Certification

Have any questions about certification?

Contact our Education Director, Megan Hinrichsen at [email protected]

Benefits

When you apply for the CPSM examination, you are taking your first step toward joining a distinguished group of professionals who have made a commitment to professional excellence, career advancement, and an ongoing pursuit of knowledge. This voluntary certification is designed to:

  • … raise the professional standards and stature of the professional practice

  • … encourage self-assessment by offering guidelines for achievement in the profession

  • … identify and award recognition to persons who have demonstrated knowledge and skills of the prac­tice and related disciplines through a test of competency

  • … increase recognition for the profession and the industry

  • … influence the future direction of the profession.

The 150-question, multiple-choice certification exam is offered in two formats, a traditional paper exam or an online exam. The exam is based on a practice analysis commissioned by SMPS. Candidates will be tested on their skills and knowledge of the following six domains of practice: marketing research, marketing plan, client and business development, SOQs/proposals, promotional activity, and information, resource, and organizational management.  Once you pass the exam, SMPS St. Louis will reimburse your testing fee.  

How to Become a CPSM

With CPSM credentials behind your name, you demonstrate that you not only have industry experience, you have mastered the SMPS Domains of Practice for Professional Services Marketing. As you continue to climb the ladder in your career, a CPSM designation helps you distinguish yourself as a proven leader.

When you apply for the CPSM program, you are taking your first step toward joining a group of 900+ professionals who have made a commitment to professional excellence, career advancement, and an ongoing pursuit of knowledge through the domains, which outline the day-to-day functions of professional services marketers and business developers.

Earning your CPSM designation proves proficiency in the domain’s knowledge areas and skill sets and sets the bar for professional expertise and excellence.

Learn more about becoming a CPSM here or visit our study tips page for information on how to prepare for the exam.  

Testing periods:

  • For 2025, the testing periods will be March 1 through March 22, 2025 and September 6 through September 27, 2025. Applications deadlines: February 5, 2025 for the March 2025 testing window | August 6, 2025 for the September 2025 testing window.
  • For 2026, the testing periods will be February 28 through March 21, 2026 and September 5 through September 26, 2026.
    Applications deadlines: January 28, 2026 for the March 2026 testing window | August 5, 2026  for the September 2026 testing window.

CPSM Certification Reimbursement

SMPS St. louis offers a $275 reimbursement to chapter members to cover a one-time exam fee upon passing the exam. Learn more about the CPSM certification reimbursement.

Certified Professional Services Marketer

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