Scrum is an agile product delivery method. It speeds up product delivery and improves the quality of products. Scrum certification helps you work on Scrum projects in any industry.
A range of Scrum qualifications are available from 2 accreditation bodies - Scrum.org and Scrum Alliance®. Each accreditation body offers its own Scrum certification based on best practice from The Scrum Guide™.
Scrum Alliance
Scrum Alliance was the first organisation to offer Scrum certification. It was established in 2001 by two signatories of the Agile Manifesto - Mike Cohn and Ken Schwaber. Ken authored The Scrum Guide™.
Scrum Alliance offers certifications to 5 Scrum and Agile target groups:
- Scrum Master;
- Product Owner;
- Developer;
- Scrum and Agile trainers and coaches;
- Those in an Agile leadership role.
Scrum Master
These qualifications are for current or aspiring Scrum Masters. To maintain each certificate, you must renew it every 2 years with Scrum Education Units® (SEUs) and a renewal fee.
There are three qualifications available:
Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM®)
This is the entry-level certification. You’ll learn the Scrum framework and fundamental skills. To get certified, you must attend CSM training and pass a 1-hour multiple-choice test.
Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM℠)
This qualification builds on your CSM knowledge. You’ll learn how to increase engagement, form better dialogue and respond to team issues. Scaling Scrum to multiple teams is also covered.
To gain A-CSM, you must have active CSM certification. You also need 12 months work experience as a Scrum Master and must complete A-CSM training. There is no exam.
Certified Scrum Professional® - ScrumMaster (CSP®-SM)
CSP-SM proves your Scrum Master knowledge to employers. To get certified, you must attend CSP-SM training, have 24 months experience as a Scrum Master and hold active A-CSM certification.