What is Project Management?
Project management (PM) involves coordinating and planning resources to achieve specific goals within a defined timeline and budget. In Nebraska, organizations have recognized the importance of PM and have invested in programs that offer training and certification in this field. The state also has several project management associations, such as the Nebraska Chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI), which provides networking opportunities and education on PM best practices.
Project managers are professionals responsible for leading teams toward reaching specific goals. A project manager's job entails overseeing an entire lifecycle of a project from its inception through completion; from setting objectives, developing plans, and communicating with stakeholders, and making sure projects are completed on time, within budget and scope.
Project managers work across industries such as construction, software development, healthcare, and more. Their responsibilities may differ depending on the nature and scale of each project they oversee. Effective communication is one of the cornerstones of effective project management as it ensures all parties involved (team members, sponsors, and clients) remain informed. Communication allows managers to clarify requirements, identify challenges, and mitigate risk related to their projects.
Project managers must be well organized and capable of overseeing multiple tasks simultaneously. They must oversee team members' workloads and make sure everyone is working efficiently and effectively, monitor project progress, make necessary changes to the plan as necessary and adapt according to changes that occur throughout.
Project managers must possess excellent problem-solving abilities. They should be adept at recognizing risks and taking measures to address them; adaptability is also an invaluable trait that allows project managers to successfully adapt the plan as unanticipated events arise.
Online Project Management Education in Nebraska
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 800 project management professionals employed in Nebraska as of May 2020. This figure includes project managers, project coordinators, and project analysts across various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. The average annual wage for these professionals was $79,990, which is slightly lower than the national average of $88,340.
To enter the field of PM, a degree in a relevant field such as business or engineering is often required. However, some employers also accept candidates with experience in the field and relevant certifications. The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from PMI is widely recognized and can boost a professional's career prospects.
Project management plays a crucial role in the success of organizations in Nebraska and across the globe. While the number of PM professionals employed in the state is relatively small, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is expected to grow in the coming years. Pursuing education and/or a project management certificate can lead to rewarding career opportunities in Nebraska and beyond.
Online Associates (AS)
An associate degree in project management is a two-year program that equips students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to manage projects effectively. The curriculum typically includes classes such as project planning, resource management, risk assessment, budgeting, and scheduling. Students also learn about project communication and leadership, which are critical for managing teams and stakeholders.
Many colleges offer associate degrees in PM both online and on-campus. These programs are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in various industries that require PM skills. Graduates can pursue careers as assistant project managers, coordinators, or team leaders in fields such as construction, information technology, healthcare, or marketing.
Associate degrees in project management are an excellent option for individuals who want to enter the workforce quickly but also wish to pursue further education at a later stage, while a project management certificate does not prepare you for further education. Graduates can transfer their credits toward a bachelor's in PM or any other relevant field. Overall, an associate degree in project management provides a solid foundation for building a successful career as a project manager while offering flexibility and opportunities for advancement.
Online Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor's in project management is a highly sought-after degree program that equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the world of PM. The curriculum typically covers topics such as project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, leadership, and communication. There are many colleges and universities across the United States that offer degree programs in this field. Some of these schools also offer online programs to make it easier for working professionals to earn their degrees while still maintaining their careers.
Completing a bachelor's program in this field can open up many career opportunities for graduates. Many companies require or prefer candidates who have a degree and certification in this field when hiring for positions such as project manager or team leader. Graduates may also choose to start their own consulting businesses or work freelance as project managers.
Online Masters (MS)
Earning a master's degree in project management is becoming increasingly popular among professionals seeking to advance their careers. Many colleges and universities offer graduate-level programs designed specifically for project management, providing students with an even more in-depth understanding of the field and preparing them for leadership roles.
Curriculums typically cover topics such as risk management, budgeting, scheduling, communication strategies, and team building. Students also gain hands-on experience with project management software tools commonly used in the industry. Graduates are equipped with the skills necessary to lead teams through complex projects from start to finish but are also prepared to take on multiple projects at a time and may specialize in a specific industry, such as healthcare or software development.
Completion of a master's degree in project management can lead to career advancement opportunities such as higher salaries, promotions to leadership positions, and increased job security. Additionally, it provides a strong foundation for those pursuing certification through professional organizations like the Project Management Institute (PMI). Overall, obtaining this advanced degree can be a valuable asset for anyone looking to excel in the field of project management. As an added bonus, many degrees offer online courses or 100% online programs.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
A PhD in project management is a terminal degree program that focuses on developing advanced research skills and techniques for solving complex project management problems. It’s designed for professionals who want to advance their theoretical knowledge of project management or pursue academic careers in the field. The curriculum typically includes advanced courses in project management theory, research methodology, statistics, and leadership.
Many colleges and universities offer PhD programs in project management, either as stand-alone degrees or as part of a broader business or engineering program. These programs usually require students to complete coursework over several years before conducting original research and defending a dissertation. Graduates of these programs may go on to work as academics, consultants, or executives in industries such as construction, healthcare, information technology, or government.
Overall, pursuing a PhD in project management can be an excellent way to deepen one's understanding of this field and prepare them for new career opportunities, such as research and high-level teaching roles. With the demand for skilled project managers continuing to grow across many industries, individuals with advanced training and expertise are likely to remain highly sought after by employers for years to come.
Online Certifications
Project management certifications are becoming increasingly important in today's job market. Project managers are responsible for making sure projects run smoothly, on time, and within budget, so they need to be highly skilled and knowledgeable about their work. A project management certification is a great way to demonstrate that you have the skills necessary to succeed in this field.
There are several different project management certifications available including the PMP (Project Management Professional) from the Project Management Institute (PMI), PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environments) from Axelos, and CSM (Certified ScrumMaster) from Scrum Alliance. Each certification has its own requirements and benefits, so it's important to research each one before deciding which one is right for you.
Many colleges and universities now offer project management degrees or certificate programs that can help prepare students for these certifications. These programs typically include required courses that cover topics such as project planning, risk management, technical skills, communication skills, leadership techniques, and more for those who wish to work as project leaders. Completing a degree in project management and earning a certification or two along the way can provide students a way to set themselves apart from other candidates when applying for jobs in this competitive field.
Become a Project Manager in Nebraska
Project management is a critical role in any industry, and there are many opportunities available for those interested in becoming a project management professional. Here are some steps that can help you along the way.
-
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
Although becoming a project manager professional can be done without an academic degree, possessing one in business, engineering, or another field will increase your odds of success significantly. Many employers require degrees for project manager positions, so it would be wise to start off on a strong educational footing.
-
Step 2: Gain Work Experience
Most higher-level project management jobs require several years of work experience in a related field. You might start out in an entry-level position in your chosen industry and work your way upward if your degree is in IT, healthcare management, or another field. Or, if you earned your degree in project management, specifically, you might get started as an assistant project manager or a similar role. You will gain experience working on projects, leading teams, and overseeing timelines and budgets as you gain more seniority.
-
Step 3: Get Certified
Certification may not be mandatory to become a project manager professional, but it can greatly increase your chances of gaining employment and progressing your career. The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers various certifications, such as Project Management Professional (PMP). In order to obtain this credential, you must fulfill certain educational and experience criteria as well as passing an exam.
-
Step 4: Network
Networking can be important in many careers. To get started, you can attend industry events and conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with fellow project management professionals in your local area. Networking will help you keep up to date with industry trends and job openings.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Project Management?
With a bachelor's in project management, graduates can pursue various career paths. They may work as project managers in various industries such as construction, IT, healthcare, and finance. They may start in an industry and move into project management, or start in project management and shift industries halfway through their career. You can create your own career path in this field.
Aside from being a project manager, graduates with this degree can also become management consultants or business analysts who offer advice to organizations on how to improve their operations and strategies. Another option is to work in procurement or supply chain management, where you would manage the purchasing of goods and services needed for a company's projects or manufacturing process.
Furthermore, some graduates may choose to pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s in project management or an MBA. These programs can lead to higher-level positions, such as executive leadership roles or senior project management roles, with greater responsibility and higher salaries. All in all, there are plenty of opportunities available for those with a bachelor's degree in project management.