How to Choose Between APM vs PMP as Your Next Career Choice?

Effective project management has become increasingly important in today's fast-paced and competitive business environment. Project managers plan, organize, and execute projects to achieve specific goals within defined constraints. To validate their skills and expertise, many professionals seek project management certifications.

Among the many project management certifications available, two widely recognized options are the Association for Project Management (APM) and Project Management Professional certifications (PMP). These certifications validate individual project management capabilities, open new career opportunities, and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

This article will delve into a detailed comparison of APM certification vs PMP certifications. By examining various parameters, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these certifications, enabling you to decide based on your career aspirations, industry focus, and personal preferences. 

APM vs PMP Difference Table

Let us look at the difference between APM and PMP in the below table:

Parameters	APM	PMP
Definition	The UK-based professional membership body	Globally recognized certification
Project Management Methodology	Adaptable and flexible	Structured and standardized
Eligibility Criteria	No prerequisites	Project management experience and education
Exam Structure	Three-hour written examination	Computer-based exam with 200 multiple-choice questions
Tools and Methodologies	Emphasizes understanding principles and adapting methodologies	PMBOK guide as a common framework for project management
Continuous Professional Development	Structured CPD program	Earning Professional Development Units (PDUs)
Industry Focus	UK and Europe, applicable to various sectors	Global, particularly valued in IT, telecommunications, finance, and consulting

APM vs PMP: Detailed Comparison

APM vs PMP: Definition

APM (Association for Project Management) is a UK-based professional membership body that focuses on project management competency and career development. APM offers a range of certifications, including the APM Project Management Qualification (APM PMQ), equivalent to the IPMA Level D certification. It emphasizes knowledge, understanding, and application of project management principles.

On the other hand, PMP (Project Management Professional) is a globally recognized certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) based in the United States. PMP focuses on demonstrating knowledge, experience, and competence in project management, following the PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge) guide.

APM vs PMP: Project Management Methodology Used

APM and PMP certifications are based on different project management methodologies. APM emphasizes a broad project management approach, covering principles, concepts, and best practices applicable to various sectors and industries. It allows project managers to adapt methodologies based on project needs, encouraging flexibility and creativity.

In contrast, PMP follows a more structured and standardized project management methodology defined in the PMBOK guide. It provides a common language and framework for project managers to align their practices with industry standards, ensuring consistency and effective communication. 

APM vs PMP: Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for APM and PMP certifications differ. APM PMQ does not require specific prerequisites, making it suitable for individuals starting their project management journey. It benefits aspiring project managers, team members, or individuals seeking to enhance their project management knowledge and skills.

However, to meet the eligibility criteria for the PMP certification, candidates must have a four-year degree or global equivalent. Also, they should have at least 36 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years. Alongside the experience, candidates must complete 35 hours of project management education or training, or they can hold a CAPM® (Certified Associate in Project Management) certification. These requirements ensure that candidates have academic knowledge, practical experience, and professional development in project management, setting a high standard for the PMP certification. 

However, an alternative path is available if you do not hold a four-year degree. Candidates must have a high school diploma, equivalent secondary education, or associate's degree. Also, they should have at least 60 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years. Alongside the experience, candidates must complete 35 hours of project management education or training, or they can hold a CAPM® (Certified Associate in Project Management) certification. These eligibility criteria ensure that candidates without a four-year degree have substantial experience, educational background, and professional development in project management, making them well-equipped for the PMP certification. 

APM vs PMP: Exam Structure

The APM Project Management Qualification (APM PMQ) exam consists of a three-hour paper, including an additional 15 minutes of reading time in the beginning. Candidates are required to answer ten out of sixteen questions presented in the paper. These questions assess candidates' knowledge, understanding, and application of project management principles. The APM PMQ exam evaluates various aspects of project management, including project planning, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and project governance.

In addition, if a candidate already holds a PRINCE2® Practitioner certification, they must take a two-hour paper for APM PMQ. This paper recognizes prior learning from the PRINCE2® certification and includes an additional 10 minutes of reading at the start. In this paper, candidates must answer six out of ten questions, which focus on applying project management principles within the context of PRINCE2® methodology.

The PMP exam has undergone some recent changes in its structure. The exam now consists of 180 questions, down from the previous 200. Candidates have 230 minutes (3 hours and 50 minutes) to complete the exam. For computer-based tests, candidates are allowed one break, in addition to the initial break, for 10 minutes each. However, for paper-based exams, no scheduled breaks are provided.

The PMP exam includes a combination of question formats to assess candidates' understanding and application of project management concepts. These questions may include multiple-choice, matching, hot area, multiple responses, and limited fill-in-the-blank questions. 

APM vs PMP: Tools and Methodologies

APM PMQ does not enforce specific tools or methodologies, allowing project managers to choose appropriate approaches based on their project requirements. It emphasizes understanding the fundamental principles and adapting them to different scenarios. This flexibility enables project managers to employ agile, waterfall, or hybrid methodologies, among others, as suitable for their projects and organizational needs.

In contrast, PMP certification aligns with the PMBOK guide, which provides a standardized set of tools, techniques, and best practices for project management. PMP covers various methodologies, including waterfall, agile, and hybrid approaches, but emphasizes following the PMBOK framework more. It equips project managers with a common language and a comprehensive toolkit to effectively plan, execute, and control projects.

APM vs PMP: Continuous Professional Development

APM and PMP certifications recognize the importance of continuous professional development to stay updated with industry trends and best practices.

APM offers a structured Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program, which encourages certified professionals to enhance their project management competence by attending seminars, conferences, workshops, and relevant training programs. APM's CPD framework allows individuals to tailor their development plans based on their career goals and specific areas of interest.

Similarly, PMP requires certified professionals to earn Professional Development Units (PDUs) to maintain their certification. PDUs can be earned through a wide range of professional development activities, including attending webinars, participating in project management forums, reading industry publications, and participating in relevant training courses. PMP's emphasis on continuous learning ensures that certified professionals stay abreast of evolving project management practices.

APM vs PMP: Industry Focus

APM certifications are widely recognized and respected in the United Kingdom and Europe. They are well-suited for construction, engineering, IT, government, and healthcare professionals. APM's broad principles and adaptable methodologies make it applicable across various industries, providing professionals with a versatile skill set.

On the other hand, PMP certification has a global reach and is highly valued across industries. It is prevalent in information technology, telecommunications, finance, consulting, and manufacturing sectors. PMP's focus on industry-standard practices and its global recognition make it a desirable certification for professionals seeking international career opportunities. To stand out from the competition, you can enroll for KnowledgeHut’s best PMP certification. 

How are they Similar?

Despite their differences, APM and PMP certifications share several similarities:

• Credibility: APM and PMP certifications are highly regarded and recognized in project management, signifying a certain level of expertise and professionalism.
• Professional Development: Both certifications emphasize the importance of continuous learning and professional development to maintain and enhance project management skills.
• While APM has a more substantial presence in the UK and Europe, APM and PMP certifications enjoy global recognition. Employers and organizations worldwide acknowledge the value of these certifications, making them desirable qualifications for project management professionals seeking international career opportunities. Holding either certification can open doors to job prospects and collaboration across various regions and industries.
• Focus on Best Practices: APM or PMP certifications emphasize the application of industry best practices in project management. They aim to equip professionals with the skills, techniques, and methodologies that have proven effective in successful project delivery. Project Management certifications courses provide a framework for project managers to apply these best practices, enabling them to plan, execute, monitor, and control projects efficiently and effectively.

What Should You Choose Between APM and PMP?

You need to compare APM versus PMP to understand how to choose between them. When deciding between APM and PMP, it is essential to consider your career goals and the type of work you want to do. Both certifications are highly respected in the industry but have different focuses.

If you are interested in project management for engineering or technical projects, then APM may be a better fit for you. This certification is specifically designed for professionals who manage complex projects with specialized requirements.

On the other hand, if you are looking to advance your skills in general project management across various industries, then PMP might be a better choice. It covers everything from initiating projects to closing them out and emphasizes best practices that can be applied universally.

The decision comes down to what kind of work you want to do and where you see yourself advancing in your career. Consider researching job postings within your desired field or speaking with colleagues who hold either certification before making a final decision.

Conclusion

Both APM and PMP certifications hold tremendous value in the project management industry. While they share some similarities, each certification has its unique focus and requirements. Choosing between APM and PMP ultimately depends on your career goals and interests.

Whichever path you choose - either PMP or APM - obtaining such qualifications will significantly enhance your professional worthiness among peers while enhancing the job opportunities that come along with them.