What is Project Management?
Majoring in project management can lead to a wide variety of employment opportunities in Maine. Companies and organizations across almost every industry hire professionals in this field, but positions are often most available in construction, marketing, information technology, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. In Maine, top industries include shipbuilding, fishing and fisheries, manufacturing, tourism, and more. Manufacturing and shipbuilding, as well as IT, are likely the best options out of these for those looking to make a splash in the field.
In the world of business, project management is a critical component that ensures projects are completed efficiently and effectively. A project manager is an individual responsible for planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing projects to meet specific goals and objectives. They serve as the central point of contact between team members, stakeholders, and clients.
Project managers play a vital role in keeping track of budgets, timelines, risks, and resources required for successful completion of projects. They need to have excellent communication and teamwork skills to ensure everyone involved is on the same page throughout the project's life cycle. The most commonly earned degree in this field is a bachelor’s, and a Bachelor of Science in Business, or specifically in project management, is the most likely degree to get you right into a PM role.
A career in this field can be highly rewarding if you have an aptitude for managing teams under tight deadlines while keeping your eye on the big picture. With a degree from one of these top educational institutions specializing in project management programs, you will gain valuable knowledge regarding various methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall, which are widely used across organizations around the world today.
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Online Project Management Education in Maine
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for project management practitioners is expected to increase by 7% from 2021 to 2031. This is about as fast as the average for all occupations and will account for an additional 70,400 job openings each year. Employment in other management occupations is also expected to increase by 8% from 2021 to 2031. This will account for another 1.1 million related positions becoming available each year.
As of May 2021, Maine employed 2,200 project management specialists and 38,270 management professionals. The annual mean wage for PM specialists was $86,440, while the annual mean wage for all management professionals was $107,650. Both of these wages are significantly higher than the state’s annual mean wage of $55,960 for all occupations.
Prospective students should have little trouble finding colleges and universities offering a project management program in the United States. Those interested in pursuing employment in Maine, however, may want to give preference to institutions located within the state. Enrolling with these schools can often be beneficial as they offer geographically relevant curriculums. Additionally, those enrolled are likely to benefit from the established relationships these institutions have with nearby companies and organizations when applying for internships and professional employment.
Online Associate Degree in Project Management (AS)
An associate degree in project management is a two-year program that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to manage projects effectively. Students will learn about project planning, scheduling, cost management, risk management, quality assurance, and team building. These degree programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in this field.
Several colleges offer associate degrees in project management, as well as related certificate programs. These programs are often available online or on-campus, giving students flexibility in their education. In addition to traditional coursework, many programs may require internships or capstone projects that give students hands-on experience in managing real-world projects.
An associate degree in this field can be a steppingstone toward a bachelor's or higher-level certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. Graduates of these programs can find careers as project coordinators, assistant project managers, or project analysts across various industries ranging from construction to healthcare to technology.
Top 5 Online PM Associate College ProgramsOnline Bachelors Degree in Project Management (BS)
A bachelor's degree in project management is a program that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to plan, execute, and manage projects successfully. This degree provides students with the theoretical foundation of best principles and practices, as well as hands-on experience in managing real-life projects. The curriculum usually covers topics such as project planning, risk management, resource allocation, leadership skills, communication strategies, and budgeting.
Many colleges and universities offer project management degree programs as both traditional and online programs. However, the most important thing is to select an accredited institution that meets your educational goals. Accreditation will ensure that you receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards. Graduates of these programs can pursue various career paths in industries such as construction, healthcare administration, engineering, information technology, or business management. With this degree under their belt, they can expect to qualify for more advanced positions within their respective fields while earning higher salaries than those without it. However, further advancement after several years of working in this field may require a master’s degree.
Top 25 Online PM Bachelors College ProgramsFind Your Online Project Management Program
Online Masters Degree in Project Management (MS)
Project management is an essential component of any organization, and a master's degree in project management can help individuals hone the necessary skills to advance and continue to excel in this field. Students pursuing a master's degree in project management will learn how to more effectively manage projects from conception to completion, how to allocate resources across large and complex projects and companies, and how to discuss issues with stakeholders, change management, critical thinking, etc. These programs provide students with a comprehensive understanding of best principles and practices in the field.
Project management colleges offer courses that cater directly towards the needs of aspiring project managers. These programs cover a range of topics including managerial accounting, risk assessment and mitigation, leadership development, procurement, and contract negotiation, among others. In addition to classroom studies, most schools also require students to complete internships or capstone projects where they can apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Pursuing a master’s degree program in project management offers several benefits for those looking for advancement opportunities within their organizations, or seeking new career paths entirely. Graduates can gain an edge over other candidates when it comes time for job applications as they are equipped with various skills needed for successful execution of projects from start-to-finish while keeping up with tight budgets and timelines set by clients or stakeholders.
Top 25 Online PM Masters College ProgramsOnline PhD Degree in Project Management (PhD)
A PhD in project management is a highly specialized degree that prepares individuals for advanced roles in the field, or in education. Many colleges and universities offer PhD programs in project management, which typically require three to five years of study to complete. Some programs may have specific prerequisites or require a master's degree before admission.
PhD students in this field typically take courses in research methods, project management theory, and related subjects such as leadership and strategic planning in service industries and elsewhere. They also conduct original research on topics related to project management and publish their findings in academic journals. Graduates of PhD programs are well-prepared for careers in academia or senior leadership positions in industry.
Several colleges and universities offer online PhD programs in project management, making it easier for working professionals to pursue advanced degrees while maintaining their careers. These online programs also often provide flexibility with asynchronous coursework and virtual collaboration tools that enable students to work together regardless of location.
Project Management Certifications
Project management is a highly sought-after skill in today's competitive job market, and earning a certification can give you an edge over other candidates. Many colleges and universities offer project management degree programs that prepare students to become certified project managers. These programs cover topics such as planning, budgeting, risk assessment, stakeholder communication, and team leadership. Certificates have educational requirements and also focus on making the most of experiential learning you've already had and translating that into new ideas.
The most popular project management certifications include the Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute (PMI), the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and the Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP). Each of these certifications requires passing an exam that tests your knowledge of project management principles, practices, and other topics covered. The PMP exam is one test required for certification. Earning a certification not only enhances your skills but also demonstrates to potential employers that you are committed to your profession.
When selecting a college or university for a project management degree program, it's essential to research their accreditation status. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards for education quality and rigor. Additionally, you may want to look for programs with experienced faculty members who have real-world experience in managing projects across various industries. Your education should provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that will be valuable throughout your career as a project manager.
Become a Project Manager in Maine
Becoming a professional in project management is a great career move in Maine due to the state's thriving business landscape. Project managers are in demand in various industries, from construction to healthcare. If you're interested in becoming a project manager professional in Maine, here are some steps for you to take.
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Step 1: Get a Degree:
While a degree is not always required to get a job as a project manager, having a bachelor's degree in fields such as business administration, engineering, or computer science can give you an edge over other candidates. Maine has several universities and colleges that offer relevant degree programs in project management and other options.
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Step 2: Get Certified:
Certification is a crucial step in becoming a project manager professional. There are different certifications available in the field, but the most popular and recognized globally is the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers the certification and, to apply, you must have a four-year degree, 36 months of project management experience, and 35 contact hours of project management education.
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Step 3: Get Work Experience
After getting a degree and certification, the next step is to gain project management experience. You can do that by starting as a project coordinator, assistant project manager, or similar positions. You can also volunteer for non-profit organizations or offer your services pro-bono to gain experience.
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Step 4: Network
Networking is an essential part of any career, and project management is no exception. Join professional associations such as PMI Maine Chapter, attend industry events, and connect with other project managers. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities and career advancement.
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Step 5: Update Your Skills
Project management is a dynamic field and, to stay relevant, you have to keep updating your skills. Attend relevant training programs and workshops, read industry publications, and take online courses. Maine has several training providers that offer training programs in various fields.
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What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Project Management?
A bachelor's degree in project management can open up a variety of career paths for graduates. Many organizations require skilled project managers who can handle complex projects and lead teams to successful completion. With this degree, you could pursue jobs such as project coordinator, project manager, or operations manager.
Project coordinators work to ensure that projects are completed according to schedule and within budget constraints. They help manage resources such as finances, supplies, and personnel while also monitoring the progress of individual tasks within the project. Meanwhile, project managers are responsible for overseeing entire projects from beginning to end; they develop plans and schedules for each phase of the project and coordinate with all stakeholders involved.
For those interested in a broader managerial role beyond just project management itself, an operations manager position may be the way to go. An operations manager typically oversees multiple departments within a company and ensures that all systems are running efficiently; they may work on tasks like budget planning, cost analysis, strategic planning initiatives, or implementing new policies across different areas of business operations. Ultimately, there is no shortage of options when it comes to careers that one can pursue with a bachelor's degree in this field.
Potential Careers for Project Management Graduates
- Digital Marketing Manager:
A digital marketing manager is accountable for planning, implementing, and overseeing successful digital marketing campaigns to drive customer acquisition and retention.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in marketing or related field
- 5+ years experience in digital marketing or related field
- Proven track record of successful digital campaigns
- Knowledge of web analytics tools such as Google Analytics or Adobe Analytics)
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in the US in 2021 was $158,280
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in Maine is $128,120
- Supply Chain Manager:
A supply chain manager is responsible for overseeing the efficient flow of goods, services, and information between suppliers, customers, and other related parties in the supply chain.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, supply chain management or a related field
- Previous experience in supply chain management or a related role
- Knowledge of industry best practices and standards
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for logisticians in the US in 2021 was $77,030
- The mean annual wage for logisticians in Maine is $85,190
- General and Operations Manager:
A general and operations manager is accountable for overseeing daily operations of an organization while assuring its staff, processes, and products adhere to high quality standards.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in business administration or related field
- 5+ years experience as General or Operations Managers
- Exceptional track record in creating operational strategies and policies those work
- Strong organizational, problem-solving and communication abilities
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in the US in 2021 was $122,860
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in Maine is $103,940
- Public Administrations Manager:
A public relations manager's primary duty is to create, implement, and oversee public relations strategies and campaigns designed to enhance brand recognition and raise brand awareness.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in communication, public relations, marketing or another related field is preferred
- 5+ years experiences working in public relations are preferred
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of PR software platforms and social media management tools
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 public relations managers in Maine is $106,080
- Computer and Information Systems Manager:
A computer and information systems manager oversees the operation and maintenance of computer and information systems within their organization.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology
- 5+ years of experience in a computer or information systems role
- Knowledge of system design principles, database structures, networking protocols, platforms and software applications is necessary as well
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers in the US in 2021 was $159,010
- The mean annual wage for computer and information systems managers in Maine is $148,240
- Architectural and Engineering Manager:
An architectural and engineering manager oversees all planning, designing, construction, and operations activities related to architectural and engineering projects for an organization.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in architecture or engineering is preferred
- At least 5 years' of relevant work experience in similar roles
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for architectural and engineering managers in the US in 2021 was $163,310
- The mean annual wage for architectural and engineering managers in Maine is $142,270
- Art Director:
An art director's primary function is overseeing the production of visual materials and creating an overall vision for their company's visual identity. They must effectively convey their ideas while adhering to branding standards set by their firm.
Necessary Requirements:
- At least 5 years experience and a track record producing high-quality visuals that adhere to brand guidelines
- Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite - InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator 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 Maine is $92,090
- Training and Development Manager:
A training and development manager is accountable for designing and implementing employee learning and development programs to ensure employees of an organization receive sufficient training to reach its goals.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources or related field
- 3+ years of experience working in Training & Development roles is desirable
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 Maine is $112,910