From inception to completion, projects in the business world require a lot of work. You can find project managers in construction, interior design, information technology and elsewhere, each with their own set of specialized roles. For example, an IT project manager opening a new overseas office for an employer should be able to create schedules, budgets and requirements for server shipments, VoIP clients and wiring setup. Online project management degrees help you learn to multitask efficiently while wearing all these different hats.
How to become a project manager
Training to become a project manager typically requires an advanced education in your chosen field. Online project management degree programs can be paired with existing education and experience, leading to managerial roles. Specializing in project management typically means earning a master's degree, though online project management degrees may also be available as certificates, associate degrees or bachelor's degree programs. Project management certification is also available at the graduate level.
In the business world, the MBA sets the gold standard for graduate-level training, and increasingly, MBA programs are incorporating project management programs into their curricula. Online project management degree programs can help new graduates arrives on the job ready to demonstrate leadership, problem-solving and critical thinking.
Career outlook and salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports wages from popular careers across industries where project managers can be found. Here are just a few mean annual wages from 2010:
- Computer and information systems managers: $123,280
- Construction managers: $94,240
- Engineering managers: $125,900
- Industrial production managers: $95,660
Career growth for project managers should follow industry trends. Notable growth is projected for computer and information systems managers, which should see about 49,500 new jobs enter the industry between 2008 and 2018, according to the BLS.
What is the future of project management?
The Project Management Institute argues that the business world is growing increasingly defined by its projects, making professional project managers a hot commodity across industries. As employers look for new hires with the ability to identify problems, implement change and manage budgets, project managers are poised to play an expanding role in businesses across the globe.
From inception to completion, projects in the business world require a lot of work. You can find project managers in construction, interior design, information technology and elsewhere, each with their own set of specialized roles. For example, an IT project manager opening a new overseas office for an employer should …
