project management job outlook

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Is Project Management the Right Career for You?

• Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez
• Yasmina Khelifi

Use this guide to make an informed choice.

Curious about project management as a career option? What does this job entail? Is it for you? The authors have been in project management for about two decades and they answer some questions you might have before deciding if this is the right career for you.

• What does a project manager really do?  In the broadest sense, project managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the completion of a project, while ensuring that it delivers the expected results on time, on budget, and within scope.
• What basic skills do I need to have to apply for a project manager position? To be eligible for a project manager position, you need to have hard skills, soft skills, technical know-how, and an understanding of the business landscape you’ll be operating in.
• What kind of opportunities are available in project management? Project manager roles take different job titles: project manager, delivery manager, scrum manager, agile coach, product manager. The titles can vary depending on the country or region you’re in, but what’s important is for you to understand the requirements, responsibilities, and the impact of your role so you can make informed decisions.
• Do I have to specialize in one area or can I manage different kinds of projects? As a fresh graduate or early career professional, we recommend choosing a project in your area of expertise to maximize your success rate and increase your self-confidence. When you gain more experience as a project manager, you could stick to the same kind of projects, remain in the same industry but in a different technical field, or move from one domain to another.

Where your work meets your life. See more from Ascend here .

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused massive disruptions globally. According to several studies, governments will spend more than $10 trillion on reconstruction projects in the next 10 years. This means there will be millions of projects — more than ever — put into production within the decade, and each will require a project manager.

• Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez is the author of the Harvard Business Review Project Management Handbook , five other books, and the HBR article “ The Project Economy Has Arrived. ” His research and global impact on modern management have been recognized by Thinkers50. A pioneer and leading authority in teaching and advising executives the art and science of strategy implementation and modern project management, Antonio is a visiting professor in seven leading business schools and founder of Projects & Co mpany and co-founder Strategy Implementation Institute and PMOtto . You can follow Antonio through his  website , his LinkedIn newsletter  Lead Projects Successfully , and his online course  Project Management Reinvented for Non–Project Managers .
• Yasmina Khelifi  is a French telecom engineer and project manager with 3 PMI certifications. She has been working in the telecom industry for 20 years. She is a passionate volunteer at PMI. She is also a regular volunteer blogger on projectmanagement.com and a volunteer international correspondent at PMWorld Journal. She is the host and founder of the podcast “ Global Leaders Talk with Yasmina Khelifi. ” Yasmina is the author of  How To Become a Culturally-Aware Project Manager (ebook; Bookboon Learning). Yasmina can speak 6 languages and has a MSc in Mobile Telecommunications. You can connect with her on Linkedin and subscribe to her newsletter about global leadership.

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Project Management | 2021 Job Outlook

Industry Advice Management

Project managers are vital in today’s fast-paced, results-oriented workplaces. By overseeing every aspect of a project from conception to completion, trained project managers have the tools required to keep any scope of work on track.

As project managers become more and more instrumental in the successful completion of work across industries, the job outlook for project managers continues to improve, as well. Read on to learn what the work of a project manager entails, how much these professionals earn, and how you can stay competitive in this growing field. 

Download Our Free Guide to Advancing Your Project Management Career

Learn what you need to know, from in-demand skills to the industry’s growing job opportunities.

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Project Management Responsibilities

At the most basic level, a project manager’s responsibility is to guide a project toward completion, but the actual process of doing so is much more complex. Their work begins with a project initiation phase , in which the main objectives of the work are defined, contributing parties are identified, expectations are set, and the scope statement for the work is fully established. 

Next comes the planning phase , in which project managers meet with stakeholders and develop an actionable process for the project to follow. This includes establishing the project’s scope, budget, timeline, risk, etc., and identifying the key deliverables and tasks that make up the scope of this work.

The executing phase begins when the individual members of the project team are ready to embark upon their tasks. During this stage, project managers primarily focus on time management , facilitating communications, streamlining processes, and adapting the project scope to reflect any changes. Throughout this phase—as well as during initiation and planning—project managers must also work to monitor the processes they have set in place. This includes ensuring timelines are being followed, budgets are being respected, and key milestones are being reached.

The final stage of a project is the closing phase , in which the project manager makes sure all activities have been successfully completed throughout the scope of the work. This phase also includes working with the stakeholders to ensure all their expectations have been met, releasing any resources held for the project, and archiving any necessary files for future reference.

Though project managers may also have to own very industry-specific tasks depending on the organization they work for, these phases outline the general responsibilities of a project manager.

Project Management Job Outlook

Considering the growing reliance on project managers across industries, individuals trained in this discipline have a very promising career outlook. As of 2017, 71 percent of global organizations had a project management office, and those numbers have continued to increase over time. It’s estimated that an additional 22 million jobs will be added in the sector by 2027, representing a projected 33 percent growth for the industry. This growth trend is also expected to generate a total of 88 million jobs in the field worldwide by that time.

However, alongside this exciting career outlook comes the concern of a talent gap between the number of individuals needed for these roles, and the number of people actually qualified to do the work. For this reason, those hoping to change careers might consider earning an advanced degree and becoming qualified to work in the project management industry. In the same regard, existing project managers will likely need to invest in further education in order to not only stay abreast of changes in this fast-evolving industry but to also remain competitive as others undoubtedly prepare for a career in this fruitful field, as well.

Project Management Salaries

The median salary for project managers to be $116,000 per year . While most in this field make between $90,000 and $140,000 annually, there are quite a few factors that determine where on this scale a project manager might fall. These factors include the individual’s education and experience level, the size of the organization they are working with, where their organization is located, and even their own declared specialization in the field.

Learn More: How Much Do Project Managers Make?

There are a variety of steps project managers can take to ensure that they are on the higher end of the pay scale. Those willing to relocate, for instance, should consider moving to cities where project managers make above the national average —including New York City, Houston, Atlanta, and Chicago—or even to countries like Switzerland or Australia, which offer average salaries of $ 132,086 and $101,381, respectively.

Others looking to find that competitive edge in the industry might aim instead to earn a graduate degree in order to obtain a mid- or senior-level project management position, expand their skill sets, and increase their overall salary potential. After all, graduates of advanced degree programs in general earn up to 28 percent more on average than those with just a bachelor’s degree.

Gearing Up For Success in a Growing Field

Pursuing an advanced degree in project management is a strategic way to stay relevant in this thriving industry.

Elevate Your Skills

Learning about project management from industry leaders will help elevate your skills while also enabling you to keep up with project management practices and tools that are timely and relevant. For example, the reliance on project management software for high-performing projects has increased to 77 percent in 2018. Now, more than ever, project managers need to have a current understanding of these types of programs in order to complete their work. A master’s in project management program provides the necessary exposure to and training on these types of practices needed to keep project managers prepared for these changing elements of the industry.

Gain Relevant Industry Experience 

Alongside the exposure to relevant tools and practices, pursuing an advanced degree at an institution that places great value on experiential learning also gives you an edge in this competitive industry. Experiential learning provides students with hands-on exposure to real-world projects and processes, unparalleled access to top companies, and valuable networking opportunities that can positively impact your career post-graduation.

Learn More: 5 Reasons a Master’s in Project Management is Worth It

Finally, the opportunity to declare a project management concentration while in grad school is a major benefit for those who want to increase their salary. The opportunity for specialization allows professionals to hone in on the specific industry, methodology , or discipline they’re interested in post-graduation and tailor their studies to best set themselves up for success. 

Those who choose to focus on a particular industry while in school, for instance, may earn a higher salary than their peers when they graduate. For example, PayScale reports that a general project manager might make between $48,000 and $111,000 per year on average, whereas a PM who specializes in IT could make anywhere between $55,000 and $125,000 per year.

Declare a Specialization

Similarly, project managers hoping to stand out in a competitive field may consider specializing in product , program , portfolio , or operations management. This decision can also subsequently increase your earning potential in the field: Program and portfolio managers earn an annual average of $127,517 and $140,780 , respectively, compared to a general project manager’s $91,245 earned annually.

Those interested in the benefits of a concentration within their graduate program should consider Northeastern’s Master of Science in Project Management , which provides a built-in opportunity for students to declare a specialization. Currently, Northeastern students can choose from concentrations in:

• Clinical Trial Design
• Construction Management
• Geographic Information Systems
• Information Security Systems
• Leadership 
• Leading and Managing Technical Projects
• Organizational Communication
• Agile Project Management
• Program and Portfolio Management
• Business Analysis 

No matter their reasons, project managers looking to stay ahead in this constantly growing industry should consider advancing their education through either a graduate degree or the completion of a project management certification .

Learn more about how Northeastern’s Master of Science in Project Management program can set you up for success in this thriving field.

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Did you know.

Employers will need to fill 2.2 million new project-oriented roles each year through 2027. (PMI, 2017)

Master of Science in Project Management

Behind every successful project is a leader who forged its path.

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Job Outlook

Job outlook for project managers in the United States

Project manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:

The projected project manager job growth rate is 8% from 2018-2028.

About 36,400 new jobs for project managers are projected over the next decade.

Project manager salaries have increased 8% for project managers in the last 5 years.

There are over 426,229 project managers currently employed in the United States.

There are 167,116 active project manager job openings in the US.

The average project manager salary is $91,578.

Are project manager jobs in demand?

Project manager job and salary trends over time, project manager jobs over time, project manager job growth rate over time.

Average project manager salary over time

Project manager salary by year.

Project Manager jobs by state

Most common states for project managers.

Most common cities for project managers

Project Manager job outlook: Expert opinions

Our panel of project manager experts.

Ohio State University

Heidelberg University

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Texas at Arlington

Kansas State University

University of New Mexico (UNM)

Freed-Hardeman University

Oklahoma Baptist University

University of Tennessee

Weber State University

Auburn University at Montgomery

The Touro College

Western Carolina University

Swarthmore College

Maryville University

Davenport University

Azusa Pacific University

Sacred Heart University

Dr. Laura Deeter PhD

Applied Horticulture And Horticultural Business Services

What general advice would you give to a Project Manager?

Dr. Laura Deeter PhD: Be open to learning and trying something outside of your comfort zone. Be willing to work hard and don't expect to be project manager right out of school. Hard work will get you there fast enough.

What Project Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Laura Deeter PhD: There are more than enough positions out there to find one with a good starting salary. Apply for as many as you can. Be willing to relocate to another city or state.

What will help Project Managers increase their earning potential?

Dr. trish berg.

Business Administration, Management And Operations

Dr. Trish Berg: Being a project manager involves constant change, learning, and interaction with diverse teams in various departments of an organization. The best parts of being a project manager include working with diverse people, building relationships, creating something new with each new project, empowering and motivating teams, gaining global knowledge, collaboration, impacting organizational culture, and delivering value with completed projects. Some of the difficult parts of working as a project manager include sometimes having accountability without the needed authority to be successful, not having diverse enough skills and having to use estimation and guesswork at times and relying on others for their knowledge. Project managers deal with a lot of uncertainty and must be resilient in how they react to each bump in the road.

Dr. Trish Berg: Daily, project managers create plans, create work schedules, build, and motivate teams, assign, and track work from start to finish, set project setting scopes and budgets, create workflow plans, and define what key performance indicators (KPIs) are which is how they can measure project success. Project managers must be both people focused, and task focused. Successful project managers understand what Sinek calls the power of the why in order to successfully motivate teams towards success.

Dr. Trish Berg: One career field that is in high demand and growing is project management. With the complexity and flexibility needed in today's fast-paced culture, many organizations in diverse industries rely on project managers to complete jobs and organize teams to meet the needs of customers. Daily, project managers create plans, create work schedules, build, and motivate teams, assign, and track work from start to finish, set project setting scopes and budgets, create workflow plans, and define what key performance indicators (KPIs) are which is how they can measure project success. Project managers must be both people focused, and task focused. Successful project managers understand what Sinek calls the power of the why in order to successfully motivate teams towards success.

Dr. Longzhu Dong Ph.D.

Management + Marketing Department

What soft skills should all Project Managers possess?

Dr. Longzhu Dong Ph.D.: The world of international business has changed a great deal in the past few years. Due to increased globalization, massive technological advances in online coordination, and the Covid pandemic, the need to develop project managers who can lead fully functioning global virtual teams (GVTs) has never been greater. Indeed, studies show that virtual teams are becoming the norm, and more and more multinational companies rely on GVTs to deal with their day-to-day challenges. However, leading and working in GVTs poses unique challenges that traditional leadership approaches do not seem suited to tackling well. Such challenges include cross-cultural misunderstandings, lack of trust and spontaneity, poor communication, hard to focus and hold teammates accountable, all of which may result in low productivity. Therefore, to thrive in the international business world today, a manager may need an entirely different set of skills. Perhaps the most important soft skill is cultural intelligence (CQ). CQ refers to the ability to relate and work effectively across different cultures, triggering a train reaction in GVTs. It first requires people to have an open mindset, which helps them realize that cultural differences are just differences and that every culture has its own way of defining "right" and "wrong." Just as the famous Confucius teaching goes, "all people are the same; only their habits differ." Indeed, when differences are seen as something neutral, the negative consequences of cultural bias can be minimized. CQ can also improve GVT communication effectiveness by better understanding visual and auditory cues such as body language and facial expressions so that GVT members will not form false impressions based on stereotypes. When everyone on your team is ready for open dialogue, GVTs can easily clarify shared team goals and guidelines, set clear expectations of each role, and foster trust along the way. If CQ is the most important soft skill, then being tech-savvy would be the most important hard skill. Technological advances in online coordination/communication make global virtual teams possible and function well. As of right now, there are a lot of great online tools (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) that integrate all key types of communication: conference call, breakout rooms, text messaging, file sharing, and online collaboration. However, simply being able to use various virtual meeting tools well is not enough because there's no one-size-fits-all tool for every team all the time. Being tech-savvy asks managers to steer the digital transformation in their teams promptly. It requires managers to constantly evaluate the emerging new technologies and make sure their choice of the tools "fits" their teams' needs over time, which may include members' network conditions, tool preferences, work style, tech skill levels, and the nature of the task/project. Working in a global virtual team isn't necessarily only about challenges and lower productivity. It can become a valuable advantage and even build a 24/7 work cycle in teams, with proper training on CQ and technological skills.

David Rockwood

School of Architecture

What skills stand out on Project Manager resumes?

David Rockwood: -prior relevant experience -prior related experience -scope/complexity of projects

David Rockwood: -communication -team building -accuracy -responsibility

What hard/technical skills are most important for Project Managers?

David Rockwood: -construction process/sequencing -structural and MEP systems knowledge -scheduling and workflow

What skills will help Project Managers earn the most?

David Rockwood: -ability to lead and manage large complex projects -ability to provide oversight and judgment as to best practices

Bijan Shapoorian

Civil Engineering

What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Project Manager job market given the pandemic?

Bijan Shapoorian: Construction Management as a profession involves performance of several different tasks such as Cost Estimating, Planning and Scheduling, Supervision and Inspections to name a few. Some tasks such as cost estimating and planning and scheduling can be conducted remotely while some tasks such as supervision and inspection remain face to face. Recent pandemic along with the increased usage of technological tools have influenced the method of conduct for many professions and businesses. However, construction management will not be going through a transition as fast as some other profession such as Engineering and Architectural services. This is due to the nature of this profession.

Bijan Shapoorian: Staying up to date with the new software and available technology remains as one of the major challenges in this industry. Most software offer online tutorials.

Brett Horton Ph.D.

Undergraduate Program in Hospitality Management

Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Project Managers?

Brett Horton Ph.D.: - The enduring impact is the opportunity to experience first hand coming out of a major hospitality economic downturn. Many hotels and hospitality operations are rebounding from near or complete closure. Such an amazing time to get in on the fast track to the top of an organization. There will be numerous opportunities that did not exist in March of 2020. - Graduates are positioned to thrive more than the graduates in 2020 in that the number of open positions is huge. They have the opportunity to start with a career with great companies and great leaders and grow as fast as they so desire. - The only downside may be moving up too fast and now being completely grounded in the basics due to being hired and put in positions of authority before they may be fully prepared.

What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Project Managers?

Brett Horton Ph.D.: The successful leaders are those who: - Have a degree in hospitality management and understand what just occurred. -There are few certifications necessary for work in the hospitality. Food safety is required for some positions, but this has likely been obtained while in school. Additional certifications may be obtained in the first 5 years of employment.

Brett Horton Ph.D.: - Willingness to take on increased responsibility - Willingness to move locations - Willingness to work in different departments to learn and grow with the organization

Elsa Maria Castillo

UNM Engineering Student Success Center

Elsa Maria Castillo: The pandemic has definitely impacted the job market, and although we still get requests for candidates for internship opportunities or jobs from our various partners, during the pandemic there has been an increase of requests in the following areas: Cybersecurity, Weapons Development and Testing, Aerospace, Quality Control Engineers, design and development of Prosthetics, Optics, Solar and alternative Energy systems, and Telecommunications. A slight shift into the development of medical technologies, data analysis, coding, artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality is evident.

What's a good job out of college for Project Managers?

Elsa Maria Castillo: It all depends on the level of education, training and experience attained by the student during their college years. For instance, what I would consider a good job for someone with Bachelor's degree in Engineering would be a position conducting research and development in the respective engineering field either at a multinational corporation or at a national lab with six figures and that offers additional educational benefits for the individuals to continue advancing in their careers. For example, a few years ago I had a student who graduated with a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, who conducted a lot of research as an undergraduate student and participated in various internships. He wanted to go directly into the workforce before attempting graduate school. His training and experience allowed him to get a job at a multi-national corporation that offered him a starting salary of $105,000 plus financial support to continue with graduate school. That for me is a great job out of college and the student does not aim to pursue a graduate degree right away.

Kristen Roberson

Department of Marketing

Kristen Roberson: The workplace will forever be altered due to the pandemic, and the effects of those in career transitions, not just those graduating now, will be impacted for some time. It will take some time for the new normal to be normal.

What's a day at work look like for a Project Manager?

Kristen Roberson: That depends on the role they are in, but the big hurdle is going to be landing that first role. They need to be willing to shift their plans, be ready to try contract or project-based work. No matter where they land, the ability to self-manage will be more critical than before 2020 since more work will be remote and much more video conferences, and a lot less travel.

Dr. Daryl Green

College of Business

Dr. Daryl Green: I have been researching emerging employment trends for several years. While working for the Department of Energy as a senior engineer, I have served as a college recruiter. There were gaps in the students' skill sets compared to employers' needs. I later co-authored a book called Job Strategies for the 21st Century to provide students with the necessary tools for future employment. 2021 will be very difficult due to the pandemic. From my research, here are 2021 employment trends to consider: -Global Market - We are connected! Since employers can tap into human resources across the world, students will compete against others across the globe. -Students who understand this employment reality will be better prepared. -AI and Automation - Artificial intelligence is disruptive technology. Companies can avoid the high expense of labor through automation. According to 2013 Oxford University study, nearly half of American jobs are at risk of being taken over by computers by 2033. Students need to understand AI technologies. -New Work Model - 2020 brought in the explosion of working from home due to Covid-19. Employees already wanted to have more flexibility in life. They got it from employers. Companies responded by offering 70% of full-time workers the ability to work from home! -Freelancing - Freelancing is part of the gig economy. It goes much further than Airbnb and Uber. In the gig economy, businesses hire independent contractors to perform individual jobs, called "gigs." The total freelancing income is almost $1 trillion. Therefore, students who have an entrepreneurial mindset will fare better. -Digital & Ecommerce - Covid-19 ushered the digital economy. If companies did not have a digital platform in 2020 with the lockdowns, they did not exist. According to the Internet World Stats, there are currently 4,208,571, 287 internet users. Therefore, students cannot afford to miss this continuing trend of digital platforms.

Scott Gilpatric

Department of Economics, Haslam College of Business

Scott Gilpatric: Certainly some individuals will have an enduring impact if the pandemic really disrupted their life. For example, if they are a parent got very sick and the student became unable to continue in college, or their performance really suffered. But more broadly, I actually think we will come out the pandemic this summer with a strong economy-possibly even the strongest economic boom since the late nineties. So I think for many it will be a very good time to be starting a career.

Scott Gilpatric: That really depends on the individual. The most important factor in a first job coming out of college might be the opportunity to learn about yourself, learn what you are good at, and find a good direction for furthering your own growth in skills and understanding what you want your career to be. Obviously compensation matters, but often the work environment will impact job satisfaction more than money. Finding a place where you look forward to working with your colleagues most days is incredibly valuable, and a lot of compensation is required to offset the unpleasantness if you dread going to work every morning.

Scott Gilpatric: The easy answer is being really proficient with handling data, including being comfortable with learning to code in whatever manner might be needed. There's no question those skills are likely to open doors. But in a very different way, one thing that really matters is being able to talk comfortably about ideas and developments in economics, business, or policy areas, signaling a strong base of knowledge. Towards that end, reading deeply, not just the headlines but long-form analysis in places like The Economist and other high-quality publications can be really beneficial.

Dr. A. Tye Gardner Ph.D.

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Dr. A. Tye Gardner Ph.D.: Getting a master's degree goes a long way to making candidates stand out and improving earnings. My recommendation is to tailor your MS degree to the specific field you're interested in working in, because employers really want to see candidates that are passionate about the field, and very few people survive a graduate degree without at least a little passion. Available salary data indicates that if you choose an affordable program (let's just say Weber State University), it takes only a few years to pay off the added cost, increases starting salaries, and dramatically improves long-term earning potential. Moreover, you can find electrical engineers with MBAs at C-level positions all over the country. It turns out being an EE makes you a good candidate for business leadership.

Brett Lehman Ph.D.

Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work

Brett Lehman Ph.D.: It might be a surprise to say that some things will remain steady during the pandemic. The job market will still require candidates with critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, oral and written communication skills, and project management skills. With so many aspects of the workplace changing rapidly, such as how we communicate with each other and unforeseen problems adding up, these skills may be more important than ever. The ability to continue projects, collaborate, and lead a group effort during these trying times will look impressive.

Brett Lehman Ph.D.: Sociology students with research and public speaking experience will have improved job prospects. This could be developed in many courses, though some core areas for us are Research Methods and Statistics. Most employers collect and analyze data of some kind. Then they have to organize the results properly and present the findings to a variety of audiences. Any course that require students to do their own projects, make difficult decisions, justify those decisions, and then explain the results give students a leg up in critical thinking skills and much more. Students might also have similar experiences through community service, independent/supervised research projects, or an internship.

Jodi Smolen

Career Services Department

Jodi Smolen: Given the pandemic, new employees must be very proactive. They may be working from home--so they need to speak up, ask for advice and make sure they are delivering what is needed. They are missing out on those chance meetings in the hallway--so they may have to schedule Zoom sessions with peers or supervisors to touch base more often. Students in marketing need to be savvy with social media. They need to be comfortable posting and following on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Companies are looking for ways to meet their clients in comfortable spaces. Given the pandemic, I think job trends are subject to change. Companies are still figuring out when/if they will be able to return to the office. Some firms are fully in-person while others are rotating staff in and out of the office, so they are not at full capacity. As business picks up for companies, I see they will be able and willing to hire more employees to handle the influx. At Touro College, our students receive a superior education. As marketing students, they should compile a portfolio of class projects as they move through their classes and add anything they create on their own time as well.

Jodi Smolen: I think this depends on the industry. Finance students give themselves an advantage by taking the Securities Industry Essential (SIE) exam during college. The exam does not require employer sponsorship and it is good for 4 years. If students want to become a securities trader, investment banker, or financial advisor, the SIE exam is a necessary step before they take the Series 6 and 7 exams after graduation. It shows a prospective employer that the student is serious about a career in the financial services industry. In addition, finance students should hone their advanced Excel skills. Whether they do this in college, or on their own time, knowing Pivot Tables and VLOOKUP will set them apart from other candidates. Computer science students should know that Python is in strong demand. If they know the basics of this language, they will have more job opportunities in different industries. Similarly, many data science jobs require Python, SQL or R programming languages. Candidates who pick up programming languages easily can learn on the job, but it is always more desirable to walk into the job knowing the language they want to use.

Angela Sebby Ph.D.

Angela Sebby Ph.D.: While jobs may be slower to return to the capacity pre-Covid, the industry and tourism employment will rebound as people still want to travel and explore diverse foods, cultures, and experiences. However, the enduring impact will be the rapid onset of technology that allowed for limited contact with employees and others has become the new norm. Although human interaction is an important aspect of service in the tourism industry, employers have found that they can reduce the number of personal interactions but still deliver an acceptable level of quality service. What would have taken years to adopt, COVID created an amplified adoption.

What technical skills for a Project Manager stand out to employers?

Angela Sebby Ph.D.: Business, creative, and organizational skills - I would recommend that upcoming graduates are proficient in Word, Excel (highly used), Powerpoint, Outlook (especially how to send meeting requests and calendar organization), TEAMS, Gantt charts for team management, Mindmapping for creativity, and design software. Additionally, I would recommend that they learn how to properly utilize social media for marketing and PR, not just personal posting. Finally, email etiquette would be essential.

Stephen O'Connell

Department of Economics

Stephen O'Connell: Recessions are a tough time to enter the job market and we're in the worst recession since the Great Depression. It remains to be seen whether the labor market will bounce back strongly, but it certainly won't bounce back in time to ease the situation of the class of '21 very much. Be ready to be persistent and resilient in your job search. On the positive side for public policy work, the Trump Administration and the pandemic have left us with immense challenges of resuming normal, evidence-based policymaking and managing recovery from the pandemic. So public policy analysis may be a more robust area of the job market.

Stephen O'Connell: Work that uses your skills and builds new ones. There is a premium on your own flexibility over the couple of years, with a lot of job-market volatility due to uncertain structural impacts of the pandemic.

Stephen O'Connell: The organization, presentation and interpretation of data are probably particularly valued. Comfort with all kinds of online productivity tools. As always, capacity for critical thinking. For now especially, ability to work independently within a team that meets only remotely.

TeWhan Hahn Ph.D.

TeWhan Hahn Ph.D.: Writing skills including email writing, being able to work in teams, and knowing the workplace etiquettes.

TeWhan Hahn Ph.D.: There will be more openings for employees who are willing to work remote.

Meaghan Goodman Ph.D.

Speech-Language Pathology

Meaghan Goodman Ph.D.: At this point it is hard to say. Certainly, there were immediate impacts as students and professors alike shifted to learning and teaching in a virtual world. Some students had to tackle online learning while sharing resources like Wi-Fi with parents and other siblings. Long term, it is possible that coronavirus may impact hiring for the foreseeable future. With more money needing to be shifted towards personal protective equipment, and cleaning procedures and supplies, many businesses including hospital systems and school districts will be taking a closer look at their bottom line. I do think this pandemic highlighted a need for highly skilled Speech-Language Pathologists. For some, contracting COVID-19 meant intubation (a procedure in which a tube in inserted through the mouth and into the trachea to provide breathing support for critically ill patients). We are often consulted for patients requiring prolonged intubation. After a patient has intubation removed, we are often consulted in evaluating damage to a patient's swallow as well as their vocal quality. Because of the nature of intubation, patients aren't able to speak, so alternative forms of communication must be established, lending another opportunity for a Speech-Language Pathologists to demo

Meaghan Goodman Ph.D.: A bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders can prepare you for three different tracks. First, it can prepare you to become a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA). This is someone who works under a fully credential speech-language pathologist. Often times, they carryout intervention plans developed by a fully credentialed speech-language pathologist. If graduate school is on your horizon, a bachelor's degree in communication sciences and disorders will prepare you for acceptance into a Speech-Language Pathology program, or an Audiology program. If you are not accepted into a graduate program right away, working as a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) is a great way to get experience in the field!

Department of Management

Todd Terry: Graduates as they prepare to enter the workforce should pay particular attention to their ability to communicate with coworkers. This communication could happen through face-to-face interactions, remote meetings with the aid of technology for example, meeting by computer software, written communication through instant messaging, or emails. Also, part of communicating is being a good listener. Graduates should have good critical thinking skills. They will need to be adaptive and able to analyze data to make good informed decisions. In today's work environment, working on teams is a regular function. Therefore, employers are looking for the candidate who can professionally interact with other team members, have a positive attitude and a good work ethic.

Todd Terry: What once was well defined with working hours, an office space, coworkers being close by to develop relationships with seems to be misplaced during the current working environment. In the working situation we are in today, graduates will need to be flexible with working hours as work hours may not be defined and could change by day. Office space may mean that one is working remotely from home. Building of relationships with coworkers will be done using technology as coworkers may be located in many different areas or time zones. In general business will continue to function remotely. The pandemic has created a sense of creativity in how business is done. The one major component the pandemic has created is where large and small businesses are conducting daily business functions from remote locations. This practice has proven that business can be effectively done without having to travel to distant locations. Consequently, business travel will be continue to be slow.

Bala Musa Ph.D.

Department of Communication Studies

Bala Musa Ph.D.: Remote working and telecommuting will continue to grow proportionately, as part of organizational operations. Self-managed teams, global collaborations and machine-learning will be among the biggest trends in organizations of the future.

Bala Musa Ph.D.: Digital literacy, cultural literacy, information technology, data management and human communication skills courses and certifications will continue to be relevant in the workplace.

Bala Musa Ph.D.: A good job out of college is one that allows you to apply creative and critical thinking skills. Future work environments will require employees to innovate and adapt. Any job that helps you cultivate, sharpen and apply those skills will serve you and your organization well. It will prepare you to adapt in the face of change and future disruptions.

Keith Hassell

Sacred Heart University’s Center for Career & Professional Development

Keith Hassell: Employers are increasingly looking for applied skillsets and additional certifications to set a candidate apart. Sacred Heart University has recently launched a remote work certification, which houses three modules - focusing on the remote worker, the remote team and the remote leader, providing the tools and resources to comfortably leverage and utilize virtual platforms at various organizations. Additional specialized training, certifications and more are great selling tools pending on the specific area of interest. Certifications are common in areas such as project management, sales, IT/network/software, Google application and more. The candidate needs to think, "What can I do that is beyond my coursework to show I am passionate about my field? How do I make myself stand out?" Certifications is an attainable way to do this. In addition, soft skills continue to be equally important in today's job market. NACE (the National Association of Colleges and Employers) identified seven core competencies that employers seek from entry level candidates which include critical thinking/problem solving, oral/written communication, teamwork/collaboration, digital technology, leadership, professionalism/work ethic, career management and global/intercultural fluency.

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What Jobs Can I Get with a Master’s in Project Management?

Project managers have a unique blend of skills. They have an eye for details, along with an ability to see the big picture. They can plan for the long term and can also deal with the unexpected in the moment. They have facility with numbers in schedules and budgets, but also have outstanding communication. If this describes your skills set, you’re an ideal fit for a project management job, and an on-site or online master’s in project management can open doors to lucrative, senior positions in the field, across a variety of industries. Some 46% of project managers hold a master’s degree , while 43% hold a bachelor’s, making a master’s degree a significant source of differentiation when it comes to hiring and promoting, particularly to senior project management positions. If you’re contemplating taking this next step in your career, you’re likely wondering what jobs can I get with a master’s in project management?

We’ve gathered the latest information on the career options open to graduates with a master’s degree, including the current job market for project managers, salary range, typical job titles, and the most popular industries for project management jobs. Read on to explore your options and put your unique skills to work in a top project management job.

Project Management Job Outlook with a Master’s Degree

While a bachelor’s in project management can get your foot in the door , many employers require a master’s in project management as the minimum qualification for their senior project management jobs, either as a Master of Science (MA), Master of Arts (MA), or Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Project Management . The demand for credentialed project managers is high and rising. As companies become more aware of the benefits of hiring a professional project management specialist, those that once handled their own projects with existing staff are increasingly looking to hire experts to improve their projects’ efficiency and efficacy. Other industries, such as IT, have always had a strong reliance on project management specialists, and are rapidly growing, creating an increased demand. Overall, the PMI reports that a global shortage of qualified project managers will open approximately 1.57 million project management jobs , meaning a wealth of opportunities (and competitive salaries) for qualified professionals.

Project Management Salary Range at the Master’s Level

According to the Project Management Institute (PMI)’s Salary Survey , the average base salary for project management jobs at the bachelor’s level comes to $111,606 while those with a master’s degree earn $119,877. Of these, professionals in the top 25% average $140,000 per year.

Project management salaries rise with seniority, as well as the size of projects managed, including number of team members overseen and the size of budgets administered. Another area that affects average project management salary is industry. Project managers work in every class of organization, from agrobusiness to zoology. Of all the industries surveyed by the PMI, the project management jobs with the highest average salaries were found in the fields of pharmaceuticals ($131,833), aerospace ($121,923) and resources such as mining and agriculture ($129,368). The project management jobs with the lowest salaries by industry, meanwhile, were education ($92,867), business services ($96,821), and real estate ($103,723).

Project Management Job Titles

The most common positions for professionals holding a master’s in project management are:

• Project Manager A project manager is the organizer, leader, and problem-solver on a given project, and may handle more than one project at a time. Project managers define goals for projects, and create timelines and budgets, manage risks, and communicate with stakeholders on a given project through all phases of its life cycle. Average salary: $ 98,909
• Senior Project Manager Soma organizations tend to have multiple projects underway at any given time, such as large companies or those project-focused industries like engineering and construction. In such cases, senior project managers are needed to oversee the various project managers employed by the company. Senior project managers supervise and direct project managers, allocate resources, and communicate progress to company leadership. Average salary: $112,314
• Project Management Consultant Not all companies handle sizable projects on a regular basis, and may need to bring in a project management consultant to manage corporate change or assist in the development of a new department or product launch. Project management consultants work with companies on individual projects, operate independently, and bring with them extensive experience and expertise. Other project managers work for a project management consulting firm. Average salary: $120,366

Project Management Jobs by Industry

If you’re considering earning a master’s in project management, its likely that you’ve had the opportunity to manage projects in a current or previous position and discovered a gift for leadership and organization. Many mid-career professionals pursue an online master’s in project management while maintaining employment in the fields of construction, architecture, telecommunications, engineering or information technology- fields where projects are a regular part of how industry operates. If you have expertise in any of these fields (either as a bachelor’s degree or simply on-the-job learning), you’ll have a special qualification for industry-specific project management jobs. Some master’s degree programs also offer the opportunity to pursue a specialization in an industry-specific domain.

Project management is an extremely versatile job, with positions open in every field. The industries with the greatest number of project management jobs are:

• Information Technology More project management jobs can be found in the field of IT than any other industry. This fast-growing STEM sector relies heavily on specialized project managers, as each new app and update consists of a project to be overseen and optimized. This is an ideal career for those with a background in software development, and tends to involve much use of the Agile and Scrum methodologies. Average salary: $116,585
• Government Government entities waste almost 10% of the money invested in projects and programs at the federal and state levels through inefficiencies. As government agencies come to appreciate the value that project managers bring to the private sector, the number of project management jobs in government is growing, with this field currently making up the second-largest sector for project management jobs. In the UK, PRINCE2 is the preferred methodology in this field, while in the US, there is no single preferred approach. Average salary: $116,731
• Healthcare Health insurance companies are major employers of project managers, as are hospitals and other healthcare entities. Some project managers in this sector work within a single department, while others might be expected to move between patient management, medical treatment development, and other endeavors. Average salary: $111,921
• Manufacturing Moving a plant, developing a new product, or training a new workforce- manufacturing runs up against change and projects on a regular bases, and manufacturers rely on project managers to keep productivity up and costs down throughout. Project managers in this sector will need to be familiar with the Lean and KanBan methodologies. Average salary: $110,649

Further Project Management Qualifications

Not only do project managers work in a range of industries, but also using a range of project management methodologies . An on-campus or online master’s in project management will introduce you to the most popular approaches to goal setting, scheduling and managing projects. Some are associated with specific industries, such as manufacturing or software development, while others have a broad range of applications. In addition to earning a master’s in Project Management, pursuing training or certification in a job-relevant project management methodology, such as PRINCE2 or Scrum, is associated with a higher salary.

Finally, top salaries come with earning certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP) Project Management Professional (PMP), in addition to a master’s in project management. According to the PMIÕs Earning Power Salary Survey , professionals who earn a PMP certification make 20% more than their colleagues who do not. A strong on-campus or online master’s in project management should explicitly cover the material on this challenging exam, so that, with the required field experience, you’ll be qualified and fully prepared to sit for this certification test.

Project Management MBAs

If you have powerful business acumen and a drive to lead, you may wish to consider an MBA in project management instead of a master’s in project management. Learn more about your options in further reading:

“Should I get a Project Management MasterÕs or MBA?”

“What Jobs Can I Get with an MBA in Project Management?”

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Project Management Careers

Created by Henry Steele

By Henry Steele - April 16, 2017

The following article provides information about the critical aspects of a career in project management. You will learn what project managers do, where they work, job duties, how to become a project manager, and popular career paths.

Project managers are different than regular department managers who typically oversee a certain area of the business. Project managers instead are responsible for all areas and parts of a specific and time limited business initiative. For example, a project manager may be responsible for:

• Launching a new type of product for a medical device or pharmaceutical company
• Developing a new cell phone mobile application for a telecommunications firm
• Implementing a new banking system online for a major financial institution
• Rolling out a new product for an international retailer

A project manager’s job description will usually reflect the specific needs of the firm. But generally, a project manager will plan, coordinate, implement and finalize company projects on deadline, while they keep the project under budget.

Most project managers will do most of the following duties:

• Oversee projects from the initial planning phase, through implementation, testing and reporting
• Assemble project teams from personnel from several departments, including IT, purchasing, product development, distribution and marketing
• Ensure that contractors and suppliers are providing services and goods as they are contracted to do
• Make certain that the project is progressing on time and on budget
• Determine the cost of the business project, the resources needed and work schedules
• Provide the client or senior management with regular progress reports
• Planning resources needed for various projects
• Managing risks and issues on projects
• Achieve operational objectives in the project

Project managers will usually choose the people on the project team and manage their work. The project manager is ultimately the one responsible for the success or failure of the project. Success usually is measured on whether or not the project has been completed within budget and in the time frame that was laid out.

Where We Work

Project managers will find work in most industries and in cities and states where the economy is strong and has a wide industrial base. According to Monster.com, the below cities are looking especially promising for managers and specifically project managers:

• Houston, Texas : This is the biggest city in Texas and by some measures the third or fourth biggest in the US. It is the home to many large industries, including oil and gas, aeronautics, and healthcare. Healthcare jobs are growing especially fast because the population is increasing and getting older.
• Dallas, Texas : This is a booming Texas metropolis and has many new management jobs in telecommunications, technology and defense.
• Boston, Massachusetts : This is a booming northeast city with growing healthcare, finance and biotechnology fields. Project managers are needed to manage many new projects as the economy is expanding.
• Minneapolis, Minnesota : This economy is thriving in manufacturing, especially in electronics, medical equipment and advanced machinery. Project management jobs are big here.
• Seattle, Washington : This city is well known as a tech leader in the world. Workers here enjoy high paying jobs in IT, aerospace and software development. Project managers are always needed at the many IT and software companies in the area.

Employment/Salaries

The salary level of project managers will depend upon the industry and level of experience the PM has. However, various online sources report that a typical median salary for PMs starts in the range of $45,000 per year and can go as high as $125,000.

Payscale.com reports that PMs earn a median salary of $84,725 with a range of $53,000 to $121,341.

Project managers are needed in virtually all companies of any size in most industries. Some of the types of companies that hire project managers are:

• Aerospace companies
• Architectural and engineering firms
• Colleges and universities
• Construction companies
• Government departments
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Information technology companies
• Interior design firms
• Marketing companies
• Oil, gas and mining companies
• Scientific research organizations
• Software development companies
• Telecommunications companies

Career Paths

Project managers enjoy wide demand for their skills and services, thus you can find good work in a variety of careers:

• Marketing manager : These managers are responsible for creating , identifying and evaluating sales strategies to effectively promote a company’s products and services and to boost sales. Project managers are always needed to lead new marketing efforts for all types of products and services in various industries.
• Operations manager : Ensures the smooth operation of a company or manufacturing facility that provides production of goods and services. Project managers are often needed to lead new efforts to streamline operations and improve efficiency. When a new product is introduced, projects are often required to ensure that the production line is working properly.
• Market research analyst : Study conditions of the market and determine what the possible sales potential is of a new or existing product or service. Advanced project management skills are needed to lead efforts to improve sales for a specific line of products.
• IT project manager : You will be needed to lead various IT projects that can range from the installation of new servers, moving data to cloud based systems and building and launching a new company intranet.

One of the most common career paths for project managers is to be employed as a management analyst or management consultant. These project management professionals are in charge of proposing methods to improve the efficiency and profits of a company or specific product line.

Management analysts provide advice to senior managers about how they can reduce costs and enhance revenue. They are often needed to head projects in inventory management or the reorganization of a corporate structure to eliminate jobs that are not needed. You may specialize as a project manager as a management analyst in a specific industry, including healthcare or IT.

Careers by Job Title

• Technical Project Manager Salary
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• IT Project Manager Salary

Education Requirements

You can become a project manager by getting a bachelor’s degree in business management . Or, you may also choose to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a more specific field , including marketing , engineering or computer science . A more specific bachelor’s degree can be useful if you want to be a PM in a specific industry, such as IT or engineering.

Some universities also will offer project management degree programs that you can choose. For example, many self paced online universities offer MBAs with a specialization in project management . Another option is to earn your bachelor’s in business, and then earn a certificate in project management.

Specializations

Project managers are needed in just about all industries. Depending upon your skills and interests, you may want to consider specializing in these types of project manager jobs:

• Construction : Project managers are needed to be in charge of all types of building projects both in the private and public sectors.
• Healthcare : All of the biggest healthcare companies in the US, such as Aetna and Blue Cross/Blue Shield, employ thousands of project managers.
• Engineering : Whether the engineering is for product development or building some type of structure, engineering project managers are needed in the growing economy
• IT : If you want to work in IT project management, it is very useful to have a good background in software development and the software development life cycle.
• Energy : The oil and gas industry definitely needs more project managers in this era of fracking, which has led to greatly increased oil and gas output in the United States. The Department of Energy also hires many project managers.

Training and Certifications

Project managers are dealing with a corporate environment today that is more complex and multi faceted than in the past. Employers want to know that their project managers are completely qualified to lead their top business efforts. That is why many companies that employ project managers often require their PMs to have project manager certification.

The most widely known and respected certification in the project manager industry today is the Project Management Professional or PMP designation. This certification is awarded by PMI – the Project Management Institute.

PMI developed robust industry standards to ensure companies that PMP holders have received the highest level of project management certification. It is becoming more common today for some companies and job opportunities to require PMP certification. A certification such as PMP will often result in a salary increase.

Surveys suggest that project managers who hold the PMP credential for four years will on average make 15% more than those who do not, at the same level of work experience.

PMP certification helps to show future employers that you have the skills to lead their most challenging business projects. It also is highly useful to earn the respect of peers and employers. Most PMs with PMP certification can compete for some of the highest paying project management roles.

• Villanova University. Project Manager Jobs. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.villanovau.com/resources/project-management/project-manager-jobs/#.WO-JefnyuUk
• IT Project Manager Salary. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Project_Manager%2C_Information_Technology_(IT)/Salary
• Market Research Analysts. (2015, Dec. 17). Retrieved from  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm#tab-2
• Moore, A. 5 Best Cities for Your Career. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/5-best-cities-for-your-career-in-2013

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How To Become A Computer And Information Systems Manager

Updated: Jul 12, 2024, 11:20am

Computer and information systems managers take leadership roles in planning, directing and analyzing information technology- and computer-related issues for their organizations. Their specific duties and responsibilities vary depending on the size of their company. This career attracts analytical, organized, tech-savvy people with good communication, business and leadership skills.

The job outlook and salary potential for computer and information systems managers is excellent. If you’re interested in this career, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related discipline and anywhere from five to 15 years of professional experience in a relevant position. Many employers also prefer candidates with a Master of Business Administration.

Potential job titles include information technology (IT) manager, IT director, chief information officer and chief technology officer.

The rest of this guide explains how to become a computer and information systems manager. We discuss education and experience requirements, typical job duties and the salary and job outlook for this career.

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Key Takeaways

• Computer and information systems managers oversee all computer-related activities at their organizations. Typical tasks include analyzing computer-related needs, planning hardware and software maintenance and upgrades, and managing IT workers.
• You need at least a bachelor’s degree and five years of relevant professional experience to become a computer and information systems manager. Some employers also require a graduate degree in a field such as business administration.
• Computer and information systems managers earn much higher than average salaries and can look forward to an excellent job outlook.

What Is a Computer and Information Systems Manager?

Computer and information systems managers oversee computer and information technology goals, tasks, personnel, costs and systems for their organizations. Most of the time these professionals start in a lower-level management role and can advance over time to positions with greater responsibility.

But just what do computer and information systems managers do? Daily tasks and overall responsibilities vary depending on the position and the size and structure of the company. However, typical duties may include the following:

• Supervise IT workers, including computer programmers, project managers, analysts, support technicians and software developers
• Analyze technology needs and make recommendations to CEOs and other high-level members of the organization
• Help establish IT goals and research best practices and new technologies
• Oversee the installation and maintenance of software and hardware
• Establish budgets, evaluate costs and benefits of IT projects and negotiate to get the best prices with vendors
• Improve and maintain IT and computer system security for the organization

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), popular employing industries for this profession include the following:

• Computer systems design
• Information
• Finance and insurance
• Manufacturing

How To Become a Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers need a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of relevant professional experience. Some employers also require a graduate degree for this career. Below, we explain how to become a computer and information systems manager.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a computer and information systems manager is to complete a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science or a related field. This usually takes four years. You’ll study computing theory, software development, information security and computer programming and gain technical proficiency and analytical, communication and problem-solving skills.

Degree Finder

Get relevant work experience.

You’ll need significant experience in the field if you’re interested in this career. If you can, start getting hands-on experience through an internship while you’re still in school. Not only will you get the chance to put your learning into practice, you’ll also get to network with other professionals in the field.

The amount of required experience varies by position, employer and company size. The bigger the organization, the more experience it typically requires, while smaller companies often ask for fewer years of experience.

Computer and information systems managers typically need at least five years of professional experience in a related IT or computer role in the same or a similar field. High-level roles, such as directors, may require as much as 10 years of experience or 15 for a chief technology officer at a large organization.

Consider Earning a Graduate Degree

Many employers prefer or require a computer and information systems manager with a graduate degree. Many of these professionals earn a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) , which usually takes two years to complete. M.B.A. programs can help you develop important skills needed for this profession, including general business proficiency and communication, leadership and decision-making capabilities.

Consider Professional Certifications

Professional certifications are voluntary credentials that demonstrate competency. Many employers in the tech industry prefer job applicants with a professional certification, and earning the right one might help you qualify for more and better jobs with higher salaries. You can also pursue certifications to continue your professional education and stay on top of new technologies and industry changes.

Computer and Information Systems Manager Salary and Job Outlook

The BLS projects a 15% job growth rate (much faster than average) for this profession between 2022 and 2032. Computer and information systems management is a large field. You can expect about 46,900 new openings for this career each year between 2022 and 2032.

It’s also a very well-paying field. The BLS reports that computer and information systems managers earn a median annual salary of $169,510. This is much higher than the average for all occupations of $48,060.

Certifications for Computer and Information Systems Managers

In the tech field, employers often prefer candidates with a relevant professional certification that demonstrates their skills and knowledge. You might negotiate a higher starting salary or even qualify for a job you wouldn’t have otherwise with a certification. We describe some popular certifications for this role below.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®)

The CISSP certification from ISC2 recognizes cybersecurity professionals with the skills to lead an organization’s IT security program. Applicants need at least five years of relevant work experience to qualify for the credential. They must pass an exam that covers topics including security and risk management, security operations and software development security. The exam costs $749.

This is a good certification for professionals in roles such as chief information security officer, director of security and IT director.

CompTIA Network+

The CompTIA Network+ certification shows that you can manage computer networks effectively. You must pass an exam that costs $369 and covers topics including network security, network operations and network troubleshooting. Eligibility criteria include nine to 12 months of work experience in the IT field.

Project Management Professional (PMP)®

The PMP certification from the Project Management Institute shows that you can effectively plan and lead projects in any industry. You must pass a 180-question exam and pay $425 (members) or $595 (nonmembers).

Eligibility criteria include a four-year degree, 36 months leading projects in the last eight years and 35 hours of project management education or CAPM® certification. Alternatively, you can qualify with just a high school diploma if you have 60 months of project management experience, plus 35 hours of project management education or CAPM certification.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Computer and Information Systems Managers

What do computer and information systems managers do.

Computer and information systems managers oversee various computer- and information technology-related issues and activities at their organization. Specific duties vary by job but may include setting goals, making recommendations and assessing needs related to technology and computer systems and networks.

Is being a computer and information systems manager stressful?

It depends on the specific role and where you work, but it can be sometimes. As a manager, you’ll be accountable for a lot, which can be stressful. If something goes wrong, you may need to take responsibility for it and work overtime to solve the problem.

Is it hard to become a computer and information systems manager?

Becoming a computer and information systems manager takes time, but it’s possible if you’re willing to work hard and refine your leadership, business and communication skills. Plan on four years to earn a bachelor’s degree and another two years if you pursue a master’s degree. You’ll also need five to 15 years of relevant professional experience to qualify for this role.

Are IT managers in demand?

Yes, IT managers are in incredibly high demand. The BLS projects a 15% job growth rate (much faster than average) for computer and information systems managers between 2022 and 2032. This amounts to about 46,900 job openings on average for this career each year during this decade.

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Liz Simmons has been writing for various online publications about career development, higher education and college affordability for nearly a decade. Her articles demystify the college application process and help prospective students figure out how to choose a major or career path.

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Career Paths for Federal Program and Project Management Guide

Resources for.

• New / Prospective Employees
• Federal Employees
• HR Professionals

Differentiating Job Titles for Program and Project Managers

Program and Project Management work has been found to be appropriately classified to numerous occupational series based on the specific work performed. The titling of program and project management positions is dependent upon the classification of the position. The selection of the occupational series determines the titling of the position.

Determining the occupational series for a position is usually apparent by reviewing its assigned duties and responsibilities and then comparing them to the series definitions and general occupational information in the appropriate position classification flysheet or standard. Generally, the primary work of the position, the highest level of work performed, and the paramount knowledge required to successfully perform the work of the position determines the appropriate occupational series.

Users of position classification standards normally have little trouble making the series decision by comparing the characteristics of the position in question to the occupational series definition and occupational information in the standards. However, if the work of a Program or Project Manager position falls into more than one series, the correct series is sometimes difficult to determine. If it is unclear whether a series predominates, consider the following to determine the correct series:

• Paramount occupational knowledge required. Although a Program or Project Manager positions may include several different kinds of work, most positions have a paramount occupational knowledge requirement in addition to the project management knowledge, skills, and abilities/competencies. The paramount occupational knowledge is the most important subject matter knowledge or subject-related experience required to do the work.
• Reason for existence. The primary purpose of the Program or Project Manager position, or management’s intent in establishing the Program or Project Manager position, is a positive indicator in determining the appropriate series.
• Organizational mission and/or function. Program and Project Manager positions generally align with the mission and function of the organization to which they are assigned. The organization’s function often is mirrored in the organizational title and may influence the choice of appropriate series.
• Recruitment source. Supervisors and managers can help by identifying the occupational series that provides the best qualified applicants to do the program or project management work. This aspect correlates with the paramount knowledge required by the program or project management position.

Titling Program and Project Management Positions

Any position may have an organizational title or functional title, but every position must have an official title. 5 U.S.C. 5105 (a)(2) requires OPM to establish the official class titles. This title must be used on all official personnel documentation. However, subsection 5 U.S.C. 5105(c) states that this requirement does not prevent the use of organizational or other titles for internal administration. Agencies may supplement the basic and prescribed titles authorized in standards with the parenthetical title (Project Manager) if necessary for recruitment or other human resources needs. In those instances where OPM has not prescribed an official title for a series, an agency may construct its own official title. According to the Introduction to Position Classification Standards , constructed titles should be “short,” “meaningful,” and “generally descriptive of the work performed.” The title selected by the agency should not be one that has been prescribed by OPM as an official title for positions in another series.

Program and Project Management Definitions

Project management work involves the coordinated application of general and specialized knowledge, skills, expertise, and practices to a temporary endeavor with a defined scope, cost and completion date. A project may be part of a larger program or portfolio. A project serves to develop, modify, or enhance a product, service, or system and is constrained by the relationships among scope, resources, and time. It is important to distinguish a project from a program. Program Management work has been found to correlate with the GS-13 grade level definition found in 5 USC 5104. Positions below this grade threshold would normally be considered developmental in nature and/or not meet the full definition of Program Management. Programs normally provide products and/or services to the public. A program entails the mission, functions, operations, projects, activities, laws, rules, and regulations which an agency is authorized and funded by statute to administer and enforce. In contrast a project has a defined beginning and end, a program is an ongoing operation.

Program Management, 0340 Occupational Title

The basic title for positions in this occupation is Program Manager.

Do not use titles authorized for other occupations to construct titles for this series (e.g., IT Program Manager, 2210).

Positions in which specialized subject matter or functional competence is a necessary qualification requirement are classifiable to whichever specialized or general series is most appropriate. Agencies must follow the specific titling guidelines found in the applicable classification standard.

Project Management Occupational Title

Agencies may supplement the basic and prescribed titles authorized in classification standards with the parenthetical title (Project Manager) if the position meets the definition and criteria for project management work.

Additional information concerning titling Program and Project Management work may be found in the Position Classification Flysheet for the Program Management Series, 0340 and the Interpretive Guidance for Project Management Positions. Guidance for titling IT Program and IT Project Management positions may be found in the Job Family Standard for Administrative Work in Information Technology Group, 2200 and the Interpretive Guidance for IT Program Management Positions .

Licensed Mental Health Counselor vs. Licensed Clinical Social Worker: Navigating Mental Health Professions

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In the landscape of mental health professions, licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs) and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) stand out as two distinct yet interrelated roles. Both professions are dedicated to supporting individuals, families and communities in addressing mental health challenges and promoting well-being.

While they share similarities in their overarching goals, there are notable differences in their training, scope of practice and job opportunities. Let’s delve into the intricacies of LMHC and LCSW roles and explore their distinctions.

What is a licensed mental health counselor?

LMHCs are mental health professionals trained to counsel individuals, couples and groups. To become an LMHC, individuals typically need to complete a master’s degree program in counseling or a related field, along with supervised clinical experience and licensure requirements mandated by their state.

LMHCs train to assess and diagnose mental health disorders, develop treatment plans and provide psychotherapy to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns. They may specialize in areas such as substance abuse, trauma, marriage and family therapy or career counseling.

Professional mental health counselors work in diverse settings that may include the following:

• Colleges and universities
• Correctional facilities
• K-12 schools
• Mental health clinics
• Private practice
• Social service government agencies

What does a licensed clinical mental health counselor do?

As an LMHC, you’ll have the opportunity to work with individuals and groups to help them cope with challenges related to mental health and wellness. This may involve treatment, prevention and other exercises and techniques designed to help people overcome these challenges to lead full lives.

The primary aspects of a mental health counselor’s practice include the following areas and responsibilities.

• Assessment: Conducting thorough assessments to understand clients’ presenting issues, mental health history, strengths and needs. This may involve administering standardized assessments, conducting interviews and gathering relevant information.
• Diagnosis: Using diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (also called the DSM) to assess and diagnose mental health disorders when appropriate. LMHCs may work collaboratively with clients and other mental health professionals to formulate accurate diagnoses.
• Treatment planning: Collaborating with clients to develop personalized treatment plans based on their unique needs and goals. Treatment plans may include a combination of therapeutic interventions, coping strategies and goals for growth and change.
• Psychotherapy: Providing evidence-based psychotherapy to help clients address a wide range of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief and stress management. LMHCs utilize various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, interpersonal therapy and solution-focused therapy.
• Crisis intervention: Offering immediate support and interventions to clients experiencing acute crises such as suicidal ideation, self-harm or emotional distress. LMHCs may provide crisis counseling, risk assessment, safety planning and referrals to appropriate resources.
• Advocacy and referral: Advocating for clients’ needs and rights within various systems, such as health care, education and social services. LMHCs may also facilitate referrals to other professionals or community resources such as psychiatrists, support groups or social service agencies.
• Collaboration and consultation: Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, educators and health care providers, to ensure comprehensive care for clients. LMHCs may also provide consultation to other professionals regarding mental health issues and interventions.
• Ethical practice: Adhering to ethical standards and legal regulations governing the practice of mental health counseling. LMHCs maintain confidentiality, respect clients’ autonomy and prioritize their well-being while upholding professional boundaries and responsibilities.

What is a licensed clinical social worker?

LCSWs are clinical social workers with a master’s or doctoral degree in social work from an accredited program. In addition to completing coursework in areas like human behavior, social policy and research methods, LCSWs must accrue supervised clinical experience and pass licensure exams administered by their state regulatory board.

Once you’ve obtained your license and been offered a job upon graduation, you can work with approved individuals to give clinical supervision and accrue the necessary hours for your state.

Unlike LMHCs, LCSWs train to approach community mental health issues from a broader systemic perspective, considering the social, cultural and environmental factors that influence an individual’s well-being. They tend to be skilled in providing individual and group therapy, case management, advocacy and community outreach services.

Professional clinical social workers work in some similar settings as counselors, but some may operate in different, community-focused settings such as the following:

• Community health centers
• Nonprofit organizations
• Social service and government agencies

What does a licensed clinical social worker do?

As an LCSW, you can work with individuals, families and groups to help them overcome challenges and considerations related to social and societal concerns. These may involve working with people living in suboptimal conditions involving alcohol abuse, domestic violence, emotional issues and more.

Many duties and responsibilities of social work have significant crossover with mental health counseling, though the approach, conditions, scope and setting may be different. The primary aspects of a clinical social worker’s practice include the following.

• Assessment: Conducting comprehensive assessments to evaluate clients’ strengths, challenges and needs. LCSWs gather information about clients’ social, emotional and environmental circumstances to develop a holistic understanding of their situation.
• Diagnosis and treatment planning: Using diagnostic criteria to assess and diagnose mental health disorders when appropriate. LCSWs collaborate with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their specific goals and concerns. Treatment plans may include a combination of therapeutic interventions, supportive services and referrals to other professionals or community resources.
• Psychotherapy: Providing evidence-based psychotherapy to help clients address a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, relationship problems and more. LCSWs employ various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy and family therapy, to facilitate healing and growth.
• Crisis intervention: Offering immediate support and intervention to clients experiencing acute crises, such as suicidal ideation, domestic violence or substance abuse emergencies. LCSWs provide crisis counseling, risk assessment, safety planning and linkage to appropriate resources for ongoing support.
• Case management and advocacy: Assisting clients in accessing necessary services and resources such as health care, housing, financial assistance and legal support. LCSWs advocate for clients’ rights and needs within various systems, including health care, education, social services and the legal system. Social workers uphold an ethical obligation to advocate for marginalized or underserved individuals, families and communities, challenging systemic injustices and advocating for equitable access to resources and services.
• Community outreach and education: Engaging in community outreach activities to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma and promote access to services. LCSWs may provide psychoeducational workshops, support groups and outreach programs to address the needs of underserved populations and promote mental health awareness.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Collaborating with other professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, educators and law enforcement personnel, to ensure comprehensive care for clients. LCSWs participate in interdisciplinary teams, case conferences, and consultations to coordinate services and support clients’ holistic well-being.
• Ethical practice: Adhering to ethical standards and legal regulations governing the practice of social work. LCSWs maintain confidentiality, respect clients’ autonomy and uphold professional boundaries while prioritizing clients’ safety and well-being.

You can pursue social work with a bachelor’s degree, but becoming licensed has clear advantages. It can lead to increased earning potential and allows you to practice as a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW). Once you’ve earned your license, it is generally relatively easy to maintain (36 units of continuing education and renewal fees).

Pursuing advanced education and licensure is an investment in yourself and your career that may benefit you for the rest of your professional life.

What is the difference between an LMHC and an LCSW?

While both LMHCs and LCSWs are licensed mental health professionals, there are several key differences between the two roles. Here’s a rundown of some of the major comparisons and differences.

Education and training

LMHCs typically hold a master’s degree in counseling, while LCSWs have a master’s degree in social work. The training and coursework for each profession may vary, with LMHC programs focusing more on counseling theories and techniques. In contrast, LCSW programs emphasize social justice, advocacy and policy.

Scope of practice

LMHCs primarily focus on counseling and psychotherapy services within a clinical setting. LCSWs, on the other hand, have a broader scope of practice that encompasses clinical interventions, case management, community organizing and advocacy.

Specializations

LMHCs may specialize in marriage and family therapy, addiction counseling, rehabilitation counseling or career counseling. Depending on their interests and career goals, LCSWs may specialize in areas like clinical social work, child welfare, health care or school social work.

What are the skills that both roles share?

Both social workers and mental health counselors require a range of crucial skills to be effective when supporting individuals and improving their overall well-being. These essential skills encompass various interpersonal abilities, including the following.

Understanding and empathy

The capacity to comprehend and empathize with individuals’ experiences and emotions is crucial in social work and mental health counseling. This helps foster a sense of understanding and connection between practitioners and the populations they serve.

Written and verbal communication skills

Proficiency in active listening and clear communication is essential for facilitating meaningful conversations and establishing rapport with clients.

Project management

Given their clients’ diverse needs, social workers and mental health counselors must manage multiple cases efficiently, making project management and organizational skills indispensable.

Recognizing that clients may require time to open up about challenging or complex issues, patience is critical in building trust and creating a safe therapeutic environment.

Critical thinking and solution-focused

Addressing each client’s needs demands problem-solving skills to identify effective strategies and interventions.

Interpersonal skills

Given their collaborative efforts with various governmental and social service entities, social workers benefit from strong interpersonal abilities to effectively engage with stakeholders and develop community-driven initiatives. Counselors likewise need to be able to communicate effectively with those they serve, their families and other experts with whom they might be working.

Cultural competence

Working with clients from diverse backgrounds necessitates cultural awareness and sensitivity. Social workers and counselors strive to understand and respect their clients’ cultural nuances and traditions, ensuring culturally responsive and inclusive practices in service delivery.

Collaboration and interdisciplinary practice

Mental health counselors and social workers collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, educators and community organizations, to coordinate services and support clients’ holistic well-being.

By honing these skills and competencies, social workers and mental health counselors can provide comprehensive support to individuals and communities, promoting holistic well-being and social justice.

LMHC vs LCSW: Job outlook and salary projections

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for mental health counselors, including LMHCs, was $53,710 as of 2023. The job outlook for this profession is positive, with the number of jobs projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average of just 3% projected across all occupations.

The growth in demand for this role is likely to be the result of better diagnostic techniques resulting in a higher number of people, especially minors, learning about and seeking to address any mental health concerns.

The median annual wage for social workers, including LCSWs, was $58,380 as of 2023, though this includes all social workers, and licensed professionals are likely to earn more. The highest-paid social workers have salaries approaching or exceeding $100,000 according to the BLS.

The projected job outlook for social workers is 7% growth from 2022 to 2032, about two times the average for all occupations, a change spurred by factors like a growing and aging population and an increase in drug users being treated via social worker intervention.

What’s the difference between therapists and LMHCs or LCSWs?

People also wonder about the difference between clinical social work and therapists. The term “therapist” is a general title that refers to various mental health professionals, including psychologists, counselors and marriage and family therapists.

Therapists may have different training paths depending on their profession. For example, psychologists typically have doctoral-level training in psychology, counselors often hold master’s degrees in counseling or related fields, and marriage and family therapists specialize in systemic therapy approaches.

Therapists may specialize in specific modalities or populations, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, or child and adolescent therapy. While clinical social workers and therapists provide mental health services, clinical social workers have a distinct background in social work theory and practice, informing their therapy approach within a broader social context. On the other hand, therapists encompass a broader range of mental health professionals with diverse educational backgrounds and training paths.

Pursue your master’s degree and discover which mental health profession is right for you

Choosing between a career as an LMHC or an LCSW depends on your interests, values and career aspirations.

A career as an LMHC may be a good fit if you are passionate about providing individualized counseling services and focused on clinical interventions. On the other hand, if you are drawn to systemic interventions, community organizing and advocacy efforts, pursuing a career as an LCSW may align more closely with your goals.

Both LMHCs and LCSWs play vital roles in promoting mental health and well-being in our communities. By understanding the differences between these professions and exploring your interests and strengths, you can decide which mental health profession is right for you.

At the University of North Dakota, we offer comprehensive options for counseling programs, providing students with the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience needed to excel in their chosen profession. If you aspire to become an LMHC, our faculty and resources are here to support you every step of the way.

Visit our admission page for more information regarding the application requirements by program or to contact an advisor.

Sources: Indeed.com, “LMHC vs. LCSW: What They Are and How They Compare” National Association of Social Workers, “About Social Workers” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “21-1018 Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Social Workers” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Strong growth projected in mental health-related employment” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors”

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HEAD OF THE PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE AND DIGITAL INFORMATION & COLLABORATION (BASED IN ANY OCBA-HUB

• Médecins Sans Frontières

Working within the Projects & IT Office in MSF OCBA, the Head of the Project Management Office and Digital Information & Collaboration (PMO & DInC) will play a dual leadership role in two areas.

• The “PMO” area, aimed to provide IT/digital project leadership that allows the organization to drive innovation, foster collaboration, ensure optimal resource usage and the acquisition of digital skills.
• The “Digital Information and Collaboration” area (DInC), in charge of driving the adoption and evolution of tools and processes that empower MSF teams through information management, communication and improved efficiency.

MAIN FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Transversal

• Collaborate with the Projects & IT Lead in the definition, implementation and monitoring of digitalization and ICT/IS strategies, as well as in annual planning and budgeting processes, particularly in the context of the areas under his/her supervision, responding to the transversal MSF OCBA strategic orientations.
• Develop and monitor the annual unit budget, including assets plan, ensuring its consistency with the overall strategic objectives of Projects & IT and MSF OCBA. S/he will specially pay attention to resource efficiency, consistent reporting and creating a culture of continuous cost optimization.
• Manage talent in the unit, developing their skills and capabilities to meet the needs of the organization, as well as building on existing recruiting criteria to address new needs and skills gaps, and aiming to improve diversity in the teams.
• Ensure the appropriate day-to-day management of the Unit, including staffing, administration and other relevant functions.
• Identify, manage and mitigate risks and issues related to her/his unit, based on the OCBA risk appetite profile and leadership guidance.
• As part of the commitment to strategic partnership with all areas in OCBA, s/he will collaborate with the rest of the IT leadership in overall partnership efforts (business relationship management) for assigned departments and functional areas, with a dedication between 5 and 10% of her/his time.

Specific to the PMO area Project & service portfolios / project management

• Propose and apply best practices and methodologies in the management of IT projects and processes, advising project managers in their selection and application.
• Work with the IT leadership in a demand management model, to evaluate and prioritise new project initiatives, as well as in business needs response and in feasibility analysis processes.
• Collaborate with the IT leadership in the management of the projects & services portfolio, monitoring progress and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives, leading efforts when needed in terms of implementation and/or operationalization.
• Ensure proper engagement with stakeholders is in place and at the core of all projects and initiatives.
• Lead and guide the team of Project Managers, optimizing performance during all phases of the project lifecycle. S/he will specially ensure PMs do extensive stakeholder engagement as per the needs of each project, both outside and inside of IT.
• Oversee the allocation and use of resources in projects under the PMO, to optimize efficiency and performance.
• Ensure the correct transition of projects to regular service operations, meeting defined requirements and needs and ensuring proper documentation.
• Propose and lead project evaluations when needed, to discover lessons to apply in new cases.
• Lead the implementation and run of project information solutions, inc. management and KPIs, to inform management and facilitate decision making.

IT Service Management

• Supervise the deployment of IT Service Management (ITSM) processes, adopting best practices and standards adapted to the needs of MSF and the field.
• Jointly with the P&IT Lead, ensure alignment of IT projects and services in OCBA with defined ITSM practices.
• Oversee the management, support, and evolution of OCBA ITSM tools.

IT / Digital Learning

• Supervise the definition and execution of a program for the development of digital competencies amongst OCBA staff, aligned and coordinated with OCBA learning & training strategies, policy frameworks and HR/L&D teams.
• Oversee the development and deployment of training programs and educational materials for the OCBA staff to acquire and maintain necessary digital and/or IT-related skills.
• Promote and coordinate the dissemination of IT training actions, ensuring a continuous evaluation and improvement approach is observed.

Specific to the Digital Information and Collaboration / DInC area

• Define and oversee the implementation of information management policies, procedures, and digital tools, aligning with best practices and MSF adopted standards.
• Ensure proper engagement with stakeholders regarding knowledge / information management projects and solutions is in place and at the core of all DInC initiatives.
• Oversee the design and implementation of digital collaboration and process automation processes and tools.
• Supervise the maintenance and support of collaborative applications, ensuring efficient upgrades and troubleshooting.
• Establish the necessary coordination mechanisms with the Head of Information Security to ensure that MSF OCBA’s digital information and collaboration solutions are effectively secured and that risks are mitigated.
• Ensure that all information management and collaboration solutions comply with information security, privacy and architecture / apps governance policies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

• University degree in a relevant field (Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, IT/IS Management, etc.), or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum experience of 7 years working in IT, change, transformation, projects or programs, with at least 4 or more working in project, program or portfolio management.
• Relevant experience managing big and/or complex teams. (at least 3 years)
• Relevant knowledge and experience of project and financial management (IT project experience is not mandatory but it is strongly desirable).
• Experience in managing technology providers including development of strategic partnerships, negotiation of technology contracts, monitoring service delivery, and addressing vendor performance issues.
• Knowledge of ITIL or similar service management practices
• Previous experience working with MSF or other humanitarian organizations is an asset.
• Experience working with a diverse, non-technical, geographically dispersed organization is a strong asset.
• Fluency in English and Spanish is required. French is an asset.
• Enterprise Architecture Knowledge is an asset.

How to apply

HOW TO APPLY

• To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter.
• https://careers.msf-applications.org/job-invite/8880/
• Closing date: 5th of August 2024, 23:59 CET (Central European Time).

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