Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Project Management Certifications in Canada

Project managers are responsible for overseeing the development of a project, in order to improve its success rate, by applying standardized procedures and best practices of project management. The discipline embodies all aspects of project development, including initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling and closing, while complying with time deadlines, quality standards and budget.

Project management is considered critical to the success of an organization. Typically, a large number of projects are either over budget or late. And there are many that fail altogether. This hampers the stability and growth of an organization. This is why organizations need certified project managers who can effectively manage their projects and ensure their success. 

Career Prospects 

Organizations are under constant pressure to implement projects quickly, cut costs, deliver high quality, meet time deadlines and ensure success of each project they undertake. And without thoughtful planning, it seems impossible and ultimately results in loss of business.  Employers, therefore, are keen on hiring project managers who can significantly reduce the risk of project failure and apply their knowledge and expertise to overcome obstacles and deliver projects on time.

The future for certified project managers is bright. They are required in almost all organizations across all industry verticals. Although there is acute shortage of project leaders or managers but the job market is fiercely competitive. It’s essential to have undergone a recognized certification and training program in this discipline to seek an entry to the world of work. 

Project Management Courses in Canada 

Postgraduate project management courses provide solid and fundamental hands-on training that equips students with the knowledge and skills required to manage projects in a cost-effective manner. They provide students an experiential learning opportunity, allowing them to gain valuable real-world experience.

These certifications typically run for one year and offer a unique blend of classroom learning, hands-on-computer applications and industry field placements. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including Business Communications, Fundamentals of Project Management, Business Principles and Requirements Management, Project Leadership, Project Planning and Scheduling, Project Management Tools and Applications, Project Risk and Quality Management, Procurement and Contract Management, Project Estimation and Cost Management, International Project Management and Professional Responsibilities and Project Management Office. 

Learning Outcomes 

The graduates of a project management program are capable of:
  • Analyzing the feasibility and scope of the project
  • Managing cost, time and quality of the project
  • Identifying project constraints, control needs, resource requirements and deliverables
  • Interacting with the project development team, stakeholders and clients
  • Complying with the industry and quality standards
  • Conforming legal and ethical standards
  • Utilizing technology tools for decision support and information management
  • Thriving under pressure
  • Maintaining a positive outlook and motivating team members

Choosing the Right Program
 

Numerous Canadian colleges offer postgraduates project management programs. But not all are recognized. Centennial College’s program follows a guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge – Fifth Edition, Year 2013 Project Management Institute and incorporates hands-on integration of technology tools, leading edge industry case studies and a 12-week experiential learning opportunity. Additionally, students are prepared to write the Project Management Professional (PMP) Exam from the Project Management Institute (PMI).

The program graduates may seek employment in both public and private sectors as project managers, global project managers, process development analysts or project leaders. 

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