project manager education required

How to become a project manager: the 2024 guide

Discover the essentials of becoming a project manager in 2024 with our comprehensive guide, covering skills, certifications, and practical tips.

Now that you know why project management is so important and you understand what a project manager actually does , you might be wondering how you can become a project manager yourself.

Project management is a rewarding career that gives you an opportunity to make a real difference to a company’s bottom line. And there’s massive, growing demand in project manager jobs: the Project Management Institute projects (heh) that employers are going to need to fill 2.3 million new project-oriented roles each year through 2030.

2.3 million.

That’s a heck of a talent gap.

No wonder more and more people are exploring the project manager career path and looking to learn how to become a project manager.

Whether you plan to go the traditional route and get certified as a project manager, or you’re one of the thousands of “accidental project managers” doing the work without formal experience or credentials, this definitive guide is for you.

Table of Contents

2 pathways to becoming a project manager, roles and responsibilities of a project manager, important soft skills and hard skills project managers should have, tl;dr: the steps to becoming a project manager.

As mentioned above, nowadays, there are two types of project manager positions:

The “traditional” project manager: Someone who intentionally embarked on the project management career path and has a degree or qualification in project management.

The “non-project-manager” project manager: Also known as an “accidental project manager.” These are the people who never set out to become project managers but who find themselves managing projects as part of their daily work anyway. NPMPMs can be anyone: marketers planning a campaign , product managers coordinating the development of a new product, web designers creating a new website. They walk among us.

For anyone wondering how to become a project manager, this is good news: it means that there are more ways than ever to get on that project management career ladder.

Let’s start with the NPMPM or accidental project manager route.

Pathway 1: How to become a project manager without a qualification

Earlier in this guide, we talked about how more people are already project managers than they realize.

Most work involves projects. And most projects involve lots of moving parts — like research, planning, budgeting, coordinating, managing resources, and much more — that all need to be managed and overseen correctly to make sure that your project stays on track.

That means even if your organization doesn’t hire dedicated project managers, it still has people doing the work of project managers and project coordinators . Accidental or unofficial project managers are everywhere, leveraging their critical thinking skills, people skills, and years of experience in other roles into project-related duties.

If you’re starting to find that you love the thrill of the project management side more than any other aspect of your job, here’s how to break into project management without a bachelor’s degree or formal certification in the field.

1. Learn where the gaps in your project management knowledge are

Whatever role you’re currently in — marketer, designer, developer, whatever — you’ve likely been honing your project management skills all along.

According to the Project Management Institute’s Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (or PMBOK Guide), there are 10 key project management “knowledge areas”:

Integration management

Scope management

Schedule management

Cost management

Quality management

Resource management

Risk management

Communications management

Procurement management

Stakeholder management

Think about the projects you’ve been on lately. Which of these areas have you been involved in?

Maybe you played an integral role in outlining the project plan, timeline, or scope.

Maybe you were the one who outlined the budget and were able to stop things from going off track when unexpected costs came up.

Maybe you helped to reallocate resources across team members to ensure that no one was over capacity.

Those are all project management skills that any great project manager needs to know.

On the flipside, maybe you haven’t had much exposure to some of the other knowledge areas, like risk management or stakeholder management. In that case, you know exactly what you need to focus on to gain the experience you need to become a more well-rounded project manager.

2. Get (more) project management experience

Once you’ve identified where you need to grow, it’s time to start putting your plan into action. (Which is what project managers do every day — double win!)

That’s because the #1 thing you can do if you want to become a project manager without experience is start getting that experience.

Projects are all around us, so volunteer when you can. Take on extra responsibilities and develop your organizational skills, scheduling skills, people management skills — everything you identified in step one.

3. Learn everything you can about project management

Always seek out opportunities to develop your project management skills and knowledge.

Learn by doing. Learn on the job. Learn from your mistakes. Learn from other project managers (in your company or elsewhere). See if you can find a mentor who’ll teach you their project manager tips.

If you want to pursue your project manager education but you don’t yet feel ready to fully commit, take one of the many online project management courses available on platforms like Udemy or Coursera .

You can also look for conferences or local networking events that will help you to stay on top of new industry trends and meet people who can help you navigate the project management career path.

4. Start using the right project management software

Using a PM tool can help you to develop your project manager experience.

It allows you to automate your work, quickly assign tasks to groups of teams, and easily view projects in Gantt charts, as well as being able to manage all of your project resources from one place.

Using a flexible and intuitive project management tool like Teamwork.com to manage your work also means that you can get up and running without needing to spend a ton of time on training or onboarding .

Pathway 2: How to become a certified project manager

Whether you’ve been an accidental project manager for a while and you’re looking to add a formal qualification to your CV, or have always known that you wanted to be a project manager when you grew up, a qualification is a great way to signal your expertise and commitment to the PM career path to employers.

Even though a formal qualification is no longer a necessity to become a project manager (see: all of the above), it’s still worth considering if you’re really serious about upping your project management game.

Not only will it make more job opportunities available to you and give you a higher earning power, but it will also teach you some project management best practices and techniques that you might not otherwise have been exposed to.

Here’s what you need to know if you want to become a certified project manager.

1. Identify which project management certification is right for you

PMP, PRINCE2, CAPM, PMI-ACP… There's a whole alphabet of project management degrees. It can be overwhelming. So, how do you know which project management certification is right for you?

The first step is to check out your options. Which qualification is most common in your industry? Which one do you see listed most in the kind of job descriptions you’re interested in? Which one is best suited to your available time and budget? Which one will better fit the kind of processes your company uses? Where in the world do you want to work?

There’s lots to consider. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular degrees for project managers to help start your formal project manager education.

Project Management Professional (PMP)

The Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the leading global organization for project management professionals.

It’s one of the most popular and well-recognized qualifications in the field — and it can have a major impact on your salary. According to the PMI, project managers (and other project management professionals such as PM consultants, PM specialists, and program managers) with PMP certifications earn a 33% higher median salary than non-credentialed project managers . Over the course of a career, that difference easily adds up to hundreds of thousands of dollars! 

The PMP qualification is based on the PMI’s standards and guidelines as outlined in A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge , or PMBOK Guide.

It’s aimed at people who already have project management experience (at least 4,500-7,500 hours of it, to be specific), as well as either 35 hours of project management education or a CAPM certification.

So, while it’s not for absolute beginners, it’s definitely one to consider as you build out your project management portfolio.

For more on the requirements and process, check out the official PMP site here .

Projects In Controlled Environments (PRINCE2)

PRINCE2 stands for PRojects IN Controlled Environments, which also emphasizes how it differs from a PMP certification.

While the PMP certification is knowledge-based — i.e., it focuses on general project management knowledge and best practices for each stage of the project — the PRINCE2 is project- and process-based method in and of itself.

Unlike the PMP, it doesn’t have the same prerequisites, so it might be more suited to someone looking for a PM grounding at the beginning of their project management career. It also comes in both Foundation and Practitioner flavors for every stage of your project management journey.

If you’re trying to decide between a PMP and a PRINCE2 certification, there are a few other factors that should influence your decision, such as industry and geographical location (both of which can affect which qualification is preferred).

Ultimately, it’s not an either-or situation. Both certifications have benefits, and the two certifications can actually complement each other.

Learn more about getting a PRINCE2 certification here .

Certified Associate In Project Management (CAPM)

The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is an entry-level project management qualification offered by the PMI. It can be a standalone certification, or you can use it as one of the “prerequisites” needed to progress to getting a PMP.

The CAPM provides you with a foundational knowledge of project management based on the standards and guidelines outlined in the PMBOK Guide.

Learn more about the CAPM certification here .

Agile certifications

If you work in an industry where agile practices are the norm, you might decide to get an agile certification instead (or as well!).

The PMI offers a qualification specifically designed for agile practitioners, the PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) .

There’s also an agile-specific PRINCE2 certification, PRINCE2 Agile , which is available at both Foundation and Practitioner levels.

Depending on which agile methodologies you (and your organization) prefer, you could also choose to specialize even more. For example, if you’re a Scrum aficionado, you might decide to become a Certified ScrumMaster with the Scrum Alliance .

It all depends on what processes and frameworks your industry (and company) prefers to use — so do your research, talk to others in the field, and decide what the best agile certification for you is.

2. Get (and maintain) your qualification in project management

You probably thought there were going to be more steps to becoming a certified project manager than just:

Decide which project management certification you want.

Get the certification.

But once you’ve decided which project management certification is right for you, it’s all about knuckling down, putting in the hours, and preparing for the certification exam. You might also need to log more practical hours as well as make time for all the book-learning.

There are lots of prep courses available online that can help you study and prepare for the exam, but ultimately, it’s all about putting in the time and effort. (You can do it! We believe in you!)

Then, once you’ve got your certification, you need to maintain it.

Most project management certifications — such as the PMP — expire after a few years. This means that you’ll need to retake the exam every few years to show that you’re still up-to-date with PM best practices and standards.

3. Master the tools of the trade

As a project manager, you’re always looking for ways to increase efficiency and improve processes.

Finding the right project management tool will help you to put everything you’ve learned in your project manager education into practice. It allows you to oversee your projects with more clarity, forecast more accurately, manage your resources more efficiently, and report more precisely.

A good project management tool amplifies the project manager's work: It helps you take care of the everyday details so you can focus your skills where they’ll have the most impact. It works with you to elevate your best practices and scale your project successes — so learning how to use your PM tool to your advantage is essential, and will save you tons of time and money in the long run.

Teamwork.com was built to support you and your workflow, regardless of which project management methodology you use. Whether you need a Gantt chart or a Kanban board , it has all the features you need to deliver your project — your way.

Project managers — whether credentialed, accidental, or somewhere in between — are responsible for numerous facets of their projects. These roles and responsibilities typically fall within and deal with most, if not all, of these responsibilities.

Planning and initiation

The planning and initiation phases of a project are where the project takes shape conceptually: what is it, how long will it take, who’s gonna work on it, what kind of budget will it have, and so on. 

Whew — it’s a lot of work even before the project even gets off the ground!

Within planning and initiation, project managers lead, execute, or assist with four areas.

Conceptualizing the project: Projects don’t get started without some kind of raw idea, but that vague notion has to be transformed into something a little more fleshed out. Here, the project manager defines the project's goals, scope, and deliverables, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Creating a roadmap: Here’s where we go from concept to “this is how we’ll get it done.” The PM establishes a detailed timeline that outlines tasks, dependencies, and milestones. This roadmap serves as a guide throughout the project's lifecycle.

Resource allocation: To succeed with that concept and roadmap, you’ll need to assemble a team. Project managers assess resource requirements and ensure everyone has what they need to succeed.

Budgeting: Project managers also typically establish and manage the project's budget.

Execution and monitoring

With a strong plan in place, it’s time to actually do the work of the project. This is the execution phase, where the team members build, make, and do all the things, following the project plan and project roadmap. 

The project manager usually doesn’t do much (or any) of the actual work of the project. But that doesn’t mean the project manager gets to sit back and relax — there’s still plenty to do. 

Instead, the PM ensures that team members do the right things in the right order at the right times, monitoring the project’s progress all through execution.

Specific project management responsibilities during these phases include:

Team leadership: Time to don your coach/captain hat! Project managers motivate and guide their team members, creating an environment where people feel safe to collaborate. This leadership includes conflict resolution, problem-solving, delegation, and as-needed support. 

Communication hub: Lots of people (stakeholders) need to know what’s going on in a project. But if they’re all interrupting the people doing the work, well… those people can’t do the work. Project managers act as a central point of communication, keeping stakeholders informed about progress, roadblocks, and important decisions — taking that communication burden off of team members.

Monitoring and tracking: Project managers should have a strong handle on how the project’s going: who’s working on which tasks, where the project is  deviating from the plan, and so on. They track KPIs, analyze data, and adjust the course as needed to ensure the project stays on track.

Risk management: Every project has risks. Like with communication and monitoring, the project manager takes the risk management load off the rest of the team so they can focus on successful delivery. The PM should proactively identify new and ongoing risks and have a plan for how to mitigate them if needed. By anticipating challenges and developing contingency plans, PMs can minimize disruptions to the project's timeline and budget.

Control and closure

Last up are control and closure: control is the stuff that has to happen when your monitoring reveals an issue, while closure is the litany of details and steps needed once the project wraps.

Let’s get a little more specific on these phases as well:

Quality assurance: Project managers are one of the earliest lines of defense on quality. They implement quality control measures so they can ensure deliverables don’t just finish on time but also meet client/customer expectations.

Issue resolution: Roadblocks and challenges are inevitable, and sometimes the team members themselves can’t resolve issues without an outside hand. Project managers tackle these problems head-on, finding the right solutions that keep the project on track.

Stakeholder management: Keeping stakeholders satisfied is key — and so is keeping stakeholders from distracting or slowing down your team members. Project managers take the lead here, managing expectations, addressing concerns, and ensuring everyone is happy with the project's outcome.

Project closure and evaluation: Once the project is complete, there’s still plenty to do to wrap it up and close it out. Reflecting on lessons learned — sometimes called a project postmortem — is another area where project managers take charge, facilitating the team and stakeholders as they evaluate what worked, what didn’t and what adjustments should be made for future similar projects. 

Every successful project manager needs to master a broad set of skills, including both soft and hard skills.

Soft skills for project managers

Soft skills — those relational skills you can’t usually learn in a classroom — are vital for success in project management. These include:

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Decisiveness

Time management

Conflict resolution

Hard skills for project managers

Hard skills are the ones you learn in a more conventional sense, whether in the classroom or through on-the-job experience. 

These are some of the most important hard skills for project managers:

Fluency in project management systems and tools (including project management software)

Data and analytics

Technical expertise

Start managing projects.

Keep managing projects.

Learn the skills and theory behind managing projects.

Use Teamwork.com to manage your projects.

Get better at managing projects.

Decide if you want to get a project management certification.

Continue to manage projects.

That’s it — all you need to know to get started as a project manager!

Bonus tip: If you’re ready to start developing your project manager experience, look out for these project management methodologies you need to know .

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Becoming a project manager is an enticing career path offering diverse opportunities across industries. A project manager is a professional responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, leading teams to achieve objectives within time and budget constraints.

To become a project manager, you can pursue a degree in a relevant field or gain practical experience through alternative education routes like online courses and certifications.

Key skills required include project management methodologies, budgeting, risk assessment, scheduling, leadership, communication, and problem-solving.

This comprehensive guide covers step-by-step approaches for both degree and non-degree pathways, along with essential information on industry-specific requirements, certifications, salary ranges, and job outlooks.

Key Takeaways:

• A project manager is a professional who plans, executes, and closes projects, leading teams to achieve objectives within time and budget constraints.
• You don’t necessarily need a degree to become a project manager; practical experience and certifications can also pave the way.
• Essential skills for PM include project management methodologies, budgeting, risk assessment, scheduling, leadership, communication, and problem-solving.
• The path to becoming a project manager involves a combination of education, certifications, practical experience, and continuous learning and development.
• Project management offers diverse opportunities across industries like construction, IT, tech, and healthcare, each with its own unique challenges and requirements.
• The demand for skilled project managers is projected to grow, making it a promising career choice with lucrative earning potential.
• To streamline your journey and enhance project management proficiency, leverage Onethread, a comprehensive platform tailored for startups, small businesses, and agile teams.

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Who Is a Project Manager?

A project manager is a professional responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They lead teams, set goals, and ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. 

Project managers also handle communication, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Their role is crucial in coordinating efforts and guiding projects to success, making them key players in achieving organizational objectives.

Do You Need to Have A Degree to Become a Project Manager?

No, you do not need to have a degree to become a project manager. However, the path to becoming a project manager can vary significantly depending on whether you have a degree or not. Each pathway has its own set of advantages and challenges.

With a Degree

• Structured Learning: A degree provides a comprehensive education in project management theories, methodologies, and best practices.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates may have access to higher-paying roles and more competitive positions.
• Professional Network: College or university can be a great place to build a professional network that can support your career growth.
• Cost: Higher education can be expensive and may result in student debt.
• Time Investment: Earning a degree requires a significant time commitment, often several years.

Without a Degree

• Flexibility: You can start gaining practical experience immediately, learning on the job.
• Lower Costs: Avoiding the financial burden of college tuition can be a major advantage.
• Alternative Education: You can pursue certifications, online courses, and workshops that are often more specific to your interests and needs.
• Career Advancement: Climbing the career ladder might be more challenging without a degree, as some organizations prefer or require formal education.
• Skill Gaps: Self-education requires discipline, and there might be gaps in knowledge without a structured curriculum.

This guide will cover a step-by-step approach to becoming a project manager for both pathways. For those without a degree, here’s how you can start your journey:

How to Become a Project Manager Without a Degree

Many professionals find themselves inadvertently taking on project management responsibilities within their current roles, becoming “accidental project managers.” If this resonates with you and you’re interested in transitioning into a full-time project management career in industries like IT, tech, construction, or healthcare, here’s how you can do it without a formal degree or certification:

Step 1: Identify Your Existing Project Management Skills 

Begin by assessing the project management knowledge areas you’ve already gained exposure to through your work experience in your respective industry. 

This encompasses managing integration, scope, schedule, costs, quality, resources, risks, communications, procurement, and stakeholders.

For instance, in construction, you may have experience with scheduling, risk management, and contract administration. In healthcare, you might be familiar with stakeholder management and compliance requirements.

Reflect on recent projects you’ve been involved in and pinpoint the areas where you’ve contributed. This self-evaluation will help you understand your strengths and identify the gaps you need to fill.

Step 2: Gain Practical Experience 

The best way to develop your project management skills is through hands-on experience. Actively seek out opportunities to take on more project-related responsibilities within your current role or organization. Volunteer for projects, even if they’re outside your typical scope of work.

This practical experience will allow you to hone your organization, scheduling, resource allocation, budgeting, risk management, and stakeholder management abilities. Don’t be afraid to learn from your mistakes – they’re valuable lessons in your journey to becoming a successful PM.

Step 3: Continuous Learning and Professional Development 

Supplement your practical experience with theoretical knowledge by exploring online courses, industry-specific webinars, and networking events.

For example, IT professionals can explore courses on Agile methodologies, while those in healthcare can attend seminars on healthcare regulations and electronic health record systems.

Look into project management courses available through platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, or edX. These programs can offer a strong base in PM fundamentals, techniques, and proven practices.

Additionally, stay up-to-date with the latest trends, techniques, and tools in project management. Seek out mentorship opportunities from experienced project managers who can guide you and share their insights.

Step 4: Leverage Project Management Software and Tools 

Familiarize yourself with popular project management software and tools, as they can significantly enhance your efficiency and productivity.

In construction, tools like Primavera or Procore can be invaluable. In IT and tech, proficiency in Jira or Azure DevOps can be beneficial. Healthcare professionals may find tools like HealthStream or Practice Fusion useful.

When it comes to familiarizing yourself with popular PM software and tools, Onethread stands out as a compelling option.

Designed specifically for startups, small businesses, and agile teams, Onethread offers a comprehensive suite of features to streamline project planning, execution, and monitoring.

With intuitive task management , Gantt charts , resource allocation tools, and time-tracking capabilities, Onethread empowers aspiring project managers to enhance their efficiency and productivity from the outset.

By leveraging this platform, you can not only master industry-standard project management methodologies but also demonstrate proficiency with cutting-edge technologies to potential employers.

Step 5: Build a Portfolio and Network 

Document your project management experiences, successes, and lessons learned, tailoring your portfolio to showcase your industry-specific expertise. Include details about the projects you’ve worked on, the challenges you faced, and the strategies you employed to overcome them.

Participate in online project management communities and forums to connect with other professionals, share knowledge, and stay informed about job opportunities. Leverage your network to find mentors, seek advice, and potentially secure PM roles.

Step 6: Consider Certifications (Optional) 

While not mandatory, obtaining a project management certification can validate your skills and knowledge, making you a more attractive candidate to employers. Popular certifications include the Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute (PMI), PRINCE2, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and Agile certifications like Certified ScrumMaster.

For example, in construction, the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) certifications can be valuable. In healthcare, the Certified Healthcare Project Management (CHPM) certification can enhance your credibility.

Evaluate your career goals, industry preferences, and the certifications most valued in your region or sector to determine if pursuing a certification is the right path for you.

Continuously Improve and Adapt Project management is a dynamic field that constantly evolves with new methodologies, tools, and best practices. Embrace a growth mindset and commit to ongoing learning and professional development. Stay up-to-date with industry trends, attend training sessions, and seek feedback from colleagues and mentors to refine your skills continuously.

By following these steps and tailoring your efforts to your desired industry, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the path to becoming a successful project manager in IT, tech, construction, healthcare, or any other sector, even without a formal degree.

How to Become a Certified Project Manager [With Degree]

Project management offers various industries with distinct challenges and opportunities. Construction, IT, tech, and healthcare stand out as attractive industries for aspiring project managers. These industries are dynamic, have a high demand for skilled project managers, and offer rewarding careers.

Project management principles remain consistent across industries, but each sector needs a specialized approach. This guide focuses on four industries, offering a roadmap for aspiring PM.

The guide’s principles and strategies can be applied to other industries as well. Regardless of your chosen industry, the key to success lies in acquiring the right combination of education, certifications, practical experience, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide that covers the path to becoming a project manager across various industries, including construction, IT, tech, and healthcare:

Step 1: Start with Self-Assessment

Begin your journey to becoming a Project Manager with a self-assessment. Evaluate your current skills, interests, and experiences to understand how they align with project management roles.

Starting with a self-assessment is crucial for aspiring Project Managers. This initial step involves taking a close look at your existing skills, both hard and soft, and determining how they align with the requirements of a project management role. 

Consider your problem-solving abilities, leadership qualities, organizational skills, and any previous experience in managing projects or teams. Understanding your strengths and areas for improvement will guide you in tailoring your education, skill development, and experiences toward becoming an effective Project Manager. 

This self-awareness is the foundation upon which you can build a successful career in project management.

Step 2: Earn a Relevant Bachelor’s Degree

Pursue a bachelor’s degree that aligns with your desired industry. These programs will provide you with a solid foundation in industry principles, project management methodologies, and relevant software tools.

• Construction: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• IT/Tech: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field.
• Healthcare: Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Nursing, or a related field.

Step 3: Develop Industry-Specific Technical Skills

Acquire the necessary technical skills and knowledge specific to your target industry. These skills will enable you to understand the industry’s unique challenges, processes, and best practices.

• Construction: Cost estimating, scheduling, risk management, contract administration, and safety regulations.
• IT/Tech: Programming languages, software development methodologies, database management, system analysis, and design.
• Healthcare: Healthcare regulations, standards, compliance requirements, electronic health record systems.

Step 4: Gain Relevant Work Experience

Start your career in entry-level positions within your desired industry. This hands-on experience will help you develop practical skills, understand the industry’s project life cycle, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and best practices.

• Construction: Entry-level positions such as assistant project manager, construction coordinator, or site engineer.
• IT/Tech: Entry-level positions such as software developer, systems analyst, or IT support specialist.
• Healthcare: Entry-level positions such as medical assistant, nurse, or healthcare administrator.

Step 5: Obtain Professional Project Management Certifications

Demonstrate your project management expertise and commitment to the profession by obtaining relevant certifications. These certifications are widely recognized and can enhance your credibility and career opportunities.

• Common Certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
• Construction: Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
• IT/Tech: Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
• Healthcare: Certified Healthcare Project Management (CHPM)

Step 6: Build Project Management Skills

Actively seek opportunities to work on projects within your respective industry, either as a team member or project coordinator. This hands-on experience will allow you to develop essential project management skills tailored to your industry’s unique challenges and best practices.

Develop skills in project planning, risk management, resource allocation, stakeholder management, and communication.

Step 7: Develop Soft Skills

Effective project management requires a combination of technical and soft skills. Focus on developing essential soft skills that are crucial for successful project delivery and team management.

• Communication skills
• Leadership skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Conflict resolution
• Negotiation

Step 8: Pursue Continuing Education

Stay current with emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in your industry by participating in continuing education programs. This will ensure that your knowledge and skills remain up-to-date and relevant.

• Attend industry-specific conferences, seminars, and workshops.
• Participate in online courses and certifications to enhance your expertise.

Step 9: Gain Experience in Project Management Roles

As you progress in your career, actively seek out project management roles with increasing levels of responsibility within your industry. This hands-on experience will help you build a solid track record of successfully delivering projects on time, within budget, and meeting stakeholder requirements.

Step 10: Consider Advanced Degrees (Optional)

Depending on your career goals and industry, you may consider pursuing a Master’s degree in Project Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Advanced degrees can enhance your credentials, deepen your knowledge, and open up additional career advancement opportunities.

Step 11: Continuously Develop Your Skills

Successful project managers continuously strive to improve their skills and stay up-to-date with industry developments. Engage in ongoing professional development activities to maintain your competitive edge.

• Stay updated with industry-specific regulations, technologies, and methodologies through continuous learning.
• Maintain your professional certifications by completing the required continuing education credits.
• Network with other project management professionals and join industry associations to expand your knowledge and connections.

By following this comprehensive guide and tailoring your efforts based on your desired industry, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the path to becoming a successful project manager in construction, IT, tech, healthcare, or any other industry of your choice.

As you set out on your journey to become a project manager, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements and potential career paths within your chosen industry. To assist you further, we’ve compiled a comprehensive table that outlines the formal education, professional certifications, and salary ranges for various industries, including construction, IT, tech, healthcare, and many others.

[Note that the salary ranges provided are approximate and can vary based on factors such as location, company size, and individual experience.]

Whether you’re just starting to explore project management careers or are seeking to transition into a new industry, this table offers a clear roadmap to help you navigate the diverse array of opportunities available.

Roles of a Project Manager

Project managers play a pivotal role in leading projects from conception through completion, ensuring that they meet objectives within the stipulated time and budget constraints. Here’s a more comprehensive look at their roles across various project phases:

Initiation and Planning

The beginning and planning stages are when the project is conceptually formed. Project managers lead, execute, or assist with several areas during these phases:

• Project conceptualization: Setting the project’s objectives, boundaries, and outputs, and achieving consensus among stakeholders. 
• Developing a project plan: Crafting a comprehensive schedule that specifies tasks, interdependencies, key milestones, and the overall project timeline. 
• Resource evaluation: Determining the needs for resources and confirming that the team possesses the appropriate tools, expertise, and staff for successful completion.
• Budget: Establishing and managing the budget of a project, including cost estimations, forecasting, and control measures.
• Risk assessment: Identifying potential risks and developing risk management strategies to mitigate or eliminate them.
• Procurement planning: Determining the need for external resources, such as vendors or contractors, and managing the procurement process.
• Stakeholder management: Identifying and engaging stakeholders, managing expectations, and ensuring effective communication throughout the project.

Execution and Monitoring

During the execution phase, the project manager oversees the team’s progress and ensures adherence to the project plan.

• Team leadership: Motivating and guiding team members, fostering collaboration, resolving conflicts, and providing necessary support.
• Communication centre: Serving as the primary communication hub, updating stakeholders on advancements, challenges, and critical choices.
• Monitoring and tracking: Monitoring essential performance metrics, evaluating data, and making necessary adjustments to keep the project aligned with its goals.
• Change management: Effectively managing and controlling changes to the project scope, schedule, or budget, while minimizing disruptions.
• Performance evaluation: Monitoring team performance, providing feedback, and addressing any performance issues or training needs.
• Risk management: Proactively identifying new and ongoing risks, implementing contingency plans, and mitigating risks to minimize disruptions.
• Issue resolution: Tackling roadblocks and challenges that cannot be resolved by the team members, and finding solutions to keep the project on track.

Control and End

During the control and end phases, project managers ensure quality assurance, manage stakeholder expectations, and facilitate project end activities.

• Quality assurance: Applying quality assurance practices to confirm that deliverables satisfy client expectations and comply with set standards.
• Stakeholder management: Handling stakeholder expectations, resolving their issues, and guaranteeing their contentment with the project’s results.
• Project end: Completing the project by finalizing deliverables, transferring ownership, and obtaining formal acceptance from stakeholders.
• Project evaluation: Facilitating postmortem of a project or lessons learned session, evaluating what worked well, identifying areas for improvement, and capturing insights for future projects.
• Administrative closure: Ensuring all project documentation is complete, accurate, and properly archived for future reference.
• Team recognition: Acknowledging and celebrating the team’s achievements, contributions, and successful project completion.
• Knowledge transfer: Facilitating the transfer of project knowledge and lessons learned to relevant parties within the organization.

Project managers play a crucial role throughout the project lifecycle, orchestrating resources, managing stakeholders, mitigating risks, and ensuring successful project delivery. Their responsibilities span planning, execution, control, and closure, requiring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Essential skills for PM

Project Managers need a mix of hard and soft skills to successfully lead projects. Hard skills include project planning, risk management, and budgeting. Soft skills encompass leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities, ensuring effective team management and stakeholder engagement.

Project managers need strong hard skills like-

Project Management Methodologies

Project Managers must master various PM methodologies like Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall, each offering unique frameworks for managing projects. Agile focuses on flexibility and continuous improvement, Scrum facilitates quick iterations, and Waterfall emphasizes linear progression.

• Agile: Agile project management supports adaptive planning, evolutionary development, early delivery, and continual improvement. It encourages rapid and flexible response to change, making it suitable for projects with evolving requirements.
• Scrum: A subset of Agile, Scrum is used for managing complex projects through short sprints, allowing teams to adjust quickly to changing project requirements. It involves regular stand-ups and sprint reviews to ensure team alignment and progress.
• Waterfall: This traditional project management methodology follows a sequential, linear process. Each phase must be completed before the next begins, making it ideal for projects with well-defined requirements and no expected changes.

Knowing these methodologies enables Project Managers to choose the best approach based on the project’s nature, ensuring efficient execution and successful delivery.

Budgeting And Cost Analysis

Budgeting and cost analysis are crucial for Project Managers to estimate the financial resources needed, control expenses, and ensure projects stay within budget. Mastery of these skills enables effective allocation, monitoring, and adjustment of funds to meet project objectives without overspending. 

Project Managers must accurately forecast the total costs of projects, including direct and indirect expenses, to develop a comprehensive budget. This involves analyzing various cost factors such as labor, materials, equipment, and overheads. 

Effective budgeting ensures that all financial resources are allocated wisely, while cost analysis helps in identifying areas where expenses can be reduced or where additional investment is needed. 

Regular monitoring and revising of the budget are essential to address any financial discrepancies early, ensuring the project’s financial health and success.

Risk Assessment And Mitigation

Risk assessment and mitigation are critical for identifying potential project obstacles and developing strategies to avoid or minimize their impact. Project Managers must evaluate risks for likelihood and consequence, prioritizing actions to protect the project’s success.

Effective risk management involves identifying potential risks, analyzing their possible impact on the project, and prioritizing them based on their severity. 

Project Managers then develop and implement strategies to mitigate these risks, such as contingency planning, risk avoidance, transfer, or acceptance. 

This proactive approach ensures that risks are managed and controlled efficiently, minimizing disruptions and keeping the project on track toward its objectives.

Scheduling and Timeline Management

Project Managers must create realistic project schedules that outline all tasks, their durations, dependencies, and deadlines. 

Effective timeline management involves continuously monitoring progress against the plan, adjusting schedules as needed to accommodate changes or delays, and ensuring that project milestones are met on time. 

This requires a deep understanding of the project scope, resources available, and potential bottlenecks.

Proficiency in Project Management Software

Familiarity with project management tools such as Onethrwad, Asana, Trello, and Monday.com is crucial for modern Project Managers. These platforms facilitate project planning, task assignment, progress tracking, and collaboration among team members. 

Proficiency in these tools enables Project Managers to maintain an organized overview of all project aspects, enhance team communication , and streamline workflow processes. Mastery of project management software is a key enabler for delivering projects efficiently and effectively.

Proficiency in project management software is a key enabler for delivering projects efficiently and effectively, and Onethread emerges as a powerful tool in this regard.

Designed with a user-friendly interface and optimized for small businesses and agile teams, Onethread facilitates seamless project planning, task assignment, progress tracking, and team collaboration.

Its visual task boards , calendar views , and robust reporting features provide an organized overview of all project aspects, enabling aspiring project managers to maintain a clear understanding of timelines, dependencies, and potential bottlenecks.

By mastering Onethread, you can enhance your ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, streamline workflow processes, and ultimately, drive successful project outcomes.

Soft Skills

Exceptional communication, leadership, problem-solving, negotiation, and team building are pivotal soft skills for PM. These competencies facilitate effective team guidance, issue resolution, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring project success.

Exceptional Communication

Exceptional communication, both written and verbal, is a soft skill crucial for Project Managers to convey project goals, updates, and feedback clearly and effectively. This skill ensures all stakeholders are aligned and informed throughout the project lifecycle.

Project Managers must articulate project objectives, expectations, and changes in a way that is accessible to everyone involved, from team members to stakeholders. Effective communication involves not just the transmission of information but also ensuring comprehension and engagement. 

This includes writing clear reports and emails, giving compelling presentations, and facilitating productive meetings. Mastery of this skill is essential for maintaining project transparency, fostering collaboration, and ensuring project success.

Leadership And Motivation

Leadership and motivation are vital soft skills for PM, enabling them to inspire and guide their teams toward achieving project goals. Effective leadership fosters a positive environment and motivates team members to contribute their best.

A Project Manager’s ability to lead involves setting a clear vision, encouraging teamwork, and maintaining high morale. 

By demonstrating confidence, empathy, and decisiveness, they motivate individuals to excel, ensuring the project’s success through collaborative effort and a shared sense of purpose.

Problem-solving and Critical Thinking

Problem-solving and critical thinking are indispensable soft skills for PM, allowing them to navigate through challenges and obstacles that arise during a project’s lifecycle. 

This skill set is crucial for analyzing complex situations, identifying underlying problems, and evaluating potential solutions. 

By applying critical thinking, Project Managers can weigh the pros and cons of different approaches and choose the most effective strategy for moving forward. This ensures that projects stay on track, meet their objectives, and overcome any hurdles efficiently.

Negotiation And Conflict Resolution

Negotiation and conflict resolution skills are also vital for Project Managers, as they often find themselves mediating between different stakeholders, team members, and clients. 

The ability to negotiate effectively and resolve conflicts is key to maintaining harmony within the team and ensuring stakeholder satisfaction. 

By understanding different perspectives and finding common ground, Project Managers can defuse tensions and foster a collaborative environment. This not only keeps the project moving forward but also strengthens relationships and builds trust among project participants.

Team Building And Collaboration

Team building and collaboration are equally important, as the success of a project often hinges on the ability of the team to work together effectively. Project Managers must be adept at bringing individuals together, creating a sense of unity, and encouraging collaboration. 

This involves establishing clear communication channels, promoting mutual respect, and leveraging the diverse skills and perspectives of team members. 

By fostering an environment that values teamwork and collaboration, Project Managers can enhance productivity, spur innovation, and ensure that the project achieves its goals in a cohesive and integrated manner.

Job Outlook For Project Managers

projects that employers will need to fill 2.3 million new project-oriented roles annually through 2030. This demand is fueled by the continuous need for organizations to improve efficiency, implement new technologies, and drive strategic initiatives, making project management skills increasingly valuable across industries.

As for salaries, project manager compensation varies widely depending on the industry, location, and experience level. In the United States, the average annual salary for a project manager ranges from approximately $75,000 to $135,000. 

Entry-level project managers can expect salaries on the lower end of this range, while experienced professionals in high-demand sectors or with specialized skills can command salaries at or above the upper limit. This range reflects the diverse opportunities and financial rewards available in the project management profession, highlighting its appeal as a career path.

Do I need a degree to become a project manager?

A degree is highly beneficial but not mandatory. Relevant experience, certifications, and skills can also lead to project management roles.

Is it possible to become a project manager without experience?

Yes, it’s possible by starting in entry-level positions, gaining relevant skills, and leveraging certifications to demonstrate your knowledge and competency in project management.

What qualifies you to be a project manager?

Qualifications include a mix of education, experience, and skills in leadership, organization, communication, and problem-solving. Certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 can also significantly enhance your qualifications.

How can I start my career as a project manager?

Begin by gaining experience in project-oriented roles, educate yourself on project management principles, and seek mentorship. Pursue certifications and build skills in leadership, planning, and risk management.

How long does it take to become a project manager?

It varies but typically requires several years. Gaining relevant experience through roles in project teams and acquiring project management education or certifications can take anywhere from 2 to 5 years.

Embarking on a project management career is a journey of continuous learning, experience-building, and skill enhancement. Whether through formal education or self-driven paths, success as a project manager demands dedication, adaptability, and a passion for leading teams to achieve goals. With the growing demand for skilled project managers across industries, there’s never been a better time to start shaping your future in this dynamic field.

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Guide How to Become a Project Manager

If you've got a passion for delegation, organization, and communication, then project management might be just the career for you..

You’ll put those passions and strengths to good use—creating real change within your business or organization.

But what exactly is project management? What role does a project manager play within a business or organization? What skills do you need to be an effective project manager? And how does someone become a project manager, anyway?

Here we explore each of these questions in depth so you have all of the information you need to understand whether or not project management is the career for you and—if it is—how you can turn your dream into reality.

Discover the value of a project management degree.

Looking to advance or start your project management career? A graduate degree could be the key. Download our free guide for insights and tips.

What is Project Management?

Simply put, project management is the art and discipline of managing a project and all of its components from start to finish.

But as anyone who’s ever managed a project will tell you, this simple definition doesn’t capture the full scope of what project managers do.

Project management plays a necessary role in countless industries, from technology and software development to healthcare and pharmaceutical research, business and nonprofit work, construction management, and everything in between.

All projects, regardless of industry, can be broken down into roughly the same five processes, or phases:

• Monitoring and Controlling

Project managers have an essential and indispensable role to play in each of these phases.

Step 1: Initiation

Before any project can begin, it must first be initiated.

During initiation , important groundwork is laid to determine whether or not a project can and should be pursued. This typically involves creating a business case that aims to justify the need (and value) of a project, as well as a feasibility study , which aims to understand how likely the project is to be completed if it is pursued.

Step 2: Planning

Once the project’s sponsors or stakeholders agree that a project should be pursued, the project enters into the planning phase.

It’s during this phase that the full scope of the project is formally drafted and documented. Ideally, this will include a thorough understanding of:

• The project’s scope.
• The project’s objectives and deliverables.
• The tasks necessary to complete each deliverable.
• The schedule for both individual tasks and the entire project.
• The budget, including an understanding of all project costs.
• Any risks associated with the project.
• Allocation of both internal and external resources.
• The project’s stakeholders and communication strategies.
• Project integration and change control processes.

Step 3: Executing

After a full plan is drafted and approved, the project is ready to be executed .

This involves completing the tasks needed to move the project forward, as well as hitting the key milestones documented in the project plan.

Related: Essential Guides for Project Managers 12 Steps to Develop a Project Management Plan What is Cost Estimation in Project Management? How to Develop a Project Scope Statement in 8 Steps How to Avoid 6 Common Constraints in Project Management How to Create a Project Communication Plan Exactly how the project is executed will depend on several factors, including which methodology is used to manage the project. Some of the most popular project management methodologies include: Agile Scrum Lean Waterfall Kanban Six Sigma Related: 3 Top Project Management Methodologies You Should Know How to Identify the Right Project Management Strategy Agile vs. Scrum: What’s the Difference? Easing Into Agile Project Management: How to Get Started Step 4: Monitoring and Controlling

While the project is being executed, progress is also being monitored and controlled to ensure key milestones are being met.

This process typically involves:

• Regular communication between the project team and stakeholders involved in the project.
• Evaluating actual performance to established scope, cost, and schedule baselines.
• Weekly, monthly, and quarterly reporting to both the team and key stakeholders.
• Implementing change control processes to capture the changing realities of the project.
• Ensuring quality control and assurance as the project progresses.
• Cost control and allocation of resources.

Step 5: Closing

After the project has been completed, it must then be closed .

The closing process involves evaluating the project’s results compared to the objectives established in the project plan. It also includes ensuring all administrative tasks are completed, including closing contracts, paying external invoices, reallocating internal resources, and archiving records.

The Role of a Project Manager

While the exact role and responsibilities of a project manager will vary between organizations and industries, most project managers will find themselves responsible for the same general duties.

The most important of these responsibilities include:

• Regularly communicating with team members, usually through a mix of emails, phone calls, daily check-ins, and team meetings, in order to understand the status of the project and the progress being made on tasks.
• Issue identification and resolution to ensure that any roadblocks are addressed and removed so work can continue.
• Budgeting and cost control , including resource management and cost approval, the processing of invoices, and allocation/reallocation of resources as necessary.
• Communication and reporting to key stakeholders to ensure that they understand the progress being made on the project and any issues that develop.
• Team building to help team members focus on specific tasks and remain happy and productive as they work toward project completion.

With so many moving pieces to manage and keep track of, project management can be an incredibly complex field of work. Successful project managers possess a very specific set of skills that allow them to meet the demands of the job. These are known as soft skills and hard skills .

Soft Skills for Project Managers

These are also called people skills or interpersonal skills.

Because so much of project management involves managing people, it’s impossible to overstate just how important it is for project managers to develop and practice their soft skills. Though many believe soft skills are something individuals are born with, this isn’t the case. As with any skill, soft skills can be learned and practiced.

Some of the most powerful soft skills project managers can have include:

• Communication skills: The ability to communicate clearly and effectively is one of the most important skills in project management. Project managers use various tools and platforms to communicate with members of project teams, outside vendors, key stakeholders, and project sponsors. In addition to the basics like speaking and writing, effective communication also includes being able to understand and identify nonverbal cues like body language and tone of voice in order to properly manage teams.
• Leadership skills: Project managers must be able to use their leadership skills to communicate clearly and effectively, inspire, influence, motivate, and build a consensus among their team—especially through periods of high stress.
• Decisiveness: Just as it’s important to weigh the input and views of all team members, a project manager must also be able to summarize the discussion and make a clear decision when necessary to ensure that a project progresses.
• Time management: Project managers must be able to manage the time and efforts of their team members effectively to ensure all tasks are completed, key project milestones are hit, and the project moves along according to schedule. This involves having the foresight to anticipate challenges, building in adequate buffer time between tasks, and being able to reallocate resources as necessary.
• Conflict resolution: Throughout a project, there are bound to be situations when tensions flare and conflicts arise. This can happen between members of the team or between stakeholders. A project manager must be skilled at navigating these situations and defusing tensions for the good of the team, stakeholders, and project.

Related: The Critical Role of Communication in Project Management Communicating with Data: Communicate More Effectively with Team Members Multitasking in Project Management: 4 Reasons It Doesn’t Work Hard Skills for Project Managers

Compared to soft skills, hard skills are often much more measurable and quantifiable and tend to relate more to specific processes.

Some of the most important hard skills for project management to develop include:

• Budgeting skills: Every step of the way, project managers are tasked with ensuring a project remains within its allocated budget by controlling costs and adjusting resources as required.
• Risk management: Project management isn’t just about managing people and resources— it’s also about managing risk . Identifying weak areas of the team and project, analyzing the likelihood and impact of a worst-case scenario, and putting contingency plans in place are some of the most important parts of project management.
• Familiarity with data: At the beginning of every project, many key performance indicators (KPIs) will be selected. These metrics will be benchmarked and monitored throughout the project to understand progress and, ultimately, whether or not the project leads to its desired outcome. Project managers are tasked with understanding and analyzing this data, as well as using the data to communicate to both their team members and the project’s key stakeholders.
• Technical expertise: To effectively manage a project, project managers must be proficient in their industry or domain. It is next to impossible to manage a project if you know little to nothing about the specifics involved in bringing it to fruition.

If you’re wondering whether or not a career in project management is for you, consider these statistics recently gathered by the Project Management Institute (PMI):

While the career potential for project managers is already promising, those who specialize in a field can develop a more lucrative career.

In the U.S., the median salary for a project manager is $116,000 across all industries, with most project managers earning between $90,000 and $140,000. Professionals who further pursue  program or portfolio  management, however, often see an increased salary potential compared to more generalist project managers.

Project, Program, and Portfolio Management

At its simplest, project management involves the managing of a single project. But as organizations grow and operations become more complex, it’s not uncommon for multiple projects to be underway at the same time. In these more complex cases, project management may be viewed as three related, but different categories: projects, programs, and portfolios.

• A project is a temporary endeavor with a finite start and end, which is focused on creating a unique product, service, or result for a business.
• A program is a group of projects that are organized and managed in a coordinated way to ensure efficient use of resources and realization of shared objectives.
• A portfolio is a collection of programs and/or projects, which are managed together to achieve an organization’s strategic initiatives. Individual projects fall within programs, which then fall within portfolios.

Related Article

• What's the Difference Between Project, Program, and Portfolio Management?

Those who choose to declare an industry-specific specialization will also likely see a positive career impact. Being trained to handle the unique processes, regulations, and best practices of specific industries will help applicants stand out from the competition during hiring processes, and will likely help land them a coveted, specific role within the project management field.

The Different Paths to Becoming a Project Manager

Regardless of your current career, position, or past education, you can become a project manager if you decide it’s the career that you want to pursue. Exactly how you go about achieving this will, of course, depend on your career situation and which path makes the most sense for you.

Related: Building Your Project Management Career Path Generally, most people follow one of two common pathways in becoming a project manager: The most straightforward path for those who know they want to become a project manager is to pursue formal education and training. The second path is more of a do-it-yourself approach. This is often followed by those who find themselves thrust into a project management capacity that they didn’t necessarily plan for. We explore both of these paths below. Pursuing Formal Education

For some people, the decision to become a project manager is a straightforward and conscious one.

Maybe a family member, friend, or acquaintance is a project manager, and you think you’d like the role. Perhaps you’ve spent some time in the workforce working on projects and have decided that you want the opportunity to lead projects instead. Maybe a trusted high school or college advisor told you that project management would be a smart career choice. Whatever the case, you know that you want to become a project manager—you just don’t know how to get there.

If this describes you, pursuing formal education and training in project management is likely the most efficient path to starting your career. Typically, this will entail earning the appropriate certifications and, potentially, an advanced degree .

Earning a Certification

While it’s possible to become a project manager without earning a certification, becoming a certified project manager has several benefits.

Earning your certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have the relevant knowledge, skills, and experience required to work in a project management capacity. It also makes it much easier to transition to a new role at a different organization (should you decide to do so).

By far, the PMP is the most commonly referenced and sought-after project management certification. Based on the methodology outlined in the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) , earning this certification will show employers that you have the skills required to manage the demands of most projects. It’s widely seen as the gold standard for project management certificates, particularly in the United States, Canada, and the Middle East.

To earn your PMP, you must first pass a 200-question, multiple-choice exam . To take the exam, you must meet several requirements:

• At least three years of experience working in a project management capacity
• At least 35 hours of formal project management education
• At least five years of experience working in a project management capacity
• 35 hours of formal project management education

Scrum is a project management framework related to Agile. It’s often used to address the unique problems and challenges associated with software development. As such, if your end goal is to work in the software industry, Scrum may be a good choice.

There are currently six Scrum-related certifications offered by the Scrum Alliance:

• Professional Scrum Master
• Professional Scrum Product Owner
• Professional Scrum Developer
• Scaled Professional Scrum
• Professional Scrum with Kanban
• Professional Agile Leadership

Though less common than the PMP (there are currently 418,000 certified scrum professionals globally compared to more than 1,000,000 PMP certification holders ), it is one of the fastest-growing project management certifications.

PRINCE2 is a project management framework that was formulated and developed by the government of the United Kingdom, which emphasizes business justification, defining organization structure, flexibility, and a product-based planning approach. The name itself is an acronym coming from PR ojects IN C ontrolled E nvironments.

Because of its prominence and origin in the U.K., PRINCE2 may be the ideal certification for those working in the U.K. and parts of Europe.

Earning an Advanced Degree

Though a master’s degree in project management isn’t always required for a project manager role, it’s becoming increasingly common. According to a recent report from Burning Glass Labor Insight , 34 percent of project management job postings prefer or require a graduate degree in addition to requiring PMP certification.

Even for job postings that don’t require an advanced degree, earning such a degree can bring many benefits , like making it easier to break into the industry and advancing in your career.

Related: Five Reasons a Master’s in Project Management Is Worth It What Can I Do With a Project Management Degree? If you’re considering earning a master’s degree in project management, you may be wondering what an ideal program looks like. While there are no specific criteria that a degree must meet to provide value, some of the more important criteria you should use to evaluate your options include: Whether or not the faculty members you will be learning from have direct and recent experience working in the industry. Whether or not the program incorporates any kind of experiential learning or co-op experience that can translate into direct, hands-on opportunities. Whether or not the program offers a concentration that relates to the industry you hope to build your career in. Whether or not the program provides networking opportunities for students through industry partnerships and its alumni network. “Falling Into” Project Management

Some individuals find the path to becoming a project manager isn’t quite so straightforward as the path outlined above—largely because it wasn’t a path that they intended to follow. They were hired for one role unrelated to project management (often that of a director, manager, or team lead) and then, over time, found themselves taking on more and more project management responsibilities.

For these “accidental” project managers, a number of unique challenges must be addressed, most of which are tied to a lack of formal project management training. Luckily, some steps can be taken to ease the transition into a project management role, even if it wasn’t the career you originally envisioned.

First and foremost, you should seek to fully and completely understand the task at hand:

• What are the goals and objectives of the project you have been charged with managing?
• What individual tasks, steps, or phases must happen to progress the project forward?
• What resources do you have at your disposal?

Depending on how much experience you already have, it may be possible for you to shore up your weak spots through self-guided learning. There are many resources available that can help you do just that:

• The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) can largely be accessed online and in printed format, helping you learn the basic framework involved in project management. Similar resources exist for PRINCE2 and Scrum .
• Online learning platforms like Pluralsight , Udemy , and Teachable can help you learn the basics for relatively little cost.
• Similarly, intensive training offered directly by the Project Management Institute can be an invaluable source of guidance.

In addition to any self-guided education you pursue, if you have access to mentorship opportunities either inside or outside your organization, it would be wise to leverage it. A trusted mentor (like a supervisor or co-worker) can prove invaluable as you find your footing in your new project management role. They can offer advice and guidance that can help you be successful.

Taking the Next Steps

Once you’ve learned the skills necessary to complete the job at hand, you may find that you truly enjoy the role of project management. If this turns out to be the case, going on to earn a relevant certificate and, eventually, an advanced degree like a master’s in project management can make it much easier to transfer to a similar role in a different organization.

After You’ve Made It

It’s important to note that your education and career development shouldn’t end simply because you’ve landed your first project management role.

By the very nature of the work, project management roles are often temporary. While many larger companies and organizations may employ a full-time project management team or professional, many smaller companies do not, and instead rely on contract workers whose employment ends when the project does.

Luckily, there are steps that you can and should take to ensure your continued employability and relevance. Earning an advanced degree or new certificate, maintaining existing certificates, and staying on top of emerging technologies, trends, and methodologies can all help.

Related: Recommended Additional Reading 6 Project Management Trends Emerging in 2023 What Impact Will Artificial Intelligence Have on Project Management? How Can Project Managers Prepare for the Fourth Industrial Revolution? Get your free guide on the value of earning your project management degree.

See how earning your degree can open doors, increase your salary, and unlock worldwide opportunities in almost every industry.

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Master the PMP Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to complete your Project Management Institute (PMI)®’s Project Management Professional (PM)® application with our step-by-step guide that can help improve your chances of success!

How to Successfully Complete Your PMP Application

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is one of the most prestigious credentials in project management. Project Management Institute (PMI)® manages a portfolio of project management certifications, the most widely recognized of which is the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. PMI predicts that 25 million new project management employees will be needed by 2030 to meet global demand.

You do not need to be a project manager to earn a PMP certification. However, you need to have project manager work experience, including the ability to provide a detailed project description of each effort and education related to project management.

You must understand the PMP application process and requirements to earn a certification. You will need more than your name and contact information to gain approval to take the PMP exam. Use this guide to understand the process, know the requirements, and submit a robust application.

Ultimate Guide to PMP® Certification

Navigate the process of becoming a PMP® certified professional.

Understanding the PMP Application Requirements

To prepare for your PMP application form submission, you must be ready to:

• Demonstrate your fulfillment of the eligibility requirements,
• Verify your relevant education and
• Have relevant experience description documentation.

PMI will only allow you to schedule your certification exam after you submit and review a completed PMP application form and pay your exam fees.

PMP Certification Eligibility Requirements

Requirements fall into three areas: educational qualification, project management experience, and PMP exam prerequisites.

• minimum of 60 months of experience
• 7,500 hours leading and directing projects
• 35 hours of project management education — you can meet this requirement if you hold PMI’s Certified Associate in Project Management ( CAPM)® certification
• a minimum of 36 months of experience
• 4,500 hours leading and directing projects
• 35 hours of project management education, — you can meet this requirement if you hold PMI’s Certified Associate in Project Management ( CAPM)® certification

The level of formal education you have achieved will impact the amount of experience you need to lead projects. However, everyone must have 35 hours of project management-specific training covering project management concepts, methodologies, and best practices.

PMP Exam Application Process

PMI.org suggests (1) confirming eligibility, (2) gathering supporting information, and (3) submitting a completed PMP exam application. The PMP application is online and requires documentation and information regarding your educational background, project management experience, and training.

Each application undergoes review before PMI grants approval to schedule taking the PMP certification exam.

Set up Your PMI Account

The application process begins with the PMI.org website, where you must set up your PMI account . Your PMI account allows you to save your application as you progress, check on your application status, and manage your certification later.

Collecting Contact Information, Education documentation, and Project Management Work Documentation for Your Application

Before starting your PMP application form, you must gather the necessary information. PMI will ask you to provide this information for your application, including the following:

• Contact information: email, address, phone number, PMI member ID.
• Education attained: school attended, level of education attained, degree date, completed courses, and qualifying hours.
• Domain experience: projects, programs, portfolios you have worked on with effort name and objective, qualifying hours, your role in the effort, reference contact, and experience summary.
• Domain education: names of courses completed, institutions attended, dates, qualifying hours.

Submit Information for your PMP Certification Application

Login to your PMI account and go to the PMP certification section to find the PMP section, or open the How to Apply for the PMP page and access your PMI account from the “Apply Now” button.

Section 1: Personal Information

• Submit your name, contact details, and PMI member ID (if applicable)

Section 2: Educational Background:

• For each degree earned, enter the education institution’s name, degree earned, and year granted

Section 3: Project Management Experience:

• For each project/program, enter the title, organization, project objectives, your role and responsibilities, project start and end dates, hours you worked on it

Section 4: Project Management Education:

• Enter the name, training provider, and completed hours for each project management education course.

Section 5: Exam Details:

• Select language for the exam in any desired testing location/format

Review and Apply for the PMP

Carefully review all entered information for accuracy and alignment with PMI’s requirements. Once you have confirmed all entered information, submit your application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

PMI must approve the PMP application to take the PMP exam. The most common mistakes that can get your application delayed or rejected include:

• incomplete information
• inaccurate dates (for education or project management experience)
• inaccurate hours (for education or project management experience)
• insufficient project management experience description
• incomplete required fields

The time you spend preparing your information and documentation will help ensure an approved application and prepare you for the audit if your application is selected.

Tips for a Successful PMP Application

Apply the same attention to detail you bring to your project management documentation to your PMP exam application. Consider these tips to increase the chances of the approval of your application by PMI:

• Make sure you meet the minimum eligibility requirements before starting the application process.
• Seek help from mentors or peers.
• Be detailed when describing your project management experience.
• Describe your role and responsibilities in specific terms, including your efforts in leading and directing work.
• Prepare for potential audit with associated documentation for each submitted education and educational item.

With a PMI account, the application is save-as-you-go. Take advantage of that functionality and enter data carefully without rushing. You do not want to receive a rejected application because of poor typing or missing fields!

After Submission: What to Expect

PMI typically completes the application review in five to ten business days. If PMI has any questions or issues regarding your application, you will receive an email.

You can pay the fee and schedule your exam day with application approval. If rejected, you can review the application to update to try again.

Potential Application Audit

Although only a small percentage of applications are flagged for an audit, it is prudent to prepare for the possibility.

• Keep all relevant documents, including diplomas, certifications, and project documentation.
• Keep current contact information for your managers listed as references for your project management experience.
• Keep contact information for the training providers submitted.

PMI uses an audit process for all certifications to ensure the veracity and integrity of applications. For additional details, access PMI’s Frequently Asked Questions about the application audit process .

Approval and Payment

With an approved application, you must pay the testing fee to schedule your exam. Full PMI members have a discounted fee for the exam. Note that having a free PMI account does not equal PMI membership; an annual membership fee must be current to receive PMI discounts on certification exams and resources. As of June 2024, the fees are:

PMI Member:                         $ 425 US dollars

Non-PMI Member:               $ 595 US dollars

The fastest payment method is through the PMI online system . With confirmed payment, PMI provides the required eligibility number to schedule your exam appointment.

Scheduling the Exam

Following payment of exam fees, PMI will send you exam scheduling instructions. You have one year from the approval date to take the exam, in person or virtually. You may attempt the exam up to three times within one year.

Preparations for the PMP Exam

Once your PMP exam application is approved, PMI sends instructions for scheduling your exam. For the content preparation, use a combination of resources:

• Study A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) .
• Use PMI Authorized On-demand PMP Exam Prep .
• Complete Authorized Training Partners courses and training.
• Join study groups and use a study plan.

PMI’s Certification Handbook is an excellent resource for understanding the PMI certification process, including that of the PMP. Be sure you meet all eligibility requirements before you begin the application process. Set up your PMI.org account, have your documentation ready, and follow the step-by-step process for a complete application. The application form and potential audit must include documentation for each education and experience application entry. You will better position your PMP application for approval with planning and a focus on thoroughness.

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How Long Does It Take To Get PMP Certification? Requirements And Timeline

Expert Reviewed

Updated: Mar 22, 2024, 2:27pm

If you’ve ever thought about obtaining Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification, one of the first questions to come to mind might have been: How long does it take to get PMP certification? If you’re still wondering about this, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll fill you in on everything you need to know about how to get PMP certification and how long this process takes. From work experience to applying for and passing the exam, you’ll be armed with the knowledge you need to approach the process with confidence.

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How Long Does it Take To Get PMP Certification?

The time it takes to earn PMP certification varies from person to person depending on each candidate’s professional experience and education level. For starters, prospective PMPs must satisfy a hefty work experience requirement of 36 to 60 months, depending on whether they have a bachelor’s degree.

Gain Professional Experience

If you haven’t earned a four-year degree, you need to have 60 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years before you qualify for PMP certification. This work should include experience in each of the five project management process groups (initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing).

Complete Professional Development

In addition, you’ll need to complete the standard 35 hours of professional development, also called “contact hours.” You can obtain contact hours through a PMP certification course, college classes, professional training or attending a relevant lecture or seminar. If you hold the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) credential, you can skip this requirement.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

If you have a bachelor’s degree, you’ll need only 36 months of work experience leading projects within the eight years preceding. The 35 required contact hours or CAPM certification remain the same.

PMP Certification Timeline

The PMP certification process involves work experience, completion of contact hours and time to prepare for and take the certification exam. Below, we’ll break down the steps involved in obtaining PMP certification.

Enroll in a PMP Training Course

The best way to complete the required 35 hours of professional development is through a PMP certification training course. You must first determine whether you want to complete these hours in person or online.

Online courses are often self-paced and allow you to complete coursework from any location. In-person options, on the other hand, tend to follow a more rigid structure. However, these courses also allow for more collaboration and interaction with your instructor and peers.

Apply To Take the Exam

Once you’ve met your work experience requirements and completed your PMP certification training course, it’s time to apply to take the exam. To do this, you must fill out an application from the Project Management Institute (PMI) website. Once you’ve applied, you should hear back from PMI within three to five days.

Note that applicants do not need to submit supporting materials with their application, but should have supporting materials available in case they are selected for an audit . PMI randomly selects individuals for an audit during the application process. If selected for an audit, applicants have 90 days to submit audit paperwork.

Schedule the Exam

When PMI accepts your application, you should receive a unique ID to present when you schedule your exam. PMI recommends that you schedule your exam far in advance of your preferred testing date.

You can take the PMP certification test in person at a proctored location, or you can opt for computer-based testing. The test format is the same regardless of where or how you take it.

Expect 180 multiple-choice questions spanning a variety of project management concepts and styles. You’ll have about four hours to complete the exam, with two 10-minute breaks for online test-takers and no breaks for in-person test-takers.

Study and Prepare

Everyone learns at a different pace and in different ways. Only you can determine how much time you should spend studying and preparing for the PMP certification exam.

If you’re looking for PMP exam prep resources , you’re in luck. You can prepare for the certification exam through PMI-authorized training partners, company-sponsored programs, training schools and higher education institutions, among other providers. Consider creating a study timeline for yourself and taking practice exams, such as the $99 PMP prep test authorized by PMI.

Take the PMP Exam

Once you’ve completed the prerequisites and paid the fee to take the exam (the PMP exam costs $425 for PMI members and $595 for everyone else), the only thing left to do is pass the test.

Here’s where things get a bit complicated. PMI does not disclose what a passing score is for the PMP exam. When it comes to passing the exam, your best bet is to aim for a score of at least 75% on your practice exams. This should help you succeed on test day, though this isn’t a hard and fast rule.

Retake the PMP Certification Exam if Necessary

Once you receive approval from PMI to take the PMP certification exam, you have one year to do so. You can take the exam up to three times in this one-year period. Retakes cost $375, or $275 for PMI members.

Maintain Certification

Once you successfully complete the PMP exam, you’ll be responsible for keeping your skills and knowledge up to date. You can do this by taking courses through PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program. Similarly to the contact hour requirement, however, you can also fulfill this requirement in other ways, including attending webinars and PMI chapter meetings.

You must renew your PMP certification every three years to keep it active. In each three-year period, you should earn 60 professional development units (PDUs). If you don’t manage to keep your certification up to date, it will be suspended for one year.

Once you’ve completed the required PDUs, you may renew your PMP certification. Renewal costs $60 for PMI members and $150 for nonmembers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How Long it Takes To Get PMP Certification

How long does it take to be pmp certified.

The most time-consuming part of earning PMP certification is accumulating the requisite project leadership experience. If you have a bachelor’s degree, you’ll need 36 months of experience within the eight years prior to taking your certification exam, but if you only have an associate degree or a high school diploma, that total increases to 60 months. You also need to earn either 35 training hours or CAPM certification and study for the exam, but many PMP hopefuls can complete these tasks simultaneously with meeting their experience requirements.

Is getting a PMP difficult?

It can be—the PMP is a valued credential in the project management field because it demonstrates high levels of experience, skill and knowledge in the field. Gaining those skills and knowledge takes time, diligent study and patient effort, but the hard work pays off for many PMP holders in the form of higher salaries and enhanced professional standing.

How long does it take to pass the PMP on average?

Each candidate follows their own PMP prep schedule, but project management experts typically recommend at least one to three months of study. Once your application is approved, you have one year to pass the exam, including up to three attempts.

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Project Manager Education Requirements

The educational requirements for a project manager are typically a bachelor's degree. According to Lisa Noble , Director of Employer Engagement and Entrepreneurship and DavisConnects Advisor for Consulting at Colby College, "new graduates need to write well, think critically, draw reasonable conclusions from data and learn new things quickly." In addition to these skills, young project managers should also be proficient in using tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and collaboration tools like Monday.com, Asana, and SmartSheet.

In terms of technology impacting project managers in the next 5 years, Lisa Noble envisions that English majors will be critical for improving artificial intelligence to create more satisfying and productive human-computer interactions. She also notes that technology will allow for real-time feedback and adaptation to improve communication and customer satisfaction. Bijan Shapoorian , Adjunct Professor at The University of Texas at Arlington, also emphasizes the importance of staying up to date with new software and technology in order to advance in the industry.

What education do you need to become a project manager?

What degree do you need to be a project manager.

The most common degree for project managers is bachelor's degree, with 68% of project managers earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are master's degree degree at 14% and master's degree degree at 11%.

• Bachelor's , 68%
• Master's , 14%
• Associate , 11%
• High School Diploma , 3%
• Other Degrees , 4%

What should I major in to become a project manager?

According to Brett Horton Ph.D. , Professor of Practice at Kansas State University, a degree in hospitality management is beneficial for project managers. He emphasizes that graduates in this field have numerous opportunities to grow quickly with great companies and leaders. However, he cautions against moving up too fast without being fully prepared.

• Business , 29%
• Computer Science , 6%
• Electrical Engineering , 5%
• Mechanical Engineering , 5%
• Other Majors , 55%

Most common colleges for project managers

Project managers often get their degrees at University of Phoenix, University of Maryland - College Park, and Pennsylvania State University. Here are the most common colleges for project managers in the US based on their resumes.

Best majors for project managers

Best colleges for project managers

The University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California, and Northwestern University top the list of best colleges for project managers. These institutions offer strong project management programs, with a focus on practical skills and relevant coursework. A degree from these colleges can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities in the field.

1. University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • Private

In-State Tuition

2. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • Private

3. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

4. Boston University

Boston, MA • Private

5. Pennsylvania State University

University Park, PA • Private

6. Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • Private

7. University of Washington

Seattle, WA • Private

8. University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • Private

9. New York University

New York, NY • Private

10. University of Maryland - College Park

College Park, MD • Private

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1. Digital Project Management

Build confidence translating business requirements into project scope statements, creating project plans in Waterfall or Agile, and developing a high-performing team...

2. The Agile Methodology for Project Risk Managers

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4. Mastering Construction/Project Management

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5. Project Management Essentials

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6. Project Management - Complete Guide For A+ Project Managers

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7. Agile Crash Course: Agile Project Management; Agile Delivery

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8. Project Management: Becoming a Successful Project manager

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9. Beginning Project Management: Project Management Level One

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10. Project Management Course: Master Project Scope Management

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11. Agile Project Management Bootcamp: Agile Project Management

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12. Practical Project Management for Management Consultants

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13. Project Management: Simple Software Project Management

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Top 10 most affordable universities for project managers

The most affordable schools for project managers are University of Florida, baruch college of the city university of new york, and hunter college of the city university of new york.

If the best universities for project managers are out of your price range, check out these affordable schools. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, the average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price, and mean earnings after six years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for project managers.

1. University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • Private

Cost of Attendance

2. Baruch College of the City University of New York

3. Hunter College of the City University of New York

4. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

5. California State University - Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA • Private

6. University of South Florida

Tampa, FL • Private

7. California State University - Los Angeles

8. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

9. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

10. Florida International University

Miami, FL • Private

Top 10 hardest universities to get into for project managers

The hardest universities for project managers to get into are University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, and Harvard University.

Some great schools for project managers are hard to get into, but they also set your career up for greater success. The list below shows the most challenging universities to get into for project managers based on an institution's admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted, and mean earnings of students six years after admission.

Admissions Rate

SAT Average

2. Northwestern University

3. harvard university.

4. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

5. Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • Private

6. Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO • Private

7. Columbia University in the City of New York

8. university of southern california.

9. Northeastern University

10. Duke University

Durham, NC • Private

Top 10 easy-to-apply-to universities for project managers

The easiest schools for project managers to get into are Mount Saint Mary's University, barry university, and university of the incarnate word.

Some schools are much easier to get into. If you want to start your career as a project manager without much hassle, check out the list of schools where you will be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores, and average salary of students six years after graduation to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into for project managers.

1. Mount Saint Mary's University

2. Barry University

3. University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX • Private

4. University of Baltimore

5. University of North Texas at Dallas

Dallas, TX • Private

6. Holy Names University

Oakland, CA • Private

7. Wayland Baptist University

Plainview, TX • Private

8. Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Bartlesville, OK • Private

9. California University of Pennsylvania

California, PA • Private

10. San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA • Private

Average project manager salary by education level

According to our data, project managers with a Doctorate degree earn the highest average salary, at $114,985 annually. Project managers with a Master's degree earn an average annual salary of $109,564.

Project Manager Education FAQs

What is the best college for project managers, search for project manager jobs.

Updated April 5, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Table of Contents

What do project manager qualifications mean, how to become a project manager, importance of project management in various industries, eligibility to become project manager, why should you pursue pmp certification , earn project manager qualifications today , how to become a project manager - a concise guide [2024].

Open Doors to Global Project Management Opportunities with PMP Certification - Simplilearn Empowers Your Reach!

The role of a project manager can be a very rewarding experience. They are responsible for every facet of a project , from parceling out tasks to picking materials. A project manager should be multi-talented when leading their team and have both hard and soft skills. 

Your journey to becoming a PMP certified is easy with Simplilearn's PMP Certification . Get started by enrolling now.

Depending on the employer, the necessary project manager qualifications may differ. Are you interested in entering the project management field ? Are you currently a project manager ready to take your professional career to the next level?

In this article we will cover the following topics in detail:

• Project manager qualifications 
• Eligibility to become project manager
• Reasons to pursue PMP certification
• Ways to earn project manager qualifications

According to Jennifer Bridges , PMP, the meaning behind project manager qualifications can change depending on the business and the role they’re hiring for. Essentially, a project manager who’s qualified has the temperament, skills, and experience needed for the position. Typical requirements generally include at least three years of experience in a related role, the ability to communicate, formal training, and a PMP certification. Certification can be acquired through a professional association, a university or college, or through a specially focused online learning program.

Have a look at the video below that will help us understand who is a project manager, what all skills are required to be a project manager, and how one can become a project manager.

Becoming a project manager involves a combination of education, practical experience, and the development of key skills. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to become a project manager:

1. Educational Background

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: While not mandatory, having a bachelor's degree in a related field such as business, management, engineering, or information technology is advantageous.

2. Gain Relevant Experience

• Entry-Level Positions: Start your career in entry-level roles such as project coordinator, team member, or assistant project manager to gain hands-on experience.
• Internships and Volunteer Work: Participate in internships or volunteer opportunities to build practical skills and showcase your dedication to project management.

3. Develop Project Management Skills

• Communication Skills: Enhance your communication skills, both written and verbal, as effective communication is vital in project management.
• Time Management: Learn to prioritize tasks, set realistic timelines, and manage time efficiently.
• Leadership: Cultivate leadership qualities to guide and motivate teams effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address challenges during project implementation.
• Stakeholder Management: Learn how to manage relationships with stakeholders, clients, and team members.

4. Obtain Project Management Certification

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments)
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
• Certifications validate your knowledge and skills, making you more competitive in the job market.

5. Continue Education and Professional Development

• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends, tools, and methodologies in project management.
• Attend Workshops and Seminars: Participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences to network with professionals and gain insights.

Become a Project Management Professional

• 6% Growth In Jobs Of Project Management Profiles By 2024
• 22 Million Jobs Estimated For Project Management Professionals By 2027

PMP® Certification Training

• Access to Digital Materials from PMI
• 12 Full-Length Simulation Test Papers (180 Questions Each)

Professional Certificate Program in Project Management

• Receive course completion Certificate in Project Management and Alumni Association Membership from UMass Amherst
• Expert Faculty: Learn from seasoned industry professionals and certified instructors who bring years of practical experience and expertise to the classroom

Here's what learners are saying regarding our programs:

Katrina Tanchoco

Shell - manila ,.

The interactive sessions make a huge difference as I'm able to ask for further clarifications. The training sessions are more engaging than the self-paced modules, it's easier now that i first decided to take up the online classroom training, and then followed it up with the self-paced learning (online and readings).

PHC Business Manager , Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit

I wanted to transition into the Project Management field and wanted the right opportunity to do so. Thus, I took that leap forward and enrolled in this course. My learning experience was fantastic. It suited my learning style.

6. Build a Strong Network

• Connect with Project Managers: Join professional organizations and online communities to network with experienced project managers.
• Mentorship: Seek mentorship from seasoned professionals to gain guidance and advice.

7. Apply for Project Management Positions

• Prepare a Resume: Craft a resume highlighting your education, experience, skills, and certifications.
• Tailor Your Application: Customize your application for each position, emphasizing your relevant qualifications.

8. Ace the Interview

• Prepare for Project Management Interviews: Familiarize yourself with common project management interview questions and be ready to showcase your skills and experiences.
• Demonstrate Your Knowledge: Use real-world examples to demonstrate your ability to manage projects effectively.

9. Secure Your First Project Management Role

• Start in Junior or Assistant Positions: Your first project management role may be in a junior or assistant capacity. Gain experience and gradually move up the career ladder.

10. Continuously Improve and Grow

• Seek Feedback: Request feedback on your performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Pursue Advanced Certifications: Consider pursuing advanced certifications as you gain more experience, such as Program Management Professional (PgMP) or Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP).

Remember that becoming a successful project manager is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Adaptability, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to ongoing professional development are essential for long-term success in the field.

Project management plays a pivotal role in various industries, serving as a crucial framework for planning, executing, monitoring, and completing projects efficiently. The importance of project management is multifaceted and extends across diverse sectors. Here's an elaboration on its significance:

Resource Optimization

• Time Management: Efficient project management ensures the optimal use of time, preventing delays and ensuring timely project delivery.
• Cost Control: It helps control and allocate resources effectively, minimizing unnecessary expenses and staying within budget constraints.

Risk Mitigation

• Identifying Risks: Project management involves thorough risk assessment, identifying potential challenges, and developing strategies to mitigate them.
• Contingency Planning: Robust project management includes contingency plans to address unforeseen issues, reducing the impact of risks on project outcomes.

Quality Assurance

• Standards Adherence: Project managers ensure that projects adhere to industry standards and regulations, enhancing the overall quality of deliverables.
• Continuous Improvement: Feedback mechanisms in project management facilitate continuous improvement, ensuring that lessons learned from one project are applied to future endeavors.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Communication: Effective communication is a cornerstone of project management, fostering collaboration among team members, stakeholders, and clients.
• Expectation Management: Clear communication helps manage stakeholder expectations, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and enhancing project satisfaction.

Strategic Alignment

• Alignment with Organizational Goals: Project management ensures that projects align with the strategic goals and objectives of the organization, contributing to overall success.
• Prioritization: It helps in prioritizing projects based on their strategic importance, ensuring that resources are allocated to initiatives that align with the company's vision.

Innovation and Creativity

• Structured Innovation: Project management frameworks encourage structured approaches to innovation, fostering creativity within defined project boundaries.
• Problem-Solving: It provides a systematic approach to problem-solving, encouraging teams to find innovative solutions within project constraints.

Customer Satisfaction

• Meeting Requirements: Project management ensures that projects meet or exceed customer requirements, enhancing overall satisfaction.
• Feedback Incorporation: Continuous feedback loops in project management allow for the incorporation of customer input, leading to products or services that better meet their needs.

Adaptability to Change

• Change Management: Project management methodologies incorporate change management practices, allowing teams to adapt to evolving project requirements.
• Flexibility: Agile project management methodologies, in particular, emphasize adaptability, enabling teams to respond to changing priorities and customer needs.

While not necessarily a hard and fast qualification, having a personality that fits the role is ideal. A few personality traits include empathy, modesty, authority, pragmatism, foresight, organization, and client orientation. Make sure you’re suited for this line of work before you spend time and money becoming certified. 

Dominate the Project Management Arena with PMP Certification - Simplilearn Gives You the Edge!

There are four essential project manager qualifications that you need to succeed: 

1. Essential Skills

Project management skills are an obvious must and include being able to manage four core things that are critical to the success of a project:

Business skills are often another requirement. This includes being able to comprehend project financials, profit and loss, and the ability to create and adhere to a project budget. Furthermore, learning to lead is essential. Communicating clearly (face-to-face and in writing) and resolving conflicts are just some of the particularly useful leadership skills. Finally, team-building skills are great to have, since a project manager qualifications doesn’t only guide a project—they’re responsible for their team. Motivating the team to communicate and collaborate, and boosting their morale, are tasks a project manager will likely find themselves doing.

2. Formal and Informal Training

It isn’t surprising that a business would choose the most experienced and educated team members to lead their projects, or that a recruiter would seek applicants based on these distinctions. 

Most project managers find themselves going down one of two paths on their journey toward becoming qualified. Whether you’re attending a university or college and getting a degree, or enrolling in a certification course, a structured and traditional course of study may be an option for you. 

On the other hand, some businesses have internal programs that help you move into project management, or provide shadowing and mentoring opportunities. Volunteering to gain experience is also an option. 

3. Valuable Experience

Like any discipline, if you’re new to project management, it can be challenging to break into the field if you’re not sure where to begin. 

According to Bridges , there are four convenient areas to start:

• Volunteering inside and outside of your place of employment
• Applying for internships that may or may not lead to full-time work
• Participating in a co-op program
• Applying for entry-level or advanced-level positions

4. Project Management Certification

A few ways to get certified include: 

Agile/Scrum 

A project management certification , especially a PMP, can be a great career move, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before diving in. 

According to Derek Singleton , Product Manager for Internal Applications at Software Advice, if you already know you want to pursue a career in project management seriously, a PMP certification is for you. You also need to have professional experience in managing projects. 

Project Management Professional (PMP)®

This is an internationally recognized certification provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). An examination consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions is required for the PMP certification. The following requirements must be met in order to take the exam:

For those with a four-year degree:

• Experience in project management of at least three years
• Education in project management of at least 35 hours

For those without a four-year degree:

• Experience in project management of at least five years
• An education in project management consisting of 35 hours

For starters, having a PMP certification as a credential makes you more appealing to employers and recruiters. As Kevin Archbold, Consulting Manager at Key Consulting, says, “many recruiters divide their resumes into two piles: those with PMP certifications and those without.” This especially applies to highly regulated industries, like pharmaceuticals and finance, because it showcases the capacity to follow strictly-defined processes.

With a PMP certification, you’ll likely earn a higher salary than those without one. According to PMI’s Earning Power: Project Management salary survey , project managers in the United States with a PMP certification earned a median salary of $111,000, while project managers without the credential earned a median salary of $91,000.

A PMP certification also helps you learn to speak in a clear, universal, and standard format, following a set of best practices that peers and executives will understand. 

Finally, there’s a high demand for project managers. PMI projects that 15.7 million project management positions will be available to fill the year 2020, so it might be a good idea to take advantage of this opportunity by acquiring your PMP certification.   

Find Our PMP Training in Top Cities India United States Other Countries Ready to dive in? Simplilearn provides a PMP Certification Training Course that can significantly increase your skills, value, and potential professional opportunities and also help you to complete your project manager qualifications. With this course, you’ll learn how to use the latest project management tools and techniques, and how to deliver a project on budget, on scope, and on time. You’ll also develop leadership and people skills, and obtain the 35 education hours required to take the PMP certification exam. In addition to these, there are many other helpful Project Manager interview questions that deserve to be looked at. Whether you're an aspiring project manager, a software developer, a team leader, or a seasoned project manager, a PMP certification is an essential professional requirement. Are you looking forward to making a mark in the Project Management field? If yes, enroll in the Project Management Program now and get a step closer to your career goal! Our Project Management Courses Duration And Fees Project Management Courses typically range from a few weeks to several months, with fees varying based on program and institution. Program Name Duration Fees Cohort Starts: 10 weeks € 2,250 Plus 7 weeks € 1,199 3 weeks € 499 Recommended Reads Project Management Interview Guide Project Manager Salary in India: An Analytical Perspective Product Manager vs Project Manager: All You Need to Know An Introduction to Project Management: A Beginner’s Guide ACCOMMODATING PROJECT MANAGERS IN SCRUM Roles and Responsibilities of a Project Manager Get Affiliated Certifications with Live Class programs PMP, PMI, PMBOK, CAPM, PgMP, PfMP, ACP, PBA, RMP, SP, and OPM3 are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc. Certificates International Social media Contact information, continuing education at the university of utah. 1901 E. South Campus Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84112 Send feedback General website comment 1-801-581-6461 View All Class Subjects ACT and Certification Prep Art, Craft, Music & Theatre Business & Professional Development Computers & Technology Exercise & Recreation Food, Wine & Cooking Healthy Living & Spirituality Home, Garden & Green Living Kids & Teens Language & Travel Science, Math & Engineering Social Sciences Unique Topics Writing & Literature Academic Credit Academic Noncredit English Language Institute Lifelong Learning The Office of Engagement Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Professional Education Certification Preparation Youth Education Certificates/Credentials Project Management Professional Exam Preparation Professional Education Professional Education Home Class Details Our Project Management Professional (PMP) exam preparation course is designed to prepare you to pass the PMP exam on your first attempt. Feel confident enrolling in this course as The University of Utah is an Advance Training Partner of the Project Management Institute, the designer of the PMP exam and grantor of the eight industry recognized PMP certifications. The Project Management Professional(r) PMP certification demonstrates to employers, customers, and colleagues that a project manager possesses project management knowledge, experience, and skills to bring projects to successful completion. This course is designed for current Project Manager and other Project Leaders with at least 3 years of project management experience. Participants must complete the entire 36 hour program to meet the PMI training hours required to be eligible for the PMP Certification. Registration for the PMP Exam is not included in the cost of the course and may be completed at PMI.org. Class Note: Registering for the actual test is independent of registering for this course. Materials fee is NON-REFUNDABLE. Once you've paid for a preparatory course with us, you can come back anytime within the next 3 years and retake the same course free of charge (extra material costs not included) depending upon available space. Questions? Call Professional Education at 801-585-1780 or use our online form . Class Sections For Project Management Professional Exam Preparation (PREP 450) Fall 2024 section 1, starting on: 10/15/2024. This is an online class using Canvas. Once registered, students will receive an email invitation to the online class before the class begins. Students will be expected to log into Canvas and complete coursework before the first scheduled meeting. - 10/17/24 -9:00 pm - 10/24/24 -9:00 pm - 10/31/24 -9:00 pm - 11/07/24 -9:00 pm - 11/14/24 -9:00 pm - 11/21/24 -9:00 pm Instructor: Reed Shell Registration for this class will close on 10-07-2024 at midnight Fall 2024 Section 2, Starting on: 11/04/2024 This is an in person class that will meet in the University of Utah Sandy Center. Students will receive their course materials the first day of class. - 11/07/24 -5:00 pm-1:00 pm Registration for this class will close on 10-27-2024 at midnight Waiting list View All Classes Online Classes Certificates & Special Programs Business Management & Communications Business Upskill Business Operations/Data Cannabis Education Computing/IT Custom Training Human Resources Marketing & Graphic Design Instructional Design Leadership Development Project Management Skills Based Classes Workshops & Info Sessions Work from Home Our website needs javascript to work properly. Please enable javascript in your browser . Non-Credit Certificate Program in Project Management: Strategy Essentials Enhance your career with our project management certificate as you advance your leadership and strategic skill sets. *The extensive PMGT18101 is a double class priced at $2870. Upcoming events. Project Management: Strategy Essentials... Jul 23, 2024 • Online At a Glance Learn the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to master project management theory and best practices. In order to offer a richer student experience, maximize program knowledge and offer our project management expertise to a greater audience, the University of Chicago Professional Education has merged its Essentials of Project Management and Project Management Strategy certificates into a robust, new program, Strategy Essentials of Project Management. The Strategy Essentials of Project Management Certificate introduces students to the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to master the theory and practice of project management. Students will gain direct experience using appropriate tools and techniques to enhance their understanding of the strategic, leadership, human resources, and operational aspects of project management to successfully execute a project from initiation through completion. Designed For Designed for project managers who need to rethink internal processes to drive more successful project outcomes or professionals interested in gaining the skills needed to lead within their industries. Advance Your Skills With Our Results-driven, Interactive Classes Gain in-demand project management training and level up your career with practical courses taught by expert instructors with serious industry knowledge. Professional Impact of a Project Management Certificate The number of project management jobs is growing at an exponential rate, and trained project managers can excel in any organization or industry. Anyone who has participated in a project team knows that successful project delivery is a combination of science and art for project execution to meet its objectives on time and on-budget. This series of project management courses prepares you to embrace these challenges head-on by addressing real organizational needs, giving you knowledge that will enhance your ability to grow and contribute to any organization. After completing the program, you will be able to:  Inhabit your role as a project leader by applying quantitative skills to inform good decision-making at every stage Deploy the “soft skills” inherent in successful project execution such as communication, interpersonal relationships, and problem-solving Use technology to facilitate communication and stakeholder management Deepen your understanding of the strategic, leadership, human resources, and operational aspects of project management Manage the expectations of the project stakeholder Manage risk at both project and organizational levels Successfully link project planning with corporate strategy Manage portfolios while juggling priorities, clients, and budgets Recognize and implement recovery techniques when necessary Who Should Pursue UChicago's Project Management Certificate? The online project management certificate program is open to participants of varying professional backgrounds. However, industry professionals who demonstrate five years of experience in a managing role or capacity in project management can receive a waiver for the first core course. According to a 2020 report by the Project Management Institute , 51% of organizations require project management professionals to have a certification for their role. Earn a Credential in Project Management After successful completion of this certificate, participants will receive credentials certified by the University of Chicago including a certificate of completion and a digital badge to recognize their achievement. Learn to Optimize Your Operations at UChicago The interpersonal touch. In addition to rigorous training in the techniques, tools, and practical concerns inherent to the successful execution of projects, students in the project management certificate will learn the interpersonal skills often overlooked in foundational project management programs. Successfully conducted project management requires tactical communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. Our online Project Management courses train students to meet and embrace challenging team dynamics to guide a project smoothly to conclusion. Participants in the project management certificate include: Experienced project managers and project coordinators responsible for project design and implementation Project managers responsible for process-centric projects Program managers who are responsible for multiple projects IT managers, supervisors, or project leaders responsible for business analysis and project implementation Business managers/supervisors, project sponsors, and other managers responsible for project success I was amazed at the program's ability to cater to a breadth of project management professionals. The instructors find ways to challenge everyone—and I learned just as much from my classmates, fellow project managers from unique industries and backgrounds. I was promoted to Manager of Project Management at my firm only a few months after receiving my certificate. Kurtis Hardy, Project Management Strategy Certificate Recipient Offered by The University of Chicago's Professional Education Boost Your Career at the Speed of Industry Of interest, non-credit certificate program in conscious leadership and team management. Learn how accurate self-assessment can improve your conscious leadership skills and encourage strong... Economies Run on Projects Escaping Underemployment Charting a Course to an Exciting Future Master's Programs Explore Certificate Offerings Qualifications search Apprenticeship search Occupational maps Ensuring quality Qualifications Apprenticeships Have your say Search the Apprenticeships Team leader or supervisor This apprenticeship is in revision A revised version of this apprenticeship standard has been agreed and is available for information only at present. In the meantime, the version below remains approved for delivery. Further details of this and other occupational standards in revision are available in the revisions status report. Overview of the role Managing teams and projects to meet a private, public or voluntary organisation's goals. Reference Number: ST0384 Details of standard, o ccupation. A Team leader or ​supervisor is a first line management role, with operational and project responsibilities or responsibility for managing a team to deliver a clearly defined outcome. They provide direction, instructions and guidance to ensure the achievement of set goals. Working in the private, public or third sector and in all sizes of organisation, specific responsibilities will vary, but the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed will be the same whatever the role. Key responsibilities are likely to include supporting, managing and developing team members, managing projects, planning and monitoring workloads and resources, delivering operational plans, resolving problems, and building relationships internally and externally. Typical job titles:  Supervisor, Team leader, Project officer, Shift supervisor, Foreperson, and Shift manager. Entr y requirements The entry requirement for this apprenticeship will be decided by each employer, but may typically be five GCSEs at Grade C or higher. Requirements: knowledge, skills and behaviours (through formal learning and applied according to business environment) Leading people Understand different leadership styles and the benefits of coaching to support people and improve performance. Understand organisational cultures, equality, diversity and inclusion. Managing people Understand people and team management models, including team dynamics and motivation techniques. Understand HR systems and legal requirements, and performance management techniques including setting goals and objectives, conducting appraisals, reviewing performance, absence management, providing constructive feedback, and recognising achievement and good behaviour. Building relationships Understand approaches to customer and stakeholder relationship management, including emotional intelligence and managing conflict. Know how to facilitate cross team working to support delivery of organisational objectives. Communication Understand different forms of communication and their application. Know how to chair meetings, hold challenging conversations, provide constructive feedback and understand how to raise concerns. Operational management Understand how organisational strategy is developed. Know how to implement operational and team plans and manage resources and approaches to managing change within the team. Understand data management, and the use of different technologies in business. Project management Understand the project lifecycle and roles. Know how to deliver a project including: managing resources, identifying risks and issues, using relevant project management tools. Finance Understand organisational governance and compliance, and how to deliver Value for Money. Know how to monitor budgets to ensure efficiencies and that costs do not overrun. Awareness of self Know how to be self-aware and understand unconscious bias and inclusivity. Understand learning styles, feedback mechanisms and how to use emotional intelligence Management of self Understand time management techniques and tools, and how to prioritise activities and approaches to planning Decision making Understand problem solving and decision making techniques, and how to analyse data to support decision making. (acquired and demonstrated through continuous professional development) Leading people Able to communicate organisation strategy and team purpose, and adapt style to suit the audience. Support the development of the team and people through coaching, role modelling values and behaviours, and managing change effectively. Managing people Able to build a high-performing team by supporting and developing individuals, and motivating them to achieve. Able to set operational and personal goals and objectives and monitor progress, providing clear guidance and feedback. Building relationships Building trust with and across the team, using effective negotiation and influencing skills, and managing any conflicts. Able to input to discussions and provide feedback (to team and more widely), and identify and share good practice across teams. Building relationships with customers and managing these effectively. Communication Able to communicate effectively (verbal, written, digital), chair meetings and present to team and management. Use of active listening and provision of constructive feedback. Operational management Able to communicate organisational strategy and deliver against operational plans, translating goals into deliverable actions for the team, and monitoring outcomes. Able to adapt to change, identifying challenges and solutions.  Ability to organise, prioritise and allocate work, and effectively use resources. Able to collate and analyse data, and create reports. Project management Able to organise, manage resources and risk, and monitor progress to deliver against the project plan.  Ability to use relevant project management tools, and take corrective action to ensure successful project delivery. Finance Applying organisational governance and compliance requirements to ensure effective budget controls. Self-awareness Able to reflect on own performance, seek feedback, understand why things happen, and make timely changes by applying learning from feedback received. Management of self Able to create an effective personal development plan, and use time management techniques to manage workload and pressure. Decision making Use of effective problem solving techniques to make decisions relating to delivery using information from the team and others, and able to escalate issues when required. (developed and exhibited in the workplace) Takes responsibility Drive to achieve in all aspects of work. Demonstrates resilience and accountability. Determination when managing difficult situations. Inclusive Open, approachable, authentic, and able to build trust with others.  Seeks views of others. Agile Flexible to the needs of the organisation. Is creative, innovative and enterprising when seeking solutions to business needs. Positive and adaptable, responds well to feedback and need for change. Professionalism Sets an example, and is fair, consistent and impartial.  Open and honest. Operates within organisational values Typically this apprenticeship will take 12 – 18 months Qu a l i fi cations Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the end-point assessment. P ro g r e ssion On completion, apprentices may choose to register as Associate Members with the Chartered Management Institute and/or the Institute of leadership and management, to support their professional career development and progression. Rev i e w date This standard should be reviewed within three years of its approval. Crown copyright © 2024. You may re-use this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence Team leader and supervisor assessment plan Find apprenticeship training providers that deliver this standard, find an end-point assessment organisation, are you considering applying to assess against this standard. If you are interested in becoming an apprentice - you can find out more at www.gov.uk becoming an apprentice. You can also search for an apprenticeship. For all other queries please contact us. If you are a potential employer - you can find out more about hiring apprentices at www.gov.uk/employinganapprentice. If you have a query about the apprenticeship standard content or Trailblazer membership the trailblazer contact for this standard is [email protected] [email protected] Print the occupational standard (including PDF) Version log. Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date Not set Not set Not set End-point assessment plan revised 25/06/2020 Not set Not set The funding band for this standard has been reviewed as part of the apprenticeship funding band review. The new funding band is £4500 04/03/2019 24/06/2020 Not set Retired 01/06/2016 03/03/2019 Not set Share this page Is this webpage useful, thank you for your feedback, tell us about your experience. 471 IMAGES The top 5 skills of a successful project manager Defining project management professional The Essential Project Management Certifications You Need to Advance 10 Essential Skills For Project Managers What Are Key Project Management Skills? Project Management Skills for Managing Large-Scale Projects VIDEO Project Management Career Case Study Introducing a project manager to a new remodel. 👷‍♂️👋 #homeremodeling Project Manager's Untold Truths How To Become A Successful Project Manager: Career-Defining Tips How To Become A Project Manager? Facility Management: Integrating People, Place, Process, and Technology COMMENTS How to Become a Project Manager: 6 Steps (2024) 3. Develop project management skills. It'll be a good idea to sharpen the technical and workplace skills involved in project management. Here are some skills commonly requested in project manager job descriptions: Risk management. Budgeting. Agile project management. Waterfall project management. Scrum. Project Management Professional (PMP)® Certification PMI, the world's leading authority on project management, created the PMP to recognize project managers who have proven they have project leadership experience and expertise in any way of working. To obtain PMP certification, a project manager must meet certain requirements and then pass a 180-question exam. The PMP exam was created by ... How To Become A Project Manager: A Step-By-Step Guide Effective managers can clearly articulate a project's goals and each team member's role in accomplishing those goals. Critical thinking. Critical thinking goes hand in hand with analysis ... How To Become a Project Manager in 7 Steps (Plus Salary) Develop ideas and turn them into actionable project plans. Devise a plan of action for the completion of a project and create specific tasks to complete. Form a team that handles project tasks. Oversee project teams and ensure all team members understand and fulfill their duties. Work with stakeholders that the project might affect. How to Apply for the PMP Certification The first step is confirming that you have the education, training, and on-the-job experience to qualify for the PMP exam. So, before you apply for the exam, make sure you meet one of the following sets of criteria: Four-Year College / University Degree. 36 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years. How to Get a PMP Certification: An Overview Industry recognition: The PMP certification can show employers or clients that you know the ins and outs of project management, and have the experience and training required of a professional. Learning new skills: You are also likely to learn a significant amount about project management as you prepare for the exam. How to become a project manager: the 2024 guide 2 pathways to becoming a project manager. As mentioned above, nowadays, there are two types of project manager positions: The "traditional" project manager: Someone who intentionally embarked on the project management career path and has a degree or qualification in project management. The "non-project-manager" project manager: Also known as an "accidental project manager." Become a Project Manager Learning and Professional Development. Focusing on specific skillsets, these PMI offerings help you learn, test and earn a digital badge to showcase your achievements. View Our Offerings. Explore PMI's certification framework and find out how getting certified can help you discover the next step on your journey to becoming a project manager. What's a Project Manager? And How to Become One 1. Earn a degree. Although it is possible to get a job as a project manager without a degree, you may find it helpful to have a degree in a related field. Each company sets its requirements for the position, and some companies accept field experience in place of a degree. How To Get PMP Certification: Is PMP Certification Worth It? According to PMI, PMP-certified professionals in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $123,000, compared to a median of $93,000 for their non-certified colleagues. This translates to a 32% ... PMP Certifications: What You Need to Know to Succeed Project Management Professional certification is not required for project managers, ... and either 35 hours of project-management education/training or a CAPM certification. If you don't have a ... How to Become A Project Manager [With & Without A Degree] Step 1: Start with Self-Assessment. Begin your journey to becoming a Project Manager with a self-assessment. Evaluate your current skills, interests, and experiences to understand how they align with project management roles. Starting with a self-assessment is crucial for aspiring Project Managers. How to Get a PMP® Certification: PMP Certification Process We recommend that you register to become a PMI member first. It costs $139 to become a PMI member, but you receive many discounts and perks in return: Save $150 on the PMP exam, as well as other PMI certification exams and training courses. The PMP exam costs $555 for non-members and costs $405 for members. How to Become a Project Manager How Long Does It Take to Become a Project Manager? Becoming a project manager generally takes 1-4 years, depending on the path. Earning a bachelor's degree in project management typically takes four years for full-time students. A project management certificate program often takes less than one year. Guide How to Become a Project Manager Step 3: Executing. After a full plan is drafted and approved, the project is ready to be executed. This involves completing the tasks needed to move the project forward, as well as hitting the key milestones documented in the project plan. Related: Essential Guides for Project Managers. Project Manager Job Requirements Eligibility requirements include a high school diploma or associate degree plus 23 hours of project management education. Project Management Professional, or PMP: Offered by PMI, the PMP certification program provides comprehensive education on all facets of project management. Certification requires passing a 200-question exam, three to five ... How to Become a Certified Project Manager Project manager certifications. To become a certified project manager, you will need to meet all experience and education requirements to apply for certification and pass the certification exam for the certification in which you are applying. It's helpful to review the requirements before applying. Some certifications require little to no ... How to Successfully Complete Your PMP Application PMI predicts that 25 million new project management employees will be needed by 2030 to meet global demand. You do not need to be a project manager to earn a PMP certification. However, you need to have project manager work experience, including the ability to provide a detailed project description of each effort and education related to ... How Long Does It Take To Get PMP Certification? Requirements ... Gain Professional Experience. If you haven't earned a four-year degree, you need to have 60 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years before you qualify for PMP ... Project Manager Education Requirements: Degrees, Majors, Colleges What level of education is required for Project Managers? 68% of Project Managers have a bachelor's degree, 29% major in business. Learn all about Project Manager educational requirements, degrees, majors, certifications, online courses, and top colleges that will help you advance in a Project Manager career. How to Become a Project Manager Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: While not mandatory, having a bachelor's degree in a related field such as business, management, engineering, or information technology is advantageous. 2. Gain Relevant Experience. Entry-Level Positions: Start your career in entry-level roles such as project coordinator, team member, or assistant project manager to ... Certified Associate in Project Management Being a Certified Associate Project Manager (CAPM) ® certification holder contributes to career opportunities at entry and associate levels, such as project coordinator and junior project manager. Earning your CAPM certification means automatically meeting the 35 hours of project management education and training required to sit for the PMP exam. What Is a Project Manager? A Career Guide A project manager is a professional who organizes, plans, and executes projects while working within restraints like budgets and schedules. Project managers lead entire teams, define project goals, communicate with stakeholders, and see a project through to its closure. Whether running a marketing campaign, constructing a building, developing a ... Project Management Professional Exam Preparation This course is designed for current Project Manager and other Project Leaders with at least 3 years of project management experience. Participants must complete the entire 36 hour program to meet the PMI training hours required to be eligible for the PMP Certification. Strategy Essentials of Project Management Certificate In order to offer a richer student experience, maximize program knowledge and offer our project management expertise to a greater audience, the University of Chicago Professional Education has merged its Essentials of Project Management and Project Management Strategy certificates into a robust, new program, Strategy Essentials of Project Management. Project Manager in Alexandria, VA for National PACE Association Requirements . Education. Bachelor's degree in health-related field required . Experience. Minimum of two (2) years of applicable experience supporting project planning and coordination. Minimum of two (2) years of experience utilizing Microsoft Office products including Outlook, Excel, and Word. Experience facilitating virtual meetings. PMI PDU Requirements I need to earn 15 professional development units in a three-year cycle. If you hold a Certified Associate in Project Management Professional (CAPM) ® certification, you are required to earn 15 PDUs in a 3-year cycle. These 15 PDUs can be further broken down as follows: Minimum of 9 Education PDUs. Maximum of 6 Giving Back PDUs. Team leader or supervisor Project management. Able to organise, manage resources and risk, and monitor progress to deliver against the project plan. Ability to use relevant project management tools, and take corrective action to ensure successful project delivery. Finance. Applying organisational governance and compliance requirements to ensure effective budget controls. Do I Need a Project Management Degree? Yes. There's no requirement for what kind of degree you need to have to become a project manager. Some places may state a preference for a certain type of degree, especially if the work you'll be doing requires specialty knowledge—being a project manager in construction, for example, might require a degree in civil engineering ... CBRE Group (CBRE) to Merge its Project Management Business CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE recently announced its plan to combine its Project Management business with Turner & Townsend. Subject to satisfaction of regulatory and other customary conditions, as well ... assignment essay homework paper phd report review speech thesis