Top 11 Assistant Product Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for an assistant product manager in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the candidate has the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the role and excel in it. Certifications can also help establish credibility with employers and provide a competitive edge over other candidates who may lack them. Additionally, certifications can provide access to valuable resources such as industry contacts, training opportunities, and networking events. Finally, certifications can often lead to higher salaries as employers recognize that certified professionals have a higher level of expertise than their non-certified counterparts.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Assistant Product Managers and explains how they can help to further an assistant product manager's career.

What are Assistant Product Manager Certifications?

Assistant product manager certification is a professional certification program designed to provide aspiring product managers with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful in the world of product management. This certification is typically earned by completing a series of courses or exams that cover topics such as product strategy, user experience, customer needs analysis, market research, project management, and analytics.

Earning an assistant product manager certification can help individuals gain a better understanding of the product lifecycle and how to effectively manage projects from start to finish. This type of certification also provides individuals with insight into what it takes to be successful in the field of product management, including problem-solving skills, communication strategies, and critical thinking. Additionally, it can help build confidence and credibility when applying for jobs in the industry. Furthermore, having an assistant product manager certification can help increase one’s salary potential since employers often look for candidates who have this type of specialized knowledge.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing an assistant product manager certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and their associated requirements. This will ensure that you select the best certification for your specific goals and needs. Additionally, it is important to gain a clear understanding of any prerequisites or costs associated with each certification.

Related: What does an Assistant Product Manager do?

Top 11 Assistant Product Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assistant Product Managers today.

1. Certified Product Manager (CPM)

Certified Product Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program that provides product managers with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage product development, launch, and growth. The CPM certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the product management process, from concept to launch. It also covers topics such as customer experience, market research, pricing strategy, and product positioning.

The CPM certification takes approximately 6 months to complete. To get certified you must first pass an online assessment which includes multiple-choice questions about product management best practices. Once you have passed the assessment, you will need to complete a series of courses covering topics such as customer segmentation, market analysis, and product positioning. Finally, you will need to take an exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in the courses.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider offering the program; however, it typically ranges between $1,500-2,000 USD. Additionally some providers may offer discounts or scholarships for those looking to get certified on a budget.

2. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)

A Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) is a professional certification that validates a person's knowledge and experience in the Scrum framework. The CSPO certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in product ownership, which is an essential role in any successful Scrum team.

The CSPO certification requires a two-day course that covers topics such as product vision, user stories, backlog management, stakeholder engagement, and release planning. After completing the course, participants must pass an exam to become certified.

The cost of the CSPO certification varies depending on the provider and region. Generally speaking, it can range from $800 to $2000 USD.

In order to obtain the CSPO certification, you must first complete an accredited two-day training course from a certified Scrum Alliance trainer or organization. After completing the training course and passing the exam with at least 80% accuracy, you will be awarded your CSPO certificate and can start using the “CSPO” designation after your name.

3. Certified Professional in Product Management (CPPM)

Certified Professional in Product Management (CPPM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and lead product management teams. The CPPM certification is offered by the Association of International Product Management and Marketing (AIPMM).

The CPPM certification is designed for experienced product managers, product marketing managers, or those with similar roles. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of product management, including strategy, planning, development, launch, and post-launch activities. The CPPM exam covers topics such as market analysis, customer segmentation and targeting, pricing strategies, competitive analysis, product positioning, product lifecycle management, go-to-market plans, innovation processes and more.

It typically takes about four to six months to complete the requirements for the CPPM certification. To get certified you must first pass an online application process which includes a review of your professional experience and education background. Once approved you must then pass a three hour proctored exam which tests your knowledge on the topics covered in the AIPMM’s body of knowledge.

The cost for taking the CPPM exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Additionally there are additional fees associated with applying for the certification such as membership dues and other administrative costs.

4. Certified Agile Product Manager (CAPM)

Certified Agile Product Manager (CAPM) is a certification program designed to help product managers and product owners gain the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to effectively manage agile products. The certification is offered by the Scrum Alliance, an international organization dedicated to promoting and teaching agile software development practices.

The CAPM program consists of three core elements: a self-assessment, an online course, and a final exam. The self-assessment helps you identify areas where you need additional training or experience in order to become a successful product manager. The online course provides comprehensive instruction on topics such as product management fundamentals, agile principles, user stories, backlogs, sprints, product roadmaps, and more. Finally, the final exam tests your understanding of the material covered in the course.

The certification process typically takes about four weeks to complete. During this time you will be required to complete the self-assessment and online course as well as pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once you have successfully completed all three components of the program you will receive your official CAPM certification from the Scrum Alliance.

The cost for taking part in the CAPM program varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package costs $1,295 USD while the premium package costs $2,495 USD. Both packages include access to all three components of the program as well as ongoing support from certified coaches throughout your journey towards becoming a Certified Agile Product Manager (CAPM).

5. Professional Scrum Master (PSM)

Professional Scrum Master (PSM) is a certification program designed to help professionals learn and apply the principles of the Scrum Framework. It is offered by Scrum.org, an organization founded by Ken Schwaber, one of the creators of Scrum.

The PSM certification consists of two parts: an online assessment and a one-day classroom course. The online assessment is designed to test your understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of Scrum, as well as your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios. The classroom course focuses on how to effectively use Scrum in practice, including topics such as team dynamics, coaching, and facilitating effective meetings.

It typically takes between two and four weeks to complete the PSM certification process. To get certified, you must pass both the online assessment and the classroom course with a score of 85% or higher.

The cost for the PSM certification varies depending on which version you choose (i.e., Professional or Enterprise). Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for either version.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized and respected project management certification in the world. The PMP credential demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, experience, and skills to successfully manage projects of any size or complexity.

In order to become certified as a PMP, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a rigorous exam. To be eligible for the PMP exam, you must have either:

• A four-year degree (bachelor’s or global equivalent) with at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education; or
• A secondary diploma (high school or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience, with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $405-$555 USD for PMI members and $555-$705 USD for non-members.

Once you have passed the exam, you will need to maintain your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years. PDUs can be earned through participating in various activities such as attending conferences, taking courses, writing articles, or volunteering in a project management capacity.

7. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to provide project managers with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage projects. The CAPM certification is an entry-level credential that demonstrates an individual’s understanding of the fundamental knowledge, processes, and terminology used in project management.

The CAPM certification requires a minimum of 23 hours of project management education and experience prior to taking the exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have either: 1) a secondary degree (high school diploma or equivalent); 2) at least 1,500 hours of professional experience working on projects; or 3) 23 contact hours of formal project management education.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that must be completed within three hours. The cost for the exam varies depending on whether you are a PMI member or non-member. For members, it costs $225 USD; for non-members, it costs $300 USD.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CAPM certificate from PMI which is valid for five years. You can renew your certification every five years by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) through participating in approved activities such as attending conferences or seminars, completing online courses, and volunteering on committees or boards related to project management.

8. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed for professionals who are looking to improve their process improvement skills and increase their value to employers.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification requires a minimum of 30 hours of training, which can be completed in-person or online. The training covers topics such as project management, problem solving, data analysis, and process improvement techniques. After completing the training, individuals must pass an exam to earn their certification.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, individuals must first complete the required training and then pass the exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions based on the material covered during training. The exam typically takes between two and four hours to complete.

The cost of Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the provider offering the course and exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 for the entire program including both training and examination fees.

9. Business Analysis Certification

Business Analysis Certification is a professional certification program designed to help business analysts demonstrate their expertise in the field. It is offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and is recognized globally as a standard for excellence in business analysis.

The certification process consists of two parts: an exam and a portfolio review. The exam is based on the IIBA’s Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK), which covers the core elements of business analysis such as requirements management, stakeholder engagement, and solution evaluation. Candidates must pass this exam to become certified.

The portfolio review involves submitting evidence that demonstrates your experience with real-world projects and how you applied the BABOK knowledge areas in those projects. This includes submitting project artifacts such as diagrams, documents, and presentations that demonstrate your knowledge and skills. The portfolio review can take up to six months to complete depending on the complexity of the projects you submit.

To get certified, you must first become a member of the IIBA and pay an annual membership fee ($125 USD). You will then need to register for the certification exam ($225 USD) or the combined exam/portfolio review ($425 USD). Once you have passed both parts of the certification process, you will receive your certificate from the IIBA.

The cost for becoming Business Analysis Certified depends on whether you take only the exam or if you also complete a portfolio review. The total cost ranges from $125 USD (annual membership fee) + $225 USD (exam fee) = $350 USD to $125 USD (annual membership fee) + $425 USD (exam/portfolio review fee) = $550 USD.

10. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an understanding of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework. The certification is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage IT services, processes, and resources.

The certification consists of an online exam which takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 65% in order to pass.

In order to get the certification, candidates must first register for the exam with an accredited testing center or provider. Once registered, candidates can study for the exam using books, online courses, or other study materials. After studying for the exam, candidates can then take the test at an authorized testing center or provider.

The cost of taking the ITIL Foundation Certification Exam varies depending on where you take it and who provides it. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 USD for the exam.

11. Microsoft Project Certification

Microsoft Project Certification is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills in using Microsoft Project. This certification demonstrates that the individual has mastered the tools and techniques necessary to effectively manage projects using Microsoft Project.

The certification consists of two exams: Microsoft Project 2016 Core and Microsoft Project 2016 Expert. The Core exam covers topics such as project planning, scheduling, resource management, and reporting. The Expert exam focuses on advanced topics such as project portfolio management, risk management, earned value analysis, and customizing project plans.

It typically takes about 8-12 hours to complete both exams depending on an individual's existing knowledge of the software. To get certified, you must pass both exams with a minimum score of 700 out of 1000 points each.

The cost for taking the exams varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150-$200 USD per exam.

Do You Really Need a Assistant Product Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is that it depends. While an assistant product manager certificate may help demonstrate a commitment to learning and professional development, it is not a requirement for most entry-level positions in product management. Generally speaking, employers will be more interested in your experience, skills, and education when considering you for a job.

However, if you are looking to move up the ladder into higher-level positions or into a larger organization, having an assistant product manager certificate may give you an edge over other candidates. It can also provide additional credibility when applying for jobs and show potential employers that you have taken the time and effort to gain additional knowledge in the field. Additionally, depending on the program you choose, it may open up opportunities for internships or fellowships that can help build your resume and network with industry professionals.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue an assistant product manager certificate will depend on your individual goals and career trajectory. If you feel like it will benefit your overall career prospects and provide tangible benefits such as networking opportunities then it could be worth pursuing. However, if you do not think it will have much of an impact on your job search then it may be best to focus on other areas of professional development instead.

Related: Assistant Product Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Assistant Product Manager Certifications

Q1: What are the benefits of becoming an Assistant Product Manager?

A1: Becoming an Assistant Product Manager can give you a great opportunity to gain experience in product management, build relationships with key stakeholders and customers, and help drive innovation within your organization. Additionally, it can provide you with the skills needed to become a successful product manager in the future.

Q2: What qualifications do I need to become an Assistant Product Manager?

A2: To become an Assistant Product Manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field such as marketing or engineering. You may also need certifications related to product management, such as Certified Scrum Master (CSM) or Project Management Professional (PMP).

Q3: How long does it take to get certified as an Assistant Product Manager?

A3: The time it takes to get certified as an Assistant Product Manager depends on the type of certification you pursue. Generally speaking, most certifications require at least six months of study and practice before taking the exam.

Q4: What skills do I need to become an Assistant Product Manager?

A4: The skills required for becoming an effective Assistant Product Manager include problem-solving, communication, project management, and analytical skills. Additionally, knowledge of market trends and customer needs are important for success in this role.

Q5: What type of salary can I expect as an Assistant Product Manager?

A5: Salaries for assistant product managers vary depending on experience level and location. According to Glassdoor data, the average base salary range is between $50K - $80K per year.