How To Become an IT Project Manager
How To Become an IT Project Manager
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IT project managers may work in a variety of settings, including:1
Tech Companies
Many IT project managers work for tech companies, where they may oversee projects for internal purposes or for outside clients.
Healthcare Organizations
Healthcare organizations rely on technology infrastructure, and IT project managers can help them achieve their goals.
Financial Institutions
Financial institutions, such as banks, credit unions and credit card companies may hire IT project managers.
Median annual salary for computer and information systems managers as of May 20236
Estimated job growth rate for computer and information systems managers from 2023 to 20337
Organizations of all types employ project managers to oversee initiatives throughout their life cycle — and the information technology (IT) field is no exception. What is an IT project manager? An IT project manager is a specialized type of project management professional who coordinates the planning, development and implementation of a project within the IT space. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that each IT project is completed on time and within budget. Each project must also be completed to the specifications and quality standards of the client’s (or the organization’s) needs.1
The global IT market has been expanding. According to Statista, the estimated value of the global IT services market will reach $1.42 trillion in 2024. More of that revenue is expected to be generated by various IT services companies in the U.S. than in any other country.2
Projected value of the global IT services market in 20242
IT project managers are generally expected to have competencies in both technology and business. Because of this, it’s ideal to choose a degree program that teaches skills in both fields.3 If this type of degree program is not available, however, it may be wise to choose an information technology-related degree program instead of a degree that only teaches business competencies. This is because many entry-level roles for aspiring IT project managers require IT skills.5
Depending on the degree program you choose, you may have opportunities to develop a professional portfolio of your work. You can also continue to add to your professional portfolio as you gain work experience through internships or entry-level roles.5
Degree programs related to IT project management will vary, but may cover topics such as:
Computer science
Information technology
IT project management
Business finance
Organizational behavior
Now that you’re familiar with a typical IT project manager job description, you may be interested in learning how to become an IT project manager. While there are no universal requirements, following this general career pathway and looking for opportunities to gain hands-on experience may aid you as you pursue a career in IT project management.
In high school, you may wish to take as many computer and technology classes as possible, including classes in computer science, programming, computer security and software design, if offered at your school.
Employers generally expect IT project managers to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and some may prefer a master’s degree. The specific type of degree can vary. Some possibilities include software development and IT, as well as project management.4 Some IT project managers may hold degrees in business administration or computer science. In general, it’s ideal to seek a college education that teaches competencies in both information technology and business.3
No matter which career field you aspire to pursue, one or more internships may prove useful. While earning your degree, consider looking for internships at IT services companies. You may have the opportunity to observe what IT project managers do, and you may be able to begin building a professional network.
The job of an IT project manager is not typically an entry-level one. It can be helpful to first work in entry-level roles that emphasize IT skills, such as a job as a systems analyst, developer or network administrator. As you gain work experience, look for opportunities to take on more responsibility in various projects, such as by serving as a project coordinator.5
As you acquire work experience, you might also pursue professional certifications. While not all employers may require certifications, earning one or more of them may help you become a more competitive job applicant. Some certification options include:3
IT project managers need to have a strong grasp on IT-specific skills. However, they also need general business management and project management skills, as well as leadership ability.5
Along your journey toward becoming an IT project manager, you may wish to consider the following degree programs:
An IT project manager is responsible for carrying out the overall mission and vision of their organization by overseeing initiatives that may allow the organization to meet long-term objectives. What does an IT project manager do on a day-to-day basis?
A day in the life of an IT project manager often depends on which phase of the project is currently in progress. Tasks may also vary based on IT specialization. Some IT project managers specialize in cybersecurity, while others might specialize in software development or infrastructure.1
While every day might look a little different, depending on the needs of the organization and the phase of the project, an IT project manager job description will generally include the following:1,3
Project Planning
Project managers identify the project goals, scope, plans and deliverables.
Resource Allocation
They develop a budget and allocate resources, including technology and human capital.
Change Management
They adjust plans and activities as needed to accommodate changes to scope, cost or schedule.
Communication
They lead meetings, answer questions and communicate with all stakeholders as needed.
Documentation
Project managers maintain project documentation throughout each phase of the project.
Evaluation
They follow completion of deliverables, conduct post-project evaluations.
Pursue your future in IT project management online or on campus at Grand Canyon University.
Stay informed with the latest insights and updates on IT project management.
While the MBA with an Emphasis in Project Management and the MS in Project Management are similar, there are key differences to be aware of.
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If you’re taking the exam to earn a project management certification, you’ll need to spend plenty of time preparing for it.
An IT manager needs a combination of hard and soft skills. Which IT skills best suit project managers in this specialization?
The following are recommended:3,5
IT domains, including cybersecurity
IT regulations and standards
Communication
Leadership
Attention to detail
Organization
Planning
Time Management
Problem-solving
While IT project management is itself not an entry-level career, there are additional opportunities for advancement within this specialization. A professional might first begin a project management career as a junior IT project manager before progressing to become a mid-level IT project manager — where they may have greater autonomy and responsibility. Mid-level IT project managers may then progress to become senior IT project managers.1 From there, a project manager may decide to pursue a career in the C-suite, such as by becoming a chief information officer (CIO) or a chief technology officer (CTO).8
