How to Choose a Project Management Training Provider

Even with the right skills and knowledge, moving forward in your project management career often takes more than an impressive résumé. Employers want to know if professionals can actually perform the work required to successfully manage projects. That’s why many employers typically prefer candidates with the Project Manager Professional (PMP)^® credential from Project Management Institute (PMI). In certain industries, such as financial services and defense, PMP^® certification is a must-have to even be considered for a position.

The PMP^® certification is recognized worldwide as the industry standard certification for project managers. Earning this credential validates your professional knowledge and capabilities, and can demonstrate to employers that you have the experience they want. Plus, the PMP^® certification can position you for upper-level jobs and higher earning potential.

If you want to pursue a career in project management, then you should consider obtaining the PMP^® certification. Read on to learn more about the exam and how to get the training you need to prepare for it.

Requirements to Take the PMP^® Exam

The PMP^® exam is designed for experienced project managers. In fact, the exam application requires several years of project management, along with documented time leading and directing projects. The length of time required depends on your formal education. For example:

• • With a four-year bachelor’s degree: Candidates need three or more years of project management experience, 4,500 hours of documented time leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.
  • With a high school diploma or two-year associate’s degree: Candidates require five or more years of project management experience, 7,500 hours of documented time leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

Preparing for the PMP^® exam typically takes focus, preparation and the right training program, such as those offered by PMI Registered Education Providers (REPs).

PMI Registered Education Providers

A PMI Registered Education Provider has been approved to offer project management training, and to issue the professional development units (PDUs) required by PMI to maintain certification. Earning the REP designation means the institution has met PMI’s rigorous requirements for quality education, based on the latest industry trends and international standards. These requirements include:

• • A legal organization that has offered training for at least a year
  • The organization must submit course material and student reviews to PMI for evaluation
  • Course content must be consistent with PMI global standards
  • The organization must be capable of offering PDUs to participants

Registered Education Providers offer assurance that the training applicants receive is of high quality, contains the latest data and trends, and will help prepare you for the PMP^® examination.

10 Questions to Ask When Evaluating Project Management Training Providers

Use the following questions to help determine if the program you’re considering is the right one for you:

1. Is the institution accredited?
2. Is it a PMI Registered Education Provider?
3. Are their rates of graduate employment independently verified?
4. Is the training offered in a classroom, online or a combination of both?
5. If online, do classes offer interaction between students and faculty?
6. What do online reviews say about the program?
7. What is the cost?
8. Are any specializations offered, or is it just a general program?
9. Does the program prepare you for the PMP^® exam?
10. Learn as much as you can about the different courses available, so you can decide which method is the appropriate choice for your career needs.

The Right Project Management Training Program Can Make the Difference

If you’re embarking on a project management career and want the quality training to prepare for the PMP^® exam, then consider enrolling in Villanova University’s Certificate in Project Management programs. You can be assured you’re learning from a trusted and well-recognized institution renowned for its project management instruction. Villanova is a PMI Registered Education Provider, and has long been preparing students for PMP^® certification.

PMP and Project Management Professional (PMP) are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc.