Earning a certification benefits product manager considerably. It shows they are committed to advancing their skills and may increase their odds of being promoted or moving to a higher position. Many product management certifications exist today, so it may be hard for a person to choose. Why settle for one when multiple certifications can help a product manager distinguish themselves?
Agile Product Management Certificate
Product managers benefit significantly from earning the ICAgile certified professional designation. Completing this program shows the product manager understands the Agile mindset and the values, principles, and foundational concepts that form it. They can increase organizational agility in all areas. Upon completion of the ICAgile certified professional portion of the program, the student moves on to product development to learn more about customer needs and how to deliver valuable products and services with the help of Agile practices. Agile’s product management training is one certification program every person in the industry should consider completing.
Certified Product Manager
Students of Product HQ’s Certified Product Manager (PMHQ) program study product management fundamentals. They learn about its principles and practices and how to implement them. Individuals changing careers often start their pursuit of a job in product management with this certificate because there are no prerequisites. Most students complete the coursework in a few weeks, handling weekly assignments and completing a final project.
Certified Technical Product Manager
Some individuals wish to focus on the technical areas of product management and benefit from earning the Certified Technical Product Manager. Students learn cross-functional skills that will help them create technology products. Although a person doesn’t need formal qualifications before signing up for this program, technical experience is beneficial.
Product Management Certification
Product School’s Product Management Certification is an alternative option for those new to the product management field. Students learn the role of the product manager, how to create detailed product plans, and how to share communication strategies with others. Students receive access to resources and can participate in the program part-time or full-time. Students complete a final project and take a credentialing exam before receiving their certificate.
Professional Scrum Master I
Current product managers looking to advance their skills should consider the Professional Scrum Master I certification program. These programs teach students to deliver more value to their customers using the Scrum framework. Students receive theoretical instructions and participate in team exercises to learn more about Agile principles. The course ends with a Professional Scrum Master 1 assessment.
Product Strategy Certification
Many people enter product management after having a successful career in another field. They want a change of pace and feel transitioning to this field is a wise career move. Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management offers the Product Strategy certification program, allowing them to transition smoothly. Students learn about product strategy, development, and implementation. The eight modules can be completed online.
Why Pursue Certifications?
Product management certifications allow individuals to showcase their skills while demonstrating their competency. Individuals are not required to complete these programs, so they can choose those they feel will help advance their careers. However, earning certifications comes with many benefits.
The Benefits Seen with Product Management Certifications
Certifications allow individuals to increase their skills and enhance their industry knowledge. They help men and women prepare for a product management career in the field and qualify for advanced positions. Certifications make a person more credible while increasing their earning potential. Students should compare the different programs and find those that align with their career goals. Specific certifications, such as the ICAgile certified professional, benefit all who work in the industry. Other programs, such as the Professional Scrum Master 1 program, are geared to specific groups. Look into the program structure, course duration, and specialization options. Individuals considering these factors should easily find the right certification programs for their needs.
