Write an engaging article introduction about How to get 35 contact hours for pmp free and why readers should keep reading. Write in a modern human tone, natural human conversational, 7th-grade reading level, descriptive language, no repetition. [/gpt3]
Contents
- Introduction
- What are contact hours?
- 1. Online courses
- 2. Webinars
- 3. Podcasts
- 4. Volunteering
- 5. Networking events
- 6. Mentoring
- 7. Reading
- 8. Self-directed learning
- Conclusion
- How to Choose the Right Method for You
- How to Keep Track of Your Contact Hours
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
- Conclusion
Introduction
If you’re considering a career in project management, you’ve probably heard of the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. This certification is highly respected and widely recognized in the industry, and it can help you advance your career and increase your earning potential. However, before you can even think about taking the PMP exam, you need to accumulate 35 contact hours of project management education. In this article, we’ll show you how to get those 35 contact hours for free.
What are contact hours?
Before we dive into how to get 35 contact hours for free, let’s first define what contact hours are. Contact hours are the amount of time you spend in a formal project management education program. One contact hour is equivalent to one hour of instruction or participation in a formal learning program. To be eligible to take the PMP exam, you need to have a minimum of 35 contact hours.
1. Online courses
One of the easiest and most convenient ways to earn your 35 contact hours is to take online courses. There are many websites that offer free online courses in project management. Some of the most popular ones include Coursera, edX, and Udemy. These courses are usually self-paced, which means you can complete them on your own schedule.
2. Webinars
Another way to earn your contact hours for free is to attend webinars. Many professional organizations and training providers offer free webinars on project management topics. These webinars are usually an hour long and count towards your contact hours.
3. Podcasts
If you’re an auditory learner, podcasts can be a great way to earn your contact hours. There are many project management podcasts available for free on platforms like iTunes and Spotify. While most podcasts don’t offer formal certificates of completion, you can keep track of the number of hours you spend listening to them and count them towards your contact hours.
4. Volunteering
Volunteering for a non-profit organization can also help you earn your contact hours. Many non-profit organizations have project management roles that require volunteers. By volunteering, you can gain valuable project management experience while also earning your contact hours.
5. Networking events
Attending project management networking events can also help you earn your contact hours. These events are usually hosted by professional organizations like PMI and offer opportunities to learn from industry experts and network with other project management professionals.
6. Mentoring
If you have a mentor who is a PMP-certified project manager, they may be able to help you earn your contact hours. By shadowing them on a project or attending meetings with them, you can gain valuable experience and earn your contact hours at the same time.
7. Reading
Reading project management books can also help you earn your contact hours. Many project management books are written by PMP-certified project managers and offer valuable insights into the industry. While reading doesn’t offer a formal certificate of completion, you can keep track of the number of hours you spend reading and count them towards your contact hours.
8. Self-directed learning
Self-directed learning is another way to earn your contact hours for free. This involves setting your own learning goals and finding resources to help you achieve them. This could include reading articles, watching videos, or attending seminars. While self-directed learning doesn’t offer a formal certificate of completion, you can keep track of the number of hours you spend learning and count them towards your contact hours.
Conclusion
Earning your 35 contact hours for free may seem like a daunting task, but there are many ways to achieve this goal. By taking advantage of online courses, webinars, podcasts, volunteering, networking events, mentoring, reading, and self-directed learning, you can earn your contact hours and advance your career in project management. Remember, the PMP certification is highly respected and widely recognized in the industry, and it can help you achieve your career goals.
How to Choose the Right Method for You
Now that you know the different ways to earn your 35 contact hours for free, you may be wondering which method is the best for you. The answer depends on your learning style, schedule, and preferences.
If you prefer structured learning and need a set schedule, online courses and webinars may be the best options for you. These options provide a clear outline of what you need to learn and when you need to learn it.
If you have a busy schedule and need flexibility, self-directed learning and podcasts may be the best options for you. These options allow you to learn on your own time and at your own pace.
If you want to gain hands-on experience and network with other professionals, volunteering and attending networking events may be the best options for you. These options provide valuable opportunities to gain practical experience and connect with others in the industry.
If you have a mentor, mentoring may be the best option for you. This option allows you to learn from someone who has already achieved the PMP certification and gain practical experience at the same time.
How to Keep Track of Your Contact Hours
Once you start earning your contact hours, it’s important to keep track of them. You can use a spreadsheet or a journal to keep track of the number of hours you spend learning through each method.
You should also keep any certificates of completion or proof of attendance that you receive. These documents may be required when you apply to take the PMP exam.
Final Thoughts
Earning your 35 contact hours for free may seem challenging, but it’s definitely possible. By taking advantage of the different methods available and choosing the ones that work best for you, you can gain the knowledge and experience you need to pass the PMP exam and advance your career in project management. Remember, the key is to stay focused and motivated, and to never stop learning and growing in your profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get the 35 contact hours required for PMP certification?
In order to obtain PMP certification, you must complete 35 hours of project management education. This can be achieved through various means, such as attending a PMP certification boot camp, taking online courses, or completing college courses in project management.
Is it possible to get the 35 contact hours for PMP certification for free?
Yes, it is possible to obtain the required 35 contact hours for PMP certification for free. There are several websites that offer free courses and webinars that can provide you with the necessary education to meet the requirement.
How long does it take to complete the 35 contact hours for PMP certification?
The length of time it takes to complete the 35 contact hours for PMP certification varies depending on the method of education you choose. If you opt for a PMP certification boot camp, you can complete the requirement in as little as 4 days. Online courses and webinars may take longer, depending on the pace at which you complete them.
Key Takeaways
- 35 contact hours of project management education are required for PMP certification.
- Various methods can be used to obtain the necessary education, including attending boot camps and taking online courses.
- Free courses and webinars are available to help you meet the requirement.
Conclusion
Obtaining the required 35 contact hours of project management education for PMP certification is an important step in advancing your career in project management. While there are many options available, it is important to choose a method of education that is right for you and fits your schedule and budget.
