If you're looking to advance your project management career and wondering which certification(s) to pursue, you'll find that two names come up in your research quite frequently: PRINCE2 and PMP. Both are popular project management certifications with takers all over the world. And while both project management certifications can prove to be incredibly beneficial for your career and provide your resume with the necessary boost, you'll probably want to start with the one that offers quick benefits and matches the preferences of companies in your industry.
In this article, I've provided you with deep insights about PRINCE2 vs PMP to help you gain a solid understanding of both certifications and make an informed decision about which one to pursue next.
PRINCE2 Certification: Levels, Eligibility, Benefits etc.
PRINCE2, also commonly known as PRojects IN Controlled Environments, is a structured project management method that provides control to practitioners while being flexible and scalable to suit the needs of the practicing organization. PRINCE2 was originally developed in 1996 in the UK by their telecommunications agency that provided support to government departments.
Over the years, PRINCE2 has become the de facto standard for project management in the UK for government and private sectors and has grown in popularity in several other nations, such as Western European countries, Australia, South Africa and India.
The application of PRINCE2 is not limited to just technology sectors but can also be applied to projects in different industries, making it a truly generic and universal framework.
The latest update to the PRINCE2 methodology was made in 2023 with the launch of PRINCE2 7. Previous revisions to PRINCE2 were made in 2009 and 2017, respectively.
PRINCE2 Certification Levels and Eligibility
The PRINCE2 certification comprises 2 levels: PRINC2 Foundation and Practitioner. Candidates can progress to the practitioner level only after they've cleared the Foundation.
PRINCE2 Foundation
PRINCE2 Foundation certification does not require any prior work experience or has any prerequisites, and anyone can take a course and appear for the exam. PRINCE2 Foundation focuses on explaining the basic building blocks of the PRINCE2 framework and provides theoretical knowledge on prince2 principles, themes and processes. It helps one understand how to plan, manage and deliver projects using the PRINCE2 methodology.
PRINCE2 Practitioner
The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification tests the ability to apply the foundation knowledge and requires candidates to analyze project scenarios and provide their answers based on the PRINCE2 methodology.
Candidates must pass the PRINCE2 Foundation exam before appearing for the Practitioner exam. Additionally, if you have passed any of the following exams, you can directly appear for the practitioner exam.
PRINCE2 7 or 6th edition Foundation exam (Foundation)
Project Management Qualification (PMQ)
Project Professional Qualification (PPQ)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
IPMA Level A, B, C or D
The good news is that neither the PRINCE2 Foundation nor the Practitioner certification has any mandatory experience requirements for taking the exam.
PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner Exam Format
PRINCE2 Foundation: The PRINCE2 Foundation exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with a passing score of 60% (36 out of 60). The exam lasts one hour (60 minutes) and is closed book. The PRINCE2 Foundation Exam is based on the PRINCE2® 7 Managing Successful Projects, commonly known as the PRINCE2 manual.
PRINCE2 Practitioner: The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam consists of 70 multiple-choice scenario-based questions, with a passing score of 60% (42 out of 70). The exam lasts two and a half hours (150 minutes) and is an open book, allowing candidates to use the official printed hard copy of the PRINCE2® 7 Managing Successful Projects manual. The manual may be annotated and tabulated for the purpose of quick reference during the exam.
PRINCE2 Benefits: For Individuals and Organizations
Due to PRINCE2's worldwide recognition and popularity, it is a high-demand certification accepted by employers in all industries.
PRINCE2 is a well-established methodology designed for all professionals, including aspiring or experienced project managers.
PRINCE2 is a versatile framework that can be applied to any project regardless of size, scale, complexity or industry.
PRINCE2 has proven to be highly successful in improving project performance and has been applied to diverse project environments.
PRINCE2 is an industry-recognized certification that can lead to new job opportunities, better pay, and more exciting roles related to project management.
PRINCE2 can be easily integrated and used with other frameworks and models such as Agile, Scrum, Lean, and the ITIL framework.
The PRINCE2 method can be tailored to suit any project environment.
About PMP Certification
The PMP (Project Management Professional) is a highly reputed and globally recognized certification in project management. It is offered by PMI, and acquiring it will establish your expertise in project management, at least to a certain degree. It indicates to employers that you have formal knowledge of project management tools and processes, helping you stand out among other applicants vying for the same job.
The PMP was developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is the go-to credential for project management professionals in the U.S., Canada, and various other countries.
PMP Certification: Eligibility and Benefits
Unlike the PRINCE2 certification, the PMP® certification is meant for individuals who can demonstrate prior experience in leading and managing projects.
Eligibility is determined based on meeting specific academic and professional experience requirements.
PMI mandates 36 months of project management experience for individuals with a four-year Bachelor's degree.
If you don't have a four-year Bachelor's degree and instead hold a high school diploma or an Associate's degree, the PMP experience requirement is 60 months of managing, leading, and directing projects.
Additionally, candidates applying for the PMP must complete 35 hours of project management education to fulfill the eligibility requirements.
For those who don't yet have the required experience for the PMP, the entry-level CAPM certification is a good alternative.
We have also written a detailed article on 'How to fill your PMP application?' which you can go and read on out website.
PMP Exam Format
The PMP approach to project management is based on the PMBOK or project management body of knowledge developed by PMI.
Therefore, the PMP certification exam is closely tied to the processes, techniques and principles expounded in the PMBOK. Hence, it's essential that for the exam you know and understand the content of the PMBOK.
The PMP exam format contains 180 scenario-based multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 230 minutes. 2 breaks are allowed during the exam. You're allowed to take 2 10 minute-breaks during the exam.
PMP Benefits
PMP is a globally accepted credential in the project management field, and PMP-certified professionals command higher salaries than their non-certified peers.
Almost every project management job in the US and Canada will list PMP as one of the nice-to-haves.
PMP is an industry-agnostic certification, and therefore, PMP practices and techniques are applied in a multitude of sectors such as construction, IT, Financial Services, and Healthcare.
The knowledge acquired while pursuing the PMP is very valuable, and candidates have confirmed that their interview performance and salaries have improved after obtaining the certification.
The PMP certification takes a holistic approach to project management, and its syllabus covers project leadership, technical project management, and strategic project management.
According to PMI's project management salary survey, PMP certification holders in North America reported higher median salaries than those without it.
PMP vs PRINCE2: General Differences
Geographical Popularity:
PMP is globally accepted but has the highest recognition in the US and Canada.
PRINCE2 is also recognized worldwide but has greater acceptance in the UK and Western European countries.
In the last few years, the demand for both certifications has also rapidly risen in India.
Approach:
PMP focuses on 3 core skill areas for Project Managers: Technical Project Management, Strategic Business Management and Leadership and follows a principle-based approach.
PRINCE2 offers a structured framework focusing on governance, risk management, and benefits realization.
Scalability:
PMBOK processes and practices can be scaled up or down to meet the needs of the various project sizes and types.
PRINCE2 is also scalable and flexible, and companies can apply PRINCE2 to suit specific project needs.
Requirements:
PMP requires prior education and experience in project management.
PRINCE2 has no prerequisites, though prior project management knowledge is beneficial.
Exam:
The PMP exam is a computer-based multiple-choice exam with 180 questions, lasting 230 minutes.
The PRINCE2 certification includes multiple-choice exams with two levels: Foundation and Practitioner.
Validity:
To remain certified, PMP professionals must maintain their certification by accumulating 60 PDUs within 3 years.
Both PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner certifications must be renewed within 3 years through Peoplecert.
Cost:
PMP costs USD 405 for PMI members and USD 555 for non-members.
The cost of PRINCE2 exams varies by geography, with PeopleCert charging £380.00 for Foundations and £410.00 for Practitioners in the UK.
Certification Levels:
PMP is a standalone certification and does not have different levels.
PRINCE2 has two levels: Foundation followed by PRINCE2 Practitioner
Certification Preparation Resources:
PMP is based on the PMBOK7 and other relevant project management books prescribed by PMI.
PRINCE2 preparation relies on the Official PRINCE2 Manual, also known as PRINCE2® 7 Managing Successful Projects.
Number of Certified Professionals
The PMP cert has been acquired by more than 1.2 million professionals worldwide and is constantly growing.
PRINCE2 certification holders have also crossed the 1 million mark and is a leading certification for both entry-level and experienced professionals.
PRINCE2 vs PMP: Differences in Methodology
Content
PRINCE2 proposes using a set of principles, control themes, and a process lifecycle and provides tailoring guidance on tailoring the method to meet project needs.
The PMP exam is based on the principles, performance domains, tools and practices proposed in the PMBOK.
Framework coverage
A method such as PRINCE2 provides a fundamental understanding of running projects of any scale and size without prescribing specific tools and techniques.
The PMBOK serves as an encyclopedia for project managers, offering lists of tools and techniques that can be used to manage and execute various aspects of project management.
Focus Areas
The PRINCE2 Exam focus on understanding the application of PRINCE2 principles, 7 themes (now called practices) and 7 processes.
The PMP exam tests candidates in 3 areas, namely People, Process and Business Environment.
Agile Integration in PRINCE2 and PMP
50% percent of the PMP exam syllabus is based on Agile frameworks such as Scrum, Kanban, and various other methodologies, while the remaining content is based on waterfall project management.
PRINCE2 7th Edition has also integrated agile project management into its content, although its predominant focus remains a sequential, process-based method.
Tailoring PRINCE2 and PMP for Different Projects
PRINCE2 provides tailored guidance on applying the themes and processes in different project contexts.
PMBOK7 has an entire chapter on tailoring the method that explains how project lifecycles, processes, tools, methods and artifacts can be tailored.
Choosing between PRINCE2 and PMP certification
The choice between PRINCE2 versus PMP truly comes down to your geographical location, personal goals and industry and organizational requirements.
Choose what works in your country: For example, if you work in an organization where PRINCE2 is the method of choice, you would be better off getting the PRINCE2 rather than the PMP. Also, PRINCE2 is widely recognized in the UK and Europe, whereas PMP is a sought-after certification in the US, Canada and South American countries.
Consider experience requirements: Another way to determine which certification is proper for you is to consider the entry barrier for acquiring the certification. If you lack project management experience, starting with PRINCE2 is a good option. You can pursue PMP later in your career when you have gained the necessary project management experience.
Timelines to get certified: Take into consideration how quickly you want to get certified. Obtaining your PRINCE2 certification is usually faster than getting a PMP, as the PMP exam syllabus is more extensive than PRINCE2. Typically, PRINCE2 certification can be acquired by attending a 5-day classroom program, while preparing for the PMP requires 2-3 months of consistent effort.
Bonus Tip: Review the certification requirements in the job descriptions of your target companies. Usually, they will list their preferred certifications, which are the ones you should pursue to increase your chances of getting hired. Companies tend to favour candidates familiar with the frameworks or technologies they use.
At the end of the day, the choice between PMP and PRINCE2 ultimately depends on your career aspirations, the demands of your industry and the factors listed above.
PRINCE2 FAQs
#1 Is PRINCE2 still relevant in 2024?
Yes, PRINCE2 is still relevant in 2024, especially for beginners in the UK and Europe looking to enter the project management profession. It remains a widely recognized certification that can open doors in these regions. Even for experienced project managers, combining the certification with their experience would help them during job switches or negotiating better salaries.
Amongst the project management methodologies, PRINCE2 is still the world's second-largest certification after the PMP and will enhance your value in the job market.
#2 How much does PRINCE2 training cost?
PRINCE2 exams are managed by PeopleCert, and the pricing for the certification varies by the region or the country you live in. According to the PeopleCert website, the Foundation certification cost in the UK is £525.00, and taking the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam costs £585.00.
Instead of buying the PRINCE2 exam from the PeopleCert website, it is a good idea to purchase the training and exam through a training provider, as they can offer a package deal at more competitive prices.
#3 Is it hard to pass PRINCE2?
PRINCE2 Foundation is easier to pass than the PRINCE2 Practitioner since it only tests you on information recall and understanding of the PRINCE2 method from the PRINCE2 manual.
PRINCE2 Practitioner is an application-based exam where you need to answer questions by analyzing the information in a project scenario and applying your knowledge of the PRINCE2 method to answer them. Even though the Practitioner exam is open-book, many people still fail it. So, to pass the exam, it is necessary to practice a good number of test questions.
#4 What is the PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner passing score or percentage?
The passing percentage for both the PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner exams is 60%. Candidates need to score 36 out of 60 on the Foundation exam and 42 out of 70 on the Practitioner exam to pass.
#5 What is the pass rate for PRINCE2?
The pass rate for PRINCE2 Foundation is above 95%, whereas the passing rate for the Practitioner is in the 60 to 70% range. This means that out of 10 people, only 6 to 7 people managed to pass the Practitioner exam.
However, with thorough preparation and extensive practice of test questions, you can pass the Practitioner exam on your first attempt.
#6 Can you self-teach PRINCE2?
You can prepare for the PRINCE2 exams on your own using a self-paced PRINCE2 e-learning course. E-learning course providers would usually bundle the exam with the course, which is a better cost-to-value proposition than buying just the exam alone.
The other option is to buy the PRINCE2 7th edition manual and study using the exam syllabus, but you will still need to pay for the exam separately.
#7 Can you do PRINCE2 in a week?
To get PRINCE2 certified in a week or less, it's better to take a classroom programme because it provides a more intensive learning environment. On the other hand, welf-paced courses take longer but give you ample time to absorb the information and prepare well for the exam, which can be completed in 2-3 weeks.
#8 Is PRINCE2 accepted in the USA?
PRINCE2 has some acceptance in the US and Canada, but PMP's popularity outstrips PRINCE2 in these geographies by leaps and bounds. However, if you work for a European company, they would prefer the PRINCE2 over the PMP.
#9 What is the difference between PMP and PRINCE2 Agile?
The PMP certification is based on the thinking and mindset espoused by PMI in the PMBOK. The PMP certification covers both waterfall and agile methods and has wider acceptance in the US.
PRINCE2 Agile integrates agile behaviours, concepts, frameworks, and techniques with PRINCE2 and is more prevalent in the UK. Similar to PRINCE2, PRINCE2 Agile contains 2 levels: PRINCE2 Agile Foundation and PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner.
#10 Is PRINCE2 waterfall or agile?
Since its inception, PRINCE2 has always been promoted and taught as a structured process-based methodology, which has resulted in PRINCE2 earning the tag of being a waterfall or traditional method. This is usually far from the truth since PRINCE2 can easily be adapted in an agile context. The PRINCE2 Agile certification clarifies a lot of the myths about PRINCE2 and helps practitioners better understand how PRINCE2 can be tailored to the organization in an agile way.
#11 Is PRINCE2 Agile recognised?
PRINCE2 Agile is rapidly growing in adoption and becoming increasingly popular, especially amongst existing PRINCE2 users and organizations.
You can read this blog by Allen Philip Abraham – IT project consultant about his experience with PRINCE2 Agile.
Here are some of his comments about his PRINCE2 Agile class.'
Although no experience is mandated, some prior knowledge of either PRINCE2 project management or Agile methodology is an advantage; I certainly found this to be the case. It meant that I had many "Aha" moments as I progressed through the material and I'm sure others from a similar functional IT background would too.
Interestingly, I also found that PRINCE2 principles have a lot in common with the Agile manifesto itself – it's like a match made in project management heaven.
#12 Should I get PRINCE2 or PRINCE2 Agile?
PRINCE2 Agile is an extension of the PRINCE2 method, showing how it can be adapted for agile environments. Due to Agile's growing use and popularity in all industries and organizations, Axelos released the PRINCE2 Agile certification to provide guidance on how PRINCE2 project managers can deliver their projects in an agile world.
Between PRINCE2 and PRINCE2 Agile certification, PRINCE2 is more widely recognized due to its long-standing legacy and established reputation.
PMP Certification FAQs
#1 Is PMP easier than PRINCE2?
When comparing PRINCE2 vs PMP, it's important to understand that neither certification is inherently easier, but rather they cater to different aspects of project management methodologies. The PMP certification exam is known for its extensive coverage of project management best practices and requires a solid understanding of project management concepts.
In contrast, the PRINCE2 certification focuses on principles, themes and processes found in the PRINCE2 manual. People will find the PRINCE2 Foundation certification more straightforward to prepare for, while the Practitioner is a fairly hard exam.
#2 What is the cost of PMP certification?
The cost of PMP® certification varies depending on your PMI membership status and the region. For PMI members in the US, the PMP certification exam fee is typically around $405 USD, while non-members may pay $555 USD.
#3 What is the PMP pass rate?
The official PMP® pass rate is not publicly disclosed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). However, it is widely estimated that the pass rate for the PMP certification exam is around 60-70%.
Due to the challenging nature of the exam, getting some PMP exam certification training is essential to increase the chances of passing on the first attempt.
#4 Is PMP harder than the CAPM?
The PMP certification focuses on testing your ability to apply project management knowledge rather than just testing definitions from a book. Unlike the CAPM exam, you will encounter more scenario-based questions in the PMP exam, which makes it considerably more difficult to pass than the CAPM.
#5 How can I complete the PMP application?
Candidates interested in the PMP certification need to apply to PMI with their experience demonstrating their knowledge in practices and techniques of project management. The PMP application experience section can be challenging to navigate on your own since you need to document your experience in a particular way. CareerSprints.com offers a PMP application review and rewrite service that can make the application process faster and less stressful.
If you're looking for an end-to-end PMP prep solution which helps you pass the PMP certification exam on the first try, we offer a comprehensive PMP Blended Programme that includes personalized coaching, support, exam guidance and mentorship from a PMP coach. Additionally, we provide more than 40 hours of detailed course videos, tailored study plans, assistance with PMP application approval, 35 contact hours, lots of practice exams and classroom training 2-3 times per month.
If you have any other questions about your PMP Application, please email us at info@careersprints.com.
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