Start your career path to becoming a certified project manager today. Learn about the steps, classes and educational options you will need to become a successful project management specialist. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlight the best programs for project management in Idaho.
What is Project Management?
A project manager is a person responsible for planning, organizing, and executing the development of a project or program. They are responsible for ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and within budget. As a project manager, you will oversee daily operations, coordinate resources, and guide a team to ensure successful completion of projects.
Project managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the resources to execute complex projects. This ranges from initial planning all the way to completion and post-project analysis. A typical day could involve overseeing the progress of various projects, updating necessary documents and databases, delegating tasks to other staff members, coordinating meetings with stakeholders, and working with team members to ensure quality control.
Project managers have many responsibilities including developing plans and schedules, delegating tasks to staff members in order to meet deadlines without exceeding budget limits, and delivering high quality results. Additionally, they often use their problem-solving skills to identify potential problems early on in order prevent them from causing delays or cost escalations later in the process. Project managers discuss scope changes with stakeholders before initiating any modifications and measure performance against established project expectations and benchmarks during each phase of the timeline.
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Online Project Management Education in Idaho
Project management is an essential part of many businesses, organizations, and institutions. It involves a variety of skills to ensure that projects are completed successfully, on time, and within the designated budget. For those interested in a career in project management, there are various colleges and universities offering degree programs.
One option is to pursue an undergraduate degree program in project management from a college or university. These programs typically include courses in topics such as risk assessment, cost control, scheduling, and financial analysis. Many schools also offer certificates for those seeking additional training or specialized knowledge. A project management degree is a great start for a rewarding career in business.
At the graduate level, many universities offer master's degrees specifically focused on project management. These advanced degrees encompass both theoretical knowledge of the subject and practical application through internships or research projects related to project management techniques and strategies.
Online Associate Degree in Project Management (AS)
Project management is a growing field that offers students the opportunity to combine their knowledge of business and technology with organizational skills. Obtaining an associate degree in project management from an accredited college or university can provide individuals with the technical expertise they need to succeed in the industry. Students enrolled and graduating from a project management program will be equipped with the skills required to develop and manage projects, organize resources, evaluate performance, and deliver results on time and within budget.
Coursework associated with an associate degree in project management may include topics such as project planning, risk assessment, cost accounting, scheduling principles, resource utilization, process improvement strategies, and team development. Additionally, many programs offer additional courses that cover specific software applications used by businesses to manage projects successfully. Through hands-on practice scenarios and real-world assignments, students gain experience using industry-standard tools for managing complex projects from start to finish.
National online rankings - best associate programs in project managementOnline Bachelors Degree in Project Management (BS)
An undergraduate degree in project management could be the key to success for those seeking to develop their project management skills and knowledge. A degree in this field teaches students how to effectively complete projects on time, within budget, and with maximum efficiency. It also offers learning at a higher level than an associate degree, though it will take two more years to complete this type of program. Students who pursue such a program will learn how to plan and manage projects, as well as how to measure their success. They may gain an understanding of risks associated with certain projects and develop strategies on how best to deal with them. Additionally, they will study the fundamentals of information technology and its role in managing resources efficiently.
By completing a bachelor's degree in project management, students can become equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge that are required by employers today. With this qualification comes opportunities for career advancement or entry-level positions across various industries, offering graduates diverse employment prospects while allowing them to reach their full potential. In fact, those with bachelor’s degrees in this field will have an easier time moving into a management role than those who only complete associate degrees.
National online rankings - best bachelors programs in project managementFind Your Online Project Management Program
Online Masters Degree in Project Management (MS)
Project management is an important field for businesses and organizations in virtually any industry. A master's degree in project management can give you the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful project manager, leading teams to success and staying ahead of the competition. With a master's degree in project management, you can develop a strong understanding of how to analyze, plan, and execute projects from start to finish.
There are several accredited colleges that offer programs for a master’s degree in project management. Degree programs include courses such as risk analysis, strategic planning, budgeting, and cost control, among others. You'll also learn how to manage global projects with diverse teams and how to develop effective communication techniques with clients and vendors. Many programs also provide students with hands-on experience through case studies or real-world simulations so that they can practice problem-solving strategies in various scenarios.
National online rankings - best masters programs in project managementOnline PhD Degree in Project Management (PhD)
A PhD in project management is an advanced degree program for professionals looking to hone their skills and expertise in this popular field. Earning a doctoral degree in project management requires dedication and commitment as it provides students with deep knowledge of the principles, theory, and practice of project management. Many colleges and universities offer programs that prepare graduates for successful careers in the field, especially if they wish to move into academia and teach at the college level.
Students enrolled in a PhD program will be required to take courses such as project planning, cost estimation, scheduling techniques, risk management, decision analysis, and negotiation strategies. These courses are designed to equip students with essential problem-solving tools so they can better manage projects effectively. Additionally, students must complete research projects or write dissertations related to their chosen area of study prior to graduation.
Online Project Management Certifications
Project management certifications are a great way to advance your career and demonstrate a mastery of the knowledge, skills, and tools required to successfully manage projects. Earning certifications in the field can provide additional credibility as job applicants pursue positions in project management. With many options available, students should research their options carefully and find the best program that meets their needs.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) has become one of the most respected organizations for certifying professionals in this field. They offer several certifications including credentials as Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Project Management Professional (PMP), Program Management Professional (PgMP), and Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP). Each of these certifications requires different levels of experience and education, as well as passing an examination after completing a course or training program with PMI-accredited providers.
top project management certificationsBecome a Project Manager Professional in Idaho
Becoming a professional project manager requires a combination of knowledge, experience, and organization to succeed. Here are some steps to take if you want to become a professional project manager.
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Step 1: Complete Your Education:
Project management requires an understanding of the principles and processes that effective managers use to guide their teams. A good foundation for your project management career will include formal education from one of the many accredited project management educational programs across the country. While not required by every employer, having a degree and/or certification in project management will give you an advantage when competing for positions in the industry
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Step 2: Gain Experience through Internships:
Gaining real-world experience as soon as possible is important when establishing yourself as a qualified project manager candidate. Completing internships at companies and volunteering with organizations related to the industry can provide invaluable insight into the expectations associated with project management and help build relationships with people who can offer sound advice along your journey.
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Step 3: Study Professional Certifications
Receiving credentials through professional certifications is beneficial for any aspiring project manager looking to increase their marketability. Popular certifications include Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certifications. These credentials validate your technical expertise in the field and demonstrate your commitment to staying up to date on best practices.
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Step 4: Develop Your Time Management Skills
Time management skills are essential for successful project management as stakeholders may have different timelines for completing tasks associated with their projects. Setting realistic goals based on customer requirements, negotiating deadlines with clients, and managing changes that could affect timeline objectives are all part of being an effective project manager.
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What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Project Management?
A bachelor's in project management can open up a variety of career opportunities at the managerial level. With this degree, you will gain the knowledge and skills to develop and manage projects for any organization. Professionals with a bachelor's in project management are able to lead teams, anticipate potential problems, and stay ahead of the competition. Project managers can work across multiple industries from manufacturing, construction, technology, finance, healthcare, and more. These degree programs cover topics such as risk management, cost estimating, and budgeting techniques, as well as resource allocation strategies that help organizations be successful. With this degree, you can become an IT project manager overseeing software development cycles or a construction project manager working on a large-scale infrastructure project. You may also use your knowledge to run your own business or provide consultancy services to companies needing assistance with their projects.
Potential Careers for Project Management Graduates
- Public Relations Manager:
The job of a public relations manager includes a variety of daily responsibilities including crafting press releases, developing media campaigns, and maintaining communication channels between key players. They might also be responsible for writing textbooks, compiling statistics to share with the media, promoting products or services through speeches and presentations, organizing press briefings, handling social media accounts, and developing relationships with important contacts within an industry.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in PR, communications or related field
- Proven track record in public relations strategy development and execution
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for public relations managers in the US in 2021 was $119,860
- The mean annual wage for public relations managers in Idaho is $120,830
- Training and Development Manager:
Training and development manager oversees the training and development of their organization’s employees. They identify areas where improvement is possible and create strategies to help employees reach their goals. It involves creating, coordinating, and delivering educational materials, as well as disseminating new policies or changes in procedures. These professionals analyze training needs and develop learning plans to meet them by creating online or face-to-face training presentations, monitoring employee performance during training exercises, evaluating effectiveness of existing programs for skill improvement, handling enrollment applications for training programs, making sure that all employees are compliant with safety practices according to industry regulations.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- 5+ years of experience in a training or development role
- Knowledge of adult learning theory
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for training and development managers in the US in 2021 was $120,130
- The mean annual wage for training and development managers in Idaho is $91,340
- General Business and Operations Manager:
The primary duties of a general and operations manager involve developing strategies for increasing efficiency and productivity, managing operations, setting budgets, overseeing staff recruitment and training, reviewing financial records, creating policies and procedures for staff performance management practices such as hiring, firing, promotions, and pay increases. They also create plans to decrease expenses while improving profits. Additionally they are responsible for considering new products or services by researching market trends.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field
- At least 5 years of experience in a managerial role
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in the US in 2021 was $115,250
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in Idaho is $76,870
- Facilities Manager:
A facilities manager is responsible for the daily operations, maintenance, and repair of all facility equipment and systems. They also oversee building security and safety, as well as coordinating any facility-related services such as janitorial, landscaping, and grounds keeping.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in facility management or related field
- 3+ years of experience in facilities management or related role
- Knowledge of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, etc
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for facilities managers in the US in 2021 was $99,290
- The mean annual wage for facilities managers in Idaho is $78,960
- Architectural and Engineering Manager:
The most important responsibility of an architectural and engineering manager is the successful completion of projects within budget, on time, and at the highest quality standards possible. Managers must also ensure that all relevant laws, permits, codes, and regulations are being followed. Additionally, managers are expected to maintain records which include financial reports detailing costs incurred in each project phase as well as usage records for materials purchased or utilized during the project’s duration. They may also be asked to participate in negotiations with contractors or vendors providing supplies and materials necessary for completing the job.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering or related field
- 5+ years of relevant experience in architecture or engineering
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for architectural and engineering managers in the US in 2021 was $152,350
- The mean annual wage for architectural and engineering managers in Idaho is $148,160
- Art Director:
An art director’s job is to work with a team of designers, photographers, videographers, project managers, and copywriters to bring campaigns to life. Art directors often have a say in every aspect of a project, from budgets to deadlines. An art director’s main goal is ensuring that all parties involved are heading in the right direction in terms of creativity, practicality, and deadlines.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
- Minimum 3 years of professional design experience
- Knowledge of industry standard software (Adobe Creative Suite, etc.)
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for art directors in the US in 2021 was $100,890
- The mean annual wage for art directors in Idaho is $69,620
- Project Management Specialist:
A project management specialist is generally expected to proficiently handle all aspects of a project from start to finish. This includes tasks such as estimating costs, scheduling deliverables, setting deadlines, managing stakeholders' expectations, ensuring that the team works efficiently together and has what they need to succeed, negotiating contracts with suppliers or subcontractors, mediating disputes between team members, tracking progress and adjusting, maintaining tight control over budgets, and escalating risks when necessary. They also play an essential role in keeping the team motivated by celebrating successes and moving them forward during challenging times.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in project management or related field
- Proven experience in project management
- Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for project management specialists in the US in 2021 was $94,500
- The mean annual wage for project management specialists in Idaho is $83,320
- Fundraising Manager:
Fundraising managers are responsible for leading campaigns used to acquire resources from potential donors in order to support charities and non-profit organizations. They plan outreach strategies, create content and materials that will successfully engage with donors, track progress on donations targets, provide reports on fundraising performance, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or related field preferred
- At least three years of related experience in a fundraising role
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to think creatively and strategically
- Knowledge of fundraising principles, practices and strategies
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for public relations and fundraising managers in the US in 2021 was $119,860
- The mean annual wage for fundraising managers in Idaho is $70,680
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