CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
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 →CAPM vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CAPM | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | ✓$200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$9,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 85/1000 |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty |
CAPM
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
Professional Scrum Master I
None required
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on PMI and you need the recognised entry-level credential
- 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
Both are at the beginner level in project management. Professional Scrum Master I carries the higher salary impact (+$9,000/yr vs +$8,000/yr), making it the stronger long-term investment. Choose CAPM if you prefer credentials from PMI or need a faster, lower-cost path.
Best CAPM courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Is CAPM harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
Both CAPM and Professional Scrum Master I are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CAPM or Professional Scrum Master I?
CAPM has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CAPM or Professional Scrum Master I?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Professional Scrum Master I.
Can I get both CAPM and Professional Scrum Master I?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CAPM and Professional Scrum Master I complement each other within project management. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CAPM or Professional Scrum Master I?
Both are worth it in 2026. CAPM offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; Professional Scrum Master I offers +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.