Project Management Institute Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are PDUs, and why are they important?
PDUs (Professional Development Units) are the measuring units used by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to quantify approved learning and professional activities. They are essential for maintaining PMI certifications like PMP, PgMP, and others. By earning PDUs, you demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and ensure your certification remains active.
2. How can I earn PDUs through your courses and roundtables?
You can earn PDUs by attending our approved courses, workshops, and roundtables, which align with PMI’s guidelines. Each activity specifies the number of PDUs it provides and how they are distributed across the PMI Talent Triangle:
- Technical Project Management: Topics like tools, methodologies, or techniques.
- Leadership: Skills like team management or conflict resolution.
- Strategic and Business Management: Aligning projects with business goals or financial strategies.
Check the course or roundtable description for details on the topics in each program.
3. How do I submit my PDUs to PMI?
Follow these simple steps to claim your PDUs:
- Log in to the PMI Continuing Certification Requirements System (CCRS).
- Click on “Report PDUs” in your dashboard.
- Select the appropriate category (e.g., Education).
- Enter the activity details provided in your course completion materials:
- Provider Name: Washington University in St. Louis
- Activity Title: [Course or Roundtable Title]
- Date of Completion: [MM/DD/YYYY]
- PDUs Earned: Breakdown by Talent Triangle categories.
- Submit the form and wait for PMI’s confirmation email.
4. What documentation do I need to claim PDUs?
To claim your PDUs, you’ll need proof of attendance or completion. After completing our courses or roundtables, we provide:
- A Certificate of Completion with your name, the course title, date, and PDU breakdown. You can access your records by logging in here.
Be sure to keep this documentation for your records, especially in case of a PMI audit.
5. How can I check how many PDUs I’ve earned and track my progress?
You can track your PDU status in your PMI account:
- Log in to the PMI CCRS portal.
- Go to your PDU Transcript to see a detailed record of earned PDUs.
- Compare your totals against the minimum requirements for the PMI Talent Triangle (Technical, Leadership, Strategic) and ensure you meet the required PDUs for your certification renewal.
6. What should I do if PMI rejects my PDU submission?
If PMI rejects your PDU submission, it’s usually because of missing or incorrect information. Here’s how to resolve it:
- Double-check the details you entered (course title, provider name, date, and PDUs earned).
- Contact our support team at tlcenter@wustl.edu if you need assistance. We’ll provide you with any additional information or clarification PMI may require.
7. Can I claim PDUs for the same course or activity more than once?
No, you cannot claim PDUs for the same activity multiple times within the same certification cycle. Each activity must be unique to count towards your certification renewal.
8. Are all your courses and roundtables pre-approved by PMI?
Our courses and roundtables are designed to meet PMI’s guidelines and align with the PMI Talent Triangle. While some courses may have an assigned PMI Activity Number, which is rare, others can be self-reported under the “Education” category. All Roundtables can be classified as Education--Organization Meetings.
9. How long does it take for PMI to approve my PDUs?
PMI typically processes PDU submissions within 7-10 business days. If there are any issues or delays, you will be notified via email by PMI.
10. How can I contact your team for PDU-related questions?
We’re here to help! If you have any questions about PDUs, documentation, or submissions, please contact us at:
- Email: tlcenter@wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-935-4444