7 ways how to get 60 PDU’s for PMP certification in 1 Month

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized credential awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to project managers who meet specific education and experience requirements and pass a rigorous examination. The certification is valid for three years, during which time certified professionals must earn 60 PDUs for PMP to maintain their certification.

Here are the key takeaways 

  1. Professional Development Units (PDUs) are essential for maintaining a PMP certification.
  2. There are various ways to earn PDUs related to project management, including attending a boot camp, taking an online course, attending a conference, participating in a PMI chapter event, reading books or articles, volunteering for a project, and teaching or mentoring others.
  3. Each activity has a different number of PDUs that can be earned, and it is important to track and report them to PMI for certification maintenance.
  4. It is possible to earn 60 PDUs for PMP in one month by combining several of these activities.
  5. Continual learning and professional development are essential for success in a project management career, and embracing a mindset of lifelong learning is key.

Importance of earning PDUs for maintaining certification

  1. Demonstrating commitment to ongoing professional development: Earning PDUs shows that certified professionals are committed to improving their knowledge and skills in project management, which is essential for staying competitive in today’s job market.
  2. Keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices: Earning PDUs allows certified professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in project management, which is critical for ensuring project success.
  3. Meeting continuing education requirements: Earning PDUs is a requirement for maintaining PMP certification, and failure to do so can result in the certification being revoked.
  4. Enhancing credibility: Earning PDUs enhances the credibility of certified professionals, demonstrating to employers and clients that they are knowledgeable and skilled in project management.
  5. Expanding professional network: Earning PDUs through attending conferences and participating in PMI chapter events provides opportunities to expand professional networks and make connections with other project management professionals.
  6. Increasing job opportunities: Earning PDUs can increase job opportunities for certified professionals, as many employers require PMP certification and look for candidates who demonstrate ongoing professional development.

Way #1: Attend a boot camp on other courses such as PMI-ACP

  1. Explanation of what a boot camp is

A boot camp is an intensive training program that provides focused instruction on a specific topic, such as agile project management. Boot camps typically offer a structured learning environment with hands-on activities, group discussions, and expert instructors.

  1. Benefits of attending a boot camp

Attending a ACP boot camp can offer several benefits, such as:

  • Intensive and focused learning: Boot camps offer an intensive learning experience that can help participants gain a deeper understanding of project management concepts and skills.
  • Preparation for the ACPexam: Many boot camps are designed to help professionals prepare for the ACPcertification exam by covering the material in-depth and providing exam-taking strategies.
  • Networking opportunities: Boot camps provide opportunities to network with other project management professionals and share experiences and insights.
  • Accelerated learning: Boot camps are typically shorter than traditional courses, making it possible to earn a significant number of 60 pdus for pmp renewal in a short period of time.
  1. Number of PDUs earned from attending a boot camp: 

Attending PMI – ACP boot camp can earn you up to 21 PDUs, depending on the duration and content of the program.

  1. Suggestions for finding a boot camp

To find a boot camp that meets your needs and preferences, you can consider the following:

  • Research online: Use search engines to look for boot camps that offer project management training.
  • Check with PMI: PMI offers a list of authorized training partners (ATPs) like EduHubSpot that offer training and courses that are eligible for PDUs.
  • Check with local training providers: Many local training providers may offer boot camps for project management training. Check with them to find out more about their course offerings. However, keep in mind local training providers may not be an ATP which are approved by PMI
  • Read reviews: Read reviews of boot camps from other professionals who have attended them to get an idea of their quality and effectiveness.

Way #2: Take an online course

  1. Explanation of the benefits of taking an online course

Taking an online course can offer several benefits, such as:

  • Flexibility: Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, making it easier to fit learning into your busy life.
  • Access to a wide range of courses: Online courses offer access to a vast array of courses covering various project management topics, making it easier to find a course that meets your needs and interests.
  • High-quality instruction: Many online courses are taught by expert instructors who have extensive experience in project management.
  • Cost-effective: Online courses are often less expensive than traditional classroom courses, making them a more affordable option for earning PDUs.
  1. Types of online courses available

There are several types of online courses available, including:

  • Self-paced courses: Self-paced courses allow you to work through the course material at your own pace.
  • Instructor-led courses: Instructor-led courses provide real-time instruction and feedback from expert instructors.
  • Webinars: Webinars offer live or recorded presentations on specific project management 
  1. Number of PDUs earned from taking an online course

The number of PDUs earned from taking an online course varies depending on the duration and content of the course. Typically, online courses can earn you up to 60 PDUs.

  1. Suggestions for finding an online course

To find an online course that meets your needs and preferences, you can consider the following:

  • Check with PMI: PMI offers a list of authorized training partners (ATPs) that offer online courses that are eligible for PDUs.
  • Research online: Use search engines to look for online courses that offer project management training.
  • Read reviews: Read reviews of online courses from other professionals who have taken them to get an idea of their quality and effectiveness.
  • Check with industry associations: Many industry associations offer online courses and webinars on project management topics.

Way #3: Attend a conference

  1. Explanation of the benefits of attending a conference

Attending a conference offers several benefits, such as:

  • Networking opportunities: Conferences offer an excellent opportunity to network with other project management professionals and experts.
  • Professional development: Conferences provide a chance to learn about the latest trends, techniques, and best practices in project management.
  • Access to industry experts: Conferences often feature keynote speakers and experts in project management who share their knowledge and experience.
  • Exposure to new ideas: Conferences provide an opportunity to learn about new ideas and innovations in project management.
  • Personal growth: Conferences offer opportunities for personal growth and development, including leadership and communication skills.
  1. Types of conferences available

There are several types of conferences available, including:

  • Industry conferences: These conferences focus on a specific industry, such as construction or information technology.
  • PMI-sponsored conferences: These conferences are sponsored by PMI and offer a wide range of project management topics.
  • Academic conferences: These conferences focus on research and academic discussions related to project management.
  1. Number of PDUs earned from attending a conference

The number of PDUs earned from attending a conference varies depending on the duration and content of the conference. Typically, attending a conference can earn you up to 60 PDUs.

  1. Suggestions for finding a conference

To find a conference that meets your needs and preferences, you can consider the following:

  • Check with PMI: PMI offers a list of conferences that are eligible for PDUs.
  • Research online: Use search engines to look for conferences that offer project management topics.
  • Read reviews: Read reviews of conferences from other professionals who have attended them to get an idea of their quality and effectiveness.
  • Check with industry associations: Many industry associations offer conferences on project management topics.

Way #4: Participate in a PMI chapter event

  1. Explanation of what a PMI chapter is

A PMI chapter is a local branch of PMI that provides networking and educational opportunities to project management professionals in a specific geographic area. PMI chapters are run by volunteers and offer a variety of events and activities for their members.

  1. Benefits of participating in a PMI chapter event

Participating in a PMI chapter event offers several benefits, such as:

  • Networking opportunities: PMI chapter events provide an opportunity to connect with other project management professionals in your local area.
  • Professional development: PMI chapter events offer educational opportunities to help you stay up-to-date on the latest project management trends and best practices.
  • Leadership opportunities: PMI chapters are run by volunteers, so participating in chapter events can provide leadership opportunities that can help you develop your leadership skills.
  • Access to mentors: PMI chapters often have mentorship programs that can connect you with experienced project management professionals who can provide guidance and support.
  1. Number of PDUs earned from participating in a PMI chapter event

The number of PDUs earned from participating in a PMI chapter event varies depending on the event’s duration and content. Typically, participating in a chapter event can earn you up to 1 PDU per hour.

  1. Suggestions for finding a PMI chapter event: 

To find a PMI chapter event, you can consider the following:

  • Check with your local PMI chapter: Most PMI chapters have a website that lists their upcoming events and activities.
  • Attend a chapter meeting: Attending a PMI chapter meeting is an excellent way to learn about the chapter’s events and activities.
  • Connect with chapter members: Connect with other chapter members to learn about upcoming events and activities.

Way #5: Read books or articles

  1. Explanation of the benefits of reading books or blogs

Reading books or blogs related to project management can provide you with valuable insights and knowledge that can help you in your career. It is a convenient and flexible way to earn PDUs since you can read at your own pace and schedule.

  1. Types of books or blogs that qualify for PDUs: 

To qualify for PDUs, books or articles must be related to project management or a related field such as leadership or business strategy. Some examples of books or blogs that qualify for PDUs include:

  • Books or blogs on project management methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall
  • Books or articles on leadership, communication, or team management
  • Industry-specific publications or journals
  • Whitepapers or research papers on project management topics
  1. Number of PDUs earned from reading books or blogs

The number of PDUs earned from reading books or blogs varies based on the length and content of the material. Typically, one hour of reading earns one PDU. However, there is a maximum limit of 30 PDUs that can be earned through this category.

  1. Suggestions for finding books or blogs

To find books or blogsrelated to project management, you can consider the following:

  • Search online bookstores or libraries for books related to project management
  • Subscribe to industry-specific publications or journals
  • Search for whitepapers or research papers on project management topics on the internet
  • Ask for recommendations from colleagues or mentors who work in project management

Way #6: Volunteer for a project

  1. Explanation of the benefits of volunteering for a project

Volunteering for a project provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop new skills. It also allows you to network with other professionals and gain a better understanding of project management in action.

  1. Types of projects that qualify for PDUs

To qualify for PDUs, projects must be related to project management or a related field such as leadership or business strategy. Some examples of projects that qualify for PDUs include:

  • Volunteering for a non-profit organization to manage a project
  • Serving on a project team within your company or industry
  • Participating in a community project related to project management

3. Number of PDUs earned from volunteering for a project

The number of PDUs earned from volunteering for a project varies based on the amount of time spent on the project. Typically, one hour of volunteering earns one PDU. However, there is a maximum limit of 30 PDUs that can be earned through this category.

4. Suggestions for finding volunteer opportunities

To find volunteer opportunities related to project management, you can consider the following:

  • Search for non-profit organizations in your area that need project management help
  • Talk to your manager or HR department to see if there are any projects within your company that need volunteers
  • Check with local universities or colleges to see if there are any community projects related to project management
  • Reach out to your professional network to see if there are any volunteer opportunities available

Way #7: Teach or mentor others

  1. Explanation of the benefits of teaching or mentoring others

Teaching or mentoring others provides an opportunity to share your knowledge and expertise with others, which can enhance your own understanding of project management. It also allows you to develop your leadership and communication skills, and give back to the project management community.

  1. Types of teaching or mentoring opportunities that qualify for PDUs

To qualify for PDUs, teaching or mentoring opportunities must be related to project management or a related field. Some examples of teaching or mentoring opportunities that qualify for PDUs include:

  • Teaching a project management course or workshop
  • Mentoring a new project manager or team member
  • Speaking at a project management conference or event
  1. Number of PDUs earned from teaching or mentoring others

The number of PDUs earned from teaching or mentoring others varies based on the amount of time spent on the activity. Typically, one hour of teaching or mentoring earns one PDU. However, there is a maximum limit of 25 PDUs that can be earned through this category.

  1. Suggestions for finding teaching or mentoring opportunities

To find teaching or mentoring opportunities related to project management, you can consider the following:

  • Contact local universities or training organizations to see if they need instructors for project management courses or workshops
  • Reach out to professional organizations to see if they need speakers for project management events or conferences
  • Offer to mentor a new project manager or team member within your organization
  • Join online forums or social media groups related to project management to find opportunities to share your expertise and mentor others

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining and maintaining a PMP certification requires a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Earning Professional Development Units (PDUs) is an essential part of this process, and there are various ways to earn them related to project management. In this article, we have provided 7 ways to earn 60 PDUs in 1 month, including attending PMI ACP boot camp, taking an online course, attending a conference, participating in a PMI chapter event, reading books or articles, volunteering for a project, and teaching or mentoring others. 

By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can not only fulfill your PDU requirements but also enhance your knowledge and skills in project management, making you a more effective project manager and a valuable asset to your organization. Remember that learning is a continuous process, and by embracing a mindset of lifelong learning, you can continue to grow and excel in your career as a project manager.