Best Agile Certifications for Project Managers
For project managers, PMI-ACP is the strongest broad agile credential when you already have agile experience. PSM I and CSM are more accessible Scrum-focused options for learners earlier in the path.
Match the credential to your experience level.
For project managers, PMI-ACP is the strongest broad agile credential when you already have agile experience. PSM I and CSM are more accessible Scrum-focused options for learners earlier in the path.
Explore Agile courses and programs on edX
Compare flexible online agile learning options from universities and industry partners on edX. Use this as training alongside the credential path discussed in this guide.
Project-management credentials worth comparing
PMI-ACP
Agile across Scrum, Lean, Kanban and more.
PSM I
Scrum framework knowledge.
CSM
Scrum team / facilitation.
Best Agile Certifications for Project Managers questions
Is PMI-ACP good for beginners?
No. PMI currently requires an agile-experience pathway and 21 hours of agile training.
What agile methods does PMI-ACP cover?
PMI describes it as methodology-agnostic, spanning Scrum, Lean, Kanban and other agile approaches.
Should a project manager take PSM or CSM first?
Either can fit a Scrum-specific path. PSM emphasizes exam-based validation; CSM uses an approved training route.
Is PMI-ACP better than Scrum Master certification?
It is broader, not universally better. PMI-ACP validates experience across agile approaches, while Scrum credentials are framework-specific.
Does PMP cover agile now?
Yes. The current PMP covers predictive, agile and hybrid approaches.
Can you hold PMP and PMI-ACP?
Yes. They validate different breadth and specialization, but PMI-ACP still has its own eligibility requirements.