Project management plays an important role for almost every field including construction, engineering, and information technology. Project managers are responsible for setting objectives, managing resources, preparing schedules, overseeing project teams, monitoring performance, and, most importantly, making sure that every step in the project is carried out in a smooth manner within the given time frame and budget. Project management professionals usually work in collaboration with senior management and clients.
They are supposed to take into account the requirements of the stakeholders and take feedback on a regular basis. If you would like to get a job in a project management position, you will need to acquire relevant formal knowledge and training. Many employers expect candidates to have a bachelor in project management degree or a related discipline.
Program Objectives
Although the program objectives may vary from one university to another, students will generally learn to:
-
Apply the fundamental techniques and theories of project management to different business situations.
-
Systematically plan and execute every stage involved in a typical project
-
Handle the contracting and procurement activities
-
Make use of appropriate team management strategies
-
Evaluate how project management affects other areas of the organization
-
Ensure that the project goals are aligned with the overall strategic goals of the company
Courses
Every university offers a slightly different set of courses to students. The following courses are examples of course you may be required to take:
-
Fundamentals of Project Management
-
Leadership & Communication Skills for Project Management
-
Project Risk Management
-
Project Quality Management
-
Business Communications
-
Project Procurement Management
-
Strategic Management & Business Policy
You'll have to take some general business courses as well along with specialized classes. Although some courses may be compulsory, you'll be allowed to choose some electives too. This will allow you to study courses that fit your academic and professional interests.
As a part of the curriculum, some programs may require you to complete a project that'll help you replicate a real life business project. Similarly, some universities may require you to complete an internship during your program. This will provide you with hands-on training along with theoretical knowledge.
Employment Outlook
Project management is a very diverse field with job opportunities in different industries including:
-
Information Technology
-
Urban development
-
Development Sector Organizations
-
Environmental Management
-
Construction
-
Oil & Gas Exploration Companies
Alternatively, some students go on to pursue a Master in Project Management degree or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a concentration in project management. As reported by O*NET OnLine, below are the details of some project management positions. There may however be other career options that you could explore.
Construction Managers:
They handle the planning, timing, cost control, and all related aspects of private and public construction projects.
Median Salary (2013): $84,410/year
IT Project Managers:
They monitor IT project teams and oversee all the technical matters. The incorporate the effect of the project on the overall success of the business.
Median Salary (2013): $82,340/year
Wind Energy Project Managers:
They evaluate the potential wind energy opportunities along with their benefits and costs. They also handle the planning and execution of wind energy projects.
Median Salary (2013): $103,530/year.