How to Choose a Scrum.org Certification: PSM and PSPO Paths
Compare Scrum.org’s Professional Scrum Master and Product Owner paths and understand the learning focus of levels I, II, and III.
Scrum.org’s Professional Scrum certifications are organized by role and skill area. Two common paths are PSM (Professional Scrum Master) and PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner). They target different responsibilities: PSM focuses on helping teams use Scrum effectively; PSPO focuses on product value and Product Backlog management.
The two main paths
| Path | Role | Work focus |
|---|---|---|
| PSM | Scrum Master | Build Scrum understanding, coach teams, enable collaboration, and address organizational impediments |
| PSPO | Product Owner | Product value, goals, stakeholders, Product Backlog, and prioritization |
PSM and PSPO are parallel role paths; you do not have to complete one before starting the other. If your work includes both roles, you can study both. Otherwise, begin with the path closest to your responsibilities.
PSM: progression for Scrum Masters
- PSM I: Understand the Scrum framework, events, artifacts, and Scrum Master accountabilities; a good place to build a strong foundation.
- PSM II: Focuses more deeply on applying Scrum in complex situations, coaching teams, and addressing organizational challenges.
- PSM III: Demonstrates deeper understanding and contextual application of Scrum, and typically calls for thorough preparation and experience.
This site has a PSM I guide and a PSM II guide. Higher levels represent deeper capability; they require more than memorizing terminology. You should be able to explain what to do in a situation and why.
PSPO: progression for Product Owners
- PSPO I: Validates foundational understanding of the Product Owner role, Scrum, and product value.
- PSPO II: Emphasizes applying Product Owner knowledge and making decisions in more complex product contexts.
- PSPO III: Further assesses deep understanding and the ability to articulate product management and Scrum concepts.
This site has a PSPO I guide and a PSPO II guide. Scrum.org may update its assessments and certification information; see the official Professional Scrum certifications page for current details.
How should you choose?
- If your work centers on coaching teams, facilitating Scrum events, and improving collaboration, start with PSM.
- If you focus on product goals, backlog ordering, and maximizing product value, start with PSPO.
- If you are new to the role, learn the fundamentals in the Scrum Guide before preparing for a level I assessment.
- With practical experience, work through realistic scenarios and consider level II or III based on the challenges you handle.
Scrum.org assessments generally do not require a prescribed training course, although training can help structure your learning. Decide based on your experience, learning style, and readiness. Check the official certifications page for the latest assessment details. This guide explains the role paths; it does not suggest that everyone must progress from I through III.