Professional Scrum Master I vs AWS Solutions Architect Associate
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
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 →Amazon Web Services
AWS Solutions Architect Associate
SAA-C03
The most sought-after cloud certification — covers designing resilient, high-performing, cost-optimised AWS architectures.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Professional Scrum Master I | AWS Solutions Architect Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$200 USD | $300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$9,000/yr | ✓+$18,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 130 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Scrum.org | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Intermediate |
Professional Scrum Master I — Prerequisites
None required
AWS Solutions Architect Associate — Prerequisites
AWS Cloud Practitioner recommended, 1 year hands-on AWS experience
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
Get AWS Solutions Architect Associate if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$18,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Best AWS Solutions Architect Associate courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Professional Scrum Master I harder than AWS Solutions Architect Associate?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — Professional Scrum Master I or AWS Solutions Architect Associate?
Professional Scrum Master I has an average salary uplift of +$9,000/yr, while AWS Solutions Architect Associate has +$18,000/yr. AWS Solutions Architect Associate has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Professional Scrum Master I or AWS Solutions Architect Associate?
Professional Scrum Master I is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Solutions Architect Associate.