Project management certifications in comparison

The world of project management is diverse – but not every certification offers the same value. Terms such as “project leader” or “project manager” are not protected. A recognized certificate shows clients, employers and customers that you work according to clear standards and can prove your expertise.
If you want to work internationally or are looking for a qualification that is understood and valued worldwide, there is hardly any way around PMI^® CAPM^® and PMP^®.

Other models such as Scrum.org, PRINCE2^® or GPM/IPMA have their strengths – but are often more specialized or regionally limited.
This page gives you a clear overview – and tells you which certification is really relevant for your career.

Here you can get a compact overview of the most important certifications:
PMI^®, Scrum.org, PRINCE2^® and GPM/IPMA – including focus, target group and examination logic.

Which certification suits you?

PMI^® certificates – the recommendation if you only want to choose one certificate

CAPM^® & PMP^® – the international standard
Ideal for anyone who works internationally, is planning a career in project management or wants to demonstrate methodological competence at the highest level.
Perfect for: Industry, IT, consulting, production, automotive, pharmaceuticals, international teams.

✔ In demand worldwide
✔ Recognized by corporations, SMEs & international clients
✔ Covers classic, hybrid & agile
✔ Clear career benefits

Scrum.org certificates – very useful as a supplement

Scrum Master & Product Owner – for agile teams
Scrum is the most important agile method. The certificates are ideal as a supplement or specialization – especially in development teams.

✔ Role in an agile environment
✔ Compact exam
➖ Focus purely on Scrum (no overall project management)

PRINCE2^® certificates – the right thing to do if your employer requires it

Process & governance-oriented management
Particularly common in IT and organizational projects, often in public authorities or large transformation programs.

✔ Strong process model
➖ Less internationally recognized than PMI
➖ Focus on governance rather than leadership

GPM/IPMA certificates – low competence assessment, but high effort

Competency model with levels D-A
Comprehensive competency grid with a strong focus on soft skills, leadership and self-management – mainly used in German-speaking countries.

✔ Broad competency model: soft skills, practical evidence, self-reflection
➖ Extensive review processes
➖ Limited international visibility

Differences in the content of the certificates

PMI^® (CAPM^®, PMP^®)

• Comprises 8 service areas, 12 principles & value delivery system
• Balance of methods, leadership & business skills
• For classic, hybrid & agile projects

Scrum.org (PSM, PSPO)

• Role-based
• 100% focused on Scrum
• Short, compact, practical

PRINCE2^®

• Process model from initiation to completion
• Strong governance & clear roles
• Especially for structured IT and organizational projects

GPM/IPMA

• Competence model: People / Practice / Perspective
• Focus on experience, behavior & leadership
• Internationally varying recognition