10 Online Certification Programs Accredited by National Bodies

8. Project Management Professional (PMP) — Project Management Institute (PMI)

PMP is a widely accepted project management certification issued by PMI and valued across industries. Eligibility requires documented project management hours plus specific education or degree-based criteria, and candidates must pass the PMP exam. Many accredited universities and PMI Authorized Training Partners offer online certificate paths and exam prep that map to PMI’s exam content outline. When choosing a program, confirm it satisfies PMI’s contact-hour training requirement for exam applicants and offers practical casework you can cite on your application. Employers often prefer PMP for mid-to-senior project roles, and the certification requires continuing education through PDUs to stay current. If you’re new to project management, look for programs that also teach how to document project hours and prepare your PMI application.