What are the best online courses for program managers?

1 Criteria for choosing online courses

When looking for online courses for program managers, you should consider the content and objectives of the course, its format and delivery, the quality and credibility of the course, and the cost and value of the course. Ask yourself if the course covers topics and skills relevant for your role and industry, if it aligns with your learning goals and expectations, if it is self-paced or instructor-led, what qualifications and experience the instructors have, how much does it cost and what are the benefits? Evaluate if it is worth the investment and if it offers a return on your learning.

2 Recommended online courses

If you're looking for the best online courses for program managers, Coursera's Program Management: Essential Skills for Your Leadership Journey, edX's Professional Certificate in Program Management, and Udemy's The Complete Program Management Course are all great options. The Coursera course is designed to help you develop core competencies, such as strategic alignment and risk management, while the edX course is a comprehensive and practical introduction to program management that prepares you for the Project Management Institute's Program Management Professional (PgMP) certification exam. Finally, Udemy's course is a hands-on and interactive guide to program management that includes quizzes, exercises, and case studies led by a certified program manager and trainer.

3 Benefits of online courses

Taking online courses for program managers can offer numerous advantages, such as improving your professional development and career prospects. By taking courses, you can show your dedication to enhancing your program management skills, which can enhance your credibility and employability. Additionally, you can expand your network and gain knowledge from others by taking courses. You can connect with other program managers from different backgrounds, industries, and locations, and benefit from their insights and experiences. Furthermore, you can stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in program management, and adjust to the changing requirements and obstacles of your programs and stakeholders by taking online courses.

4 Tips for succeeding in online courses

To make the most of your online courses for program managers, you should set clear and realistic goals and expectations before enrolling. You should also manage your time and resources effectively, creating a schedule and budget that suit your availability and needs. During the course, it is important to engage actively and constructively, participating in discussions, activities, and assignments, as well as providing and seeking feedback from instructors and peers.

5 Resources for further learning

If you're looking to further your learning journey as a program manager, there are many resources you can access. Books and articles, such as The Standard for Program Management by the Project Management Institute and Program Management for Improved Business Results by Dragan Z. Milosevic, provide valuable insights and advice. Podcasts and webinars, like The Program Manager's Podcast by Andy Kaufman and The Art of Program Management by PMI, offer practical and relevant information and tips. Additionally, communities and networks like the PMI's Program Management Community of Practice, the Program Management Professionals Group on LinkedIn, and the Program Management Forum on Reddit can connect you with other program managers and provide support.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?