For many project managers the designation of Certified Project Management Professional (CPM) is a welcome addition to their professional qualifications. In an effort to enhance the career options available to them, CPMPs are consistently rated among one of the best-trained and experienced candidates for their particular job duties. This is because Certified Project Managers have already been trained by industry standards and have completed extensive coursework on relevant project management topics. A few of the most common benefits of becoming a CPM are listed below.

The CPM designation is recognized by international and regional associations as an expert in the field. It can open up many new career opportunities both locally and internationally, especially for those working in Information Technology related areas. With proper certification, project managers can be hired by leading corporations that require CPM expertise on their staff.

Completion of Certified Project Management Practitioner (CPMP) certification exams is the first step towards achieving success in this industry. The certification test measures how well a candidate performs based on detailed instructions. Candidates who pass the exams are awarded with the necessary credentials that prove they are competent enough to perform the duties required of a CPM. The test lasts approximately ninety minutes and tests various project management topics such as risk analysis, change management, estimation and scheduling. Passing the exam earns you a CPM certificate which is good proof of your proficiency in this specialized area.

Some people choose not to become certified in order to pursue other employment opportunities that do not require a CPM designation. In these circumstances, it is still possible to become a certified Project Manager without taking an exam. You will need to work at least five years towards the CPM certification in order to achieve this goal.

The majority of companies in the US require a CPM before being able to hire and train their own CPMs. A number of international organizations are now also recognizing the importance of certification and are encouraging their employees to pursue CPM certification. By training their own CPMs, organizations are showing that they are serious about managing projects properly. Many of these organizations award certified Project Managers with special recognition for their outstanding performance.

Training for becoming a CPM is rigorous. The program consists of two main components. First, there is classroom training in which the candidate will be trained on the different aspects of CPM. The classroom also provides the candidate with practice projects and hands-on application of the theory learned in class. After studying, the candidates will have to successfully complete a project management exam, which will certify them for CPM certification.

The training course includes information on identifying problems, managing projects and controlling project processes. The practical portion of the course includes analyzing current project issues and coming up with a feasible solution. The project manager will also learn the tools that he/she can use in assessing and managing the projects. The exam will test the candidate’s project managing skills and practical abilities in implementing project plans. Applicants for certification need to pass the exam, pass the written portion and have at least 300 hours of experience in managing projects.

There are many benefits of becoming a certified project management practitioner (CPM). Aside from gaining experience and training to be a qualified CPM, there are also a pension plan and health benefits available. The plan pays a certain amount per annum to eligible CPMs. The health benefits primarily cover routine doctor visits and a portion of prescriptions. There are also financial assistance schemes that will assist CPMs in starting their careers or continuing their education. There are also opportunities provided by state agencies to help those who wish to be trained as CPMs.