How to earn PDUs to Retain your PMP
Everyone keeps talking about earning PDUs in order to maintain their Project Management Professional certification, also known as PMP certification. It is important to keep your PMP certification, as it takes a lot of effort, time, and hard work. Earning PDUs is one way to do this. Without them, certification could be suspended. Continue reading to learn more. What is a PDU in PMP and how do they work? PDUs are Professional Development Units. They are necessary for Project Management Professional certification. One PDU is equal to one hour of project management training. There are exceptions to this rule. PMP credential holders can claim their PDUs via PMP’s website. There are many ways to earn PDUs, with the most popular being through PMI PDU Online courses. Categories of PDUs PDUs can be classified into seven categories: Category A. Any PMP PDU within this category can also be earned through courses offered in communities and chapters by PMP. You can attend PMP events or courses offered by PMP representatives. If attending an event in person is impossible due to time constraints or work, you can always look to the webinars offered by PMP. Category B is for continuing education. There are many courses offered by universities. You should sign up for them to continue your learning journey. These do not include events organized by PMI. Any course that is not an internal course can count and you will be able to earn some PDUs for being a part. Category C includes self-directed learning. Any PMI PDU can be earned by reading books or watching videos related to PMP. You can also learn more about PMP by doing your own research. The most popular ways to learn about PMP are by listening to podcasts and having discussions with your project manager. To learn more and earn more PDUs, one can get mentored or coached by a coach. This category can earn around 30 PDUs. It is why it is important to take more initiative to learn about PMP. Category D is for creating new PM knowledge. You can do this by writing a PM book, or even blogging about it. This category requires that one share his or her knowledge about PMP with others. It is important to blog regularly and encourage positive interactions on the blog. You can give presentations to different groups and create different PM courses. These are just a few of the many ways to create new knowledge. This category can earn you 45 PDUs. This category includes Category E Volunteer service. Volunteers can be asked to volunteer at PMI-organized events. It is a good idea to get in touch and become an active member of local chapters. Giving training to others is a great way to earn some valuable PDUs. Category F is for professionals in the field Project Management. Being a project manager is a great way to consolidate your PMP experience. Although theoretical knowledge is helpful, it is the practical experience that establishes one’s credibility. You must take initiative and lead a project. This will not only boost your confidence but also help you retain your PMP certification. Earn PDU online, or follow any of the methods that pertain to the above-mentioned categories to keep your PMP certification. It is a continuous process that should not be stopped at any time. Way ahead: It is important to periodically check the number of PDUs. A spa requires 60 PDUs