Is It Still Worth Getting CAPM or PMP Certification?

General
1

I’m exploring ways to strengthen my project management credentials and wondering how valuable CAPM and PMP certifications are in today’s job market. For those who’ve earned either:

  • Did the certification help you land interviews or promotions?
  • If you started with CAPM, did you eventually move on to PMP?
  • Any tips on choosing between the two based on career stage?

Would love to hear your experiences, advice, or regrets. Thanks in advance!

2

Well, certificates are always important, but nowadays, many employers prioritize work experience over the certificate itself; however, it is always a plus to have one.

  1. Yes, especially those “Project Coordinator“ positions in traditional industries.
  2. Both works, but PMP is more valuable.
  3. If it’s me, I’d choose the one having a larger scope and impact
3

Both CAPM and PMP still carry weight in project management hiring — but their value depends a lot on your experience level and the type of roles you’re targeting.

:one: CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management)

  • Designed for early-career PMs or those transitioning into project management.

  • Requires less experience (no prior PM hours needed, just education).

  • Shows employers you understand PMI’s framework and terminology.

  • Can help you stand out for coordinator, junior PM, or analyst roles — but on its own, it’s rarely a “golden ticket” without practical project work on your resume.

  • Good stepping stone toward PMP if you don’t yet meet PMP’s experience requirement.

:two: PMP (Project Management Professional)

  • The “gold standard” for PMs with 3–5+ years of experience leading projects.

  • Recognized globally; often appears in job descriptions as “preferred” or “required.”

  • Stronger influence on higher-level PM, program manager, and leadership roles.

  • Can lead to better pay bands — PMI’s own surveys show PMP holders earn ~16–20% more on average.

:three: My take on choosing

  • If you’re <3 years in PM work → CAPM makes sense to build credibility and get familiar with PMI methodology. Plan to upgrade to PMP once you meet the hours requirement.

  • If you already have the hours → Go straight for PMP — many employers will skip over CAPM in mid-senior role hiring.

  • If you’re in an industry where PMI framework is the norm (IT, engineering, construction, healthcare), PMP/CAPM is more impactful than in startups or creative industries where Agile/Lean certs might matter more.

:four: Tips if you go for it

  • Use the study process to actually learn the PMBOK concepts — in interviews, they’ll test your ability to apply them.

  • Join a local PMI chapter — networking there can lead to referrals.

  • Pair the cert with tools experience (Jira, MS Project, Smartsheet) to show you can execute as well as plan.