Project management is the application of knowledge, skills and techniques to execute projects effectively and efficiently; on time and in budget. It is a strategic competency that enables organizations to strengthen their weaknesses, exploit opportunities, and guard against threats. Project Management has always been practiced informally, but it began to emerge as a distinct profession in the mid-20th century. Today, project management is one of the top skills demanded by successful organizations around the world.
Sonoma State University offers two project management courses: traditional and agile. Although traditional project management usually involves the creation of a physical product such as a building, and agile project management often involves the creation of an intellectual product, such as a software program, either approach may be deemed the most appropriate for the situation. Traditional techniques have been used for years to manage large software projects; and some organizations in rapidly evolving markets are successfully employing agile techniques to develop physical products and/or prototypes.
In addition to a certificate from Sonoma State University, both courses will prepare you to take the appropriate certification examinations offered by the Project Management Institute®.