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What should be my major and certification pathway if I want to become a project manager?
I'm going to my freshman year of college next year and I don't really know what to study or how to begin project management.
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Lisa’s Answer
Biplab's answer is spot on - a range of college majors can set you up for success as a project manager. However, honing your problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and leadership potential is crucial. My own journey began with a double major in Communications, specifically Speech Communication and Mass Communication, but my career kicked off in customer service. Starting from the bottom in a corporate environment, particularly in customer service, is a fantastic way to understand a company's products thoroughly. This understanding forms a solid foundation for transitioning into Product Management. Effective communication is key to corporate success, and it's particularly vital in Project and Product Management.
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
Hi Maxwell.
As someone who has been involved in project management for my entire career and now work as an Engagement Director aligned to my company's PMO (Project Management Office), happy to chime in here!
I don't believe a specific major is strictly necessary to have a shot at project management opportunities, but Economics, Computer Science (if interested in IT project management), Business Administration, or any Engineering discipline would be helpful (I was an Econ major!). Effective project management is about problem solving, leadership, and analysis, so choosing a major where those skills are developed will be helpful.
One piece of advice, at least in an IT project management context. I think it'd be difficult to graduate from college and immediately become a project manager. The team would be looking to you for leadership and expertise in an area, but why should they follow you if you haven't gained subject matter expertise in even one area of the project work that you are intending to lead?
What I mean by this is that before you truly become project management material, you may consider spending some time as a business analyst, engineer, or other core role in a project team for 2-3 years so you can gain a deeper understanding of the work done by the teams that you eventually plan to manage. I myself worked as a business analyst for 2 years before transitioning to project management, and this enabled to me to be more effective because the team could trust my input.
While you are working in those other roles, you should volunteer for and assist in even a part-time basis in "PMO Analyst" type capacities where possible to shadow and work with the main project manager for the project you are working on and this will give you the ability to learn and work on project management type activities such as status reporting, project information gathering, analysis and reporting, and budget review. This will also enable you to still work on PM activities even when your main role is something else.
With respect to certifications, consider some "easier" certifications first such as CAPM (certified associate in project management), CSM (Certified Scrum Master), etc. while building years of experience. After working as a project manager for 3+ years, you will be eligible to take the PMP (Project Management Professional) exam and obtain that certification, which is the industry standard.
Hope this information helps, but please let me know if you have any questions.
Good luck!
As someone who has been involved in project management for my entire career and now work as an Engagement Director aligned to my company's PMO (Project Management Office), happy to chime in here!
I don't believe a specific major is strictly necessary to have a shot at project management opportunities, but Economics, Computer Science (if interested in IT project management), Business Administration, or any Engineering discipline would be helpful (I was an Econ major!). Effective project management is about problem solving, leadership, and analysis, so choosing a major where those skills are developed will be helpful.
One piece of advice, at least in an IT project management context. I think it'd be difficult to graduate from college and immediately become a project manager. The team would be looking to you for leadership and expertise in an area, but why should they follow you if you haven't gained subject matter expertise in even one area of the project work that you are intending to lead?
What I mean by this is that before you truly become project management material, you may consider spending some time as a business analyst, engineer, or other core role in a project team for 2-3 years so you can gain a deeper understanding of the work done by the teams that you eventually plan to manage. I myself worked as a business analyst for 2 years before transitioning to project management, and this enabled to me to be more effective because the team could trust my input.
While you are working in those other roles, you should volunteer for and assist in even a part-time basis in "PMO Analyst" type capacities where possible to shadow and work with the main project manager for the project you are working on and this will give you the ability to learn and work on project management type activities such as status reporting, project information gathering, analysis and reporting, and budget review. This will also enable you to still work on PM activities even when your main role is something else.
With respect to certifications, consider some "easier" certifications first such as CAPM (certified associate in project management), CSM (Certified Scrum Master), etc. while building years of experience. After working as a project manager for 3+ years, you will be eligible to take the PMP (Project Management Professional) exam and obtain that certification, which is the industry standard.
Hope this information helps, but please let me know if you have any questions.
Good luck!
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Maxwell, if you're aiming for a career in project management, here's a clear and simple guide for you:
Firstly, while there's no specific "best" major for project management, these fields can give you a strong base:
1. Business Administration
2. Management
3. Operations Management
4. Various Engineering disciplines
5. Information Technology
6. Computer Science
These majors will equip you with important skills like leadership, problem-solving, and understanding organizational principles.
Here's a step-by-step route you can follow:
1. In college, you should seek internships or part-time jobs related to project roles; lead projects in student organizations for hands-on experience; and think about a minor in a field that complements your major (like business for engineering students)
2. Get an entry-level certification in Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from PMI. This is perfect for beginners with little or no experience and you need a high school diploma and 23 hours of project management education
3. Gain professional experience by spending 2-3 years in roles related to projects
4. Go for an advanced certification like Project Management Professional (PMP) from PMI, which is highly recognized and respected. You need a four-year degree, 36 months of leading projects, and 35 hours of project management education
5. Keep learning and get specialized certifications based on your industry or preferred methodology (like Agile, Scrum, PRINCE2). You should also attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to stay current with industry trends
Remember, Maxwell, in project management, practical experience is key. Always work on improving your leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills during your education and early career.
Firstly, while there's no specific "best" major for project management, these fields can give you a strong base:
1. Business Administration
2. Management
3. Operations Management
4. Various Engineering disciplines
5. Information Technology
6. Computer Science
These majors will equip you with important skills like leadership, problem-solving, and understanding organizational principles.
Here's a step-by-step route you can follow:
1. In college, you should seek internships or part-time jobs related to project roles; lead projects in student organizations for hands-on experience; and think about a minor in a field that complements your major (like business for engineering students)
2. Get an entry-level certification in Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from PMI. This is perfect for beginners with little or no experience and you need a high school diploma and 23 hours of project management education
3. Gain professional experience by spending 2-3 years in roles related to projects
4. Go for an advanced certification like Project Management Professional (PMP) from PMI, which is highly recognized and respected. You need a four-year degree, 36 months of leading projects, and 35 hours of project management education
5. Keep learning and get specialized certifications based on your industry or preferred methodology (like Agile, Scrum, PRINCE2). You should also attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to stay current with industry trends
Remember, Maxwell, in project management, practical experience is key. Always work on improving your leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills during your education and early career.
Updated
Veronica’s Answer
Hello Maxwell,
Biplab shared some excellent suggestions regarding supplementary academic paths. I would like to add, consider immersing yourself in campus groups and take the initiative to spearhead projects within these groups. This will not only provide you with valuable experience but also help you grow as a leader.
Internships can also offer you golden opportunities to manage projects and acquire hands-on experience. Make sure to keep a record of the time you spend managing these projects, the tasks you accomplish, and the results you achieve.
Such documentation will not only support your journey towards project management certification but can also serve as practical examples in your interviews for internships, graduate roles, or post-graduate positions. This hands-on experience can set you apart from other candidates. So, go ahead, seize these opportunities, and pave the way for your bright future!
Biplab shared some excellent suggestions regarding supplementary academic paths. I would like to add, consider immersing yourself in campus groups and take the initiative to spearhead projects within these groups. This will not only provide you with valuable experience but also help you grow as a leader.
Internships can also offer you golden opportunities to manage projects and acquire hands-on experience. Make sure to keep a record of the time you spend managing these projects, the tasks you accomplish, and the results you achieve.
Such documentation will not only support your journey towards project management certification but can also serve as practical examples in your interviews for internships, graduate roles, or post-graduate positions. This hands-on experience can set you apart from other candidates. So, go ahead, seize these opportunities, and pave the way for your bright future!
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you want to become a project manager. Project Manager can be in different field, eg Technology, Civil engineering, etc Suggest you can start on the industry you have interest first and then take Project Management training
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related industry
Eg if you like maths, would you like to work in finance, engineering, technology, etc
2. Find out more in these industries and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these industries. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 industry you have interest
5. Find out the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
6. You can attend the project management courses like professional project management (PMP), Agile, PRINCE, etc.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related industry
Eg if you like maths, would you like to work in finance, engineering, technology, etc
2. Find out more in these industries and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these industries. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 industry you have interest
5. Find out the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
6. You can attend the project management courses like professional project management (PMP), Agile, PRINCE, etc.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Brian’s Answer
It is very difficult to manage any kind project unless you know the details of the area of the project. This is called domain knowledge. For example: you cannot manage a software project before you are a top software developer. Typical career path would be programmer, senior software developer, software architect, team leader.
So first, choose your domain, for example which area of engineering? Software, aerospace, etc.
In college, your department or another department such as the business school should offer some kind of training in project management but college courses are not as good as on the job experience. Can do some things on your own:
1. Search for books on Amazon "project management".
2. Also look for books on "program management". I like this book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0566088827
3. Learn a project management tool such as JIRA heavily used in software. Amazon has books on JIRA.
4. When doing project in school, plan out the steps and try to devise a schedule for how long each step will take. Don't be surpised if you are way off. It is difficult to plan ahead and create an accurate timeline. There are many project management tools, usually expensive, but you can do a decent job with an ordinary spreadsheet.
So first, choose your domain, for example which area of engineering? Software, aerospace, etc.
In college, your department or another department such as the business school should offer some kind of training in project management but college courses are not as good as on the job experience. Can do some things on your own:
1. Search for books on Amazon "project management".
2. Also look for books on "program management". I like this book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0566088827
3. Learn a project management tool such as JIRA heavily used in software. Amazon has books on JIRA.
4. When doing project in school, plan out the steps and try to devise a schedule for how long each step will take. Don't be surpised if you are way off. It is difficult to plan ahead and create an accurate timeline. There are many project management tools, usually expensive, but you can do a decent job with an ordinary spreadsheet.
Updated
Denise’s Answer
To become a project manager, you can take several educational and certification pathways. Here are some recommendations for both your major and certification pathway:
Educational Pathway:
1. Undergraduate Degree:
- Business Administration: A general business degree can give you a broad understanding of business operations.
- Management: Focuses specifically on management principles, leadership, and organizational behavior.
- Engineering: If you are interested in technical project management, an engineering degree can be beneficial.
- Information Technology (IT): For IT project management, a degree in IT or computer science is advantageous.
2. Graduate Degree (Optional but Beneficial):
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA with a concentration in project management.
- Master's in Project Management: Specialized programs are available that focus solely on project management principles and practices.
Certification Pathway:
1. Project Management Professional (PMP):
- Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), PMP is one of the most recognized certifications in the field.
- Requirements: Typically requires a combination of education and project management experience. For example, a four-year degree along with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education/training.
2. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM):
- Also offered by PMI, this certification is ideal for those who are new to project management.
- Requirements: High school diploma, associate's degree, or global equivalent and 23 hours of project management education.
3. Agile Certifications:
- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Offered by Scrum Alliance, it is ideal if you are interested in Agile project management methodologies.
- PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP): Offered by PMI, it covers various Agile methodologies.
4. PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments):
- A process-based method for effective project management, widely recognized in the UK and internationally.
- Foundation and Practitioner levels: These certifications are available for different levels of expertise and experience.
5. Other Certifications:
- CompTIA Project+: A good entry-level certification for those looking to understand project management fundamentals.
- Six Sigma Certifications: Such as Green Belt or Black Belt, useful for project managers involved in process improvement projects.
Additional Recommendations:
- Gaining Experience: Practical experience is invaluable. Look for internships, co-ops, or entry-level positions that allow you to work on projects.
- Networking: Join professional organizations such as PMI to network with other project managers and stay updated with industry trends.
- Continuing Education: Many universities and online platforms offer courses and workshops in project management.
Best of luck to you in your education and career!
Educational Pathway:
1. Undergraduate Degree:
- Business Administration: A general business degree can give you a broad understanding of business operations.
- Management: Focuses specifically on management principles, leadership, and organizational behavior.
- Engineering: If you are interested in technical project management, an engineering degree can be beneficial.
- Information Technology (IT): For IT project management, a degree in IT or computer science is advantageous.
2. Graduate Degree (Optional but Beneficial):
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA with a concentration in project management.
- Master's in Project Management: Specialized programs are available that focus solely on project management principles and practices.
Certification Pathway:
1. Project Management Professional (PMP):
- Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), PMP is one of the most recognized certifications in the field.
- Requirements: Typically requires a combination of education and project management experience. For example, a four-year degree along with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education/training.
2. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM):
- Also offered by PMI, this certification is ideal for those who are new to project management.
- Requirements: High school diploma, associate's degree, or global equivalent and 23 hours of project management education.
3. Agile Certifications:
- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Offered by Scrum Alliance, it is ideal if you are interested in Agile project management methodologies.
- PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP): Offered by PMI, it covers various Agile methodologies.
4. PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments):
- A process-based method for effective project management, widely recognized in the UK and internationally.
- Foundation and Practitioner levels: These certifications are available for different levels of expertise and experience.
5. Other Certifications:
- CompTIA Project+: A good entry-level certification for those looking to understand project management fundamentals.
- Six Sigma Certifications: Such as Green Belt or Black Belt, useful for project managers involved in process improvement projects.
Additional Recommendations:
- Gaining Experience: Practical experience is invaluable. Look for internships, co-ops, or entry-level positions that allow you to work on projects.
- Networking: Join professional organizations such as PMI to network with other project managers and stay updated with industry trends.
- Continuing Education: Many universities and online platforms offer courses and workshops in project management.
Best of luck to you in your education and career!
Updated
Vrunda’s Answer
Dear Maxwell,
It's heartening to see you taking proactive steps towards planning your future and being thoughtful about selecting your major. As an Environmental Engineer, I can share that the journey to becoming a project manager in this field typically spans between 5 to 7 years, sometimes even longer, post-completion of a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or engineering.
When it comes to deciding on your major, I found the Google Project Management Course on Coursera to be a valuable resource. This course provides a comprehensive overview of project management, including the differences between technical and non-technical project management. It could guide you in aligning your major choice with your career aspirations, while also offering insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of a project manager.
Although the course requires a premium subscription, it offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace. If you commit to studying daily, you could potentially complete it within two months. This course was instrumental in clarifying many aspects of Project Management for me, and I hope it proves equally beneficial for you.
Wishing you the very best in your future endeavors!
Vrunda
It's heartening to see you taking proactive steps towards planning your future and being thoughtful about selecting your major. As an Environmental Engineer, I can share that the journey to becoming a project manager in this field typically spans between 5 to 7 years, sometimes even longer, post-completion of a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or engineering.
When it comes to deciding on your major, I found the Google Project Management Course on Coursera to be a valuable resource. This course provides a comprehensive overview of project management, including the differences between technical and non-technical project management. It could guide you in aligning your major choice with your career aspirations, while also offering insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of a project manager.
Although the course requires a premium subscription, it offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace. If you commit to studying daily, you could potentially complete it within two months. This course was instrumental in clarifying many aspects of Project Management for me, and I hope it proves equally beneficial for you.
Wishing you the very best in your future endeavors!
Vrunda
Updated
Hakeem Ola’s Answer
To become a project manager, choosing the right major and certification pathway is key. Here are some common majors and certifications that can help you enter the field
Majors
Business Administration: Provides a broad understanding of business operations, management strategies, and leadership skills.
Project Management: Some schools offer specialized degrees in project management, which cover essential skills in planning, executing, and managing projects.
Engineering: Engineering management or related fields are great for those wanting to manage technical or construction projects.
Information Technology (IT): Ideal if you want to manage IT projects, ensuring you understand both the technical aspects and management skills.
Operations Management: Focuses on the efficient operation of businesses and managing processes.
Communication or Organizational Leadership: Helps with managing teams and projects effectively through good leadership and communication skills.
Certifications
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Entry-level certification offered by PMI (Project Management Institute). It’s ideal if you’re just starting out in project management.
Project Management Professional (PMP): Globally recognized certification, also from PMI, that requires experience in leading projects and a more comprehensive understanding of project management.
Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP): Focuses on Agile project management methodologies, useful in industries like software development.
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Ideal for managing Agile teams, commonly used in tech industries.
PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments): This is a popular project management methodology, widely used in Europe and other regions.
Majors
Business Administration: Provides a broad understanding of business operations, management strategies, and leadership skills.
Project Management: Some schools offer specialized degrees in project management, which cover essential skills in planning, executing, and managing projects.
Engineering: Engineering management or related fields are great for those wanting to manage technical or construction projects.
Information Technology (IT): Ideal if you want to manage IT projects, ensuring you understand both the technical aspects and management skills.
Operations Management: Focuses on the efficient operation of businesses and managing processes.
Communication or Organizational Leadership: Helps with managing teams and projects effectively through good leadership and communication skills.
Certifications
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Entry-level certification offered by PMI (Project Management Institute). It’s ideal if you’re just starting out in project management.
Project Management Professional (PMP): Globally recognized certification, also from PMI, that requires experience in leading projects and a more comprehensive understanding of project management.
Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP): Focuses on Agile project management methodologies, useful in industries like software development.
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Ideal for managing Agile teams, commonly used in tech industries.
PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments): This is a popular project management methodology, widely used in Europe and other regions.
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