PMP Vs Scrum - Which is Better to Choose in 2024?

The clash: PMP Vs Scrum has always been a topic of discussion among professionals. Each certification promotes a different Project Management idea, so the debates will probably continue.

The task of a Project Manager is not simple. It can resemble walking through a field of landmines without the proper base and wearing a blindfold. The expertise you need for the job can be acquired through certification, leading to a significant pay rise.

While Project Managers and Scrum Masters might be in charge of a project, they are not the same. A Project Manager is a term used to describe the person in charge of almost any project. On the other hand, Scrum Master is a role established exclusively for a Scrum Team.

The competition between the two is so tough that there are 1.2 million PMP Certification holders worldwide, whereas as of February 1, 2023, there are over 792,500 Scrum certified professionals. Now, it is your decision to choose one out of the two. Still confused between PMP and Scrum? While both PMP and Scrum are great career booster certifications, read the comparison of PMP Vs Scrum in this blog. Know the differences in salaries, scope, etc. We hope that by the end of this blog, you will understand the distinction between Scrum and PMP and determine which is better, PMP or Scrum Master.

Table of Contents

1) What is PMP?

2) What is Scrum?

3) Key Differences Between PMP and Scrum

4) Project Manager Vs Scrum Master

5) PMP or Scrum: Which One to choose?

6) Can You Take Both PMP and Scrum?

7) Benefits of having a PMP Certification

8) Benefits of Obtaining a Scrum Master Certification

9) Conclusion

What is PMP?

Project Management Certification (PMP) Certification is a highly regarded, internationally recognised certificate in the Project Management domain. The Project Management Institute (PMI), a U.S.-based professional association, offers it. The PMP Certification is well-known and respected and is essential for Project Managers. It is essential for individuals who desire career advancement.  

What is Scrum?

An entry-level certification called Scrum Master Certification is designed to give professionals who are new to Scrum a solid understanding of the Project Management methodology. Candidates learn about Scrum ideas including collaboration, accountability, and gradual advancement toward a clear goal as part of the certification process.

Key Differences Between PMP and Scrum

In Project Management, there has always been some ambiguity regarding the differences between the PMP and Scrum Master qualifications. Many new Project Management credentials have developed over the past few decades, making it difficult for aspiring Project Management professionals to decide which one is appropriate for their professional goals.

It's not that easy to respond to this query. Each certification has value in and of itself because it fulfils a specific need. Therefore, the preference will depend on a person's unique situation and professional objectives. The PMP and Scrum Master Certifications are among the most sought-after; thus, professionals are frequently interested in them.

The following information will help you choose which certification to pursue-

a) PMP Vs Scrum: Pre-requisites

You must have previous experience in managing and leading projects, whether with a four-year degree or just a high school diploma.

PMP: You must have Project Management experience. You will need 36 months of project-leading experience if you have a four-year degree and 60 months of experience if you have a high school diploma or an Associate degree.

Scrum Master: No prerequisite.

b) PMP Vs Scrum: Certification cost

The PMP Certification cost and exam costs a total of £455.52; while a PMP training course will cost you up to £2483.25.

If you want to buy the PMP handbook or a PMBOK guide for the PMP exam preparation then, the cost will be £49.64 per book.

On the other hand, if you are going for level one certification in Scrum, i.e., PSM1, the cost for the exam will be £124.05. Apart from that, the formal training course will cost you around £413.61.

Other certification courses might range from £492.19 to £1240.82. This variation is due to the differences in locations, teachers and modes of communication (online or person-to-person).

c) PMP Vs Scrum: Preparation and fees

People are reluctant to spend much money on preparation time or exam fees if they don't benefit from it. Therefore, you should pursue the certification that will yield the highest return for the time and money you invest in it.

PMP: Depending on your everyday dedication, it will take between one and three months to complete your certification. You can start your PMP journey if the PMP is your goal, and  dedicate 180 hours (on average, three hours per day for three months) to Prepare for PMP Examination.

scrum: The Scrum Master Certification can be completed in just three days. When you apply for the Scrum Master Training course, you must complete 14 hours of live online training, 16 hours of in-person instruction, or 25 hours of face-to-face time with a Certified Agile Coach who will instruct you on the agile principles and Scrum methodology.

You can sit for the Scrum Master Certification exam once you've finished the course. It will take 60 minutes to complete the exam. You must respond correctly to 37 of the 50 questions to pass the test.

PMP – Study Time: 1 to 3 months | Exam Fees – 990-1300 GBP

Scrum Master – Study Time: Approximately 3 Days | Exam Fees – Around 950-1095 GBP 

d) PMP vs Scrum: Salary and earning power 

According to several salary aggregation sources, the average UK salaries for project managers and Scrum Masters are listed below. Salary data is current as of October 2022. 
 

Job Role	Glassdoor	PayScale
Project Manager	£52,316	£44,101
Scrum Master	£63,158	£45,451

To sum it up-

1) The PMP and Scrum Certification both seem to have a direct effect on earning potential.

2) On scrum teams, Project Managers are frequently chosen to serve as Scrum Masters. However, specialists that serve only as Scrum Masters typically earn more money. This might be because Scrum is a specialised area of Project Management that calls for specific skill sets.

e) PMP Vs Scrum: Job roles

The PMP and Scrum Master credentials will open doors for increased employment opportunities. These certifications demonstrate a person's dedication to continuing their education and staying current with Scrum and Project Management developments.

Frequently, Scrum Masters become:

   a) Coaches

   b) Mentors

   c) Product Owners

   d) Managers

   e) Continue as Scrum Masters in more challenging scenarios

After obtaining your PMP Certification, some of the PMP job profiles you can apply for are:

   a) Project Managers

   b) Associate/Asst. Manager – Projects

   c) Team Leads/Managers

   d) Project Executives/Engineers

   e) Software Developers

   f) Technical Project Managers

   g) Project Delivery Manager

   h) Business Analyst

Learn to develop Program and Project Management standards and structure.

Check out our Program Management Professional (PgMP) Course today! 

Below is a quick overview of what we’ve discussed- 
 

Key Highlights
Criteria	PMP Certification	Scrum Master Certification
Pre-requisites	Degree and professional experience required	No expertise or specific qualification required
Preparation & Fees	Study Time: 1 to 3 months | Exam Fees – 990-1300 GBP	Study Time: Approximately 3 Days | Exam Fees – Around 950-1095 GBP
Exam Duration	4 hours	1 hour
Exam Pattern	200 questions	Multiple Type Questions (MCQs)
Salary	£52,316	£63,158
Job Roles	Project Managers, Team Leads, Engineers, Business Analyst, etc.	Mentors, Managers, Product owners, etc.

Project Manager Vs Scrum Master
 

While both a Project Manager and a Scrum Master role help in project execution, however, they are often confused with each other. Let's have a look at how they are different from each other:

One of the key differences between PMP and Scrum is that a PMP Professional will follow the PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge) Guide. A PMP focuses on one structured principle, such as Process design, Process management and control, planning and Risk Management, etc. On the other hand, a Scrum Master will follow Scrum principles and ensure that the Scrum team sticks to Scrum. They contribute to the Agile projects supported by Agile principles. The other differences between a Project Manager and a Scrum Master can be as follows:

1) Team size: Project Management teams are larger than Scrum teams, which comprise three to nine people. It is because a Project Manager is often responsible for handling multiple project teams, unlike Scrum Master.

2) Budget: While the Project Managers are directly involved in planning and maintaining the budget for a project, Scrum Masters usually engage with the DevOps team to benefit from product value with the help of the Product Owner.

3) Execution: In a Project Management scenario, the execution of the project majorly depends upon the Project Manager; however, the final decision goes into the hands of the Project Board. Although, a Project Manager can customise the framework and path of the project. While a Scrum Master assists a Product Owner in managing the product backlogs. Also, a Scrum Master strictly adheres to the Scrum rules.

Also, check out our blog to prepare the top PMP interview questions to ace your interview!

PMP or Scrum: Which one to choose?

Both PMP and Scrum Master certifications will help you in building your knowledge in Project Management practice and executing the projects. You could frequently ponder whether PMP or Scrum is the better option, but everything relies on the goals you desire to accomplish. 

1) The Project Mangement credential with the highest recognition is the PMP. It evaluates applicants' knowledge of Project Management terminology, methodologies, and techniques. 

2) A Project Manager focuses on projects and manages the accompanying timelines, whereas a Scrum Master directs and coaches their team. A Scrum Master Certification proves your proficiency with activities, artefacts, and roles and responsibilities. Project Managers with a focus on agile Project Management are called Scrum Masters.

Choose the option that will have the most significant positive effect on your career and future, if you have to pick between the two. The Scrum Master Certification will undoubtedly be helpful if you already work in Agile Project Mangement. On the other hand, Getting a PMP Certification is an excellent approach to launching your Project Management career. Thus, to get the best certification for you, thoroughly investigate all your viable options.
 

Can you take both PMP and Scrum?

Yes, and which is frequently the case. The Project Manager and the Scrum Master know the value of commitment and quality. Particularly in IT, the conventional Project Manager position is obsolete. To be more in line with contemporary execution techniques, PMI has significantly improved its framework to integrate Agile as a significant value in project execution.

The PMP remains the top certification for the Project Management professionals due to its stringent application and passing requirements.

Nevertheless, earning a Scrum Master Certification and a PMP is a big plus. Each certification is appropriate for a specific kind of project. In terms of job prospects, it will open up more opportunities.

Benefits of having the PMP Certification

The advantages of obtaining a certification like PMP, which include both concrete and intangible benefits, are as follows for both individuals and organisations.

1) Industry recognition

PMP certification  is widely recognised. PMP is accessible anywhere and may be used in any setting or business. So, regardless of your industry or professional background, including the certification on your resume might benefit you.

2) Facilitates essential Project Management skills

Requirements for PMP Certification are very stringent. It is incredibly challenging to pass this exam without a lot of studying. You also need to understand how to use the information in practice. Many hard and soft skills must be acquired to earn the PMP Certification. It improves comprehension of crucial Project Management procedures, equipment, and techniques.

Also, check out here to find the best PMP Tools in the market!

3) Contributes to higher paycheques

The pay increase with PMP Certification is the most intriguing feature of this certification. Project Managers with certifications make a lot more money than other Project Management professionals. According to a recent PMI survey, the average median compensation for a certified Project Manager is £97,688. Conversely, a non-certified Project Manager has an average salary of £82,311.

4) Demonstrates your commitment to the profession

An employee who makes educational investments is valuable to the company. Your PMP Certification demonstrates your dedication to developing your professional abilities, knowledge, and competence. It also helps you gain the respect of your co-workers and supervisors.

Gain in-depth knowledge about different Scrum Master techniques. Join our Scrum Master Certification course today!

Benefits of obtaining a Scrum Master Certification

The following are the benefits you can get from earning a Scrum Certification:

1) Enhances your mindset

Possessing the Scrum Master Certification shows that you have an open mind to learning and are knowledgeable about recent Scrum advances. The certification trains people to stay up to date and to have a learning attitude, that is willing to learn new things and understand more about Scrum's objectives and principles.

2) Makes you an asset at the workplace

When a business implements a new technique, it affects its management, people, clients, and processing. When all these elements function well together, and the company switches to an Agile environment, the Scrum Master training course equips students with the practical knowledge they need.

3) Allows you to advance professionally

The Scrum Master Certification offers individuals a prestigious credential accepted by the Scrum Alliance, a well-known organisation worldwide. This gives professionals a lot of opportunities and encourages them to advance in their fields.

4) Improves teamwork and collaboration

The Scrum Master Certification teaches individuals about team management and aids with their understanding of team-building principles, improving teamwork and collaboration. Candidates receive training on cooperation  to build successful products. They are aware of their obligations as a Scrum Master and the various approaches and strategies for collaborating with a Scrum team.

Conclusion

Ultimately, PMP Vs Scrum remains an unresolved puzzle. Everything depends on where you want to be in the future. Depending on your situation, becoming certified in PMP or Scrum is a great career choice. Scrum and PMP Certifications can help you achieve your goals in diverse ways. The points mentioned above are what it all comes down to. Choose the qualification most beneficial to you and pursue it accordingly.

Both credentials can deepen your knowledge of Project management techniques and give you various tools to practice what is ideal for your projects and company.

With The Knowledge Academy’s PMP training and Scrum Training courses, you may begin your journey to the most promising career!