Self-Paced Scrum Master Certifications & Training for 2025

Becoming a Scrum Master doesn't have to mean adjusting your schedule for live classes. A self-paced Scrum Master certification lets you learn on your own time while gaining valuable Agile and project management skills. With so many self-paced online courses available, it's easier than ever to train when it works for you.

Whether you're new to Scrum or advancing your career, keep reading to find programs that offer flexible, affordable paths to certification from trusted providers like Google, Coursera, Scrum Alliance, and more.

What Is a Scrum Master?

A Scrum Master is a professional who helps guide a team through the Scrum framework, a popular Agile method used primarily in software and product development. They work with a Scrum team � typically made up of developers and a Scrum product owner � to improve communication, remove roadblocks, and ensure smooth and efficient workflows.

What Is a Scrum Master Certification?

A Scrum Master certification proves that an individual understands the principles of Scrum and how to apply them in real-world settings. It demonstrates knowledge of Agile practices, team facilitation, and workflow management. Certification can enhance job prospects, validate skills, and prepare professionals to lead Scrum teams effectively.

Best Self-Paced Scrum Master Certifications

If you're ready to become a certified Scrum Master, these top self-paced Scrum Master certification courses let you train on your own schedule.

1. SCRUMstudy's Scrum Fundamentals Certified

This self-paced, entry-level program introduces students to Scrum principles, roles, events, and artifacts. The curriculum utilizes videos, guides, and quizzes � and the course culminates in a 40-question, 60-minute unproctored online exam. A passing score of 75% earns you a lifelong credential and a Scrum Body of Knowledge (SBOK) digital badge. SBOK is a Scrum guide published by SCRUMstudy that offers comprehensive explanations of Scrum values, principles, and practices.

• Program cost: Free
• Program length: Five hours

2. Scrum: The Basics by LinkedIn Learning

This self-paced, video-based training course presented by LinkedIn Learning teaches Scrum fundamentals, events, and artifacts through concise lessons. It also clearly defines the Scrum Master role, as well as that of other Agile team members, including the product owner and development team. Designed for beginners, it has no prerequisites and includes practical examples and quizzes to reinforce learning. Completing the course counts toward Professional Development Units (PDUs).

• Program cost: Free for a month
• Program length: One hour

3. Introduction to Agile Development and Scrum by Coursera

This beginner-friendly, self-paced online training course explores Agile development principles, Scrum roles, events, and artifacts. Learners gain hands-on experience using GitHub and ZenHub to manage backlogs, user stories, and sprints. It's ideal for aspiring Scrum Masters, developers, and project managers seeking practical Scrum knowledge and a certificate from IBM.

• Program cost: Free to audit
• Program length:12 hours

4. Udemy's Complete Agile Scrum Master Certification Training

This self-paced course offers nearly six hours of video lessons, quizzes, and Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) exam simulators with 340 practice questions. It's designed to prepare learners for the PSM I certification by covering Agile and Scrum fundamentals, roles, events, and artifacts through a methodology that offers real-world examples and exam-style exercises.

• Program cost: Regularly $129.99, but currently 81% off
• Program length: Five hours and 46 minutes

5. Google Project Management: Professional Certificate by Coursera

This self-paced, seven-course professional program teaches Agile fundamentals, Scrum roles and events, stakeholder management, risk mitigation, and real-world project work. Developed by Google, it includes hands-on assignments and a shareable credential recognized by top employers. It's designed for beginners, and the course may be recognized for credit at certain online accredited degree programs.

• Program cost: $220
• Program length: Three months at 10 hours/week

6. Certified ScrumMaster Certification Training by Skillbook Academy

This two-day, live workshop led by certified Scrum trainers deepens Scrum knowledge through course materials that include interactive simulations, real-world case discussions, and exam prep. It includes the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) multiple-choice certification exam with a maximum of three attempts, so you may retake it if you don't initially succeed.

Those who complete the workshop will also receive a ScrumAlliance membership, PDUs, and Scrum Education Units (SEUs). This workshop is available in person or virtually.

• Program cost: $250 to $270
• Program length: 16 hours over two days

7. ScrumAlliance's Certified ScrumMaster

This 16-hour instructor-led training covers the Scrum framework, including roles, events, and artifacts, with interactive exercises and real-world scenarios. It includes up to two attempts at the CSM exam, with successful participants earning CSM certification and a two-year membership with access to exclusive resources and events.

• Program cost: Varies, typically $250 to $2,495 (trainer sets price)
• Program length: 16 hours

8. Six Sigma Global Institute Scrum Master Certification

This self-paced course covers Scrum fundamentals, Agile principles, team roles, ceremonies, Scrum events, and artifact management. Designed for beginners, it includes video lectures, a comprehensive study guide, and real-world examples to reinforce learning. This learning experience culminates in a final exam, where students earn certification to demonstrate their understanding of Scrum project management and team facilitation.

• Program cost: $299
• Program length: Self-paced

9. Scaled Agile's SAFe Scrum Master

This two-day instructor-led course is available online or in person. Agile coaches with years of experience will teach Scrum fundamentals within the Scaled Agile (SAFe) framework, including team events, PI planning, and coaching techniques. Participants receive a timed 45-question exam and earn a renewable SAFe Scrum Master certification plus one-year SAFe membership.

• Program cost: Averages $674 (trainer sets price)
• Program length: 16 hours

10. Scrum.org's Professional Scrum Master

This instructor-led, activity-rich course spans two days and is available in-person or virtually. Participants are immersed in Scrum theory, principles, and master accountabilities. It includes one free attempt at the PSM I exam, where an 85% is required to pass, and a 40% discount on the PSM II attempt.

• Program cost: Varies, typically $995 to $1,395 (trainer sets price)
• Program length: Two days

FAQs About Self-Paced Online Scrum Master Certifications

Explore these frequently asked questions to learn more about certified Scrum Master training and how self-paced programs work.

Can I Self-Study for Scrum Master Certification?

Yes, you can self-study for Scrum Master certification when you enroll in online courses, use guides, and take practice exams. However, many self-paced programs offer comprehensive training and exam prep materials. While instructor-led options provide interaction, self-study programs can be effective for motivated learners seeking flexibility and affordability, especially for certifications like PSM I.

Is a Scrum Master Certification Worth It?

A Scrum Master certification is often worth it for professionals pursuing Agile roles in project management, software development, or IT. It provides validation of your knowledge of Scrum practices, boosts credibility with employers, and can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Certifications also demonstrate commitment to continuous learning and effective team leadership.

Can You Get Certified Without Live Training?

Yes, you can earn certification without live training by enrolling in self-paced online courses. Programs like PSM I allow you to study independently using videos, guides, and practice exams. These options offer flexibility, affordability, and convenience, making them ideal for busy professionals who prefer learning on their own schedule.

How Quickly Can I Get Scrum Master Certification?

You can become a certified Scrum professional in as little as one or two days with live workshops or within a few weeks using self-paced online programs. Course lengths vary widely � from short one-hour introductions to in-depth multi-course certificates that take several months � depending on the format, provider, and your personal pace.

Which Scrum Certification Is Best for Beginners?

For beginners, strong options include 6Sigma's affordable self-paced course, Udemy's exam-focused training, and Coursera's Google Project Management certificate. LinkedIn Learning offers a quick introduction, while ScrumAlliance and Skillbook Academy provide instructor-led CSM training. The best choice depends on your learning style, budget, and certification goals.

Discover Online Certification Programs

There are plenty of programs available to help you reach your career goals. Explore even more flexible certification options across various fields by browsing the full range of online programs available on Learn.org.