Top 10 Survey Project Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for survey project managers in the job market because they demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skill and experience in their profession. Certifications provide employers with an objective measure of the individual’s competence and proficiency in survey project management. They also show that the person has taken initiative to learn and understand the best practices in this field, as well as giving them a competitive edge over other candidates who may not have taken the time to obtain such credentials. Furthermore, certifications provide individuals with a sense of pride and accomplishment, which can increase their confidence and motivation when applying for jobs or advancing their careers.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Survey Project Managers and explain how they can enhance a survey project manager's career.

What are Survey Project Manager Certifications?

Survey project manager certification is a specialized certification program designed to equip survey professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage survey projects. The certification focuses on key areas such as project management, survey design and implementation, data analysis, report writing, quality assurance and customer service. By obtaining this certification, survey professionals become more equipped to handle complex survey projects in an efficient and effective manner.

This certification helps survey professionals gain the skills necessary for successful project management and provides them with a competitive edge in the job market. With this certification, survey professionals can demonstrate their expertise to clients, employers and peers in the field, which can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Additionally, by having a specialized certification in survey project management they are able to offer higher-level services than those without one. This ultimately leads to greater job satisfaction and better pay.

Pro Tip: When considering survey project manager certification, make sure to research the certifying body and their requirements. Ensure that the certification is recognized by employers and that it covers the specific skills you need for your career. Additionally, consider taking additional courses or seminars to build on your knowledge and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Related: What does a Survey Project Manager do?

Top 10 Survey Project Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Survey Project Managers today.

1. Certified Survey Project Manager (CSPM)

Certified Survey Project Manager (CSPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of excellence in survey project management. The CSPM program is administered by the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR).

The CSPM program consists of three components: a written exam, an oral exam, and a portfolio review. To become certified, applicants must pass all three components. The written exam tests knowledge of survey project management principles and practices, including topics such as research design, sampling methods, data collection techniques, data analysis, and reporting. The oral exam tests the applicant’s ability to apply those principles and practices in a real-world setting. The portfolio review assesses the applicant’s experience with survey project management.

It typically takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the CSPM program. Applicants must submit their application materials at least four months prior to the scheduled exam date in order to be considered for admission into the program.

The cost of obtaining CSPM certification varies depending on the number of components taken and whether or not an applicant has already completed any of them. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,500 - $2,000 USD to complete all three components of the CSPM program.

2. Certified Professional Surveyor (CPS)

Certified Professional Surveyor (CPS) is a professional designation granted by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). This certification is designed to recognize surveyors who have demonstrated their knowledge, experience, and proficiency in land surveying. To be eligible for the CPS designation, a surveyor must meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam administered by NCEES, and demonstrate at least four years of professional experience.

It typically takes between two and three years to complete the necessary requirements for the CPS designation. The first step is to obtain a bachelor's degree in surveying or a related field from an accredited college or university. After completing this requirement, applicants must then pass the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam administered by NCEES. Once this exam has been passed, applicants must then complete four years of professional experience in land surveying before they can apply for the CPS designation.

The cost of obtaining the CPS designation varies depending on where you live and what type of education you need to complete prior to taking the FS exam. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000-$2,000 in total fees including application fees and exam fees. Additionally, some states may require additional coursework or continuing education credits which could add to the overall cost.

3. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is an internationally recognized professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate a project manager’s experience, education and competency in leading and directing projects.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam. The amount of time needed will depend on your experience level and how much study you are willing to do. To qualify for the exam, you must have either a four-year degree, at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a combination of the two.

To get the PMP certification, you must first apply to take the PMP Exam through PMI's website. Once approved, you can register for an exam date and pay the fee. The current cost of taking the exam is $405 for members of PMI and $555 for non-members. After passing the exam, you must also complete 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years to maintain your certification.

4. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)

Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) is a certification program designed to help individuals learn and understand the Agile Scrum methodology. It is offered by the Scrum Alliance, an international organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the use of Scrum. The CSM certification is based on the principles outlined in the Agile Manifesto, which emphasizes collaboration, self-organization, and customer focus.

To become a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), you must attend a two-day course taught by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). The course covers all aspects of the Scrum framework including roles, events, artifacts, and rules. After attending the course, you must pass an online exam with a score of at least 85%. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CSM certification.

The cost for attending a two-day CSM course varies depending on location and instructor but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD. In addition to this cost there is also an annual membership fee of $100 USD required to maintain your CSM certification status.

Overall, becoming a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) requires dedication and commitment but can be very rewarding for those who are interested in learning more about Agile development practices.

5. Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM)

Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize an individual’s knowledge and experience in working with agile project management principles and practices. The certification demonstrates an understanding of the agile methodology, as well as the ability to apply it effectively in a project environment.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain prerequisites and pass the CAPM exam. Prerequisites include either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) and 1,500 hours of project experience OR 23 contact hours of formal education related to project management topics.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. Applicants must score at least a 73% on the exam in order to pass.

The cost of the CAPM exam varies depending on your country/region and whether you are a PMI member or not. For US residents, the cost for non-members is $225 USD while members pay $300 USD.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the CAPM exam depending on your prior knowledge and experience with agile project management principles and practices.

6. American Society of Civil Engineers Certification in Construction Surveying (ASCE-CCS)

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certification in Construction Surveying (CCS) is a professional certification program for surveying professionals. It is the only certification program that focuses exclusively on construction surveying. The CCS program provides recognition to surveyors who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of construction surveying.

The CCS certification process consists of three steps: application, examination, and review. To apply for the CCS certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of experience. Once the application is approved, applicants must take a two-part exam administered by ASCE's National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The exam covers topics such as boundary law, construction layout, topographic surveys, and other related topics. After passing both parts of the exam, applicants must submit a detailed portfolio demonstrating their experience in construction surveying. This portfolio will be reviewed by an independent panel appointed by ASCE who will make recommendations to ASCE regarding whether or not to grant the applicant CCS certification.

It typically takes about six months from start to finish for an applicant to receive their CCS certification. The cost for applying for the CCS certification is $450 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

7. Professional Land Surveyor Certification (PLS)

Professional Land Surveyor Certification (PLS) is a certification granted by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). It is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have met the education, experience, and examination requirements set forth by NCEES. The PLS certification provides assurance to employers and the public that a land surveyor has met the highest standards of qualification in their field.

It typically takes three years to get Professional Land Surveyor Certification. During this time, applicants must complete an accredited engineering or surveying program, pass two exams administered by NCEES, and gain at least four years of professional experience in land surveying.

To get Professional Land Surveyor Certification, applicants must first meet the educational requirements set forth by NCEES. This includes completing an accredited engineering or surveying program from an approved institution. Applicants must then take and pass two exams administered by NCEES: Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) and Principles & Practice of Surveying (PS). Finally, applicants must gain at least four years of professional experience in land surveying under the direct supervision of a licensed/certified surveyor.

The cost to become certified as a Professional Land Surveyor varies depending on the state where you are applying for licensure. In most cases, there is an application fee as well as fees associated with taking the two exams administered by NCEES. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for background checks or other administrative costs associated with obtaining licensure.

8. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a mastery of the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed for professionals who are responsible for leading improvement projects or initiatives within their organization. The certification is typically obtained by individuals who have already achieved some level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology, either through formal training or experience.

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification process typically takes about four to six months to complete. To get certified, you must first pass an exam administered by one of the recognized certifying bodies such as ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association of Six Sigma Certification). Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official certification document.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you attend a formal training program or take an online course in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and tools used in Six Sigma. Additionally, many organizations offer internal training courses and workshops that can help prepare you for the exam as well.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on where you obtain it from and which certifying body administers it. Generally speaking, however, the cost ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD per person.

9. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a certification program designed to help project managers demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles of project management. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). CAPM certification is ideal for those who are new to project management, or those who want to strengthen their skills in the field.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within three hours. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least 1,500 hours of project experience or 23 hours of project management education.

To get certified, applicants must first register with PMI and pay an application fee. Once registered, they can then schedule their exam at a Prometric testing center. The cost for the exam is $225 for PMI members and $300 for non-members.

Once applicants pass the exam, they will receive their official CAPM certification from PMI and will be listed in its online directory as a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM).

10. Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA).

Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of quality improvement. The CQIA certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), an international organization dedicated to advancing quality principles and practices.

The CQIA certification requires passing a three-hour exam that covers topics such as quality management, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and problem solving. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge of quality tools such as flowcharts, control charts, cause-and-effect diagrams, and Pareto charts.

The CQIA certification can be obtained through self-study or by taking an ASQ-approved training course. Self-study typically takes between six months and one year to complete; however, taking a course may reduce this time frame significantly.

The cost of obtaining the CQIA certification varies depending on whether you choose to take a course or self-study. Taking an ASQ-approved training course will typically cost between $1,500 and $2,000; self-study materials can range from $200 to $400. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $250 for the CQIA exam.

Do You Really Need a Survey Project Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a survey project manager certificate to be successful in this field. However, having one can certainly help you stand out from the competition and make it easier for potential employers to recognize your specific qualifications.

Having a survey project manager certificate is beneficial because it shows that you have specialized knowledge and skills in the area of survey project management. A certificate also serves as proof that you have been trained in the necessary methods and processes needed to successfully manage surveys of all types. In addition, having a certified qualification may be required by certain organizations or employers who are looking for individuals with specific qualifications.

In terms of what is required to obtain a survey project manager certificate, it generally depends on the organization offering the certification program. Generally speaking, these programs require participants to complete courses in survey design and analysis, research methodology, data collection techniques and interpretation of results. Additionally, some programs may also include an examination component which tests the participant's overall knowledge and understanding of survey research methods.

Overall, while having a survey project manager certificate is not absolutely necessary for success in this field, it can certainly be beneficial depending on your individual career goals and objectives.

Related: Survey Project Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Survey Project Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Survey Project Manager Certification?

A1. A Survey Project Manager Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in managing survey projects. It provides recognition for those who have achieved mastery in the field of survey project management.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Survey Project Manager Certification?

A2. Obtaining a Survey Project Manager Certification can help individuals demonstrate their skills and knowledge to employers, increase their chances of getting hired, and enhance their career prospects in the field of survey project management. Additionally, it can provide professionals with increased credibility and respect from peers, colleagues, and clients.

Q3. How do I become certified as a Survey Project Manager?

A3. To become certified as a Survey Project Manager, you must complete an approved training program or course related to survey project management and pass an exam administered by an accredited certification body such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

Q4. How long does it take to obtain a Survey Project Manager Certification?

A4. The amount of time required to obtain a Survey Project Manager Certification varies depending on the type of certification pursued and other factors such as prior experience, educational background, etc., but typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all requirements for certification.

Q5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Survey Project Manager Certification?

A5 Yes, most certifications require payment of fees for registration and other costs associated with taking the exam or completing other requirements necessary for certification