Understanding the Exam Requirements for Professional Scrum Master Certification

How Many Exams Are Included in a Professional Scrum Master Certification?

Introduction to Scrum Master Training

The path to becoming a Professional Scrum Master involves a series of qualifications and assessments. It's important to understand the structure of these certifications to ensure that you prepare adequately for the examinations.

The Basic Scrum Master Certification (CSM)

In most cases, the Scrum Master training is relatively straightforward and typically consists of a one-day or sometimes a two-day course. This course is designed to introduce the principles, practices, and tools of Scrum to aspiring Scrum Masters. It is an intensive program aimed at familiarizing participants with the framework and its elements. The training is aimed at those who wish to understand the basics of Scrum and enhance their skills in leading Agile teams.

Advancing to Professional Scrum Master Certification

For those who wish to further their Scrum expertise and take on more advanced roles, there are additional certifications available, such as the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I). This certification requires the completion of both a course and an exam. The PSM I certification is more advanced than the CSM and is designed for individuals who have already taken the CSM course and wish to deepen their knowledge of Scrum practices.

The PSM I Exam

The PSM I exam is a critical component of the certification process. It is a 45 to 60 minute multiple-choice test that assesses candidates' understanding of Scrum knowledge and application. The PSM I exam is designed to evaluate the candidate's ability to apply Scrum principles in a real-world setting. It includes questions on the Scrum framework, roles, events, artifacts, and values.

Additional Advanced Certifications

Beyond the PSM I, there are advanced certifications such as the Professional Scrum Master II (PSM II). This certification requires a more comprehensive understanding of Scrum and its application in complex Agile environments. The PSM II involves a minimum of 12 training hours, and while it does not require a separate exam, it requires participants to pass a rigorous hands-on project called a Portfolio.

Conclusion

In summary, while the CSM certification involves no exam, the Professional Scrum Master certification levels do require exams to complete the certification process. The PSM I, for example, includes both a course and a 45 to 60 minute multiple-choice exam. For those seeking to advance further, the PSM II requires a hands-on project rather than an exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the CSM certification exam required?

No, the CSM certification does not require an exam. It is a one or two-day training course.

Q: What happens after completing the CSM course?

After completing the CSM course, one can proceed to the PSM I certification, which includes a course and an exam.

Q: What is the PSM II certification process?

The PSM II certification process involves a hands-on project that requires a minimum of 12 training hours. It does not require a separate exam.