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By University HQ Staff Writers
Edited by Evelyn Keener
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What is Project Management?

Colleges and universities in South Carolina and throughout the United States offer project management (PM) degree programs. This major presents opportunities across diverse industries, with many companies seeking professionals skilled in this field. While job prospects span various sectors, a significant portion of employment opportunities exist in construction, marketing, information technology, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. Specializing in one of these areas can further enhance career prospects.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for PM specialists is expected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032. This is faster than the average for all occupations and will account for an additional 68,100 job openings each year. Employment in other management occupations is also projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. This will account for another 1.1 million related positions becoming available each year.

Professional and business services is the third largest industry in South Carolina. It accounts for $25.6 billion of the state’s revenue each year. Project managers are also likely to find employment in many of the state’s other sectors such as manufacturing, real estate, education, healthcare, retail, wholesale, construction, entertainment, finance, and information.

As of May 2022, South Carolina employed 7,950 project management specialists and 125,270 management occupations overall. The annual mean wage for theset specialists was $92,320, while the annual mean wage for all management professionals was $109,850. Both of these wages are significantly higher than the state’s annual mean wage of $50,650 for all occupations.

Numerous higher education institutions throughout the United States offer PM degree programs, including those with remote enrollment options. While online programs provide enhanced flexibility, the physical location of a college or university should also hold significant weight in the decision-making process. Higher education schools in South Carolina structure their curriculums to align with the region's distinct employment requirements. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the standards and expectations of local companies and organizations.

Students interested in completing a degree and perhaps earning the Project Management Institute's certifications have many options to choose from including Charleston Southern University, Clemson University, College of Charleston, and more. The South Carolina list of available institutions is long and varied, and you can also choose from schools in neighboring states.

Project managers, also referred to as project coordinators or project leaders, are professionals who oversee and coordinate various aspects of projects to ensure successful completion. Their role is multifaceted, involving planning, execution, and monitoring of projects across diverse industries. They play a central role in orchestrating projects, from initial planning to final delivery.

One key responsibility of this role is developing comprehensive project plans. This entails defining project scope, objectives, timelines, and resources required. They meticulously organize tasks and create schedules, setting the groundwork for effective project execution. Then, throughout the project lifecycle, these professionals closely monitor progress, identifying and addressing potential issues to keep projects on track.

Budget management is another critical aspect of the role, as is risk management. These managers are responsible for overseeing project finances, tracking expenditures, and ensuring that the project stays within the allocated budget. They often collaborate with financial teams to manage costs efficiently. These professionals also identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring that projects progress smoothly. Their ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges is crucial for achieving successful project outcomes.

Communication is a vital skill for individuals in this field. Project managers serve as the focal point for project-related information, liaising with team members, stakeholders, and clients. Effective communication ensures that all parties are aligned with project goals and timelines.

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Project Management Education in South Carolina

In South Carolina and across the United States, project management professionals commonly possess varying levels of higher education. Programs catering to this field are accessible at all academic tiers, offering options from associate to doctoral degrees. However, individuals with advanced degrees often experience more favorable career outcomes.

It’s crucial to note that hiring standards and educational expectations vary among employers. While some organizations may hire candidates without higher education, individuals with only high school diplomas or GEDs may face restricted opportunities and lower pay potential. Generally, pursuing higher education of some kind is advisable for a more prosperous career.

Online Associates (AS)

Associate degrees in project management generally consist of 60 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students two years to complete. Enrolled individuals receive a comprehensive introduction to the field and acquire fundamental skills essential for subsequent higher education.

In undergraduate programs such as these, students usually encounter a blend of general liberal arts education and specialized courses tailored to their area of study. Curriculum structures may vary, but participants can anticipate exposure to standard subjects in English communication, mathematics, and the social sciences, which are then complemented by major-specific classes. You can expect instruction in professional communication and business law.

Many colleges and universities offer associate degree programs in project management. However, if this subject is not available, students can pursue related majors, such as general business management or business administration. These alternatives typically cover similar topics and provide solid preparation in an efficient manner for further education in this or related fields.

Notably, associate degree recipients may not meet project manager hiring qualifications. Graduates from these programs tend to be better suited for entry-level jobs like project coordinator, administrative assistant, and event planner. However, because employers often prioritize hiring individuals who possess more advanced professional opportunities for these occupations can still be quite competitive.

Becoming a project manager typically requires further education, which also tends to significantly enhance job opportunities. Fortunately, individuals with associate degrees may find themselves closer to earning traditional four-year degrees than anticipated. Undergraduate credit hours are transferable, with many accredited institutions accepting up to 60 or 90 credits from other properly accredited colleges and universities. Prospective bachelor’s degree students can submit previous transcripts and have most relevant classes applied toward their new academic requirements. As a result, many associate degree graduates have already completed coursework equivalent to half of a standard bachelor’s degree.

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Online Bachelors (BS)

Bachelor’s degrees in project management generally consist of 120 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately four years to complete. Previous credits obtained through Advanced Placement (AP) exams or from prior degrees can also expedite the time it takes to graduate.

In undergraduate programs such as these, students usually encounter a blend of general liberal arts education and specialized courses tailored to their area of study. Curriculum structures may vary, but participants can anticipate exposure to standard subjects in English communication, mathematics, and the social sciences, which are then complemented by major-specific classes that help you build critical thinking for successful projects. Healthcare management students, specifically, can expect instruction in the principles of leadership, project scheduling and control, and risk management and assessment.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that bachelor’s degrees are the educational standard for PM professional studies in the United States. Graduates may meet the minimum qualifications needed to apply for jobs as operations managers, purchasing managers, product development managers, non-profit managers, emergency management directors, and environmental managers. These roles are generally in high demand.

More advanced education, however, is typically necessary for professionals seeking elevated leadership roles with increased earning potential. For example, bachelor's degrees may not meet established minimum hiring requirements for positions with substantial supervisory responsibilities. Accessing such occupations often necessitates graduate school. Aspiring master's degree candidates must be prepared to fulfill institutional admission criteria, encompassing minimum grade point averages (GPAs) and satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores.

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Online Masters (MS)

Master’s degrees in project management generally consist of 30 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students one to two years to complete. Accelerated programs, condensing course requirements into shorter timeframes, may offer viable alternatives, however. Some of these programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, providing a swift and efficient pathway for individuals seeking a quicker route to acquiring essential skills and qualifications in healthcare management.

Graduate coursework typically excludes undergraduate and general liberal arts classes. However, students are typically required to demonstrate proficiency in advanced subject matter within the field. To accomplish this, many educational institutions mandate the submission of previous transcripts to validate the completion of specific lower-level prerequisite courses. This ensures that students possess a foundational understanding of essential concepts before delving into more advanced and specialized topics at the graduate level.

Programs are often designed to assess diverse subjects such as cost and value management and procurement, as well as commercial laws and regulations. Additionally, students can explore opportunities to specialize, tailoring their education to specific areas within project management. Concentrations vary, providing those enrolled with the chance to customize their curriculum based on their career goals and interests. Common options include engineering, healthcare, marketing, and construction, allowing students to acquire targeted expertise and skills in their chosen field of project management.

At this level, graduates are eligible for roles such as senior project manager, health services manager, construction project manager, information technology (IT) manager, and PM consultant. Notably, however, master’s degrees are not considered a standard requirement for employment in this field. Completing graduate school can, however, significantly enhance employment prospects and opportunities for advancement in the field.

Alternatively, students considering this concentration at the graduate level may opt for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. While these programs cover similar subject matter, the focus is primarily on business-related aspects. This orientation equips graduates with skills and knowledge particularly advantageous for roles within large corporations.

National Rankings - Online MS in project management

Online Doctorate (PhD)

Doctorates and PhD programs related to project management generally consist of between 90 and 120 credit hours that take full-time students four to seven years to complete. These programs are considered terminal, signifying the highest level of education within project management. They are highly rigorous and cover the most advanced topics in the field.

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PhD and doctorate degrees, while similar, serve distinct purposes. Doctorate programs focus on preparing students for executive roles in major corporations, emphasizing leadership theory and applied action research for strategic planning. In contrast, PhD programs concentrate on multivariate analysis, curriculum design, and organizational theory to shape individuals for careers in research and higher education. The divergent emphases reflect the different professional paths each degree equips students to pursue.

In both cases, the initial years of enrollment involve traditional classroom instruction and coursework. As students progress, the emphasis shifts towards independent study, research, and scholarly writing. The culmination of these programs is marked by the presentation and rigorous defense of dissertations before graduation.

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Become a Project Manager Professional in South Carolina

The initial step to becoming a PM professional in South Carolina typically deals with defining your ultimate career objects within the field. Companies in various industries seek to hire individuals with management experience, resulting in a wide array of potential employment opportunities. While the work performed is often similar, every job has distinct hiring standards and expectations. Identifying your preferred occupation will be highly helpful, as you can then spend time researching the corresponding prerequisites and take steps to fulfill them. This not only ensures you enroll in the most appropriate academic degree program but can provide assistance with selecting minor areas of study, elective courses, concentrations, and/or internships.

Depending on your chosen profession, it may not be necessary to pursue a degree in project management specifically. Individuals in this field can actually select from several potentially relevant areas of study, such as business management and information technology among others. These subjects may help you obtain unique knowledge and skills that will prepare you for certain types of employment in the field.

Upon obtaining essential education, seeking relevant certifications in this field can also prove advantageous. While not obligatory for most positions, additional credentials can distinguish you from other candidates during the job application process. These not only demonstrate commitment to the field but also highlight specific expertise and abilities, providing a competitive edge.

In South Carolina, project management professionals are not bound by specific state credentialing mandates. Instead, hiring criteria are generally set by individual organizations or hiring managers. This grants you the freedom to select certifications based on personal preference and career goals. Consider factors such as costs and time commitments when choosing certifications. It’s also crucial to verify the reputation of the credentialing party. Among various options, the Project Management Institute (PMI) stands out as a reliable choice. While many professional organizations provide certification opportunities, PMI offers a reputable and widely recognized path to certification.

Some popular certification options available to PM professionals include:

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
  • PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)
  • Program Management Professional (PgMP)
  • Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP)
  • PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)
  • PMI Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP)
  • PMI Project Management Ready
  • Construction Professional in Built Environment Projects (PMI-CP)

As the premier global association for project managers, PMI provides numerous chances to enhance skills and connect with peers worldwide. Whether you are a student, a novice, or an experienced professional - membership offers significant advantages. With 300+ local chapters organizing events and informational sessions, PMI facilitates valuable networking opportunities and skill development sessions for its members. South Carolina residents can join the South Carolina Midlands Chapter after becoming PMI members. This chapter serves over 500 individuals, as well as forty businesses and industries including insurance services, engineering, finance, manufacturing, telecommunications, public utilities, higher education, and state and local governments. It seeks to provide opportunities for development, affiliation, and networking through training, social events, corporate engagement, and chapter meetings.

Careers for Project Management Graduates

  • Art Director
    Art directors are instrumental in the visual communication industry, guiding the artistic elements of projects. They conceptualize and create designs, ensuring visual aesthetics align with project goals and target audience. Collaboration with creative teams is also essential when providing artistic direction, reviewing designs, and making decisions that impact visual aspects. These professionals work across various media including print, digital, and film - using their creative vision and leadership skills to produce compelling visual content that resonates with the intended audience. Their role encompasses both artistic creativity and strategic decision-making in the visual communication landscape. According to PayScale, art directors make an average base salary of $74,150 per year.
  • Information Systems (IS) Manager
    IS managers oversee computer systems for various companies. They strategize and implement technology solutions to meet business objectives, facilitate efficient information flow, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to organizational success through technology optimization. Other common tasks include evaluating new technologies, supervising IT staff, and ensuring network security. They play a pivotal role in planning, implementing, and maintaining information systems to enhance overall productivity and competitive advantage. According to PayScale, information systems managers make an average base salary of $90,204 per year.
  • Digital Marketing Manager
    Digital marketing managers strategize and execute online marketing initiatives to promote products or services. They analyze market trends, identify target audiences, and develop comprehensive digital campaigns, as well as measuring campaign effectiveness, adjusting strategies, and maximizing return on investment. Leveraging various channels - such as social media, email, and search engines - allows them to optimize brand visibility and engagement. They stay abreast of industry innovations, employing creative and analytical skills to drive successful online marketing efforts and enhance the digital presence of companies and organizations. According to PayScale, digital marketing managers make an average base salary of $73,015 per year.
  • Engineering Project Manager
    Engineering project managers oversee projects from conception to completion, ensuring they align with goals, timelines, and budget constraints. These professionals manage risk, troubleshoot issues, communicate project progress to stakeholders, collaborate with engineering teams, define project scopes, and allocate resources efficiently. With a focus on quality and adherence to specifications, they play a pivotal role in successful project delivery. Other responsibilities commonly include planning, coordination, and execution, which generally require a blend of technical expertise and leadership skills. According to PayScale, engineering project managers make an average base salary of $100,646 per year.
  • Facilities Manager
    Facilities managers oversee the physical spaces and operational systems of buildings, ensuring their functionality and safety. They coordinate maintenance activities, manage budgets, supervise staff responsible for upkeep, collaborate with vendors, negotiate contracts, and implement sustainability initiatives to optimize building performance. With a focus on efficiency and compliance, they play a crucial role in maintaining a conducive and secure environment for occupants while aligning with organizational goals. To contribute to the overall functionality of the facilities they manage, their responsibilities may include a wide variety of different areas including space planning, security, and emergency preparedness. According to PayScale, facilities managers make an average base salary of $71,637 per year.
  • Fundraising Manager
    Fundraising managers are pivotal in the non-profit sector, leading efforts to secure financial support for organizations. They develop and execute fundraising strategies, cultivate relationships with donors, and organize events to generate contributions. It’s also their responsibility to leverage their communication and interpersonal skills to convey the mission and impact of their employers, encouraging financial support. They may spend time analyzing trends and staying informed about fundraising regulations to sustain and expand the financial resources needed for nonprofits to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in their communities. According to PayScale, fundraising managers make an average base salary of $58,581 per year.
  • Training and Development Manager
    Training and development managers are integral to enhancing workforce skills. They design and implement programs to improve the knowledge and capabilities of employees in accordance with company goals. Other common responsibilities include assessing training needs, creating instructional materials, and overseeing training sessions. They may also evaluate the effectiveness of programs and collaborate with various departments to ensure employees acquire all relevant skills needed to positively impact overall success. According to PayScale, training and development managers make an average base salary of $82,277 per year.
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