CAPM stands for Certified Associate in Project Management. This certification is issued by the Project Management Instiute (PMI) the world leader in project, program and portfolio management. Upon certification it recognizes the individual has a fundamental understanding of project management's process and terminology. PMI believes that all of its certificates will provide a credential that exemplifies experience, education, and knowledge; increasing your recognition within an organization and around the world.
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HISTORY
The Project Management Institute was founded at the Georgia Institue of Technology in 1969. In 1999 PMIwas granted the status of Standard Development Organization by the American National Standards Institute, which recognizes them as the premier provider of information, standards, and research regarding project management. It continues to update its practices and procedures through continuous research and currently offers five certificates as displayed in figure 1.2.
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GETTING STARTED
If you haven't already read the outlines of all the PMI's certificates you should start there. Figure 1.2 is a brief outline of all certificates or for a more detailed description you can visit the PMI website. This is important as it will help you better decide which certificate is appropriate for you. Choose carefully because all certificates have different eligibility requirements and more importantly different career paths.
Congratulations! You've chosen to study and apply for your CAPM certificate. Below are detailed steps to help you, from beginning to end, fully prepare for your exam.
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PREPARING/WRITING THE CAPM EXAM
1. Can I write the exam right away?Not quite yet. There are two education requirements people fall into:
1.1 - Project Management Experience (1500 hours of professional experience on a project management team)
*You will be required to fill out detailed documentation of your work, on the application form, if this option is chosen.
OR
1.2 - Project Management Education (23 contact hours of formal education)
* You can choose this option if you attended one of the following educational Providers:
- *University/College academic and continuing education programs
- Distant education
- Training/Consultant companies
- PMI education providers
* Please check availability with your local institution.
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2. What do I do after the course?
2.1 - If you haven't done so already, become a PMI member. (This will allow for cheaper text book and test rates)
2.2 - Apply Online to take the accreditation exam.
2.3 - Fill out this credential application .
2.4 - Pay the appropriate fee to receive approval. ($225 US for members)
3. When do I take the accreditation exam?
3.1 - Once you have been approved you have ONE YEAR to complete the exam. (Online applications are processed within 5 business days)
3.2 - You can schedule the exam here.
3.3 - You have 3 attempts within the year if you do not pass in your first attempt.
4. How do I prepare?
4.1 - If you haven't done so already purchase PMBOK Text (A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge) online or in store.
4.2 - Although there is not a suggested amount of studying, extensive knowledge will ensure success.
4.3 - All chapters are present on the exam with varying weights
Chapters:
3-6, 11 = 11% each
7 = 9%
8-10, 12 = 7% each
1,2 = 4% each
4.4 - The accreditation exam consists of 150 multiple choice question of which 135 are scored.
4.5 - The examination last 3 hours.
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WHATS NEXT?
5.1 - Test results can be immediate.
5.2 - You will be given a Pass/Fail grade with accompanying results from every chapter.
5.3 - If you fail you may take the test two more times.
5.4 - Upon Completion you are now officially CAPM certified and now start you career!
5.5 - You can now look for a new job here.
5.6 - To keep your accreditation you must re-register every 5 years
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REFERENCES
- www.pmi.org
- http://www.pmi.org/PDF/pdc_capmhandbook.pdf
- Figures:
Figure 1.1 - http://www.just2save.com/ra/images/PMI%20LOGO%201.jpg
Figure 1.2 - http://www.pmi.org/CareerDevelopment/Pages/AboutPMIsCredentials.aspx
Figure 1.3 - http://www.pmi.org/CareerDevelopment/Pages/AboutCredentialsCAPM.aspx
Figure 1.4 - http://pages.videotron.com/cmercure/60%20PMI.gif
