Project management is one of the most important and challenging aspects of completing a project. It includes planning, implementing and managing each stage of production to meet clients’ needs and overcome the constraints of finishing a major project on time. Project managers typically work in architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing and other related fields. Being able to see a project from start to finish takes a determined and skilled individual. Those who are up for the challenge will find a project management certificate program the quickest and most affordable way to become a project manager. Here are 10 things you can expect to learn in a project management certificate program:

1. Communication
   Learning to communicate in an effective, professional manner is extremely important for project management. Project managers will use their communication skills when talking with clients, handling work issues and conversing with people on a daily basis. Students will take communication classes that build upon their current social skills and teach them how to discuss business-related topics.
2. Team Leadership and Management
   Students in a project management program will learn about leadership, management and teamwork as it pertains to managing a business project. They will study leadership skills and management resources, as well as problem solving and critical thinking skills that are needed for management positions.
3. Initiation
   Students will learn about the initiation process, which determines the mission and scope of the project. The initiation stage focuses on analyzing business needs, determining a budget, conducting a stakeholder analysis and develop a project charter.
4. Planning and Development
   Students will also learn about the planning and development stages of project management. Planning and development follow the initiation stage, in which the manager maps out the time, costs and resources needed to complete the project. Students will also study potential risks and issues of the planning and development stage, in addition to learning how to handle and manage such risks.
5. Production and Execution
   Students will learn about the production and execution stages of a project, such as coordinating people and resources, overseeing production and efficiency and making sure all requirements have been met. The production and execution stage requires a great deal of communication and procurement.
6. Monitoring and Controlling
   Students will learn about monitoring and controlling projects to ensure timely and efficient production. They will study common issues of production and how to identify and correct them, so that the project manager can maintain control and stay on track with the project management plan.
7. Closing
   The final step of project management is to formally close a project, therefore, finalizing all stages and activities, as well as completing and closing the contract.
8. Risk Management
   Risk management involves establishing, identifying and assessing the risks of a project. From financial problems, legal liabilities to accidents, risks can significantly slow down and negatively affect the completion of a project. In order to be prepared for such risks, students will learn about managing, reducing and avoiding risks to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
9. Quality Management
   Quality management and quality control coincide within the field of project management. As prospective leaders, students will learn about managing employees, setting realistic goals and expectations of the workers and projects. Quality management includes demonstrating competence, knowledge and experience in the field, as well as exhibiting confidence, integrity and spirit to maintain an effective and positive work climate.
10. Project Portfolio Management
    Project portfolio management, also known as PPM, is a modern technique used to select the right projects first, followed by traditional project management methods second. Students will learn about this popular method of project management that emphasizes selection and prioritizing before initiating production, because it gives companies an advantage in selecting the most profitable and realistic projects.