To learn the basics of project management, it is necessary to determine the appropriate learning path or methodology. There are several project management course programs available today from varied institutions offering a wide array of course options. Project management course duration depends on the desired learning path or methodology. In order to select the proper course length for you, it is important to identify your learning needs and expectations. It is also important to consider the program structure, objectives, resources, curriculum, and instructor's credentials.
Many institutes and universities offer online learning programs. For people who cannot attend regular classes, online education is an option as well. In a fully-enclosed, web-based learning path, learners can access lectures and related materials twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week. The same material can be used for rereading at any time, so there is no need to schedule classroom lessons. Some institutes offer modules wherein a set number of lessons are given in a certain sequence. The same lectures and related learning materials can be used for subsequent modules as well.
An online project management institute can give training in a wide range of topics related to project management. These include processes and strategies for effective project management, assessment methods, financial aspects of such an undertaking, problem solving techniques, documentation and communication skills, team building, project planning and organizing, quality assurance methods, and other related courses. Some institutes offer short-term training programs for project managers that only last a few weeks. Others provide longer training programs that cover a full range of topics.
A project manager who wants to increase his or her knowledge can choose to attend a remote instruction course instead. This type of course allows students to learn from a distance and at their own pace. Remote instruction courses can either be classroom based or distance education-based. A remote instruction course typically combines classroom learning with online research tools and multimedia presentations in a convenient online format.
Courses in management can be received at universities and colleges on their own campus or via the Internet. Universities that offer project management courses often have short term university programs that can be completed in as little as two semesters. If a student does not wish to enroll in a university program, then he or she may pursue a shorter training program through a local community college. Some community colleges offer short-term project management training that may only be awarded for up to six months.
For more detailed training, university programs are also available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. At the undergraduate level, many students opt to participate in an Associate's degree program. Undergraduate level training usually spans three years, although this is just a rule of thumb and can vary depending on the university and program of study. Graduate level training is also available at both the Bachelor's and Master's level.
The Basics of Project Management certification is not a prerequisite for obtaining this certification. The duration of the course may also vary between short and long courses. The Basics of Project Management certification is usually awarded after a candidate successfully completes a specified number of supervised hours in classroom learning. Students who successfully complete this course can expect to receive a certificate of completion and be eligible for state certification.
