What is a PMP certification salary?

Understanding PMP Certification and Its Pay Benefits

Getting certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) can make a big difference in how much money you earn. Many project managers wonder if getting this certification is worth the time and effort. The numbers tell us that it usually pays off - PMP holders typically make much better money than those without the credential.

What PMP Certified Professionals Make

Project managers who hold PMP certification get paid more than their non-certified peers. In the United States, PMP certified professionals take home around $123,000 per year on average. This is about $30,000 more than project managers without the certification, who typically earn around $93,000 annually. This means PMP holders earn about 32% more than their non-certified colleagues, which adds up to a lot of extra income over the course of a career. Keep in mind this is the median for the entire United States, so factor in other things like cost of living and years or experience for your specific situation!

Why PMP Certified Managers Get Better Pay

Companies want to pay more for PMP certified professionals for several good reasons. PMP holders have mastered the best ways to manage projects and lead teams effectively. They know how to keep projects on schedule and within budget, which helps companies save money. The certification confirms they have real experience leading projects and have passed a tough exam about project management. Companies trust that hiring a PMP certified manager will help their projects turn out well.

Requirements to Earn PMP Certification

Getting PMP certified takes some work, but the better salary makes it worthwhile for many people. You need several years of experience managing projects before you can apply. If you have a four-year college degree, you need three years of project management experience. Without a degree, you need five years of experience. You also have to take 35 hours of project management training and pass an exam. After getting certified, you need to keep learning and earn professional development credits every three years to keep your certification active.

Making Your PMP Certification Work for You

Once you earn your PMP certification, there are ways to get the most value from it. Many certified project managers take on bigger projects or switch to companies that offer better pay for their skills. Some become program managers or portfolio managers, overseeing multiple projects at once. Others use their certification to work in specialized industries like healthcare or technology where project managers often get higher salaries. Building connections with other PMP professionals can also lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.

Project managers thinking about getting PMP certified should look at their career goals and current salary. While the certification costs money and takes time to earn, the better pay often makes up for the investment within a few years. The knowledge and skills gained through certification can also open doors to more interesting and challenging work opportunities. For many project managers, PMP certification becomes a turning point that lifts their career to new heights.