Courses

CAPM®, PMP®, or PRINCE2® — Which certification should you choose?

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these certifications to help you decide which one is right for you.

Lyndsay Collins

25 November, 2024

When it comes to advancing your career in Project Management, choosing the right certification can open doors to better opportunities, higher salaries, and global recognition.

At Firebrand Training, we know the importance of finding a certification that aligns with your career goals.

Three of the most sought-after Project Management certifications are CAPM®, PMP®, and PRINCE2®. Each one offers unique benefits depending on your experience, industry, and aspirations.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these certifications to help you decide which one is right for you.

What are CAPM®, PMP® and PRINCE2®?

CAPM® (Certified Associate in Project Management)

Administered by: PMI (Project Management Institute)
Level: Entry-level certification
Focus: PMI’s PMBOK® Guide, which introduces foundational Project Management concepts
Who it's for: Beginners or those with limited Project Management experience looking to start their career.

CAPM® is designed for those who want to demonstrate their understanding of Project Management principles and terminology without needing extensive prior experience. It’s a great stepping stone to more advanced certifications like PMP®.

PMP® (Project Management Professional)

Administered by: PMI (Project Management Institute)
Level: Advanced certification
Focus: Predictive (Waterfall), Agile, and Hybrid methodologies. Covers comprehensive Project Management skills from planning to execution
Who it's for: Experienced Project Managers looking to validate their skills and gain global recognition.

PMP® is the gold standard for Project Management certifications. It’s highly valued worldwide and ideal for those leading complex projects in industries such as IT, construction, and finance.

PRINCE2® (Projects in Controlled Environments)

Administered by: PeopleCert
Level: There are two levels: Foundation (entry-level) and Practitioner (advanced)
Focus: A structured methodology emphasizing processes, roles, and accountability.
Who it’s for: Professionals in structured, process-driven industries like Government or large organisations.

PRINCE2® offers a practical framework for managing projects and is widely used in the UK, Europe, and Commonwealth countries. It’s especially beneficial for those managing large-scale, formalised projects.

Which certification is right for you?

Choose CAPM® if:

You’re new to Project Management and want to build foundational knowledge.
You’re looking for an affordable, entry-level certification to kickstart your career.
You plan to pursue PMP® in the future as CAPM® provides a solid stepping stone.

Choose PMP® if:

You have Project Management experience and want to validate your expertise.
You’re aiming for leadership roles or managing complex projects.
You want a globally recognized certification applicable across diverse industries.

Choose PRINCE2® if:

You work in the UK, Europe, or a Commonwealth country where PRINCE2® is highly valued.
You’re in a structured, process-driven industry like government or public sector.
You want a practical methodology to apply directly to your projects.

Why choose Firebrand for your training?

At Firebrand, we specialise in accelerated, hands-on training that helps you become competent, confident, and certified faster.

Professionals choose us for Project Management training because:

We offer accelerated courses: You can learn more in less time with our immersive training approach
All our instructors are Expert Trainers who provide practical insights alongside exam preparation
We offer all-inclusive study packages: Your course, materials, and exam fees are all included; in the case of courses delivered at our training centres, accommodations and meals are included too
We offer the Firebrand Certification Guarantee: Whether you choose CAPM®, PMP®, or PRINCE2®, we will ensure you gain the skills and confidence you need to excel in your career.

Take the next step!

Ready to accelerate your Project Management career? Explore our CAPM®, PMP®, and PRINCE2® training courses to find the one that aligns with your goals. Contact us today to start your journey!