PMP vs PRINCE2: What’s Better For Your Project Management Career?

Both PRINCE2 and PMP certifications are highly valuable project management credentials. However, we wouldn’t compare them on the same scale. Why do we say that? Because there is an exorbitant difference in the number of pursuers for PMP vs PRINCE2. 

Sticking to real numbers, PMP is 300% more in demand than PRINCE2 globally. Sounds absurd right? But it’s true! In this blog, we will cover the heavily one-sided battle: PMP vs PRINCE2. Plus, we’ll let you know why it might just not be a great idea to bet on the underdog this time.

PMP vs PRINCE2: At Their Root

PMP and PRINCE2 are both professional certifications catering to Project Management. Their top-level purpose is to demonstrate your knowledge, assert your expertise, and consequently grow your career opportunities. Let’s see what exactly defines both certifications before we move on to comparisons!

What is PMP?

PMP stands for Project Management Professional. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). This certification breaks down its curriculum into 3 Domains: People, Process, and Business environment. It covers Predictive, Agile, and Hybrid project management approaches and emphasizes your skills to mold the ways of working as per your projects. 

Some key USPs of PMP: 

• The PMP is backed by extensive Job Task Analysis and Global Practice Analysis. (So, you know what you’re learning is backed by market requirements.)
• It is suitable for ALL project managers regardless of your industry, niche, and geography.
• The PMP exam is completely scenario-based. You don’t need to mug up definitions; only your knowledge and experience are put to the test!

What is PRINCE2?

PRINCE2 stands for PRojects IN Controlled Environments. This certification is offered by Axelos and PeopleCert. PRINCE2 is a systematic approach to project management with defined processes, steps, and templates. It is ideal for project managers who work in PRINCE2 environments.

Some key USPs of PRINCE2:

• PRINCE2 is a method in itself that applies to projects of any size.
• It is available in two levels: Foundation and Practitioner. There are also PRINCE2 Agile certifications available separately.
• PRINCE2 exam formats are closed book for Foundation level and open book for Practitioner exams. The former is because it comprises definitions and theory. Meanwhile, the latter is application-based and the aspirants must refer to the Official PRINCE2 manual to apply the concepts well.

Now that we have covered what the certifications are exactly, and have the basics clear – let’s dive into the heart of the blog! 

PMP vs PRINCE2: Comparisons

We’ll set off with technical comparisons between PMP and PRINCE2 – such as the format, syllabus, certification details, etc. The goal here is to understand how PMP and PRINCE2 differ fundamentally as project management certifications.

1. Certification Bodies:

First things first, the governing bodies for both certifications are the foremost differentiating standpoint. PMP certification is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a global non-profit organization.  On the other hand, PRINCE2 is administered by Axelos and developed by the UK government and Capita.

About PMI

A little about these certification bodies – PMI is a USA-based body formed in 1969. Since the beginning, PMI has had its sole focus on project management and standardizing its practices. It also worked to give project managers a platform to network grow and support research ventures in the field.  PMI introduced its first certification – PMP – in 1984 which went on to be called the de facto standard ever since. 

About Axelos

Meanwhile, Axelos has a more recent history. It was set up in 2014 as a joint venture between the UK Government and Capita. Later, Axelos was acquired by PeopleCert in July 2021. PeopleCert is already an established body for certification. Currently, PRINCE2 is still administered by Axelos. However, PeopleCert is the examination and certification body for PRINCE2. 

2. Origins and Updates

PMP – Since 1984: 

As we mentioned above, PMI introduced the PMP certification as its first certification in 1984. Since its introduction, PMP has evolved several times to stay up to date with the current project management trends. 

As per previous release patterns, PMI typically announces updates in the PMP Examination Content Outline (ECO) every 5 years. It also depends upon the release of the new editions of PMBOK, a fundamental textbook for PMP. It is noticed that the PMP ECO sees a revision 2-3 years following the PMBOK guide release. After its introduction in 1996, the PMBOK guide has seen 7 revisions so far.

Updates in the PMP Syllabus:

Earlier, PMP solely focused on predictive methodologies. However, abiding by ISO standards, PMP constantly updates its curriculum to match the needs of the current industry environment. So, the latest 2021 edition of PMP and PMBOK includes Agile and Hybrid project management approaches as well. 

Moreover, PMI is now building the 8th Edition of the PMBOK Guide to further inculcate the new project management best practices. This edition is set to include Generative AI and its effect on project management, while also providing balanced guidance on Agile and Predictive approaches.

PRINCE2 – Since 1990:

PRINCE2, on the other hand, has a fairly long origin story. It was developed from an existing framework – PROMPT, developed by Simpact Systems in the 1970s. 

PROMPT (Project Resource Organisation Management and Planning Techniques) was originally designed to tackle computer projects going over time and budget. This framework contained a system development module called PROMPT II. In 1989, the  Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA) & UK Government standardized this module from the PROMPT framework for IT project management. This came to be known as PRINCE – PROMPT II IN the CCTA Environment (later changed to Projects In Controlled Environments).

PRINCE was formally introduced to the public in 1990.

Updates in PRINCE2:

PRINCE gained popularity with the UK government implementing it in its projects. However, project managers found PRINCE too rigid and often unsuited for smaller and non-IT projects. So, after consultation with around 150 European organizations – a more fitting framework was created in 1996 – the PRINCE2 framework! 

PRINCE2 is a generic project management framework, unlike PRINCE, which was designed for IT projects and adopted by other industries. After its introduction, PRINCE2 saw a few minor updates but only 2 major revisions. Despite being major revisions, the name PRINCE2 wasn’t changed to PRINCE3 or subsequent numbers. 

Since the core principles of the certification remained the same, ‘PRINCE2:2009 Refresh’ and ‘PRINCE2 2017 Update’ were chosen instead.

The first major revision in 2009 was to make PRINCE2 simpler, lightweight, and customizable. This ‘PRINCE2:2009 Refresh’ also introduced the 7 principles in it. The next PRINCE2 2017 Update focused on tailoring practices, scalability, and flexibility. This revision was later renamed as PRINCE2 6th Edition. This edition clarified the bare minimum criteria for a project to qualify as PRINCE2. 

3. Type Of Pedagogy Framework

This is perhaps the most root-level difference between the two certifications. PMP takes a descriptive route to project management coaching. On the contrary, PRINCE2 is a prescriptive framework. 

As we discussed before, PRINCE2 is a structured method in itself, whereas PMP comprises many different project management approaches. Therefore, PMP encourages using practices that suit your company and teams best. It only sets the principles and performance domains to assess in project management. On the other hand, PRINCE2 defines all the aspects such as roles and processes for you beforehand. It insists that you follow these best practices to derive results in your projects while being scalable to project team sizes. 

Focus and Project Management Approach: 

• PMP: Based on Principles and performance domains; focuses on the techniques and skills you need to manage and deliver projects successfully.
• PRINCE2: Step-by-step, methodology-based framework; focuses on the necessary frameworks and processes for successful projects.

Educational Approach:

• PMP: Focuses on the ‘why’ behind project management activities.
• PRINCE2: Focuses on the ‘how’ of project management.

4. PRINCE2 vs PMP Methodology

The PMP vs PRINCE2 debate has its fundamental difference in their methodologies towards tackling project management. PMP uses a knowledge-based methodology, while PRINCE2 uses a process-based one. Both methodologies provide structured approaches to project management but cater to different needs and preferences within the field.

Knowledge-Based PMP:

PMP is based on the PMBOK guide. It focuses on the role of a “project manager” specifically. The PMP methodology for project management covers the following:

1. Systems for value delivery
2. Project management principles
3. Project performance domains
4. Tailoring Practices 
5. Models, Methods, and Artifacts

In short, PMP covers all facets of project management and emphasizes tailoring practices to meet the requirements of each project. Moreover, it is method-agnostic and suggests using Agile and Waterfall as well as hybrid project management to meet project objectives.

Process-Based PRINCE2: 

PRINCE2 defines specific project roles and integrates themes and processes with its seven principles. It uses a series of processes that describe what a project should do and when, covering all activities from initiation to closure. By doing this, it essentially prescribes the best practices for project management.

The PRINCE2 framework says that a project should have an “organized and controlled” start, middle, and end. This means that the project team must:

1. Organize and plan before leaping in.
2. Keep projects organized and controlled.
3. Ensure all objectives are met when the project is complete and tidy up the loose ends. 

5. Certification Levels

By certification levels, we mean the distinct series of steps within a certification program.

PMP is a standalone certification by PMI but comes with an eligibility criteria of 3 years. For those that do not meet the bar, there is the CAPM certification. CAPM is not a mandatory pre-requisite for PMP, however, an active CAPM can help you qualify for PMP if you do meet the eligibility experience.

On the other hand, PRINCE2 has 2 levels: Foundation and Practitioner. The PRINCE2 foundation level covers the principles and terminology used in PRINCE2 environments. PRINC2 Practitioner is one level over the foundation course. It teaches you how to apply PRINCE2 in project management. It covers practical knowledge and is application-based for you to thrive in PRINCE2 environments.

6. Eligibility Requirements:

Comparing PMP vs PRINCE2 in terms of eligibility becomes a little more complex because PRINCE2 consists of 2 levels in it. These are PRINCE2 Foundation and PRINCE2 Practitioner. 

PRINCE2 Foundation has no prerequisites in terms of education or work experience. So, anyone who wants to explore the PRINCE2 way of project management can take it up.

Meanwhile, Prince 2 Practitioner requires you to pass the Foundation level or have a Valid and Active certification from the ones mentioned in their list. 

List of Certifications that can help qualify for PRINCE2 Practitioner:

• PRINCE2 Foundation
• Project Management Professional (PMP)®
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)®
• IPMA Level A (Certified Projects Director)
• IPMA Level B® (Certified Senior Project Manager)
• IPMA Level C® (Certified Project Manager)
• IPMA Level D® (Certified Project Management Associate)

The PMP prerequisites are more stringent as compared to PRINCE2. It requires you to fulfill educational, experiential, as well as formal training criteria to appear for the examination.

PMP Eligibility mandates having either:

• 4 Year College or University Degree 
• Minimum 3 Years of experience in leading projects.
• 35 hours of formal project management education.

OR

• High School or Secondary School Degree
• Minimum 5 Years of experience in leading projects.
• 35 hours of formal project management education.

Fulfilling either of the sets of requirements makes you eligible to fill out the PMP application and take the exam.

7. Exam cost

This is also one of the key differentiators in the PMP vs PRINCE2 debate. PMP has fixed pricing for its exam, while for PRINCE2, it changes as per the training providers and geographies.

PMP Exam Fees [Updated – 2024]:

• For PMI members, the PMP certification fee is $405 (in India) & $425 (in the USA).
• For Non-members, the fees are $655 (in India) and $675 (in the USA).

PRINCE2 Exam Fees

For both PRINCE2 courses, i.e. Foundation and Practitioner, the Exam cost is completely based on the pricing set by PeopleCert’s Accredited Training Organizations (ATOs) for their course. The course fee generally includes the exam fee as well. As of 2024, you can take the training for PRINCE2 foundation and Practitioner in Live Online, E-learning, as well as Classroom modes. 

In general, the PRINCE2 certification cost ranges from £380 to £1,800 for the Foundation level. Further, for the PRINCE2 Practitioner level, the overall cost goes from £410 to £,2000 based on the training institutes. You can also choose to self-study for your PRINCE2 exam, and purchase the exam voucher directly from PeopleCert.

The ambiguity due to no standard costs of the PRINCE2 exam might lead to extra expenses for some aspirants – especially those in unfavorable regions where training is overpriced. PMI’s PMP however conducts its exams on its own through the Pearson VUE platform – so you only have to pay the standardized fee decided for every aspirant around the world.

8. Exam Format:

You can take your PMP exam anytime within a period of 1 year after filling out your application and getting your training. PRINCE2 exams, on the other hand, are based on your training provider. Usually, the PRINCE2 exams are conducted on the last day of your training. 

PMP Certification Exam Format:

• Multiple Choice Questions
• 180 questions (5 unscored pretest questions, 175 scored questions)
• Duration: 3 hours 50 minutes (230 minutes)
• Closed book
• Modes offered: Center-based test, Online Proctored Test
• Passing Score: Not determined (estimated: 62%)
• Distribution of questions: Based on Domains (People – 42%, Process – 50%, Business environment – 8%)

PRINCE2 Foundation:

• Multiple Choice Questions
• 60 questions
• Duration: 1 hour (60 minutes) 
• Closed book
• Modes offered: Classroom test, Online test
• Passing Score: 36 marks (60%)

PRINCE2 Practitioner:

• Objective testing
• 70 questions
• Duration: 2 hours 30 Minutes (150 minutes) 
• Open book. Only the PRINCE2® 7 Managing Successful Projects hard copy is permitted for the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam (without any extra loose papers or notes).
• Modes offered: Classroom test, Online test
• Passing Score: 42 marks (60%)

9. Recertification:

All of PMI’s project management certifications require renewal on a periodic basis, by earning PDUs and paying the renewal fee. Not doing so leads to certification suspension. To keep your PMP certification valid, you will require 60 PDUs (Professional Development Units) every 3 years. 

These PDUs must be reported to PMI’s portal and can be earned by attending project management webinars, attending PMI’s official events, and completing courses from Authorized Training Partners. 

Before 2023, there were no recertification requirements for PRINCE2 Foundation certification. Also, PRINCE2 Practitioner certification required taking a re-registration exam every 5 years. 

However, starting 2023, PeopleCert (the certification body for PRINCE2) announced that all its “Global Best Practice certifications” must be renewed every 3 years by earning 60 Continuous Professional Development points. You can earn these points by either becoming a PeopleCert member and logging in your CPD points or by taking another certification exam from the same Product Suite as PRINCE2.

PMP vs PRINCE2: Which Is Better for You?

A project management certification is valuable – regardless of which one it is. This is because both PMP and PRINCE2 add to your skill set in unique ways. However, to choose which one is a better one for your project management career, there are a few factors you can consider:

• Location Popularity:

Where you work and what standards they deem “correct” play a major role in your path forward. Because, isn’t industry recognition and compensation the end goal? To answer,

1. PMP is preferred in the USA, India, Canada, Australia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.
2. PRINCE2 is more popular in the UK and European countries. The overall numbers for PRINCE2 are much lower than that of PMP across the world.

• Professional Experience:

PMP’s eligibility criteria mandate having at least 3-5 years of project management experience to qualify for the exam. If you fall in and above range with your current experience level, then PMP is ideal for you. People with fewer years of experience can take the PRINCE2 Foundation exam followed by the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam.

• Applicability:

The industry you will be working in and the frameworks they adhere to are also compelling aspects to factor in. Since PRINCE2 is a standard in European government and public sectors, people tend to opt for it more there. But, in the rest of the world, PMP aligns better because the course content is not bound by geography, industry vertical, or language. PMP is globally recognized, with certified professionals in every country. 

• Salary Prospects:

Project Management certifications always give a boost to compensation, because of your new enhanced skills and dedication to professional development. PMP is shown to give around 35% higher salary advantages to certified professionals around the world. Similarly, PRINCE2 also provides good salary prospects in European countries where it is highly preferred.

• Networking:

While this isn’t a particularly critical factor, networking can come in handy in the long run for professional development. PMI was founded initially to create a community of project managers. And after all these years, it still has its community platform for all project management professionals. So, PMP offers extensive networking opportunities through PMI membership which can help you clear all your doubts about exams, applications, and project management in general.

Conclusion

In the hook of the blog, we claimed that it’s a one-sided battle between PMP and PRINCE2. We think we pretty much proved that by highlighting only the facts of both certifications! If you’re someone from the UK or Europe, PRINCE2 is definitely a certification you should consider. For other parts of the world, it’s best to go with the global standard – PMP certification.

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