Top 11 Technical Product Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a technical product manager’s job market success. They demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the field, and can help to differentiate candidates from one another. Additionally, certifications can provide employers with assurance that their potential hire is knowledgeable in the necessary areas to be successful in the role. Technical product managers need to understand technology, customer needs, and business strategy; having certifications that validate these skills helps make them more attractive hires for employers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Technical Product Managers and explains how they can contribute to a technical product manager's career development.

What are Technical Product Manager Certifications?

Technical Product Manager certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in product management. It is designed to provide technical product managers with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to successfully manage projects from concept to completion. The certification can help individuals demonstrate their understanding of product lifecycle management, customer and market analysis, requirements gathering and specification development, project management, strategy development, and product launch. It also provides a way for employers to identify qualified technical product managers who have the experience and qualifications necessary to lead successful projects. Technical Product Manager certification can help individuals stand out from the competition and open up new career opportunities in this rapidly growing field.

Pro Tip: Before investing in technical product manager certification, make sure the program you are considering provides real-world skills and experience that will be applicable to your current job. Look for programs that teach you not only theory, but also practical skills and knowledge that you can use to effectively manage products in a business setting.

Related: What does a Technical Product Manager do?

Top 11 Technical Product Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)

A Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) is a professional certification for individuals who have demonstrated an understanding of the Scrum framework and its application to product ownership. The CSPO certification is offered by the Scrum Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the use of Scrum in software development.

The CSPO certification requires applicants to attend a two-day course that covers topics such as agile principles, product visioning, backlog management, stakeholder management, and release planning. After attending the course, applicants must pass an online assessment in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the two-day course varies depending on location and instructor but typically ranges from $1,200 - $2,000 USD. The online assessment costs $150 USD.

Once certified, CSPOs can join the global network of Certified Scrum Professionals and access exclusive resources such as job postings and networking opportunities.

2. Certified Product Manager (CPM)

Certified Product Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to help product managers and product marketers develop the skills required to be successful in their roles. The CPM certification program was developed by the Product Management Institute (PMI), an international organization dedicated to advancing the practice of product management.

The CPM certification program consists of four levels: Associate, Professional, Expert and Master. Each level requires that applicants demonstrate proficiency in core areas such as product strategy, customer experience, technology and analytics. To earn the CPM certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all four levels.

The Associate level is intended for those just starting out in product management or for those who have been working in the field for less than five years. It requires completion of two courses and passing an exam with a score of 80% or higher. The Professional level is intended for experienced product managers who have been working in the field for at least five years. It requires completion of three courses and passing an exam with a score of 85% or higher. The Expert level is intended for experienced professionals who have been working in the field for at least ten years; it requires completion of four courses and passing an exam with a score of 90% or higher. Finally, the Master level is intended for senior-level professionals who have been working in the field for more than fifteen years; it requires completion of five courses and passing an exam with a score of 95% or higher.

The cost to become certified varies depending on which level you are pursuing, but typically ranges from $500-$1,500 USD per course plus any applicable taxes or fees. It usually takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements necessary to become certified depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying each week.

To get started on your CPM journey, visit PMI’s website where you can find information about eligibility requirements, course materials, registration fees and more.

3. Certified Agile Product Manager (CAPM)

Certified Agile Product Manager (CAPM) is a certification program that provides product managers and other professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage agile product development. The program is designed for those who have experience in product management as well as those new to the field. It is offered by the Scrum Alliance, an international organization dedicated to promoting agile practices in software development.

The CAPM certification requires a minimum of 21 contact hours of training, which can be completed either online or through an instructor-led course. Once the training is completed, applicants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as agile principles, product management frameworks, and team dynamics.

To get the CAPM certification, you must first register with the Scrum Alliance and pay a fee of $300 USD. After registration, you will have access to all of the materials necessary to complete your training and take your exam. Once you have passed your exam, you will be awarded your CAPM certification.

Overall, getting the Certified Agile Product Manager (CAPM) certification takes approximately one month from start to finish if you are taking an online course. However, this timeline may vary depending on how quickly you can complete your training and pass your exam.

4. PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)

PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize business analysts who have demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and abilities related to business analysis. The PMI-PBA provides validation that an individual has the experience and expertise necessary to effectively perform business analysis tasks on projects.

How long does it take to get it?

The PMI-PBA certification requires applicants to have at least 8,000 hours of professional business analysis experience over the past eight years and 35 contact hours of formal education in business analysis. Once these requirements are met, applicants must pass a four-hour exam consisting of 200 multiple choice questions. The exam is available online or via paper/pencil format.

How to get it?

To become certified as a PMI-PBA, individuals must first meet the eligibility requirements described above and then apply for the certification through PMI’s website. Applicants will need to provide proof of their professional experience and education in order to be approved for the exam. After approval, applicants can register for the exam through PMI’s website or through an authorized testing center.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the PMI-PBA certification varies depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For nonmembers, the fee is $405 USD; for members, it is $275 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at an authorized testing center or other administrative costs associated with applying for certification.

5. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes and reduce costs. The certification requires extensive knowledge of the Lean Six Sigma principles, tools, and techniques.

To become certified as a CLSSBB, you must have at least three years of experience in leading or supporting improvement projects using the Lean Six Sigma methodology. You must also complete a formal training program and pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC. The training program typically takes four to six weeks and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice with real-world projects.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the organization providing the training and certification services. Generally, it will cost between $2,000-$5,000 for the entire process including course fees, exam fees, and any other associated costs.

6. Certified Professional Product Manager (CPPM)

Certified Professional Product Manager (CPPM) is a certification program offered by the Association of International Product Marketing and Management (AIPMM). The CPPM certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in product management. The certification requires successful completion of an exam, which covers topics such as product strategy, product lifecycle management, market analysis, customer experience, pricing and positioning, product development process, and project management.

The CPPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. Candidates must score at least 70% to pass the exam.

To get certified as a CPPM, candidates must first apply for the certification through AIPMM’s website. After submitting their application and paying the fee (currently $395 USD), they will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. Once registered, candidates can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center around the world.

The cost of the CPPM certification is currently $395 USD. This fee includes access to study materials, practice exams, and one attempt at taking the actual exam.

7. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized certification that is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL). It is the entry-level certification for anyone wanting to gain an understanding of IT service management best practices. The certification covers the key concepts, principles, processes, and functions of ITIL.

The ITIL Foundation Certification exam typically takes up to two hours to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must score 65% or higher.

To get certified, individuals must first complete a training course that covers all aspects of ITIL. There are many courses available online and in-person depending on your learning style and budget. Once you have completed your training course, you can then register for the exam with an accredited provider such as PeopleCert or EXIN.

The cost of the ITIL Foundation Certification varies depending on where you take the exam and which provider you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$400 USD for the exam itself but may also include additional fees for training materials or other services.

8. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and understanding of project management principles and processes. The CAPM certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills required to manage projects effectively.

The CAPM certification requires individuals to have at least 23 hours of project management education, which can be obtained through online courses, classroom training, or self-study. Additionally, applicants must have 1,500 hours of experience leading or working on projects.

To get the CAPM certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by PMI. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes three hours to complete. The cost for the exam is $225 for PMI members and $300 for non-members.

Once an individual passes the exam they will receive their CAPM certification from PMI. This certification is valid for five years before it must be renewed by passing another exam or earning 60 professional development units (PDUs).

9. SAFe Agilist Certification

SAFe Agilist Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals and organizations implement the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe). The certification acknowledges that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully lead and facilitate SAFe implementations.

The SAFe Agilist Certification is offered by Scaled Agile, Inc., the creators of the SAFe framework. It requires a two-day course that covers all aspects of the framework, including Lean-Agile principles, values, and practices; how to build an Agile Release Train; how to execute and release value; how to plan Iterations and Program Increments; how to build an effective Agile organization; and more.

The course takes approximately 16 hours to complete. After completing the course, participants must pass an online exam in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of the SAFe framework.

The cost for the course and exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for both the course and exam fees combined.

10. PRINCE2 Practitioner Certification

PRINCE2 Practitioner Certification is an internationally recognized certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to manage projects effectively. It is based on the PRINCE2 project management methodology, which is used by organizations around the world. The certification provides proof of a practitioner’s understanding of the PRINCE2 principles, themes, processes and techniques.

The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification consists of two parts: a Foundation exam and a Practitioner exam. The Foundation exam tests your basic knowledge of PRINCE2 and must be passed before taking the Practitioner exam. The Practitioner exam tests your ability to apply PRINCE2 in a practical situation.

It typically takes around three months to complete both exams, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for them. You can take self-study courses or attend instructor-led courses at accredited training centers in order to prepare for the exams.

The cost of the PRINCE2 Practitioner Certification varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This includes the cost of both exams as well as any course materials or study resources you may need to purchase.

11. CompTIA Project+ Certification

CompTIA Project+ is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and skills in project management. It is designed to validate the ability to manage projects of any size, scope, or complexity.

The CompTIA Project+ exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 750 on a scale of 100-900 to pass. The exam covers topics such as project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring/controlling, closure and more. The exam typically takes two hours to complete.

To become certified in CompTIA Project+, you must first purchase the exam voucher from CompTIA's website. The cost for the exam voucher is $329 USD (as of 2021). You then need to register for the exam with Pearson VUE, which administers the CompTIA exams. Once registered, you can take the exam at a local testing center or online from your home or office.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your official CompTIA Project+ certification via email within five business days. Your certification will remain valid for three years before needing to be renewed by taking another version of the same exam.

Do You Really Need a Technical Product Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a technical product manager certificate depends on your individual goals and career objectives. If you are looking to advance in your current role as a technical product manager, having a certification could help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession. It could also give you an edge over other applicants when applying for new positions.

On the other hand, if you are looking to break into the field of technical product management, it may not be necessary to get a certificate. Many employers will accept relevant experience and knowledge as proof of your qualifications. However, if you are serious about pursuing a career in this field, getting certified may be beneficial in terms of demonstrating your dedication and providing evidence of your knowledge base.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue a technical product manager certificate is up to you. It is important to weigh the costs and benefits of such a decision before making any commitments.

Related: Technical Product Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Product Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Technical Product Manager Certification?

A1. A Technical Product Manager Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in product management, specifically related to the technical aspects of the job. It typically involves completing courses, exams, and other requirements to demonstrate proficiency in topics such as product strategy, product design, user experience design, software development processes and more.

Q2. How much does it cost to get certified as a Technical Product Manager?

A2. The cost of obtaining a Technical Product Manager Certification can vary depending on the provider or institution offering the certification. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay anywhere from $500-$3000 for a comprehensive program or course.

Q3. What are the benefits of getting certified as a Technical Product Manager?

A3. Getting certified as a Technical Product Manager can help increase your credibility and value in the job market by demonstrating that you have mastered the skills necessary to be successful in this role. Additionally, it gives you access to exclusive networking opportunities with other professionals who have similar certifications, which can lead to better job opportunities or higher salaries.

Q4. What type of jobs can I get with a Technical Product Manager Certification?

A4. With a Technical Product Manager Certification, you will be eligible for various roles within product management including product manager/owner positions at companies ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies; UX/UI designer positions; software developer positions; project manager positions; and many more related roles where technical expertise is required for success.

Q5. How long does it take to become certified as a Technical Product Manager?

A5. The amount of time it takes to complete all requirements for certification depends on the specific program or institution offering the certification and how much time you are able to commit towards completing the necessary courses or exams needed for completion of the certification program. Generally speaking, most programs require anywhere from 6-12 months of study and preparation before taking any final exams required for certification completion