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Project Management Certificate Online Graduate PMP Training Courses
Program Overview Why get a graduate certificate in project management online?
Do you want to make an impact across all departments of a company or organization? When you earn your Project Management Graduate Certificate online at Southern New Hampshire University, you'll learn to deliver projects on time and on budget. You'll be prepared to lead a project through its entire life cycle – from initiation to planning, execution, monitoring and completion.
Skills you'll learn:
- Budget management
- Negotiation and conflict resolution
- Planning and scheduling
- Risk assessment
- How to secure resources
- Communication and critical thinking
Courses & Curriculum Online project management classes that prepare you for your future
The project management graduate certificate teaches you the concepts, strategies and tools that today's project managers need to be successful. If you choose to continue your education, credits from your certificate can apply toward an online master's in project management or an MBA in Project Management at SNHU. Additionally, choosing an internship in operations or project management can give you hands-on experience to add to your resume – giving you an edge in the field.
Graduate-level courses in project management
You'll start with 3 required courses to develop cost and time management skills. Then, you'll choose 2 courses from a variety of topics, like QSO-645: Project Management for PMP Certification which gives you the 35 hours of project management education required to sit for the PMP exam. Additionally, your academic advisor will let you know if you need to take a foundation class in business math.
Courses may include:
Quantitative Analysis for Decision Making
Course ID:
QSO 510
This is a survey of the mathematical, probabilistic and statistical tools available for assisting in the operation and management of industrial organizations.
Project Management
Course ID:
QSO 640
This course includes the study of concepts, tools, and practices of project management. The course adopts a managerial process approach to Project Management, which consists of initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing the project. Major topics will include project scope, project time, project cost, project quality, project risk, project resources, project communications and how to be an effective project manager. Cases are utilized to integrate the learning in the course and provide decision- making experience for the student.
Seminar in Project Management
Course ID:
QSO 680
Project management is a core skill in today's fast-moving business environment. Project managers are required to manage complex, time- pressured projects and programs using advanced tools and techniques for maximum effect. Through this course, the students will learn advanced methods to initiate, plan and control projects. They will gain experience planning complex projects using both manual and PC-based tools.
Visit the course catalog to view the full Graduate Certificate in Project Management curriculum.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Project Management Professionals
What's so special about a Project Management Professional?
Through SNHU’s relationship with the Project Management Institute (PMI)®, this program is designed to give you the education, experience and guidance needed to prepare for the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam.
An optional course in this program satisfies the 35 hours of project management education required to apply for the PMP® exam. In addition, we require all PMP course instructors to complete the PMI® Authorized Training Partner Train the Trainer – PMP Exam Prep Program, which equips our faculty with the authority to deliver PMP® exam prep and training content to PMI’s quality standards for the revised exam, which went into effect in January 2021.
If you choose to pursue your PMP certification, you'll find that this in-demand, industry-recognized credential can add significant value to your skill set and open up new opportunities.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Nov. 10, 2025 | Feb. 2, 2026
Next term starts:
August 25, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Dedicated to your success
Our instructors are at the heart of SNHU's mission of student success. Courses in this program are taught by practicing business professionals immersed in the field each day. They understand what's working, what's not, and what trends and technology on the horizon are likely to affect project managers.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Zuzana Buzzell
Position
Adjunct Faculty
Joined
2005
Education:
- Bachelor’s in Business Administration
- MBA
- Master’s in Finance
- PhD in International Business.
Dr. Zuzana Buzzell began her SNHU career in 2005 as an adjunct faculty member before taking a full-time position in 2014. She has more than 15 years of experience developing and teaching programs in finance, business and economics, and has worked in hybrid, traditional and online academic programs, government agencies and in the private sector.
Dr. Buzzell’s research interests include digital ethics, finance technology, cryptocurrencies, and the future of finance and blockchains. She has published in several journals, conference papers and blogs on topics including mortgage-backed securities, finance technology, Brexit and more.
Dr. Buzzell earned a bachelor’s in business administration, an MBA, a master’s in finance as well as a PhD in International Business.
What our instructors have to say
Hear what some SNHU instructors have to say about our online project management graduate certificate.
"A company or organization's stakeholders and shareholders don't want to hear that you're experimenting; they want results. A project management certification or concentration on your resume signals that you have the training and education to get results, and that puts you a notch above the competition."
Anthony Allen, adjunct instructor
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
This certificate is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Student achievement data can be found on the ACBSP accreditation page.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
This certificate is not eligible for federal financial aid. Students seeking alternatives to federal financial aid can explore tuition assistance, grants and scholarships, as well as private loans. To learn more about private loans, visit our Funding Your Education with Student Loans page.
Online certificate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 15-credit certificate
Full- and part-time students
$659
$1,977
$9,885
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$7,050
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
*Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Career Outlook What can I do with a certificate in project management?
As long as there are projects to be done, there will be a need for people to manage them. Project managers work in a range of fields, from aerospace to construction, healthcare to information technology, finance to communications. Proven analytical and problem-solving skills are in particular demand in this field.
Occupations
Project mangers are needed globally in almost every industry. According to the Project Management Institute, industries that could see the most growth through 20302 include manufacturing and construction, information and publishing, finance and insurance. Graduates of this program can find their place in an array of roles, including:1
Project Manager
Intake, plan and execute projects through defined processes and scope to support businesses running smoothly and efficiently.
Operations Manager
Take charge of operational activities at every level of your organization. Manage end-to-end workflows and stakeholders to ensure products and services are produced and delivered effectively.
Process Improvement Manager
Understand business objectives, analyze performance and identify areas of improvement. Make informed recommendations and manage the implementation of new processes.
$98,580
Median annual wage nationally in 2023 for project management specialists, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
I chose the Project Management Graduate Certificate to give me the foundational knowledge needed to be an effective PM in the corporate world.
Monica DeNofa '21
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers about the graduate certificate in project management online
What are the best online project management courses?
The best project management courses are the ones that can teach you skills you'll use on a regular basis to successfully move projects from start to finish.
If you're looking to take your courses online, then Southern New Hampshire University is an excellent place to start. With our 5-course graduate certificate in project management, you can both develop your skill set and prep for the Project Management Professional (PMP)® exam, since our Project Management for PMP Certification class fulfills the necessary education requirements to sit for the exam.
Another point to consider when it comes to choosing online project management courses is to learn more about how convenient they actually are. While some schools have online courses that meet at specific times during the week, others – like SNHU – give you total control in doing your readings, assignments and projects. With 24/7 access to our online platform, you can do weekly assignments when it's actually best for you, whether that's at noon or midnight.
Plus, you may think of the best online courses as being the most budget-friendly ones. SNHU is known for affordability, with one of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. At just $1,977 per graduate-level course, you could complete all 5 of the certificate courses for only $9,885.
Which project management certification is best?
The Project Management Professional – or PMP® – is considered by many organizations as the premier certification for those in the field.
SNHU – an accredited, nonprofit university – meets PMI standards with its Project Management Graduate Certificate curriculum. In particular, our Project Management for PMP Certification course satisfies the educational requirement needed to take the exam.
Why earn a project management certificate?
Earning a certificate in an area like project management can be a quick way to develop the skills needed to succeed in the profession.
At Southern New Hampshire University, you can get your project management certificate online in as few as 6 months.
Plus, since SNHU's certificate contains only 5 classes, it's a worthwhile investment. Because SNHU has some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation, you can have a more immediate ROI for your program.
Many people in today's workforce are moving toward earning certificates as they seek to up-skill – and they favor them because of how fast they can finish and for how much less they need to invest as opposed to a full degree program.
"More and more companies are moving away from master’s degree requirements to more of a certification in my job realm," said Monica DeNofa '21.
Completing the certificate at SNHU also means that you've satisfied the 35 hours of project management education that are necessary to sit for the exam to become a Project Management Professional (PMP). The PMP is considered to be one of the most prestigious recognitions for project management professionals.
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes131082.htm (viewed May 24, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2Project Management Institute (PMI), Talent Gap: Ten-Year Employment Trends, Costs, and Global Implications [PDF], on the internet, at https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/learning/career-central/talent-gap-report-2021-finalfinal.pdf (viewed May 24, 2024)