What does a project manager do?
Project managers oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and to the expected standard. Their responsibilities often include managing resources, monitoring progress, communicating with stakeholders, addressing risks, and guiding teams through each phase of a project lifecycle.Project managers work across a wide range of industries including construction, information technology, healthcare, engineering, education, government, and business. Because almost every organisation relies on effective project delivery, project managers are in steady demand across Australia.
Is a career as a project manager right for me?
If you enjoy organising people and processes, solving complex problems, and leading teams, a role in project management could be a strong fit. Helpful skills and attributes for this career include:
- strong communication and leadership abilities
- excellent time management and organisation skills
- the ability to manage multiple priorities
- confidence working with budgets and timelines
- an analytical and proactive mindset
- the ability to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders.
How to become a project manager
If you are exploring how to become a project manager, the pathway typically involves completing a degree in project management, business, engineering, information technology, or a related discipline. Experience in coordinating projects, working with teams, or supporting operational processes can also help you progress into project management roles.As part of project manager requirements, employers often look for candidates who can demonstrate practical experience, strong organisational skills, and familiarity with project management tools or methodologies.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several paths to reaching your project management career goals.
View UniSQ’s Project Management, Business, or Engineering degrees.
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Project manager FAQ's
What are the key project manager qualifications?
Project manager qualifications usually include a bachelor's degree in project management, business, engineering, or a related field. Experience in coordinating projects, leading teams, or managing budgets is also highly valued. Some professionals choose to pursue postgraduate study or industry certifications to broaden their career opportunities.
What is the typical project manager career path?
A project manager career path often starts in junior or support roles such as project assistant, project coordinator, or team leader. With experience, individuals may progress into project manager roles, senior project manager positions, program management, or specialised roles within industries such as construction, IT, or engineering.
What project manager courses can I study?
Project manager courses at university level cover project planning, budgeting, leadership, risk management, and stakeholder communication. These courses provide the knowledge and practical skills required to manage projects effectively. UniSQ offers study options suitable for those aiming to build a project management career.
What are common project manager requirements?
Common project manager requirements include strong communication skills, the ability to manage teams, problem-solving abilities, and confidence working with budgets and schedules. Employers also value experience using project management software and an understanding of project lifecycles and risk management principles.
How long does it take to become a project manager?
Completing a bachelor's degree typically takes around three years of full-time study. Additional experience gained through workplace projects or entry level roles helps graduates develop the practical skills needed to step into project management positions.
Is project management a good career?
Yes, project management offers strong career prospects due to the need for skilled professionals who can coordinate complex projects across industries. Project managers enjoy diverse job opportunities, clear career progression pathways, and the ability to work in various sectors depending on their interests.
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