Behind most major business events or campaigns is a project manager making sure everything runs smoothly. Organized and effective leaders make the best project managers. If you’re an international student interested in pursuing Project Management, you may be wondering how it differs from other business programs. In this post, we’ll cover key things you need to know to study Project Management as an international student, and how it can lead to an exciting career!
What Is Project Management?
Project Management involves planning, organizing, and managing resources and tasks to achieve business goals. Some of the tasks project managers are responsible for include:
- Budgeting
- Recruiting team members
- Leading meetings
- Reporting progress to stakeholders
- Scheduling the project’s timeframe
- Balancing competing priorities
Project managers are essential in every industry because without them, projects would be more expensive and much less efficient. For these reasons, a career in Project Management is best for those who enjoy managing people, and work well under pressure and tight deadlines. It can sound a little overwhelming, but a certification in Project Management equips students with the skills needed to excel.
What are the Entry Requirements?
Since Project Management ties together many different business fundamentals, most colleges and universities offer it as a post-graduate program. For instance, Conestoga College offers Project Management as an Ontario College Graduate Certificate program. For admission, you’ll need at least a two- or three-year diploma or degree from an accredited college or university. International students will also need an IELTS overall band score of 6.5.
Some schools, such as Yorkville University, offer Project Management as a Bachelor of Business Administration specialization. Wondering what you’ll need to apply? Find the application requirements on Yorkville’s website.
There are lots of great options in the United States for Project Management programs, too. These include ones at IGlobal University in Vienna, Virginia and Boston’s Northeastern University.
In general, a solid foundation in business is recommended for any student interested in Project Management, but it is possible to find schools that offer the program for undergraduate students coming straight from high school. Check individual program pages for minimum eligibility requirements.
What Can I Do with a Project Management Degree?
Project managers are needed in nearly every industry, so there are a lot of job opportunities for graduates. Popular industries include:
- Construction
- Energy
- Finance
- Government
- Health care
- Information technology
Project managers often work in different industries over the course of their careers. This flexibility is possible because many aspects of Project Management are standardized by governing bodies. Governing organizations include the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the Project Management Association of Canada. Many project managers take the PMI exam to receive certification; a mark of excellence in the industry. Want to learn more about PMI and its certifications? Check out their website.
Charting your future career? These ten companies are at the top of the list for Canadian business grads.
Why is Project Management Worth It?
Project managers are in high demand. In fact, PMI estimates there will be 22 million new project management job openings through 2027. Salaries are also highly competitive, with the Canadian national average salary sitting at C$84,000 according to Glassdoor.
Plus, project managers have a direct impact on a company’s morale and bottom line. They help to ensure projects are delivered, on budget and on time, which builds camaraderie while also helping to make sure everyone still gets paid. As some businesses consider project management to be C-suite training, some PMs go on to senior-level management. It’s not for everyone, but for students who value skill-building and change, and excel at working with others, project management is a field that constantly delivers.
Still deciding on your career path? These four high-demand careers are ones to consider.
Where Can I Study Project Management?
Project Management is available at many universities and colleges partnered with ApplyBoard. These include:
Canada
- Yorkville University
- Humber College
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- Conestoga College
- Fleming College
- Sault College
United States
Looking for more colleges and universities offering Project Management programs? Use our Student Quick Search.
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