Everything you need to know about a graduate diploma of project management

Haider Ali

Graduate Diploma

Do you want to return to education and are wondering if a graduate diploma of project management is the right choice for you? You aren’t alone! We are frequently asked if the course is a suitable option and are here to provide the answers you need. Today, let us walk you through everything you need to know about this postgraduate course to see if it is the right option for you and your career goals.

Before you go, this next article might answer your next question.

What is a graduate diploma of project management?

A graduate diploma of project management is a postgraduate course where you will enhance your fundamental skills in project management. You will learn about the latest methodologies and how to apply them to strategically and successfully manage projects across various industries. The course not only provides you with the skills to maximise strategic projects, but also an understanding of cost and program management to make you a successful manager.

The course is offered full-time, part-time, or entirely online and typically takes 12 months to complete. You can choose to study however suits you best, with online being the most flexible. You will work through one of the six units at a time, with the resources available immediately, so you can study at the right time for you. The course is designed for progressions or those looking for a new career change and can be completed around your current employment and any other commitments you have.

What will I learn on a graduate diploma of project management?

What you will learn on a graduate diploma of project management will vary depending on the course provider that you choose. Most will have overlapping content though, so you don’t need to worry about missing out on important information. Typically, a graduate diploma of project management will have the following learning outcomes:

Applied skills for real-world scenarios

You will learn how to manage project scope and stakeholders, along with control, scheduling, risk, cost management, quality, and more.

Global knowledge to meet industry standards

You will demonstrate your skills across a global body of project management practice and knowledge.

Innovative solutions for contemporary issues

You will investigate contemporary project management issues, learning how to drive organisational change and promote sustainable practices.

To help you achieve these learning outcomes, the course is split into six units. The titles of these units can change depending on your course provider, but the content should remain the same. You can expect to see the following titles on your unit list:

  • Agile projects
  • Managing project scope and stakeholders
  • Project scheduling and control
  • Project risk and quality
  • Project cost management
  • Program management

What do I need to apply for a graduate diploma of project management?

The entry requirements for a graduate diploma in project management vary depending on the course provider, but you will usually need to have one of the following:

  • A bachelor’s degree in any field
  • Equivalent prior learning including five years of relevant professional experience
  • A completed graduate certificate of project management

You will need to speak to the course provider directly to determine what counts as relevant experience, so we recommend doing this before applying. You will also need to meet English language requirements if it is not your first language. These requirements can vary depending on your course provider, so make sure you contact them to find out more information.

When applying for your graduate diploma of project management, you can access help with your fees too if you qualify. The requirements for these will vary, but you might be able to access a partial or full loan for your tuition fees. When studying online and part-time, you pay for your course one unit at a time, which avoids the need for one large bill and can be more manageable.

What can I do with a graduate diploma of project management?

After completing your graduate diploma in project management, you will have many different career options available to you. Graduates typically find themselves in the following roles across several industries:

  • Agile project manager
  • General manager
  • Project manager
  • Project director
  • Program manager
  • Project change manager
  • Program management officer

You can also choose to remain in education to complete a master of Project Management, which will deepen your knowledge and allow you to access higher-paid positions. You can speak to your course provider about progressing onto the master’s program after completing your graduate diploma.

Find your project management course today

A graduate diploma of project management is an excellent way to change or progress your career. ECU offers an outstanding program where you benefit from leading experts and flexible study. Speak to ECU to see if their graduate diploma in project management is right for you.

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