I’m at a crossroads between pursuing an MBA or getting my PMP. For someone who wants to stay strictly in project execution and delivery, which one do hiring managers in the US find more impressive? I don't want to spend $50k on a degree if a $500 certification carries more weight for my specific career path.
3 answers
If your goal is project execution, the PMP is vastly superior in terms of ROI. An MBA is great for general management and networking, but it doesn't teach you how to manage a critical path or handle a risk register. US hiring managers for PMO (Project Management Office) roles usually prefer the PMP because it is specific to the job functions you will perform daily. Many of my colleagues with MBAs ended up getting their PMP anyway because job listings specifically asked for it. Save your money and start with the certification first to see where your career takes you.
Are you planning to move into executive leadership later on, or do you see yourself staying in the "trenches" of project delivery for the long haul?
The PMP is much more practical. I've seen hiring managers choose a PMP holder with 5 years experience over an MBA grad with 2 years experience every single time.
Laura, I’ve seen the same thing. In my firm, the PMP is actually a prerequisite for the "Senior Project Manager" title, regardless of what degree you have.
Christopher, that’s the million-dollar question. If the goal is purely delivery, the PMP wins. However, if Kevin wants to be a VP of Operations in 10 years, the MBA has its place. But for a "hiring manager" looking to fill a Senior PM slot today, they want to see the PMP. It provides an immediate guarantee of a specific skill set that an MBA—which is much broader—simply cannot provide.