Becoming a Professional Scrum Master (PSM) is an excellent way to enhance your career prospects in the field of Agile project management. The PSM training certifications, offered by Scrum.org, are well-recognized and validate your knowledge and skills in Scrum practices. Many individuals aspiring to become a Professional Scrum Masters often wonder if they can directly pursue the PSM2 certification without completing PSM1. In this article, we will explore the requirements and possibilities of taking the PSM2 certification without having PSM1.
The Professional Scrum Master certifications are designed to assess an individual’s understanding and proficiency in Scrum principles and practices. These certifications provide a standardized framework for evaluating the knowledge and skills required to effectively apply Scrum in various projects.
| Criteria | PSM I | PSM II |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Entry level | Intermediate level |
| Focus | Fundamental knowledge of Scrum | Advanced knowledge of Scrum and its application in complex environments |
| Number of questions | 80 | 30 |
| Passing score | 85% | 85% |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Prerequisites | None | PSM I certification or equivalent experience |
| Cost | $150 USD | $250 USD |
Scrum.org has set certain prerequisites for individuals aiming to achieve PSM certifications. These prerequisites ensure that candidates possess a foundational understanding of Scrum and its applications. However, the prerequisites vary depending on the certification level.
The PSM1 certification is the foundational level of the Professional Scrum Master certifications. It validates your knowledge of Scrum theory, practices, and principles. Achieving the PSM1 certification demonstrates your ability to apply Scrum in real-world scenarios and showcases your commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
The PSM2 certification is an advanced-level certification that assesses your ability to apply Scrum principles in complex, real-world situations. To be eligible for the PSM2 certification, you must meet certain requirements set by Scrum.org.
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Yes, it is possible to take the PSM2 certification without completing PSM1. Scrum.org allows individuals to pursue the PSM2 certification directly, without the need for a prior PSM1 certification. This option is available for those who have gained extensive practical experience in Scrum and have a deep understanding of its principles and practices.
While it is possible to skip PSM1 and directly pursue the PSM2 certification, there are several benefits to completing PSM1 before moving on to PSM2. Firstly, PSM1 provides a solid foundation of Scrum knowledge, which will greatly benefit you when attempting the more advanced PSM2 certification. Additionally, going through the PSM1 certification process helps you identify any gaps in your understanding of Scrum and allows you to address them before moving on to more complex topics covered in PSM2.
If you are keen on obtaining the PSM2 certification but feel unsure about skipping PSM1, there are alternative paths you can consider. Scrum.org offers a variety of intermediate-level certifications, such as the Professional Scrum Product Owner (PSPO) and Professional Scrum Developer (PSD) certifications, which can enhance your knowledge and skills in Scrum. These certifications can serve as stepping stones toward achieving the PSM2 certification.
In conclusion, while it is possible to take the Professional Scrum Master (PSM) 2 certification without completing PSM1, it is highly recommended to go through the PSM1 certification process first. Completing PSM1 provides a strong foundation of Scrum knowledge and prepares you for the more advanced topics covered in PSM2. However, if you have extensive practical experience in Scrum and a deep understanding of its principles, you may choose to pursue PSM2 directly. Remember, continuous learning and practical application of Scrum principles are key to becoming a successful Professional Scrum Master.
Q1. Can I take PSM2 without any prior Scrum experience?
No, it is highly recommended to have practical experience in Scrum and a good understanding of its principles before attempting the PSM2 certification.
Q2. Is PSM1 a mandatory prerequisite for PSM2?
No, PSM1 is not a mandatory prerequisite for PSM2. You can choose to directly pursue the PSM2 certification.
Q3. Will skipping PSM1 affect my chances of passing PSM2?
Skipping PSM1 may make it more challenging to pass PSM2, as PSM1 provides a solid foundation of Scrum knowledge.
Q4. Are there any alternative certifications I can pursue before attempting PSM2?
Yes, Scrum.org offers intermediate-level certifications such as PSPO and PSD, which can enhance your Scrum knowledge and serve as stepping stones towards PSM2.
Q5. How long is the PSM2 certification valid for?
The PSM2 certification does not expire. Once you achieve it, you hold the certification for a lifetime.
