What is the best project management course?
Many managers incorporate some element of project management within their role and wish to expand their skills in this area too.
Here, we look at some of the smartest choices you can make when choosing a project management course.
Knowing what “the best” project management course means:
If you have read our article on choosing the right management course, you’ll know that we always say that there is no “best” course on any subject. This is true whether you’re talking about management, project management, or any other area of expertise.
There is, however, what is best for your needs and your goals at this point in time.
For example, you may be looking for a recognised project management certification, some practical skills, or both.
Someone else might be looking for a very specific type of project management, like PRINCE2® or Agile.
It’s very important to get clear about why you are choosing to attend a project management course. What do you hope to gain from the training? What are the gaps you are trying to bridge?
We always suggest taking some time to reflect upon this and make a short list of your priorities for project management training.
How can I find the best project management course for my needs?
Once you have your priority list, the next question is, “OK, how can I find the best project management course for me?”
A quick Google search will show you there are many available in a wide variety of formats (in person, online, blended) and leading to all kinds of different certifications.
Please don’t be overwhelmed upon your first search. With a little planning and patience, it’s easy to begin creating a shortlist of courses and you will soon find the perfect fit.
The key is to keep hold of your priority list (plus some extra items for consideration listed below) and to take your time comparing the different options available.
Things to Consider When Choosing Your Course…
Here are a few things to bear in mind as you navigate the best project management courses available:
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Your Goals
Keep your list by your side as you research the different course and certification options available.
If you’re getting sucked into tonnes of information about a particular course and feel confused about whether it’s a good fit, go back to your goals and ask yourself “does this course help me to achieve these goals?”.
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Certification
There are so many different established project management certifications to choose from.
As you research, you’ll find the same ones cropping up again and again. You will begin to see a pattern of the most respected, in-demand certifications appearing on many different provider websites.
Many providers will include an FAQ or blog section on their sites, which can offer further insight into the pedigree and benefits of a particular certification.
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Format
The most popular formats for project management courses are:
– Live virtual online classroom training – real time courses online, where you can interact with your tutor and fellow classmates. This is our most popular option and is very like a traditional, in-person class.
– In-person classroom training – the classic approach to project management training, where you attend the course in person at a designated training venue.
– Self-led online training – ideal for those with hectic schedules. With self-led online training, you set the pace of learning. You can stop and start as you have time available. This style usually includes videos, slides, and quizzes.
– Blended learning – Blended learning is becoming more and more popular. It is a style that incorporates elements of both real time and self-led training. -
Budget
Although we never recommend choosing a course based on budget alone, abandoning all of the other factors noted here, budget is important.
Before beginning your search, it’s very helpful to work out what you can comfortably afford to spend on a project management course.
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Training Provider
Choosing the right training provider can mean the difference between a positive, beneficial experience and a disaster.
Good indicators of a trustworthy, reputable provider include:
– Plenty of information on the provider’s website, with many opportunities to request more information.
– A clearly visible phone number and other ways to get in touch easily.
– A selection of different courses and certifications that can support various goals.
– Not essential, but a decent number of years established definitely indicates a reliable provider.
3 Gold Star Tips for Your Research
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Create a Comparison Spreadsheet
Start with column headings that record criteria like those listed above and any other factors you find relevant.
As you work through the different options that appeal to you, add information here. You can then easily compare courses when making your final decision.
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Stay True to Your Goals
At the risk of becoming repetitive, your goals are the most important factor in your course choice.
Keep your list to hand at all times and refer to it as you decide.
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Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask for more information. The right provider will welcome questions.
It’s also extremely valuable to gather information and recommendations from colleagues and friends who have completed training in this area.
Find Out More
Ready for your next research steps? Here are two actions you can take to begin building your list of contenders:
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Browse Professional Development’s Project Management Courses
Our parent company, Professional Development offers a broad selection of project management courses.
Starting here will give you insights into a good cross section of project management certifications available and a wealth of supporting information via their project management blog.
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Ask for Advice
If you’re finding it tricky to refine your priorities, it’s worth talking to someone who is familiar with identifying training needs in this area.
Use the ask a question button below to ask us about which project management course is right for your needs.
PRINCE2® is a registered trade mark of AXELOS Limited, used under permission of AXELOS Limited. All rights reserved.
