CAPM Certification Overview

Jul 3, 2025

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Overview

This lecture introduces the CAPM certification, its application process, exam outline, project management concepts, organizational structures, and key process groups essential for the CAPM exam.

CAPM Certification and PMI Overview

  • PMI (Project Management Institute) is a non-profit organization providing globally recognized project management certifications.
  • CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) is a credential by PMI for entry-level project managers across industries.
  • CAPM certification is valid for 5 years and is renewed upon completion of required PDUs (Professional Development Units).
  • The PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) is the primary reference for the CAPM exam.

CAPM Application Process and Requirements

  • Candidates need a secondary diploma and either 1,500 hours of project management experience OR 23 hours of formal project management education.
  • Training can be obtained through PMI Registered Education Providers (REPs).
  • Applications are submitted online, and PMI may randomly audit applications.
  • Exams must be taken within one year of receiving the authorization letter.

CAPM Exam Structure and Syllabus

  • The CAPM exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions (135 scored, 15 unscored pre-test).
  • Exam duration is 3 hours, with no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Questions are distributed across five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing.
  • The exam covers 10 knowledge areas and 47 project management processes.

Project Management Fundamentals

  • A project is a temporary endeavor with a unique output, distinct from ongoing operations.
  • Project management applies knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to meet project requirements.
  • Program management coordinates related projects for strategic benefits.
  • Portfolio management aligns projects and programs with organizational strategy.

Project Management Office (PMO) and Stakeholder Management

  • PMO offers policies, methodologies, tools, and project managers; supports inter-project coordination and knowledge sharing.
  • Stakeholders are anyone affected by the project; project managers must identify, understand, and communicate with them throughout the project.

Organization Structures and Their Impact

  • Functional structure: grouped by departments; project manager has little authority.
  • Projectized structure: resources dedicated to projects; project manager has full authority.
  • Matrix structure: blend of functional and projectized, with varying authority between functional and project managers (weak, balanced, strong matrix).

Project Life Cycle vs. Product Life Cycle

  • Project Life Cycle: covers initiation to closure of a project.
  • Product Life Cycle: spans from product conception to withdrawal, potentially including multiple projects.
  • Life cycles may be sequential, overlapping, predictive (plan-driven), or adaptive (agile/incremental).

Project Management Processes and Process Groups

  • Project management has five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing.
  • There are 10 knowledge areas and 47 processes, with interrelated inputs and outputs.
  • Process groups overlap and iterate, providing structure for managing projects across industries.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • PMI — Project Management Institute, the certifying body for CAPM.
  • CAPM — Certified Associate in Project Management, an entry-level project management certification.
  • PDU — Professional Development Unit, a measure used for credential renewal.
  • PMBOK Guide — Project Management Body of Knowledge, the core reference for CAPM.
  • Process Groups — Five phases: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, Closing.
  • Knowledge Areas — Ten domains covering all aspects of project management.
  • Project Life Cycle — Sequence from project initiation to closure.
  • PMO — Project Management Office, supports and standardizes project management across an organization.
  • Stakeholder — Any individual or group impacted by the project.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review the PMBOK Guide and CCR handbook on the PMI website.
  • Complete 23 hours of project management education (if required).
  • Study the 10 knowledge areas and 47 processes for the CAPM exam.
  • Take practice tests after finishing the course lessons.

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