The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a nonprofit professional association that offers four credentials to help professionals advance in the industry. PMI credential holders must earn a specific number of professional development units (PDUs) in a three-year credential cycle.
Through continuing education, credential holders have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base and stay apprised of new techniques and processes. These programs also offer networking opportunities and can demonstrate to colleagues and employers a commitment to the project management industry.
PMI offers four credentials that require certification maintenance. Risk Management Professionals (PMI-RMP) must complete 30 PDUs with specialized training in project risk management. Scheduling Professionals (PMI-SP) must maintain their credentials by completing 30 hours of continuing education with a project scheduling focus. Project Management Professionals (PMP) and Program Management Professionals (PgMP) must complete 60 hours of project management training in a credential cycle.
If a credential holder does not earn the required number of PDUs during the active certification period, his credential will be suspended and he cannot use the designation. These credential holders have one year to complete the required PDUs and renewal process. If the requirements are not met, the credential will expire and the credential holder loses the right to use the designation and must reapply.