PMIWDC Professional Development: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I become certified as a PMP?

The best resource for understanding how to become PMP certified is the PMP Certification Handbook available at:

http://www.pmi.org/PDF/pdc_pmphandbook.pdf

2. How much does it cost to become certified?

There are several costs to consider: the cost of taking the exam, and any costs that might come from preparing for the exam.

The only required cost is the cost of the examination itself, which ranges in cost between $250 and $600 depending on your membership status, and whether you prefer paper of computerized exams. PMI publishes the most current cost schedule at http://www.pmi.org/PDF/pdc_pmphandbook.pdf

Many prospective PMPs also elect to pay for study materials such as the Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), preparatory courses, or 3rd-party publications such as study guides and practice tests. There are many such materials available, and costs vary. These supplemental materials are not required to take or pass the exam, but many applicants find them very helpful.

3. What is the best method of preparation to take the PMP exam?.

There are a lot of options and tactics for preparing for the PMP exam. An individual's adult learning style, free time, financial status, and other factors tie into the choice of study method. You can find information about preparation for the exam, including some questions and answers, at this link:

http://www.pmi.org/CareerDevelopment/Pages/Obtaining-Credential.aspx

You may also find the following site helpful in researching PMP prep course providers:

http://www.occe.ou.edu/cgi-bin/PMI_Provider/repsearch.cgi

You might also consider attending the Chapter meetings. They offer an opportunity to network with the other attendees and ask about their preferred methods of preparing for the exam:

http://www.pmiwdc.org/content.asp?contentid=405

4. How can I get the 35 contact hours required to qualify to take the PMP exam?

There are many ways to do so. Excellent guidance on this topic appears on page two of the PMP Credential Handbook available at:

http://www.pmi.org/PDF/pdc_pmphandbook.pdf

5. When is the next PMP Prep Course?

The PMI Washington, DC Chapter usually provides both Fall and Spring Prep courses. The following website is updated as soon as the dates are announced:

http://www.pmiwdc.org/content.asp?contentid=408

6. I am a PMP. What are the re-certification requirements?

The best resource for understanding the PMP continuing certification requirements (CCR) is the CCR handbook, available from PMI:

http://www.pmi.org/CareerDevelopment/Pages/Continuing-Certification-Requirements-%28CCR%29.aspx

7. I just joined PMI, what are some good options for professional development and networking?

   Have you visited the Chapters website (http://www.pmiwdc.org/)? Special and ongoing events are listed there. In addition, volunteering with the Chapter is a great way to learn and network while helping (http://www.pmiwdc.org/volunteer).

8. How do I become certified for the CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management)?

The following website contains excellent information on this topic:

http://www.pmi.org/prod/groups/public/documents/info/PDC_CAPM.asp

The DC Chapter provides a CAPM Prep Course each Summer. Keep an eye on the following website for details:

http://pmiwdc.timberlakepublishing.com/content.asp?contentid=591

You may also find the following site helpful in researching CAPM prep course providers:

http://www.occe.ou.edu/cgi-bin/PMI_Provider/repsearch.cgi

9. Where can I read more about developing my career as a project manager?

PMI recently developed the PM Career Track publication. Members of PMI receive PM Career Track twice a year. Selected articles are available for viewing at:

http://www.pmi.org/CareerDevelopment/Pages/Individual-Career-Framework.aspx