Career roadmap
How to Become a Project Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a project manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a project manager: (1) build a foundation, (2) coordinate projects, (3) learn the methods, (4) earn a certification, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–4+ years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a project manager
Build a foundation
Business, engineering or technical education helps.
Coordinate projects
Start as a project coordinator or lead small projects in your current job.
Learn the methods
Study predictive (waterfall) and Agile approaches and the tools.
Earn a certification
CAPM to start; PMP once you have experience.
Advance
Lead bigger projects, then programs and portfolios.
Education and training requirements
BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical. Many project managers start as coordinators or in technical roles. The PMP requires project experience plus 35 hours of project management education; the CAPM is an entry-level option.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 1–4+ years |
Certifications and licenses
- PMP (PMI): Project Management Professional: requires project experience and 35 hours of training.
- CAPM (PMI): Certified Associate in Project Management: an entry-level credential.
- Scrum Master certifications (CSM, PSM): Agile credentials common in software teams.
- PMI-ACP: Agile Certified Practitioner.
Skills to build now
Start with scope, schedule and budget management, project management software, and risk management, and practice leadership and communication. Learning the project manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Project Coordinator: Support schedules, meetings and documentation.
- Project Manager: Lead projects end to end.
- Senior PM or Program Manager: Lead larger projects and multiple related projects.
- Director of PMO or Operations: Oversee project portfolios and strategy.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Project Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Can you become a project manager without a degree?
Yes, many people grow into project management from technical or operations roles. A degree is typical, though, and helps for many employers.
How long does it take to become a project manager?
Most people need about 1–4+ years of training. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical. Many project managers start as coordinators or in technical roles. The PMP requires project experience plus 35 hours of project management education; the CAPM is an entry-level option.
Do you need a degree to be a project manager?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many project managers rise from technical, trades or operations roles. The PMP certification is based on experience and training and does not require a degree (more experience is required without one).
What certifications are available for project managers?
Common credentials include PMP (PMI), CAPM (PMI), Scrum Master certifications (CSM, PSM), and PMI-ACP. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-1082 (Project management specialists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Project management specialists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.