PMP vs Scrum Master Certification
Compare PMI PMP and Scrum Master (CSM/PSM) certifications for project management.
PMP (Project Management Professional)
PMI
Professional Scrum Master (PSM I)
Scrum.org
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | PMP (Project Management Professional) | Professional Scrum Master (PSM I) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | PMI | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty Level | Expert | Foundational |
| Exam Duration | 230 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $555 USD | $200 USD |
| Exam Format | 180 questions | 80 questions |
| Prerequisites | 3-5 years PM experience | None |
| Validity Period | 3 years (PDUs) | Does not expire |
| Ideal For | Project managers across methodologies | Scrum Masters and agile team leads |
| Salary Range | $115,000 - $165,000 | $95,000 - $140,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
PMP (Project Management Professional) Focus Areas
- Predictive
- Agile
- Hybrid
- People
- Process
- Business
Professional Scrum Master (PSM I) Focus Areas
- Scrum Framework
- Scrum Master Role
- Events
- Artifacts
Our Recommendation
PMP covers all methodologies; Scrum Master is agile-focused.
Choose PMP (Project Management Professional)
Choose PMP for comprehensive project management expertise.
Choose Professional Scrum Master (PSM I)
Choose Scrum Master for pure agile/Scrum team leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: PMP (Project Management Professional) or Professional Scrum Master (PSM I)?
PMP covers all methodologies; Scrum Master is agile-focused.
What are the salary differences between PMP (Project Management Professional)?
PMP (Project Management Professional) typically offers salaries around $115,000 - $165,000, while Professional Scrum Master (PSM I) offers $95,000 - $140,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose PMP for comprehensive project management expertise. Choose Scrum Master for pure agile/Scrum team leadership.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
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