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Best Program Manager certifications
The best certifications for a program manager are Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), and IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL).
Program manager certifications demonstrate your competency as a program manager to employers. However, not all program manager certifications provide the same value.
Below is a list of the best program manager certifications. Obtaining a program manager certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
20 best certifications for program managers
Rank  | Program Manager certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Project Management Professional (PMP) | PMI |
| 2 | Certified Scrum Master (CSM) | Scrum Allianc... |
| 3 | IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL) | Zavata |
| 4 | Six Sigma Green Belt | IASSC |
| 5 | Master Project Manager (MPM) | AAPM |
| 6 | Program Management Professional (PgMP) | PMI |
| 7 | Certified Professional - Human Resource (IPMA-CP) | IPMA-HR |
| 8 | Certified Manager Certification (CM) | ICPM |
| 9 | Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) | Scrum Allianc... |
| 10 | Six Sigma Black Belt | IASSC |
| 11 | Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) | AMA |
| 12 | Certified Management Accountant (CMA) | IMA |
| 13 | PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI) | PMI |
| 14 | Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) | AICPA |
| 15 | Certified Sales Professional (CSP) | MRERF |
| 16 | Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) | MS |
| 17 | Certified in Public Health (CPH) | NBPHE |
| 18 | Managing Programs and Projects with Project Server 2013 | MS |
| 19 | Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) | ASTL |
| 20 | Advanced Project Management Certified Professional | Learning Tree... |
Program Manager Jobs
20 best program manager certifications
1. Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP designation following your name tells current and potential employers that you have demonstrated a solid foundation of knowledge from which you can competently practice project management.To be eligible for a PMP Credential, you must first meet specific educational and project management experience requirements and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. The final step to becoming a PMP is passing a rigorous multiple-choice examination designed to objectively assess and measure your ability to apply project management knowledge in the following six domains: initiating the project, planning the project, executing the project, monitoring and controlling the project, closing the project, and professional and social responsibility. This computer-based examination is administered globally with translation aids in 10 languages.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
2. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)
A Certified ScrumMaster helps project teams properly use Scrum, increasing the likelihood of the project's overall success. CSMs understand Scrum values, practices, and applications and provide a level of knowledge and expertise above and beyond that of typical project managers. CSMs act as "servant leaders," helping the rest of the Scrum team work together and learn the Scrum framework.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required?
3. IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL)
The ITIL Foundations Certification course is designed for all IT service and support staff members. Whether you are just adopting ITIL or are working on continuous service improvement, you will gain a fundamental understanding of how IT service and support can be best organized to align IT with business needs, improve service quality, and reduce long-term costs. Course Benefits: 1) Gain an understanding of the ITIL framework and its relationship with the 10 foundational processes and Service Desk function, 2) Learn how ITIL processes can be utilized in any size organization, 3) Promote a common vision and language within the IT infrastructure.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? No
4. Six Sigma Green Belt
The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (ICGB) is a professional who is well versed in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology who both leads or supports improvement projects, typically as a part-time role. A Lean Six Sigma Green Belt possesses a thorough understanding of all aspects within the phases of D-M-A-I-C. They understand how to perform and interpret Six Sigma tools and how to use standard principles of Lean.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required?
5. Master Project Manager (MPM)
If you have 3+ years of Project Management Experience, you may apply for MPM™ Master Project Manager Board Certification.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 2 year(s)
6. Program Management Professional (PgMP)
Project Management Institute's newest credential is specifically developed to acknowledge the qualifications of the professional who leads the coordinated management of multiple projects and ensures the ultimate success of a program. You will benefit from the many advantages of this new designation. Candidates earning this credential will be internationally recognized as professionals with the knowledge and experience to make and implement the important decisions and accomplish the strategic objectives that enhance business results.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
7. Certified Professional - Human Resource (IPMA-CP)
IPMA-HR strives to encourage excellence in public sector human resources, promote continuous learning and develop the next generation of leaders. To that end, IPMA-HR offers two internationally recognized certification programs to the public HR community: the IPMA-CP and the IPMA-CS.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
8. Certified Manager Certification (CM)
The Certified Manager Animal Resources (CMAR) certification program is designed to raise competency and professionalism in the field of Animal Resources Management. The CMAR designation involves a series of four examinations: three exams arranged via an organization called the Institute for Certified Professional Managers (ICPM), and the Animal Resources Exam offered by AALAS. Obtaining the CMAR designation is a sign of professionalism in the field of animal resources management.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required?
9. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
Certified Scrum Product Owner professionals have been taught the Scrum terminology, practices, and principles that enable them to fulfill the role of Product Owner on a Scrum team. CSPOs are typically the individuals who are closest to the "business side" of the project. They are charged by the organization to "get the product out" and are expected to do the best possible job of satisfying all the stakeholders. CSPOs maintain the product backlog and ensure that everyone knows the priorities.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required?
10. Six Sigma Black Belt
The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (ICBB) is a professional who is well versed in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology, who leads improvement projects, typically in a full-time role. A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt possesses a thorough understanding of all aspects within the phases of D-M-A-I-C. They understand how to perform and interpret Six Sigma tools and how to use standard principles of Lean.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required?
11. Professional Certified Marketer (PCM)
Being a top marketer means continually enhancing your skills as well as highlighting your accomplishments. The American Marketing Association's Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) program gives you a tangible, convenient way to do both. You can earn the PCM designation by passing a comprehensive exam covering the key areas of marketing. Developed with input from hundreds of marketing experts, the PCM program meets strict national professional certification criteria and standards for excellence in marketing.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
12. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The CMA (Certified Management Accountant) is the advanced professional certification specifically designed to measure the accounting and financial management skills that drive business performance.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 1 year(s)
13. PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI)
PMI's Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)® credential is a response to project management's increasing growth, complexity and diversity. Globally recognized and demanded, the PMI-RMP® fills the need for a specialist role in project risk management. It recognizes your unique expertise and competency in assessing and identifying project risks, mitigating threats and capitalizing on opportunities, while still possessing a baseline knowledge and practical application in all areas of project management.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
14. Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP)
A Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) is a Certified Public Accountant recognized for his or her unique ability to provide business insight by leveraging knowledge of information relationships and supporting technologies.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
15. Certified Sales Professional (CSP)
The Certified Sales Professional (CSP) program gives a thorough understanding of consultative selling. From business creation to improved time and territory management; goal-setting to prospecting, and everything in between, attendees return to the territory with a renewed enthusiasm for selling.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
16. Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certification validates IT professional and developer technical expertise through rigorous, industry-proven, and industry-recognized exams. MCP exams cover a wide range of Microsoft products, technologies, and solutions.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? No
17. Certified in Public Health (CPH)
The National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE) offers the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential as the only voluntary core credential for public health professionals. The CPH designation demonstrates that an individual graduate from a CEPH-accredited school or program of public health has mastered foundational competencies in public health. CPH professionals raise the bar and enhance the public health profession through their exemplary academic and leadership skills.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 2 year(s)
18. Managing Programs and Projects with Project Server 2013
This exam is designed for people who are engaged in managing projects, programs, or portfolios in the Microsoft Project Portfolio Management (PPM) environment and have a solid understanding of key project management concepts and terminology. Candidates should also have extensive hands-on experience using Microsoft Project Professional 2013 and Project Web App 2013, including managing enterprise custom fields, views, and portfolio objects.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required?
19. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
Due to an overwhelming request for an entry level industry certification, the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L) now offers the Professional Designation in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (PLS) to professionals seeking an understanding of the key strategies for improving customer service and increasing the efficiency of their logistics and supply chain operations. The purpose of the PLS is to recognize individuals that have completed a course of study examining the strategies for improving logistics and supply chain operations and are seeking to apply this knowledge within their profession. This designation is granted to AST&L members who have successfully passed the comprehensive examination.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? Every 5 year(s)
20. Advanced Project Management Certified Professional
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
- Renewal Required? No
Program Manager Jobs
What is the best certification for a program manager?
The best program manager certification is Project Management Professional (PMP). The Project Management Professional (PMP) is awarded by the Project Management Institute. The advanced certification is for more experienced employees as it often requires some work experience to acquire.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this program manager certification:
- To become a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), you need to pass the exam.
- This certificate requires more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 3 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for program managers?
The most in-demand program manager certification is Project Management Professional based on all active job postings. Having this program manager certification will give you access to more program manager jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a program manager career and salary?
The IT Information Library Foundations Certification certification will help you to secure a senior project manager position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A senior project manager's average salary is $108,931 whereas program managers make an average salary of $96,084.
The most common combination of program manager certifications include: Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), and IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL).
Online courses for program managers to earn certifications
1. Digital Project Management
Build confidence translating business requirements into project scope statements, creating project plans in Waterfall or Agile, and developing a high-performing team...
2. Operations Management A-Z: Business Processes and Systems
Operations Management: Supply Chain & Business Processes in Industry for Manufacturing and Services Organizations...
3. Operations Management: Facilities Planning and Management
Operations Management Training Program (Course 8 of 8)...
4. Manage Project Risks Impeccably (12 PDUs, RMP - PMP) PMBOK 7
PMI Project Risk Management RMP Certification Program Course. Practical & easy to follow Use Case Project. PMBOK 7...
5. Start Improving Customer Service
Creating a Customer Service advantage in Your department or business through communication and Customer Management...
6. Agile Crash Course: Agile Project Management; Agile Delivery
Agile Project Management Basics (Scrum) & Agile Project Management Essentials (Scrum). Plus Agile Certification (Scrum)...
7. Project Management Office (PMO) Setup Guide
PMO Step-by-Step Implementation Plan...
8. The Agile Methodology for Project Risk Managers
The Agile Project Management and Risk Management for Project Professionals Full Course...
9. Operational Risks Management ORM
Operational Risks Management ORM Case Studies for Risk Management, Compliance, Audit, IS Security, Banking Professionals...
10. The Operations Management Training Program
Learn how to design, plan, direct, and improve all the activities that transform resources into goods or services...