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Product Management Certification: Is it Worth It?

Summary

Product management degrees and certificates offer students the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of product management quickly. But is there a better way to learn the role?

Product management is a rapidly growing field that has gained a lot of attention in recent years. With more and more companies recognizing the value of a product manager in creating successful products, the demand for professionals in this field has increased significantly. As a result, many aspiring product managers are now seeking ways to stand out in this competitive industry, including obtaining a product management degree or certificate.

Product Management Degree

A product management degree is a specialized degree that provides aspiring PMs with the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful product manager. A product management degree program typically covers topics such as market research, product design and development, product launch, and product marketing. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the entire product management process.

One of the most significant advantages of obtaining a product management degree is that it provides students with a solid foundation in the field. The program covers everything from market research to product launch, ensuring that students have a complete understanding of the product management process. Additionally, many product management degree programs offer hands-on experience, such as internships, that allow students to gain practical experience in the field.

Another advantage of obtaining a product management degree is that it can help set you apart from other job candidates. With the increasing demand for product managers, employers are looking for candidates who have a deep understanding of the field. A product management degree can demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field.

One of the most significant drawbacks of obtaining a product management degree is the cost. Product management degree programs can be expensive, and the return on investment may not be immediate. Additionally, obtaining a degree may take several years, which can delay your entry into the job market.

Another potential downside of obtaining a product management degree is that it may not provide you with practical experience where you can build successful PM habits. While many programs offer internships or other hands-on experience, some may not provide students with enough real-world experience to prepare them for a career in product management.

Product Management Certificate

A product management certificate is a short-term program that provides students with an introduction to the field of product management. A product management certificate program typically covers topics such as market research, product design and development, product roadmapping, and product launch.

A significant advantage of obtaining a product management certificate is that it's typically less expensive than obtaining a degree. Additionally, many product management certificate programs can be completed in a few months, allowing you to quickly gain knowledge and skills in the field.

Another advantage of obtaining a product management certificate is that it can help you stand out from other job candidates. While a certificate may not carry the same weight as a degree, it can still demonstrate to potential employers that you have an understanding of the field and are committed to developing your skills.

A shortcoming of a product management certificate is that it may not provide you with enough knowledge and skills to succeed in the field. A certificate program typically covers only the theoretical basics of product management, and may not provide students with enough practical experience to be successful. While a certificate can demonstrate that you have a basic understanding of the field, it may not carry the same weight as a degree in the eyes of some employers.

Should You Get a Product Management Certification?

Neither option is a guaranteed path to success. While a degree or certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that you have knowledge of the field, it is not a substitute for practical experience. Ultimately, the most valuable asset you can bring to the table as a product manager is your ability to build and launch successful products. This requires a combination of skills and knowledge that can only be gained through hands-on experience.

So, instead of focusing solely on obtaining a certification, it's important to focus on building your skills through practical experience. This can be done by taking on product management roles in smaller organizations, or by building your own products and launching them on your own. By doing so, you'll not only gain practical experience, but you'll also be able to demonstrate to potential employers that you have a proven track record of success.

Additionally, there are several other ways to build your skills and knowledge in product management without obtaining a certification. For example, attending industry conferences, participating in online communities, and reading industry publications can all help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field.

While obtaining a product management degree or certificate can be beneficial, it's not a guarantee of success in the field. Ultimately, the most valuable asset you can bring to the table as a product manager is practical experience building and launching successful products. While obtaining a certification can help demonstrate your commitment to the field, it's important to remember that it's just one piece of the puzzle. By focusing on building your skills and knowledge through practical experience, you'll be well-positioned to succeed as a product manager.