UW-Platteville launches project management certificate to meet growing business demand

project management

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute announces the launch of a new certificate program: Foundations of Project Management Practice.

The program introduces contemporary project management tools and techniques across three broad areas: organizing and initiating projects, planning projects and performing projects. The course content emphasizes project selection, chartering new projects, stakeholder management, scope management, scheduling and integration.

The program's contemporary curriculum was developed in coordination with the highly-regarded UW-Platteville School of Business, which is regularly ranked as one of the best values in higher education. The coursework is specifically designed to meet a growing need for employees with specialized project management skills.

Continuing Education Institute Executive Director Kerie Wedige earned a master's degree in project management from UW-Platteville. She said a project management certificate is beneficial to workers in just about any profession, including information technology, construction, real estate development, health care, manufacturing, engineering and more.

"Our courses begin by building a strong foundation of the theories, practices, standards, terminology and tools that are used in project management. They are perfect for businesses seeking to improve project outcomes by a well-trained staff," Wedige said. "The skills I learned are used every day in my career."

The 100% online program is delivered in a hybrid, asynchronous model designed for working professionals' demanding schedules. The program includes four 4-week courses, with the first cohort beginning April 12. The courses include Defining and Prioritizing Projects, Stakeholder Management and Project Communication, Project Requirements, Scope and Schedule, and Foundations of Project Management Practice Mini-Capstone.

The courses can be taken individually or all together. Students who complete all courses with an average grade of B or better are eligible for advanced standing in UW-Platteville's Master of Science in Project Management if they meet program admission requirements. According to Continuing and Strategic Program Manager Rebecca Powell, that added bonus makes the program a perfect opportunity for those on the fence about earning a master's degree in project management.

"For anyone on the fence about returning to school to earn their master's, the program is the best of both worlds," said Powell. "This certificate program will enhance the knowledge and skills of anyone who enrolls in a course. However, if these courses spark a passion for a student to continue their academic journey, they can apply the credits toward the prestigious UW-Platteville M.S. Project Management program."    

Those interested in the program can learn more at four upcoming webinars:

  • Webinar 1: March 8 at 5:30 p.m
  • Webinar 2: March 10 at 11:30 a.m.
  • Webinar 3: March 15 at 5:30 p.m.
  • Webinar 4: March 17 at 11:30 a.m.

To learn more about the program or register for a webinar, click here. Prospective learners are also encouraged to contact continuing@uwplatt.edu with any questions.