PMP, required every three years with comparable costs.
Cost Comparison Table
Cost Component | PMP | PgMP |
---|---|---|
Exam Fee (Members) | $550 | $800 |
Exam Fee (Non-Members) | $700 | $1,050 |
Study Materials and Training | Varies, but essential for preparation | Generally higher due to advanced content |
Recertification | Required every three years; costs vary | Required every three years; costs similar to PMP |
PgMP vs PMP – Which Certification is Better?
Deciding between PgMP and PMP certifications depends significantly on where you see your career heading.
- If your goal is to excel in managing individual projects, the PMP certification is perfect for you. It focuses on enhancing your skills in project management, providing you with the tools and knowledge needed to efficiently handle project-specific challenges and responsibilities.
- For those looking to oversee multiple related projects and ensure they align with organisational strategic objectives, the PgMP certification offers a distinct advantage. It’s designed for seasoned professionals who aim to operate at a program level, facilitating broader oversight that impacts the company’s long-term goals.
Ultimately, both certifications are valuable, but PgMP is better suited for seasoned professionals aiming to lead on a program level. For those interested in the PgMP path, check out our PgMP course page for more details.
How to Get PMP Certification Fast?
Looking to fast-track your PMP certification? Enrolling in a structured training program, such as the one provided by PM Training School, is one of the most efficient methods. Here’s how PM Training School can help accelerate your journey:
- Certified Instructors: Learn from experienced instructors who provide expert guidance and real-world insights.
- PMP Exam Prep Course: Dive deep into all exam topics with our comprehensive PMP Course.
- PMP Real Practice Exams: Test your knowledge with our PMP Real Practice Exams, which are designed to mirror the actual exam environment.
- PMP Flashcards: Quickly review key terms and concepts with our handy PMP Flashcards.
- PMP Weekly Quiz: Stay sharp and assess your progress with our PMP Weekly Quiz.
At PM Training School, we prepare you not just for the exam but also for long-term success in the field of project management.
Essential Resources for Your PgMP Certification Journey
Prepare for the PgMP exam with confidence using these specialised resources designed to enhance your program management skills:
- PgMP Exam Prep Course: Strengthen your understanding of complex program management topics with our PgMP Exam Prep Course.
- PgMP Real Practice Exams: Simulate the real exam experience and test your readiness with our PgMP Real Practice Exams.
- PgMP Flashcards: Reinforce your knowledge of program management processes and terminologies with our PgMP Flashcards.
Enrol in PM Training School today to access these valuable resources and gain the confidence and knowledge needed to excel in your PgMP certification journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s explore some common queries that professionals often have when considering PgMP and PMP certifications:
1. Can I pursue PgMP without PMP certification?
Yes, you can apply directly for the PgMP certification if you meet the specific eligibility requirements, even without having the PMP certification.
2. Is the PgMP certification worth the cost?
If you aim to advance in program management, the PgMP certification can significantly enhance your career prospects and potential earnings, making it a worthwhile investment.
3. How often do I need to renew my PMP and PgMP certifications?
Both the PMP and PgMP certifications require renewal every three years, which involves earning professional development units (PDUs) to maintain your credential.
4. Which industries prefer PgMP over PMP?
Industries that involve managing complex, large-scale, multi-project programs—such as IT, construction, and healthcare—often prefer professionals with PgMP certification due to their specialised skills in overseeing broader strategic objectives.
Conclusion
We hope that this blog has given you insights into the key differences between PgMP and PMP certifications. Whether you’re aiming to advance your project management skills or move into a more strategic role managing multiple projects, understanding the differences between these certifications is essential.
Need help deciding which certification is right for your career?
Enquire now, and let’s discuss the best path forward for your professional growth!
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