Overview  |   Courses  |   Instructors  |   Advisory Board  |   How to Apply

Program Overview

Currently accepting applications Apply now >> Program starts: Autumn, winter and spring quarters Program location: Autumn-start: Online Winter- and spring-start: Hybrid (Online, plus Bellevue meetings) Sign up to receive e-mail updates >> Contact a program representative >>

This program provides a comprehensive examination of project management processes, integrating technical tools with leadership and team communication skills. Individuals with experience in any industry who have projects to develop and deliver benefit from this program.

Students can complete this program in eight months.

The program consists of five online learning modules. The autumn-start section meets online throughout the program. The winter- and spring-start hybrid sections are augmented by six all-day campus meetings held on Saturdays in Bellevue, Washington, during the nine and a half-month program. (See Important Dates for Online Learning).

The Project Management Certificate Program has been designed by an advisory board of UW faculty and project management professionals in the Puget Sound region, in collaboration with the local chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI). All of our project management courses apply toward professional development units (PDUs) for the Project Management Institute.

Program Benefits

• Network with other project management professionals. Make contacts you'll value throughout your career.
• Benefit from the experience and insights of course instructors who have teaching experience and extensive expertise in the project management field.
• Case studies, group projects and discussion of real-work situations make the program relevant in today's business environment.
• Provides information about the PMP (Project Management Professionals) certification examination.

Program Audience

• Project management professionals in all industries who want to acquire or enhance their project management skills.
• Especially beneficial for project managers and team members with some years of experience who want to expand their knowledge.

How Online Learning Works

Classes in this certificate program are delivered online via the World Wide Web, which means you don't need to come to campus to earn your certificate: You can study from anywhere. To access your course materials, you'll simply log on to the Internet. You'll use e-mail and online discussion boards to communicate with your instructors and other students. Just like in a classroom course, in these "group-start" online courses, students begin each course at the same time and work through the coursework together. To participate, you'll need a computer with access to the Web (see computer requirements). After you are accepted and enrolled in a course, you will be mailed instructions on how to access your classes.

Qualities for Success through Online Learning

You should consider your learning style, strengths and preferences before enrolling in an online learning program. This format is especially appropriate if you are self-motivated, goal-oriented and work well independently. Some points to consider:

Are you comfortable following written instructions?
Courses in the online learning format rely on printed materials and written instructions rather than in-person explanations from your instructor. Consider whether you need face-to-face interaction. You will benefit from these courses if you are comfortable with learning through reading and communicating in writing. You should also have the ability to follow written instructions. The study guide for each course may include instructions to read textbooks, view videotapes, listen to audio tapes or participate in a teleconference and discussion session over the Internet.

Can you use technology?
Students taking the online learning format leave any questions they have in their instructor's voice mailbox, or e-mail these questions to their instructor. Most assignments are sent to instructors via the Internet, e-mail or fax. You should be comfortable using technology.

Are you self-motivated and disciplined?
Online learning saves commuting time, but these courses require at least as much time as attending classes and completing assignments for campus courses. Not having enough time to take campus classes is a poor reason for opting for an online learning course, unless you are prepared to create time for your study in a disciplined manner. Having a compelling reason to complete an online learning course can serve to motivate you and help you avoid diversions to your study.

Would you enjoy participating in a virtual learning community?
You may be studying in your living room, but you are not alone when you take an online learning course. With the help of a variety of technologies, you will be part of a large and diverse "virtual" community. You will exchange ideas and information with your instructors and other students, take part in online discussions and collaborative interaction for completing individual or team assignments.

Also Available in a Classroom Format

This program is also available in a classroom format. To view a comparison of formats, please see Choose Classroom or Online Learning Format. Application for this program is required; see How to Apply.

Contact a Program Representative

If you have questions about this program, please call 206-685-8936 in the greater Seattle area, or 888-469-6499, or e-mail us.

Related Courses and Programs

• Biotech Project Management (online)
• Design Firm Leadership and Management
• Facility Management
• Heavy Construction Project Management
• Human Resources Management
• Management in the Technology Sector
• Senior Project Manager
• Software Product Management
• Wetland Science and Management