What is Project Management?

And why should nonprofit staff care?

“Project Management.” The term seems to be popping up all over in both not-for-profit and for-profit circles. But what does it mean – and why is it important for you to know? Project management is the process through which projects are planned, executed and monitored. Although you may be a social worker, volunteer coordinator, elder care provider, counselor, substance abuse specialist, or other nonprofit employee whose primary job focus lies elsewhere, you may find project management taking a place in your job as one of those “other activities as assigned.” So how do you become an effective project manager?

The University of Indianapolis offers a Graduate Certificate in Project Management for Human Services Professionals( http://www.uindy.edu/cac/graduate-certificate-project-management) . This certificate, offered in a completely online format, is designed for professionals specifically from the human service sector who have a bachelor's degree or higher in any discipline.

The three required courses (9 credit hours) are offered through the University’s Center for Aging & Community. The program content is focused on project management skills applicable for any human services environment, not just those who work in aging services.

Professionals who complete the certificate will be equipped to effectively plan, monitor and execute projects plus gain practical management skills you can immediately put into practice that make you a more versatile employee.

A new cohort of this program will begin in Fall 2013. Students who begin the certificate program can expect to finish by the end of Summer 2014. For more information, visit http://www.uindy.edu/cac/graduate-certificate-project-management or call (317) 791-5930.