Project Management Majors Guide

What Does it Mean to Study Project Management?

A project manager undertakes specific projects and is responsible for all aspects of its completion. Pursuing a project management degree adds to your natural talent for organization, time management, attention to detail, persistence, interpersonal communication, and ability to adapt to problems and changing priorities.

Being a project manager is about directing the success of one particular project using a set of polished skills, practical experience, and proven methodology. As a project management major, it is your responsibility to set forth clear and authoritative directions, create timelines for your projects, gather materials and resources, and forecast and plan for any unseen glitches.

Types of Project Management Degrees

Project management degree programs can be found at all degree levels, both in traditional on-campus settings and in more technological online settings. These programs usually focus on the five processes of project management: initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing. Other topics of study may include human resources, communications, risk management, and procurement.

The minimum level of education for most careers in project management is typically considered to be a bachelor’s degree with some type of business focus. Industry professionals are increasingly turning to online degrees in project management and related specializations. Online degrees allow students to earn a degree at their own convenience, without having to take time off work. They also give working adults the opportunity to immediately apply the lessons learned to the workplace. Thus, employees may be encouraged to pursue an online project management degree so that their newly acquired knowledge can be immediately put to use on the job.

What Can You Do With a College Degree in Project Management?

A project management degree is extremely versatile and can be applied towards any larger organization where teams are assembled to handle unique, goal-specific projects. Positions can be found in almost any industry, but in most cases, industry-specific training and education is required. Average salaries reflect this level of expertise but will vary by job field and location.

Because the field is so vast and diverse, it is impossible to list all of the different career options available to a project management major. Prior work experience as well as an educational background in a specific industry is usually required prior to assuming project management duties. Here are just a few of the job titles commonly available to those with project management degrees.

Construction Managers

Construction managers are in charge of planning and supervising all areas of a construction project. These might include projects for individuals, corporations, or other private or public organizations. Some of their duties include making estimates, supervising budgets, scheduling, and ensuring that all local codes and legal requirements are observed. Additionally, construction managers interact closely with other construction specialists like electricians, architects, stonemasons, engineers, and carpenters.

• Minimum Educational Requirement: Although extensive work experience may be acceptable in some cases, larger construction firms usually prefer to hire construction managers with at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Special Certifications or Licensures: Construction managers may be required to attain licensure in some states. Certification is typically not required but can be an important factor for career advancement. Designations such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Certified Professional Constructor (CPC), and the Associate Constructor (AC) are available.

Computer and Information Systems Managers

Computer and information systems managers are responsible for planning and coordinating the computer operations of an organization or business. Commonly called IT project managers, typical duties include assessing their company’s computer needs, planning for the implementation of new computer-related hardware or software, and performing a cost-benefit analysis of their recommendations. They may also negotiate with vendors and be tasked with managing other IT professionals throughout the organization.

• Minimum Educational Requirement: Most computer and information systems managers are required to have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science plus the requisite work experience needed to succeed. Some positions may require a master’s degree.
• Special Certifications or Licensures: Generally, special certifications or licensure is not required.

Logisticians

A logistician is a professional in charge of getting a company’s product to consumers. They may be tasked with managing the entire supply chain, from acquisition and distribution to product delivery. Logisticians design systems to decrease costs and delivery times, then analyze those systems and search for ways to improve efficiency. They also direct how the company allocates the various resources they have at their disposal.

• Minimum Educational Requirement: Although some positions may be available to those with associate degrees, logisticians are usually expected to hold a bachelor’s degree. Related work experience may also be a prerequisite to employment.
• Special Certifications and Licensures: Certifications are available through the International Society of Logistics and the APICS, although they are not normally required.

Management Analysts

A management analysts consults with an organization’s management team in an attempt to help the organization become more efficient and increase profits. They typically analyze a variety financial reports, observe company processes, and interview employees. After organizing the data they have collected, they make recommendations to management about improving company efficiency and ideas for solving any pain points.

• Minimum Educational Requirement: Management analysts often specialize in a particular area of interest and expertise. While these vary widely, a bachelor’s degree is commonly expected for entry-level employment. Master’s degrees in business administration or related fields may be preferred by some employers.
• Special Certifications and Licensures: Although not required, those seeking a competitive edge in the marketplace may consider pursuing professional certification, such as the Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation.

Sales Managers

Sales managers lead the sales team of their respective organizations. They approve expenditures for their team members, prepare budgets for their department, and analyze relevant sales statistics. Sales managers may also be expected to motivate and train their company’s sales staff.

• Minimum Educational Requirement: A bachelor’s degree plus relevant work experience is usually required for sales management positions.
• Special Certifications and Licensures: Certifications and licensing requirements vary by industry.

Project Management Salaries and Career Outlook Data

Project Management Associations and Organizations

Project management professionals can join a variety of organizations that can supply them with various resources and opportunities for professional development. Some of these organizations include:

• International Project Management Association (IPMA) – Founded in 1965, the IPMA claims to be the world’s first project management association. They offer opportunities for continuing education and training, as well as a four-level certification system.
• Project Management Institute (PMI) – This organization advocates to advance the project management profession on a global scale. They also offer several professional certifications, including the Project Management Professional (PMP) designation.
• International Association of Project Managers (IAPM) – The main focus of the IAPM is to promote competence in project management. They also offer several levels of professional certification.