CAPM vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
PMI
CAPM
CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →Scrum.org
Professional Scrum Master I
PSM I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CAPM | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | ✓$200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$9,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
Professional Scrum Master I — Prerequisites
None required
Get CAPM if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Get Professional Scrum Master I if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$9,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Scrum.org
Best CAPM courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Frequently asked questions
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.