Hey there!
I want to let you in on an open secret – project management skills are highly versatile and in growing demand across industries. Companies have more complex initiatives than ever before, requiring experienced professionals to spearhead critical programs from launch to completion.
In fact, PMI reports [insert PM job growth statistics here]. Salaries are attractive as well, with median pay exceeding $100k in many markets.
Whether you’re new to project coordination or a seasoned pro, online courses offer a flexible way to skill up. From foundational overviews to intensive certificates, self-paced online programs put sought-after PM competencies within reach on your schedule.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share:
- The most popular flavors of online project management courses
- Reviews of 14 top-rated programs
- Key factors to consider when picking a course
- Tips to get maximum value from your training
- Next steps after you complete your program
Let’s get you prepped with knowledge to confidently take the lead on mission-critical initiatives!
Course Types
Online project management courses typically fall into four main buckets:
Foundational Courses
Foundational courses offer a broad introduction to…
Examples:
- Google PM Certificate
- Coursera PM Principles
- PMI Basics
PMP Exam Prep
PMP prep courses focus specifically on…
Examples:
- Simplilearn
- PM Master Prep
- The PM PrepCast
Specialized Courses
Specialized programs let experienced PMs "major" in…
Examples:
- Agile PM
- Technical PM
- PM Leadership
PM Certificate Programs
Intensive PM certificate programs are like mini-degrees in project management. They require 100+ hours of coursework across key knowledge areas.
Examples:
- Villanova University
- UC Berkeley Extension
- Boston University
Reviews of the Top Programs
Now let‘s explore some of the highest rated courses across these four categories:
Best Foundational Courses
Google Project Management Certificate
6-course program by Google covering…
Ideal for: Beginners or those looking to formalize existing PM knowledge before pursuing advanced training.
University of Virginia Fundamentals
8-hour introductory course teaching you…
Most suited for: Early-career professionals with 0-2 years experience coordinating projects.
PMI Basics of Project Management
This self-paced course available through PMI E-Learning offers modules on…
Value add: Ability to earn PDUs for PMP renewal.
Top PMP Exam Prep Providers
PM Master Prep
With over 500,000 students worldwide, PM Master Prep offers extremely comprehensive PMP exam preparation.
Key features include:
- 170 hours of video instruction
- 4,000+ practice exam questions
- Live instructor support
- 100% pass guarantee
The PM PrepCast
Since 2008, The PM PrepCast has helped over 150,000 students pass the PMP and CAPM exams.
They are best known for:
- In-depth coverage of all 49 PMBOK processes
- Smart pacing algorithm to customize plan
- Simulated exams very close to real test
Simplilearn
Simplilearn is one of the world’s top online bootcamps. Their self-paced PMP course includes:
- 400+ lectures & workshops
-CAPM aligned curriculum
-100% pass guarantee
-Industry-recognized certificate
Specialized PM Courses
Agile Certified Practitioner
ACP course offering that aligned with PMI-ACP content requirements focusing specifically on:
- Agile overviews and mindset
- Value-driven development
- Team performance
Technical Program Manager Coursera Specialization
Take your PM skills into the tech sector through this 3-course series covering:
- Industry processes
- Technical launches
- Strategic thinking for tech PMs
Effective Project Leadership by University of London
Enhance your project leadership capabilities via modules on:
- Leadership styles
- Team dynamics
- Conflict resolution
- Motivation and inspiration tactics
Most Comprehensive Certificates
Villanova University Project Management
This 9-course certificate overseen by PMP-certified faculty prepares you to:
- Master PM methodologies
- Gain key interpersonal skills
- Apply concepts through simulations
- Prep for CAPM/PMP exams
UC Berkeley Extension PM Certificate
Through this in-depth certificate program delivered by industry veterans, you’ll learn to:
- Launch, plan, budget, and execute projects
- Build and lead high performance teams
- Expertly monitor initiatives
- Manage contracts, vendors, changes
Boston University Project Management
BU’s comprehensive certificate includes:
- Role of PM from commercial to social sectors
- Hard and soft skills like leadership, negotiation
- Innovative thinking
- Strategic execution of complex initiatives
Choosing the Right Course
With so many options available, use this criteria to determine the ideal training solution for your goals:
Skill Level: Foundational vs specialized courses depending on experience
Goals: Career change, PMP prep, leadership development
Format: Self-paced, flexible, scheduled options
Instructor Qualifications, teaching style and student reviews
Cost: From free to $2,000+, consider value relative to career impact
Getting Max Value from Your Training
After signing up for your course, make sure to:
- Take detailed notes during lessons
- Find opportunities to apply concepts
- Utilize student cohorts for motivation & networking
- Study for certifications tied to course
- Regularly self-assess progress
Next Steps After Your Course
Here are some ideas to continue advancing your PM education:
- Achieve a relevant certification
- Enroll in additional specialized programs
- Join PMI or related professional association
- Find a project management mentor
- Look for opportunities to demonstrate thought leadership
- Explore new career options leveraging your new skills!
With demand growing for qualified PMs worldwide, online courses make skill-building convenient and accessible on your schedule. I hope this guide gave you ideas to advance your expertise to the next level.
Pair the right training approach for your experience with deliberate application of learnings and continuing education. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to confidently spearhead critical programs and take your career to new heights!
Now get out there, and make your next project a shining success. You’ve got this!
