AWS ML Engineer Associate
Validates ability to build, train, tune, and deploy ML models on AWS using SageMaker and other AWS AI services.
Full guide →Professional Scrum Master I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →AWS ML Engineer Associate vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | AWS ML Engineer Associate | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$150 USD | $200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$18,000/yr | +$9,000/yr |
| Passing score | 720/1000 | 85/1000 |
| Exam duration | 130 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty |
AWS ML Engineer Associate
AWS Cloud Practitioner or equivalent + basic ML knowledge recommended
Professional Scrum Master I
None required
- You have ML or data experience and want to validate practical, hands-on skills
- You want a potential +$18,000/yr salary uplift
- You build, train, and deploy ML models in production environments
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$9,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in agile teams and want to formalise Scrum Master skills
AWS ML Engineer Associate and Professional Scrum Master I lead to entirely different careers — AI and machine learning vs project management. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with Professional Scrum Master I — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best AWS ML Engineer Associate courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Is AWS ML Engineer Associate harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
AWS ML Engineer Associate is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — AWS ML Engineer Associate or Professional Scrum Master I?
AWS ML Engineer Associate has an average salary uplift of +$18,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. AWS ML Engineer Associate has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS ML Engineer Associate or Professional Scrum Master I?
Professional Scrum Master I is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS ML Engineer Associate.
Can I get both AWS ML Engineer Associate and Professional Scrum Master I?
Yes — many professionals hold both. AWS ML Engineer Associate and Professional Scrum Master I complement each other, covering AI and machine learning and project management respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — AWS ML Engineer Associate or Professional Scrum Master I?
Both are worth it in 2026. AWS ML Engineer Associate offers a +$18,000/yr average salary uplift; Professional Scrum Master I offers +$9,000/yr. AWS ML Engineer Associate has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.