Project Management Degree Overview

Project management is defined as the planning, organizing, and managing of specific business projects. Project managers are responsible for managing projects by organizing and overseeing individuals or departments to make sure that all tasks are completed on time and within the budget scope. They set goals, define budgets, create schedules, and coordinate the activities of the group. While managers oversee specific functions within a business, project managers are responsible for all aspects of a specific project. Project managers have opportunities in a variety of different companies and non-profit agencies, but often specialize in one field, such as information technology, engineering, business, or human resources. As organizations face greater pressures to control costs, ensure quality and meet timelines, qualified project managers are in greater demand than ever. Project managers are highly sought-after by large corporations, entrepreneurial companies and government agencies to standardize processes, optimize teamwork and streamline the tasks necessary to complete a project in the most effective and efficient manner. A degree in project management is ideal for individuals who want to be their own boss, who are assertive, detail-oriented, responsible, organized, dependable, who have excellent time management skills, who are able to work with others in a team environment and who can make effective management decisions. Nearly all jobs in the field of project management require a minimum of a bachelor's degree.

Project Management Degree Coursework

Students pursuing a degree in project management typically specialize in one or more fields. The most popular fields include human resources, engineering, information technology and business. Coursework provides a solid understanding and working knowledge of the latest principles, tactics and tools being deployed in this dynamic field. Students apply analytical, communication, problem-solving and leadership skills to the challenge of planning, managing and completing complex projects on time and on budget. A degree in project management may include classes in leadership, risk analysis, finance and accounting, project development, time management, supply chain management, contracts and acquisitions, human resource management, time management, effective decision making, industry and manufacturing, leadership and management skills as well as organization and team building. Since students will be entering various types of careers as project managers, elective classes will allow them to specialize in areas of interest including computer technology, marketing and sales, retail management, Nursing Degree">healthcare management, manufacturing and industry or distribution and supply. Some students may also complete additional training in accounting, finance, risk assessment and analysis and grant writing and funding development. Conflict management, negotiation and mediation skills may also be included throughout the training to provide graduates with the tools that they will need to be effective project managers. Several programs are designed to help prepare students for the nationally recognized Project Manager Professional (PMP) certifying examination granted by the Project Management Institute.

Career Opportunities in Project Management

Career opportunities for project managers exist in a wide range of fields, including technology, engineering, graphic design, fashion design, interior design, real estate, manufacturing, construction, biotech, pharmaceuticals and architecture.The universal goal of a project manager is to ensure the success of a project by minimizing risk throughout the cycle of the project.Typical duties of project managers include the development of budgets, requirements, timelines and schedules for their firms' projects. They coordinate each project from development through implementation, working with internal employees, external vendors, clients and consultants, etc. Additionally, project managers may be responsible for launching new products, developing new technologies or managing alliances with existing partners. Project managers who work for consultancy agencies may be hired by banks or insurance companies to implement new practices in branch offices, or high-tech companies may hire them to oversee the launch of a new product.One example of a project manager is an architectural project manager who may work closely with construction project managers on the overall project, while still coordinating the work of his or her design team.

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