Project Management Basics (February 2025)

Course Overview

This entry-level technical project management course aims to define and understand the significance of project management, exploring its benefits and the drivers of successful projects. Exploring the roles, responsibilities, and essential traits of a Project Manager, the course covers project schedule creation and executing of project plans. Learners will explore both traditional and agile project management practices and develop skills to understand budget estimation and tracking. The course emphasizes collaborative efforts within organizations, examining stakeholder identification, team leadership practices, and effective project status communication.

This course is approved for 1.5 CEUs or 15 PEs. Check with your employer on reimbursement.

What to Expect

In this course students will build knowledge through course material. Weekly assignments will emphasize application and be paired with live sessions with faculty and project management experts. Learners will learn and develop skills to impact their contribution to project management in technical contexts.

The course is divided into four modules that require knowledge quizzes and discussion posts. Weekly live sessions will also require journal reflections. Learners will earn the digital credential for completing this microcredential with a passing score of >80%.

This course includes live synchronous sessions with faculty or professional experts each week. While they are highly beneficial to participate in live, accommodations will be made for those that cannot attend.

Time Commitment

Learners should anticipate dedicating around 15 hours over a 4-week period for this course. Each week, participants will engage in readings, watch instructional videos, complete assignments, and interact live with our faculty experts, averaging about 3-5 hours per week. Additionally, we offer the flexibility to watch recorded sessions with our experts, ensuring optimal convenience for all learners.

Instructor

Abbie Canale
Assistant Teaching Professor
School of Engineering Design and Innovation

Recognition

Upon completion of this course, you will receive a College of Engineering Certified Microcredential titled Project Management Basics. This credential can be shared on your LinkedIn profile and other digital media.

Technical Leader Starter Series

Earn the Technical Leader Starter Series badge by successfully completing:

• Project Management Basics
• Leading Technical Teams
• Business Fundamentals for Technical Leaders

Courses in this series are offered periodically throughout the year. For any questions regarding these opportunities, please contact: microcredentials@engr.psu.edu.