How to Become a Project Manager for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Project management is a dynamic and rewarding career. This role plays a pivotal role in driving success across industries. The cost of poor project performance due to inadequate power skills is substantial. Organizations prioritizing these skills waste an average of 4.8% of their investment, whereas those neglecting them suffer nearly double the loss at 8.8%.

From launching innovative tech products to overseeing large-scale construction projects, project managers are the masterminds behind planning, executing, and delivering results. This profession combines leadership, organization, and problem-solving. It offers opportunities to work in diverse fields such as IT, healthcare, finance, and engineering.

In this guide, we will walk you through the educational requirements, certifications, skills, and career opportunities that will set you on the road to a successful project management career.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Project Manager

While a degree is not always mandatory, most project managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in fields like business, management, or engineering. Specialized degrees in project management or an MBA can further enhance career prospects.
Certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and Agile/Scrum certifications are highly valued by employers and can significantly boost your career prospects and earning potential.
To excel, project managers need strong leadership, communication, time management, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies like Agile or Waterfall is also crucial.
Project management is a versatile career with opportunities in IT, healthcare, construction, finance, and more. Industries like technology and healthcare offer particularly high demand and competitive salaries for skilled project managers.
Entry-level roles such as project coordinator or assistant project manager provide hands-on experience and are a great starting point. Internships, volunteering, or managing small projects can also help build a strong foundation.

What is a project manager?
How long does it take to become a project manager?
What are the best degree programs for aspiring project managers?
What subjects should you study to prepare for a career in project management?
How does formal education compare to certifications in project management?
What are the most recognized project management certifications?
What are the different career paths for project managers?
What are the different career paths for project managers?
How can advanced education accelerate your project management career?
What emerging trends are shaping the future of project management?
What challenges do project managers face and how can they overcome them?
How can online education programs enhance your project management career?
Should I consider an online degree to kickstart my project management career?
What strategies can accelerate my project management career growth?
Can accelerated degrees fast-track my project management career?
Which career advancement strategies should emerging project managers consider?
What are the best entry-level jobs to start a project management career?
What is the average salary of a project manager in various industries?
How competitive is the job market for project managers?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Project Manager

What is a project manager?

A project manager is a professional responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects within a specific timeframe, budget, and scope. They serve as the central figure in coordinating the efforts of a team to achieve defined goals and deliverables. Project managers work across various industries, including construction, technology, healthcare, and marketing, adapting their skills to meet the unique demands of each project.

The global average for wasted investment due to poor project performance is 5.2%. Project managers ensure that projects are completed successfully by balancing competing demands, such as time constraints, budget limitations, and quality standards. Their expertise is crucial for driving innovation, improving efficiency, and achieving business goals.

Key Responsibilities of a Project Manager

Defining Project Scope: Establishing clear objectives, deliverables, and success criteria.
Planning: Developing detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets.
Resource Allocation: Managing human, financial, and material resources effectively.
Risk Management: Identifying potential risks and implementing strategies to mitigate them.
Team Leadership: Guiding, motivating, and ensuring team collaboration.
Stakeholder Communication: Keeping all stakeholders informed and aligned throughout the project lifecycle.
Monitoring Progress: Tracking project performance and making necessary adjustments to stay on track.
Closing Projects: Ensuring all deliverables are met, conducting evaluations, and documenting lessons learned.

How long does it take to become a project manager?

The time it takes to become a project manager depends on your educational background, career path, and the industry you want to work in. Generally, it can take anywhere from three to seven years to establish yourself as a project manager.

Here’s a breakdown:

Education (2-4 years)

Many project managers start with a bachelor’s degree in business, management, or a related field, which typically takes four years to complete. Some may enter the field with an associate degree, diploma, or even an accelerated MBA combined with relevant experience.

Entry-Level Experience (1-3 years)

Most project managers begin in roles such as project coordinator, team lead, or assistant project manager. These positions provide hands-on experience in managing tasks, budgets, and timelines, which is essential for advancing into a project manager role.

Certifications (3-6 months)

Earning certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) can take a few months of preparation and significantly enhance your qualifications.

Specialized Experience (1-2 years)

In industries like IT or construction, gaining domain-specific knowledge and expertise may take additional time, especially for complex projects that require familiarity with specialized tools or methodologies.

Average investment loss due to poor project management

What are the best degree programs for aspiring project managers?

Aspiring project managers can benefit from the affordable online bachelor's degree programs that provide a strong foundation in leadership, organization, communication, and industry-specific knowledge. The best degree programs vary depending on the field you want to enter, but here are some of the top choices:

Business Administration (BBA or MBA): Covers essential management skills, including leadership, finance, and strategic planning. Often includes project management courses or concentrations.
Project Management (Bachelor’s or Master’s): An MS Project Management program is focused specifically on project management methodologies, tools, and best practices. Often includes hands-on training and preparation for certifications like PMP or CAPM.
Engineering Management: Combines technical engineering knowledge with management skills. Ideal for managing complex engineering projects.
Information Technology (IT) or Computer Science: Focuses on technical skills needed for IT projects, such as software development or cybersecurity. Often paired with courses in Agile and Scrum methodologies.
Construction Management: Specialized training in managing construction projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and safety. The construction project management degree online prepares graduates for roles in a high-demand industry.

What subjects should you study to prepare for a career in project management?

To prepare for a career in project management, you should focus on a mix of subjects that develop leadership, organizational, technical, and industry-specific skills. Students with a project management major typically take these subjects:

Project Planning and Scheduling: Learn how to create project timelines, allocate resources, and set milestones.
Risk Management: Study how to identify, assess, and mitigate project risks.
Budgeting and Cost Management: Gain skills in financial planning, cost estimation, and budget control.
Stakeholder Management: Understand how to manage relationships and expectations with clients, teams, and other stakeholders.
Project Management Methodologies: Study frameworks like Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, and Lean.
Leadership and Team Dynamics: Learn how to motivate and guide teams to achieve project goals.
Conflict Resolution: Develop skills to manage disputes and maintain team cohesion.
Data Analysis: Study techniques for analyzing project performance and making data-driven decisions.
Process Improvement: Learn about Six Sigma or Lean methodologies for optimizing workflows.

How does formal education compare to certifications in project management?

Formal education, such as the cheap project management degree online, and certifications in project management both play important roles in preparing project management professionals. However, they serve different purposes and cater to varying needs, depending on your career stage, industry, and goals. Here is a detailed comparison:

Formal Education Pros

Comprehensive Knowledge: Offers a broad understanding of business, management, and industry-specific topics.
Long-Term Career Growth: A degree can be a prerequisite for higher-level positions in some industries.
Networking Opportunities: Provides access to peers, professors, and alumni who can help in career advancement.
Transferable Skills: Develops critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities that apply across roles.

Formal Education Cons

Time-Intensive: Takes several years to complete (e.g., 3–4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1–2 years for a master’s).
Expensive: Tuition costs can be high, especially at top-tier institutions.
Less Focused on Project Management: General business or management degrees may not dive deeply into project-specific methodologies.

Certification Pros

Specialized Knowledge: Focuses specifically on project management tools, methodologies, and best practices.
Industry Recognition: Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 are globally recognized and respected.
Faster to Obtain: Can often be completed in weeks or months.
Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than a degree.
Updated Content: Certification programs are regularly updated to reflect industry trends and standards.

Certification Cons

Narrow Focus: Certifications focus on specific skills or frameworks but may not cover broader business concepts.
Requires Renewal: Many certifications require ongoing education or renewal to maintain their validity.
Experience Prerequisites: Some certifications, like PMP, require prior project management experience.

For those exploring alternative educational paths, pursuing specialized programs can be a game changer. For example, obtaining the best homeland security degrees not only develops expertise in strategic planning and risk management but also provides a unique edge in project management environments where crisis response and security are critical.

What are the most recognized project management certifications?

The most recognized project management certifications are highly valued across industries and can significantly enhance your career prospects. A survey of high-performing project teams revealed that 64% believe project management maturity is indispensable.

Here’s a breakdown of the top certifications, their key features, and who they’re best suited for:

Project Management Professional: The PMP certification is globally recognized as the gold standard in project management. It can significantly boost earning potential, with holders seeing an average 16% salary increase. This certification is best for experienced project managers seeking to validate their skills.
Certified Associate in Project Management: Entry-level certification designed for those new to project management. Focuses on fundamental project management concepts and terminology.
PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments): Widely used in Europe, Australia, and other regions. Focuses on a process-based approach to project management.
Certified ScrumMaster: Focuses on Agile project management using Scrum methodology. Teaches how to lead Agile teams and facilitate iterative processes.
Agile Certified Practitioner: Validates expertise in Agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, and XP. Highly respected in industries embracing Agile practices.

Average increase in earnings upon completion of project management certification

What are the different career paths for project managers?

Project managers have diverse career paths, as their skills are applicable across industries and roles. Depending on your interests, experience, and industry preferences, you can pursue several specialized or advanced roles in project management. Some of the potential career paths include managing multiple projects, overseeing teams, or leading strategic initiatives. Additionally, as the tech landscape evolves, many professionals are also exploring easy data science jobs to blend analytical skills with project leadership, opening up innovative career opportunities.

Some of the potential career paths include:

IT Project Manager: Manages software development, system upgrades, or IT infrastructure projects.
Construction Project Manager: A construction management degree enables you to oversee construction projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and safety standards are met.
Healthcare Project Manager: Manages projects related to healthcare operations, facility upgrades, or compliance initiatives.
Marketing Project Manager: Coordinates marketing campaigns, product launches, or branding initiatives.
Generalist Project Manager: Works across industries, applying standard project management methodologies to various types of projects.

Project managers can transition into roles that oversee multiple projects, teams, or strategic initiatives.

Program Manager: Manages a portfolio of related projects to achieve broader organizational goals. Focuses on strategic alignment and interdependencies between projects.
Portfolio Manager: Oversees all projects and programs within an organization to ensure they align with business objectives. Prioritizes resource allocation and assesses overall portfolio performance.
PMO Director/Manager: Leads the Project Management Office (PMO), establishing project standards, methodologies, and governance. Ensures project consistency and alignment with organizational strategy.

How can advanced education accelerate your project management career?

Advanced education plays a critical role in equipping professionals with refined skills and strategic insights needed for managing complex projects. It bridges theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing learning experiences that are often aligned with industry standards. For professionals aiming to elevate their expertise quickly, pursuing an accelerated degree online offers a streamlined path to gaining advanced competencies while balancing career responsibilities.

What emerging trends are shaping the future of project management?

Project management is evolving under the influence of technological advancements and shifting work paradigms. Leaders in the field are integrating advanced digital tools for real-time collaboration, analytics, and risk assessment while adapting to hybrid and remote work environments. There is a growing emphasis on agile methodologies and adaptive frameworks that respond to fast-paced market changes. Professionals are encouraged to engage in continuous learning to remain competitive, including exploring innovative educational opportunities such as what degrees can you get online.

What challenges do project managers face and how can they overcome them?

Project managers often grapple with issues such as scope creep, conflicting stakeholder priorities, and resource constraints that can undermine project success. Addressing these challenges requires precise risk assessment, effective communication strategies, and agile decision‐making to realign project objectives. Leveraging continuous professional development, such as pursuing an online masters one year program, equips professionals with advanced methodologies and tools that enhance their ability to navigate unforeseen obstacles and maintain project momentum.

How can online education programs enhance your project management career?

Online education programs provide a flexible and efficient way to gain specialized skills tailored to the evolving demands of project management. They offer access to up-to-date curricula and hands-on experiences that integrate theoretical frameworks with practical applications, ensuring that professionals remain competitive in a dynamic market. Moreover, these programs often include interactive tools and virtual networking opportunities that connect you with industry experts, driving both skill development and career advancement. Explore financial support options through online college FAFSA accepted programs to optimize your investment in professional growth.

Should I consider an online degree to kickstart my project management career?

Online degree programs provide a streamlined and flexible pathway to acquire project management expertise without compromising daily work commitments. They offer concise curricula focused on both technical and leadership competencies, which can accelerate career entry and progression. Many industry experts attest that graduates from reputable online programs demonstrate a proactive commitment to continuous learning and digital collaboration. For a targeted, cost-effective education option, explore the easiest bachelor degree to get online.

What strategies can accelerate my project management career growth?

To advance rapidly in project management, professionals should adopt a targeted approach that combines practical experience with ongoing professional development. Engaging in mentorship programs and industry networking can provide valuable insights and exposure to innovative practices, while specialized short courses in new methodologies enhance both technical and interpersonal skills. Regular self-assessments and staying current with industry trends support informed decision-making and adaptability in complex project scenarios. For those seeking to build foundational expertise quickly, consider earning an accelerated associate degree online that offers focused, short-term training without compromising professional responsibilities.

Can accelerated degrees fast-track my project management career?

Accelerated degree programs offer an efficient pathway to develop core project management competencies, particularly for professionals who need to quickly transition into leadership roles. By enrolling in programs such as accelerated associate degrees, candidates can gain focused, industry-relevant skills in a condensed timeframe, aligning educational outcomes with the immediate demands of dynamic project environments. These programs are structured to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling individuals to address complex project challenges and advance their careers without extensive time investments.

Which career advancement strategies should emerging project managers consider?

Emphasize targeted skill enhancement, strategic networking, and continuous professional learning to progress effectively. Identify niche capabilities that align with industry shifts and seek leadership mentoring to refine decision‐making under pressure. Integrate hands-on training with advanced academic credentials to bridge skill gaps and stay ahead of evolving project demands. For rapid academic enhancement, consider enrolling in an accelerated master's program online.

What are the best entry-level jobs to start a project management career?

Projects that implement project management best practices are 2.5 times more successful. For some graduates of an online business management degree, starting a career in project management often begins with entry-level roles. These build foundational skills in planning, organization, communication, and leadership.

Below are some of the best entry-level jobs to start a project management career, along with a description of their responsibilities and how they prepare you for future roles:

Project Coordinator

Provides exposure to project management tools and methodologies.
Develops organizational and communication skills critical for a project manager.

Junior Project Manager

Offers hands-on experience in managing project workflows.
Helps build confidence in leading teams and making decisions.

Project Administrator

Teaches the importance of organization and attention to detail in project management.
Provides insight into the financial and logistical aspects of projects.

Business Analyst

Develops skills in stakeholder management and problem-solving.
Provides experience in defining project scopes and deliverables.

Team Lead or Supervisor

Offers leadership experience and practice in motivating a team.
Builds confidence in delegating tasks and resolving conflicts.

Projected demand for project managers through 2027

What is the average salary of a project manager in various industries?

The average salary of a project manager can vary widely depending on the industry, location, level of experience, and the size and scope of the projects managed. In the United States, seasoned project management professionals typically earn an annual salary of approximately $100,000. The following is an overview of the average salaries for project managers across different industries based on recent data:

Information Technology (IT) Project Manager

$90,000 - $120,000

Construction Project Manager

$80,000 - $110,000

Healthcare Project Manager

$85,000 - $115,000

Marketing Project Manager

$65,000 - $95,000

Engineering Project Manager

$90,000 - $120,000

How competitive is the job market for project managers?

The job market for project managers is generally competitive, but it also offers significant opportunities across various industries. The demand for project managers is set to surge, with a projected 33% workforce expansion across 11 countries by 2027.

The key factors that influence the competitiveness of the project management job market include:

Increased Project Complexity

As businesses undertake more complex projects, particularly in industries like IT, construction, healthcare, and engineering, the demand for qualified project managers has risen. This trend is expected to continue as organizations prioritize efficiency, innovation, and strategic growth.

Diverse Industries

Project managers are needed in virtually every industry, including IT, healthcare, finance, construction, marketing, and more. This broad demand helps create a wide range of opportunities but also means that candidates may face competition within each industry.

Globalization

As companies expand globally, project managers are increasingly needed to manage international teams, oversee cross-border initiatives, and navigate the complexities of global markets.

Key Findings

Projects that implement project management best practices are 2.5 times more successful.
In the United States, seasoned project management professionals typically earn an annual salary of approximately $100,000.
The PMP certification can significantly boost earning potential, with holders seeing an average 16% salary increase.
The global average for wasted investment due to poor project performance is 5.2%
A survey of high-performing project teams revealed that 64% believe project management maturity is indispensable.
The demand for project managers is set to surge, with a projected 33% workforce expansion across 11 countries by 2027.

What do project managers say about their careers?

I love the variety and challenge that project management offers. Every project is unique, and I'm constantly learning and adapting. Seeing a project come together from concept to completion is incredibly rewarding. I feel a real sense of accomplishment knowing I played a key role in its success. Maria

Project management has allowed me to grow significantly as a leader. I've learned to effectively manage teams, navigate complex situations, and deliver results under pressure. It's a demanding but incredibly fulfilling career path that has opened doors to many exciting opportunities. David

I was drawn to project management because of the opportunity to make a tangible impact. I enjoy collaborating with talented individuals, solving problems, and creating something meaningful. It's incredibly satisfying to see how my work contributes to the success of an organization and positively impacts the lives of others. Alex

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Project Manager

Do you need a degree to become a project manager?

No, you do not necessarily need a degree to become a project manager, but having one can significantly enhance your career prospects. Many successful project managers enter the field through a combination of experience, certifications, and relevant skills. However, some employers prefer or require candidates to have a degree, especially for higher-level roles or in industries like engineering, IT, or construction.

Many job postings list a bachelor’s degree in business, management, or a related field as a requirement. Degrees in engineering, IT, or healthcare can be essential for managing projects in specialized fields. A degree program often provides foundational knowledge in leadership, budgeting, and communication, which are vital for project management.

How does project management differ from general management?

While both project management and general management involve leadership and coordination, project management is more focused on achieving specific, time-bound objectives, while general management involves overseeing the ongoing operations and long-term success of an organization.

The skill sets, responsibilities, and decision-making processes differ significantly, with project managers concentrating on project execution and general managers focusing on strategic, operational, and financial aspects of the business.

What industries have the highest demand for project managers?

Project managers are in high demand across a wide variety of industries, with particularly strong needs in IT, construction, healthcare, and engineering. As businesses increasingly focus on efficiency, innovation, and digital transformation, the demand for skilled project managers will likely continue to grow.

Each industry requires project managers with specialized knowledge and skills to navigate the unique challenges they face, but the core competencies of project management—leadership, communication, risk management, and budgeting—remain essential across all sectors.

What are the core skills required to excel in project management?

To excel in project management, professionals need a combination of technical, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Core skills include effective communication to convey goals and updates clearly to stakeholders, and leadership to motivate and guide teams. Strong time management and organizational abilities are essential for meeting deadlines and balancing competing priorities.

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills enable project managers to navigate challenges and make informed decisions. Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or Waterfall, ensures efficient planning and execution. Additionally, adaptability, risk management, and negotiation skills are crucial for handling uncertainties and maintaining stakeholder alignment throughout the project lifecycle.