Project management certifications structure careers and validate skills with employers. PMP, PRINCE2, Scrum Master: choosing the right certification requires understanding their positioning.
Key points
- PMP remains the international reference for senior project managers.
- PRINCE2 dominates in Europe and in the British and French public sectors.
- Agile certifications (Scrum Master, PMI-ACP, SAFe) are growing in digital sectors.
- The average certification budget ranges from 1,500 to 4,500 euros.
Main certifications
PMP (Project Management Professional) issued by PMI requires 35 hours of training and field experience. PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner structure projects in a British environment. Scrum Master certifies Agile facilitators. PMI-ACP validates a cross-functional Agile mastery.
Certification comparison
| Certification | Total cost | Prerequisites | Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|
| PMP | 2,500 to 4,500 euros | 3-5 years experience, 35h training | International |
| PRINCE2 Practitioner | 1,500 to 3,000 euros | PRINCE2 Foundation | Europe, public sector |
| Scrum Master (PSM) | 200 to 1,500 euros | None | Tech, digital |
| PMI-ACP | 2,000 to 3,500 euros | 21h Agile training | Cross-functional Agile |
For more information, see our SME ERP guide illustrating deployment projects, and our CMMS software comparison used in industrial projects.
FAQ
Which project management certification should you choose?
The choice depends on the sector and target role. PMP is the international reference for senior project managers, PRINCE2 dominates in Europe and public sectors, Scrum Master and PMI-ACP validate Agile skills.
How much does a PMP certification cost?
The total cost of a PMP certification ranges between 2,500 and 4,500 euros: 405 euros for the exam, 139 euros for PMI membership, and 1,500 to 3,500 euros for preparatory training.
What value does a PMP certification hold in the market?
According to the PMI Earning Power 2026 report, PMP-certified professionals earn on average 16 % more than non-certified peers in equivalent roles.