Businesses across a wide range of industries rely on knowledgeable and experienced project management professionals to help them tackle important projects from start to finish. If you are ready to advance your education in project management and explore new opportunities in this dynamic and fast-paced field, then you may be wondering what your next step should be.
You do not necessarily have to spend years in a graduate degree program to expand upon foundational project management skills and knowledge. Instead, you may want to consider getting your graduate certificate in project management online.
With a better understanding of what successful project management entails and what to expect from a certificate course in project management, you may decide whether this path aligns with your unique interests and career goals.
Understanding the Basics of Project Management
No matter if you are looking to make a career pivot or simply enhance your skill set in your current role, it is essential to understand the basics of project management and what this type of work entails. While project managers may not have the exact same roles and responsibilities from one employer to the next, their basic goal remains the same: to successfully execute all aspects of a project from the earliest stages to completion (and, in some cases, beyond).
The Role of a Project Manager
Project managers are hired by companies of many sizes and industries to oversee and manage the details of a project. This includes meeting with decision-makers and stakeholders early on to plan its details and goals, leading and coordinating project teams, and deciding on a budget for the project.
Likewise, project managers are responsible for clearly communicating responsibilities and expectations with team members while keeping everybody on the same page. Throughout the project, these professionals must also be in constant communication with team members regarding project timelines and deadlines — resolving issues as they arise and making sure that team members have access to the resources they need to do their jobs.
Key Concepts in Project Management
Although project managers generally have the same goals and similar responsibilities, they may rely on different methods, strategies, and concepts to carry out their work. Some key concepts for project managers to understand and apply in their work include:
- Risk management, or identifying potential risks before a project begins to proactively avoid issues down the road and keep projects running as smoothly as possible.
- Project lifecycle management, or understanding the typical phases of a project. These may vary from one project to the next but typically include identifying goals/outcomes, assessing the need for resources, executing the project, monitoring progress, and project completion.
- “The Four Cs” of successful project management (communication, collaboration, compassion, and commitment).
Preparing for Your Project Management Certificate Course
Students enrolled in a project management certificate program may expect to learn about the above concepts and more that help equip them for the realities and complexities of working in this field. As you prepare to start your project management certificate program, keep in mind the following as well:
Essential Equipment and Resources
First, check your program curriculum to make sure you have access to the equipment and resources you need to succeed in your courses. If you are pursuing an online program, having access to a reliable internet connection and device (like a laptop or other personal computer) is especially essential. A steady internet connection is needed to stream course lectures and access other important material. Plus, your device may need to meet certain hardware requirements to run specific programs and/or applications (such as project management software).
Setting Up Your Study Space
Students enrolled in an online certificate program in project management are also strongly encouraged to set up a dedicated study space within their homes. Regardless of whether you enroll part- or full-time, you will be committing many hours to coursework and studying per week — so having a space that is conducive to focusing is critical.
Ideally, your study space should be in a quiet room or area of your home with access to the internet and your device of choice. Having a desk is also recommended, giving you a dedicated space to study and keep all your supplies organized (such as study guides, assigned readings, and other course materials).
Study spaces should be free of distractions as much as possible. Some students, for example, may prefer to put their phones on silent or “do not disturb” mode when they are studying or completing online coursework. Doing so could help you focus and make the most of your study time.
Other considerations to keep in mind when setting up a study space for your online certificate program include:
- Lighting, the right amount of natural lighting and task lighting can go a long way.
- Organization, which may help you find course materials when needed and cut down on wasted time.
- Furniture, including an ergonomic desk and chair that helps you stay comfortable and supported while you work and study.
A Beginner’s Guide to Excelling in Project Management Courses
Now that you have an idea of the materials and tools you will need for your project management certificate program, here are a few additional tips and best practices to help you prepare:
What You Will Need to Get Started
The exact materials you need to start your program will vary, so be sure to check your program guide for specific details. In addition to a reliable device and internet connection, however, you may also be expected to purchase subscriptions to certain project management software. Most institutions use a dedicated online learning platform (such as Blackboard or Moodle), so it is helpful to become familiar with your school’s chosen platform before your first day of classes.
In addition, many students like to have some basic supplies, including notebooks, pens, and headphones (for blocking out distractions). Depending on whether your courses meet synchronously (in real-time), you may also need to have access to a webcam and/or microphone.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tackling the Course Material
Once you have the materials you need to get started, it is time to embark on your graduate certificate program with confidence.
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself With the Course Structure
First, take the time to understand the types of courses you will be completing. Some online courses are synchronous, meaning you meet with your instructors and classmates in real-time. These classes typically have set meeting dates and times per week, with discussions taking place on a live video chat or voice call.
For asynchronous classes, on the other hand, you do not have set meeting dates and times. Instead, these classes may rely on discussion boards, emails, and other methods of communication. These types of classes tend to be ideal for students who want to be able to work at their own pace and need more flexibility with their schedules.
Step 2: Develop a Study Plan and Schedule
No matter what your courses look like, it is imperative that you develop a realistic study plan. Remember that for every credit hour you are taking, you should expect to spend at least two hours per work studying outside of your dedicated class time. Many students find success in creating a detailed schedule with study time blocked out each day to help them stick to their plan and avoid overwhelm.
Step 3: Engage Actively With the Course Community
Whether you are involved in synchronous or asynchronous courses, you should engage with your peers and instructors as much as possible. The more you ask questions and discuss the course material, the more you may improve your own comprehension while building professional relationships with others in the field.
Step 4: Apply Project Management Tools and Techniques in Simulations
As part of your program, you may have the opportunity to engage in simulations. These are designed to mimic real-world projects and scenarios as closely as possible and could be an excellent chance to put some of the more abstract theories and concepts from your project management coursework into practice.
Step 5: Prepare for Exams With Practice Tests
Practice tests can be an ideal way for you to prepare for real exams, whether these exams are part of your program or part of an advanced certification. By taking a practice test and reviewing your scores, you may be able to determine which areas of project management you have mastered and which you may still need additional studying and review. From there, you may be able to better prepare for your actual exam and increase your chances of passing with flying colors.
Advancing Your Skills Beyond the Basics
As you progress in your project management certificate program, you will learn about different skills and project management strategies frequently used in the field. A central part of building upon your project management skills is finding opportunities to apply what you are learning in the classroom to real-world settings while proactively building a portfolio of your work.
Applying Theory to Real-World Scenarios
Project management concepts and methodologies (such as Kanban and Scrum) may seem abstract until applied in real-life scenarios. Whether you are managing workplace projects or integrating different methodologies into classroom assignments, hands-on experience helps solidify your understanding. Actively practicing these theories enhances your grasp of the concepts, making them more tangible and easier to comprehend.
Building a Portfolio of Project Work
While in a project management certificate program, it is also wise to proactively build a portfolio of your work along the way. The projects and assignments that you complete as part of your program could be helpful when it comes time to apply and interview for work opportunities down the road. Specifically, look for projects and other work that demonstrate your understanding of critical project management strategies/methodologies, including case studies and team projects.
Networking and Career Advancement Opportunities
Having a graduate certificate in project management will not automatically land you a job or promotion in the field, but you should still set out to combine your certificate with a strong professional network to better yourself in the field.
Joining Professional Project Management Communities
Within the field of project management, there are a number of reputable communities and organizations, including:
- The Project Management Institute (PMI)
- The Digital Project Manager (DPM)
- The International Project Management Association (IPMA)
Joining a professional association is a great way to connect with like-minded professionals in your field while also exploring opportunities to advance your learning and stay on top of industry trends. Although association membership typically does cost an annual or monthly fee — and there may be strict requirements to join (or maintain a membership) — many project management professionals belong to at least one of these groups.
Attending Workshops and Seminars
As a project management professional, it is also crucial to commit to a lifetime of learning and professional development. Project managers are never truly “done” learning, as the industry is constantly evolving and growing. Even after you complete your certificate program, you may want to specialize your skills and knowledge even further by attending special workshops, courses, seminars, and other industry events.
Explore Post University’s Project Management Graduate Certificate
Already have a bachelor’s degree under your belt and looking to advance your understanding of project management? Earning your certificate in project management online could be your next move. At Post University, our Graduate Certificate in Project Management is offered 100% online for your convenience and flexibility, so you may work toward your certificate at your own pace without putting your other obligations on hold.
Students in this certificate program have the opportunity to develop expertise in building project-focused teams, manage project cycle risks, and cultivate management and leadership approaches while receiving support from a dedicated team of advisors along the way. Want to learn more? Request further information or get started with your online application for admission today!
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