CTOs often oversee the technology plan for an entire organization. They...
If you become an IT project manager you might serve as intermediaries between the business side and technology side of a project. IT project managers typically help develop a budget and a plan for IT projects, then work with the IT staff to make sure goals and deadlines are met. So it’s crucial for IT project managers to “speak the language” of both the technical staff and the management staff to make sure everyone understands the project’s scope and goals.
If you have an interest in leadership and management in addition to information technology, take the time to learn more about an IT project manager’s typical duties, potential salary, and recommended qualifications. This position is sometimes also known as IT manager, program manager, technical project lead, and other titles.
IT project managers may work on diverse tasks and initiatives, but in general, their job is to plan and manage information technology projects. It’s the IT project manager’s job to understand the technical requirements of a project (how the project will be accomplished) in addition to the business requirements (goals, time frame, deadline, and budget). Typical duties include:
IT project management calls for qualities and skill sets spanning two areas: information technology and management/leadership. Below are some useful traits and knowledge areas that could be helpful in this career.
What Education do I need to become an IT Project manager?[i]
The BLS has indicated that an IT Project Manager is similar to Computer and Information Systems Manager.[ii] Typically, employers expect Computer and Information Systems Managers to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or a related field. You may take courses in computer programming, software development, mathematics, and other key areas. Another option might be to pursue Information Technology Management Degree (MIS), which might include business courses as well as computer science courses.
Some employers may also expect you to hold a graduate degree, such as a master of business administration (MBA). IT Project Managers may even pursue an MBA while working, possibly as a step towards new career opportunities.
Training and Career Enhancement[i]
In many cases, IT project managers must have a few years of experience in the IT field before pursuing managerial opportunities. For higher-level positions such as IT Director, 5 to 10 years of experience may be required. The position of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Chief Information Office (CIO) may have even more rigorous requirements when it comes to work experience and proven skills. There’s no sure path to these higher level positions, but hard work and the pursuit of knowledge in your field should be any IT project manager’s first step.
Certifications may also be a required or recommended step for pursuing employment or new opportunities. Certifications that could be helpful in an IT project management career include:
So what is the earning potential and projected job growth of a IT project manager? Stats vary by employer, location, and other factors, but here are a few figures to give you a better idea of potential salary and opportunities in IT project management.
Sources: onetonline.org/link/summary/15-1199.09 | bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm
[i]bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm#tab-4 | [ii]bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm#tab-2 | [iii]pmi.org/Certification/Project-Management-Professional-PMP.aspx|[iv]pmi.org/Certification/Certified-Associate-in-Project-Management-CAPM.aspx|[v] microsoft.com/learning/en-us/mcts-certification.aspx|[vi]onetonline.org/link/summary/15-1199.09 | [vii] bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm#tab-6
Sponsored School Partners
Our Adult Degree Program (ADP) is an undergraduate degree completion program that allows you to create a personalized interdisciplinary concentration or focus of study to meet your educational and car
Earn your MSE in Educational Theory and Practice online The Master of Science in Education (MSE) for Educational Theory and Practice offers educators an opportunity to improve their general understan
Interested in improving students' educational and training experiences? Want to enhance your understanding of technology as a tool for students and professionals alike?
The University of Cincinnati online Behavior Analysis Graduate Certificate teaches students methods to develop effective interventions to address a wide array of learning and behavior problem behav
The online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree enables the graduates to transform the health care delivery system and design new systems to improve the context in which health care is offered.
The University of Texas at Arlington College of Nursing can prepare you for a career as a nurse educator in Associate and Baccalaureate nursing programs, as well as education positions in healthcare
For students passionate about understanding consumer behavior and purchasing dynamics, our online Marketing MBA provides a well-rounded business education with coursework in operations, finance, and o
In today’s ever-changing world, an advanced understanding of international communication, business and development is crucial. That’s where you come in.
The GW Master's Degree in Strategic Public Relations follows an innovative approach to building professional credentials that will position you to excel in this challenging profession.
The Fire & Emergency Services Concentration is designed to build graduate-level knowledge on top of the experience-based skills of professional fire, rescue and emergency response personnel.
Our Master of Laws in Health Law and Policy is designed for experienced legal professionals who hold a law degree (J.D. or LL.B). Law is the most powerful tool in health care.
As a seasoned nurse practitioner, you do far more than care for the sick. You elevate the practice of patient-centered care and help transform the way healthcare is delivered.
Saint Mary's mission of serving the underserved and improving well-being comes to life in our Master of Public Health program.
Nursing@Simmons enables Registered Nurses to earn an MSN online from the Simmons School of Nursing and Health Sciences in as few as 20 months.
Master of Science in Analytics Mobile devices, social networking sites, transactional data, sensor systems, cloud computing—these are some of the innovations changing the face and pace of bu
The Master of Science in Health Informatics emphasizes the analysis, implementation and ongoing management of the critical factors that impact the successful selection and use of health care informati
Social workers serve on the front lines creating change for individuals and communities.
In the highly demanding field of interscholastic athletics, the challenges administrators face can be diverse.
As the diversity of student populations change globally, teaching English as a second language is a skill in high demand.
Utilize the latest technology and emerging processes to formulate financial strategies, analyze risks and investments, and make effective fiscal decisions.
Whether you believe that leaders are born or made, one thing is for certain: leaders, and the organizations that rely on them, can benefit from focused education in managerial practices.
Make a Difference in the Lives of Those in Need Skilled, compassionate people make a positive difference in the lives of others, a belief well supported by research in the field of helping profes
*THIS PROGRAM REQUIRES LICENSURE TO ATTEND* Doctor of Athletic Training Degree A.T.
Take a deep dive into what makes an organization tick.
Washington University School of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies is for non-lawyers who could benefit from legal training at work.
Sponsored School Partners
Thousands of students are enrolled in these Udemy IT Certification Programs