With a background in civil engineering, Lahiru Gunawardena found a Masters in Project Management instrumental for his career. He shared, "My course coordinator had really good industry connections. He constantly introduced us to industry professionals, which gave us great career opportunities." He added, "Even before graduating, I got the opportunity to work part-time with Aurecon, and now that I've graduated, I work full-time as a Design Coordinator."
Business Development Manager Emran Soltani shared how his project management master’s transformed his approach to work. "We had an action-based project, completely different from a traditional dissertation, where we tackled real challenges for a formal client." He added, "I now apply the tools and techniques I learned, from gathering client requirements to managing stakeholder communication and coordinating teams across departments."
Why an MPM Is Worth It
Earning a Master of Project Management (MPM) in Australia is a valuable investment for your future, especially if you are aiming for senior roles. The degree is internationally recognised and sets you on a path towards higher earnings.
Becoming a highly qualified project manager can significantly boost your pay. In Australia, project managers are estimated to earn an average salary of $140k per year.
Graduate certificate pathway
The flexibility of the Australian education system works to your advantage. Starting with a Graduate Certificate in Project Management allows you to study without committing to a full master's program immediately. If this aligns with your career goals, you can seamlessly progress to a graduate diploma or a master's degree, adjusting your education to fit alongside your life and work commitments.
Comparison with professional certificates
While a master's degree is a prestigious qualification, professional certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 are credible and globally recognised alternatives. In the Australian context, AIPM certification is a respected and well-recognised credential. These certifications are generally quicker and less costly to obtain than a master's degree. However, they may not provide the same depth of knowledge and often require ongoing education to maintain their status.
MPM vs MBA
An MBA online is another option if your career goals are broader than project management, offering general business skills and global recognition. It's ideal for high-level leadership across various business domains. However, if you are focused on becoming a specialist project manager, an MPM provides targeted, in-depth skills and knowledge.
Is a Masters in Project Management Difficult?
If you have the qualities to be a successful project manager, you should be comfortable handling the coursework in a Master of Project Management program. This degree is designed with prospective project managers in mind, taking a structured and practical approach to instill industry-relevant knowledge and skills.
While it requires dedication and focus, as with any advanced degree, the curriculum is intended to be both challenging and achievable. The program aims to build upon your existing leadership, organisation, and communication abilities. It guides students through essential aspects of the discipline, such as strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and resource management.
Ultimately, a project management degree is as an investment in your future—a pathway that not only enhances your skills but also prepares you for leadership roles across industries. With commitment and effort, you can complete the program and emerge as a highly qualified professional ready to excel in a dynamic field.