Another options is to major in Project Management within a Bachelor of Business degree. Currently, fully online Bachelor of Project Management courses aren't available in Australia.
If a project manager holds a project management degree, it's likely to be a masters. Experienced professionals, even without a bachelor degree, are eligible for postgraduate courses. Postgraduate study offers shorter, more targeted education than bachelor studies.
Graduate Certificate
The Graduate Certificate in Project Management is the fastest university-level qualification available and just one-third the cost of a masters. It comprises four subjects and forms part of a graduate diploma or masters program. The certificate can be completed in 8 months of part-time online study and has no final exams. Typical entry requirements include a bachelor degree in any field OR five years of relevant work experience.
Graduate Diploma
The online Graduate Diploma in Project Management offers more comprehensive training over 16 months of part-time study. It includes advanced subjects beyond the Graduate Certificate.
Masters degrees
The main way to study project management at university is to participate in a master's program. Whether you complete the degree is optional. You can go for a graduate certificate (4 subjects), graduate diploma (8 subjects) or a master's degree (12 or more subjects). Online learning allows you to complete 6 subjects per year as a part-time student and full-time working professional.
Why a Specialist Degree is Worthwhile
If you're going to do something, you might as well do it right. That's the point of studying for a PM degree or postgraduate qualification at university.
A project management degree is an effective way to enhance your management capabilities and communication skills. It covers principles and practices essential for complex projects. This broadens your expertise, strengthening weaker areas. Additionally, it can qualify you for professional certifications by fulfilling educational requirements.
Your university credentials can lead to jobs and senior roles that might otherwise be out of reach. The average salary for Project Managers in Australia around $140k per year, showing this education can add to lifetime earnings. For IT Project Managers, the average salary is $145k based on Seek data.
Related: Best Masters in Business Degrees in Australia
How Do I Become a Certified Project Manager?
You don't need any specific form of certification to become a project manager in Australia. If an employer is prepared to hire you, you can manage a project regardless of your background. However, qualifications do play an important role in the profession.
To become a project manager, begin by gaining experience in project-involved roles, such as a software developer in IT or a site supervisor in construction. Aim to enhance your project management skills through self-study, short courses, and hands-on experience. Look for coordinator and other roles where you're more involved in project administration and leadership.
University study is beneficial for aspiring project managers who lack specific training in the field. It addresses gaps in key areas like administration, planning, and leadership. A project management course provides a recognised qualification, enhancing confidence in handling major projects.
Related: Project Management Courses Online in Australia
Best Certification for a Project Manager
In Australia, the two main certifications for project managers are the Project Management Professional (PMP) offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the Certified Practising Project Director (CPPD) offered by the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM).
- The PMP is globally recognised. To qualify, you need to meet specific education and experience requirements and pass an exam.
- The CPPD is designed for project directors and senior project managers in Australia. Qualifying for CPPD requires a certain level of education and experience, plus successful completion of an assessment process.
- PRINCE2 is another widely recognised certification, offering a process-based approach to managing projects. It is especially popular among professionals seeking a structured methodology.
Project management certificates can enhance a professional's credentials, especially for those without a relevant degee or project management diploma. They are beneficial for career progression and personal development, adding value to the skills developed through practical experience.