The two most sought-after Scrum certifications are CSM, from Scrum Alliance, and PSM, from Scrum.org. CSM requires an in-person course with a certified Trainer and renewal every 2 years; PSM requires only passing an online exam, costs less, and is permanent, with no renewal. There are also more advanced versions (PSM II, PSM III) and ones aimed at Product Owner (CSPO, PSPO).
Scrum Certification: In this article I will explain which Scrum certifications exist in the market today and which would be the ideal certification for you to get. And the main differences between PSM and CSM.
In recent years, Scrum has established itself as one of the leading agile frameworks for software development and demand management. With its flexible and iterative approach, Scrum allows teams to deliver value incrementally, responding to changes and maintaining a continuous focus on delivering high-quality products.
However, as the demand for Scrum-qualified professionals continues to grow, many individuals seek to obtain certifications that validate their skills and knowledge in this methodology. The multiplicity of Scrum certifications available in the market can be confusing and challenging for those seeking to become certified for the first time or advance in their careers.
In this article, I will explore the main Scrum certifications, highlighting their characteristics, requirements and differentiators, in order to help you make the best decision about which certification best meets your needs and professional objectives.
Why seek a Scrum certification?
Before diving into the different certifications available, it is important to understand why seeking a Scrum certification can be valuable for your career:
- Knowledge validation: Demonstrates that you have solid knowledge of Scrum
- Market differentiation: Stand out among other professionals
- Credibility: Increases your credibility with employers and clients
- Career opportunities: Opens doors to positions that require certification
- Professional development: Foundation to evolve in an agile career
Certified Scrum Master (CSM)
The Certified Scrum Master (CSM) certification is one of the most recognized and widely sought certifications in the agile community. Offered by Scrum Alliance, one of the leading organizations dedicated to Scrum, CSM is intended for individuals who want to demonstrate their understanding and practical skills in applying Scrum.
Requirements to obtain CSM:
- Mandatory course: Attend a training course taught by a Trainer certified by Scrum Alliance
- Online assessment: Pass an online assessment after the course
- Renewal: CSM certification requires renewal every 2 years
What the CSM course covers:
- Fundamental principles of Scrum
- Roles and responsibilities (Scrum Master, Product Owner, Development Team)
- Ceremonies (Sprint, Daily, Planning, Review, Retrospective)
- Artifacts (Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, Increment)
- Recommended agile practices
Advantages of CSM certification:
- Global recognition: Widely accepted by the industry
- Network: Access to practice communities and events
- Educational resources: Educational material and professional development opportunities
- Practical experience: Focus on collaborative learning during the course
Professional Scrum Master (PSM)
The Professional Scrum Master (PSM) is a certification offered by Scrum.org, another leading organization in the agile space. Unlike CSM, PSM is more focused on deep understanding of Scrum principles and practices, as well as effective application of these concepts in real-world situations.
Requirements to obtain PSM:
- Online exam: Pass an online exam that tests Scrum knowledge
- No mandatory course: It is not necessary to take a course to take the exam
- No renewal: PSM certification is permanent, does not require renewal
What the PSM exam assesses:
- Scrum theory
- Roles, events and artifacts
- Scrum values and pillars
- Practical application of Scrum in different contexts
Advantages of PSM certification:
- Flexibility: You can study at your own pace
- Affordable cost: Transparent pricing model, exam fee only
- Focus on knowledge: Rigorous assessment of theoretical and practical understanding
- Permanent certification: No need to renew
- Market recognition: Good adherence in the Brazilian and international market
Today we offer an online simulator system capable of preparing you and making you more confident and secure to get your PSM I certification. The simulator offers questions very close to the real exam and helps you prepare adequately.
Key Differences between CSM and PSM
Although both CSM and PSM certifications seek to validate professionals' skills and knowledge in Scrum, there are some key differences between them that candidates should consider when making a decision:
1. Educational Approach
CSM: Emphasizes participation in in-person courses taught by certified Trainers. Learning happens in a collaborative environment with other participants.
PSM: Focuses on individual preparation through self-study or online courses. You have more flexibility to study at your own pace.
2. Exam Focus
CSM: Requires completion of a mandatory course and a relatively simple online assessment after the course.
PSM: Evaluates candidates through a rigorous online exam, with no course requirements. The exam is more challenging and tests deep knowledge.
3. Cost and Accessibility
CSM: Costs can vary significantly depending on the course provider (usually between R$ 2,000 and R$ 5,000), plus the need for renewal every 2 years.
PSM: More transparent pricing model, with fixed exam fees (usually between US$ 150 and US$ 200). No renewal costs.
4. Emphasis on Theory vs. Practice
CSM: May have a more practical and collaborative experience focus during the in-person course.
PSM: Tends to be more rigorous in assessing theoretical understanding and practical application of Scrum in different organizational contexts.
5. Renewal
CSM: Requires renewal every 2 years, which may involve additional costs and time to keep the certification active.
PSM: Permanent certification, no renewal needed.
Other Available Scrum Certifications
In addition to CSM and PSM, there are other Scrum certifications available in the market:
PSM II and PSM III (Scrum.org)
Advanced levels of PSM certification, for professionals who want to deepen their knowledge and skills in Scrum even further.
Certified Product Owner (CSPO) - Scrum Alliance
Certification focused on the Product Owner role, ideal for those working with product management and backlog.
Professional Product Owner (PSPO) - Scrum.org
Scrum.org version for Product Owners, with a focus similar to CSPO, but with a more theoretical approach.
Which Certification to Choose?
When considering which Scrum certification to pursue, you should assess your own needs, previous experience with Scrum, learning style and career goals. Both CSM and PSM certifications offer significant benefits and can help professionals advance in their agile journeys.
Choose CSM if:
- You prefer in-person and collaborative learning
- You value networking and practice communities
- You are willing to invest more in an in-person course
- You don't mind the renewal requirement
Choose PSM if:
- You prefer to study at your own pace
- You seek a more financially accessible option
- You value flexibility and autonomy in learning
- You prefer a permanent certification, without renewal
- You want a more rigorous assessment of your knowledge
Conclusion
For some, CSM's in-person learning model and global recognition may be attractive, while others may prefer PSM's more exam-focused approach and theoretical understanding. Ultimately, success in obtaining a Scrum certification depends on commitment to continuous learning, practical application of concepts and contribution to the success of agile teams.
Personally, I preferred PSM because I had much greater flexibility, the value was more accessible and it has very good adherence in the market. I don't regret it!
Regardless of your choice, investing in Scrum education and certification demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and can open doors to exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the constantly evolving agile world. May this guide help readers navigate the available options and make informed decisions in their agile journey.
Here at Learn & Education we offer a complete Scrum course, from basic to advanced, focused on practical application and certification preparation. It is part of the G.L.I. Training, which brings together various management and leadership courses (including Scrum). You pay a symbolic amount per month and have access to all courses and exclusive content. Click here to learn more.
