5 Things You Should Know About Studying a Project Management Degree

A Degree like MANCOSA’s BCom in Project Management provides practical, work-ready skills that are useful across many industries, from IT and finance to construction and healthcare.

But, is this path right for you? 

In this article, we will discuss why people are choosing to study a project management programme, the five things you should know about studying this degree, and the study options you can consider. 

Why are more people choosing to study a project management degree?

Project management is the process of planning, organising, and managing resources to complete projects on time and within budget.  

It involves: 

• Setting timelines
• Defining scope
• Allocating budgets
• Identifying and managing risks
• Coordinating stakeholders
• And ensuring deliverables are met on time and within budget

Ultimately, a project manager is the bridge between strategy and execution. 

Growing demand across industries

The need for project managers is growing globally. In fact, the global project management software market is projected to reach $20.47 billion by 2030, growing at a yearly rate of 15.7%. 

Many sectors, from construction and engineering to IT, healthcare, finance, and marketing, are putting a premium on effective project execution. 

Opportunities for career growth & earning potential

Project management isn’t just entry-level. As you gain experience, you can move into leadership roles, such as: 

• Senior Project Manager
• Project Director
• PMO (Project Management Office) Lead
• Or Portfolio Manager

These roles typically come with greater responsibility and higher pay.

Global recognition and portability

The concepts, practices, and certifications in project management are widely recognised across the world. Whether you work in Africa, Asia, Europe, or North America, PM principles are the same. 

Things like scope management, stakeholder communication, risk assessment, and schedule control are common to many industries.

Practical, work‐relevant skills

A project management qualification usually equips students with highly practical skills, including:

• Planning and scheduling
• Budgeting
• Risk identification and management
• Managing teams
• Communication with stakeholders
• Quality control
• And adapting to changing environments

These are skills that can often be applied immediately in the workplace — even in roles that aren’t strictly labelled “project manager.”

Stepping stone to further studies

For many students, a BCom project management qualification provides a foundation for Postgraduate study. For instance, if someone wants to pursue an MBA or specialise in areas like operations management, change leadership, or organisational strategy, project management offers a relevant base.

5 Important things to know about studying a project management degree

If you’re considering studying project management, there are some important things you need to know, including what you’ll learn and why it matters:

1. It’s a multi-industry skillset

One of the biggest advantages of studying project management is its versatility. The skills and techniques you gain aren’t tied to a single sector. 

Whether you want to work in IT, construction, healthcare, marketing, or finance, the core principles of planning, executing, and delivering projects remain the same.

Example: Imagine starting out as a project coordinator in an IT company and later moving into healthcare, overseeing the rollout of a new hospital wing. Your knowledge of budgeting, scheduling, and stakeholder management would transfer seamlessly.

Are you already working in a different industry? Have a look at how you can switch to project management from a different career. 

2. You’ll develop both technical and soft skills

A project management programme equips you with knowledge of technical tools such as Gantt charts, risk registers, and project management software. 

But equally important, it strengthens your “people skills”, like communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution. These soft skills are what enable project managers to lead diverse teams effectively.

Example: If a conflict arises between engineers and finance staff about project costs, your ability to mediate and align both sides ensures the project keeps moving forward smoothly.

3. Global demand is rising

Project management is consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing professions worldwide. With organisations everywhere looking for professionals who can deliver projects on time and within budget, demand is expected to stay strong for the foreseeable future. 

This means your qualification won’t just be useful locally, it can open doors to international career opportunities.

4. It prepares you for leadership roles

Studying project management is about learning processes and preparing for leadership. Graduates are often fast-tracked into supervisory roles where they can lead teams, manage stakeholders, and oversee entire projects. Over time, this can pave the way to senior management and even executive positions.

Example: A graduate might begin by assisting with scheduling tasks, but within a few years, they could be managing a multi-million-dollar infrastructure project, leading dozens of team members.

5. Practical application is key

Most project management qualifications don’t stay stuck in theory. 

They use case studies, simulations, and real-world assignments to give you a hands-on understanding of how projects succeed — or fail. This ensures you graduate with experience that’s directly relevant to the workplace.

Example: During your studies, you might have to create a risk management plan for a simulated product launch. Later, when you join a company launching an actual new product, you’ll know how to identify risks early. This way, you can create strategies to mitigate them.

What to expect from MANCOSA’s Bachelor of Commerce in Project Management

MANCOSA’s Bachelor of Commerce in Project Management is a three-year Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) that gives students a strong foundation in both theory and hands-on practice. 

One of its biggest strengths is its flexible delivery mode: the programme is offered online, with digital support. This flexibility allows workers or students with other commitments to balance study with work or family life. 

The curriculum is carefully structured to build up both the technical aspects. It includes modules like: 

• Project Scope & Time Management
• Cost & Procurement
• Risk Management
• Project Finance

And you’ll learn leadership, strategy, communication, and stakeholder-management skills.

Upon completion, graduates have improved employability and are more marketable for roles such as project coordinator, junior project manager, or other roles in multi-industry environments. Plus, they can also proceed to Postgraduate studies (Honours or Postgraduate Diploma) if they wish. 

FAQs – common questions about project management programmes

1. What subjects are covered in a BCom in Project Management?

You’ll study areas like project planning, risk management, budgeting, leadership, operations, and communication, often supported by case studies and real-world applications.

2. How long does it take to complete a project management degree?

Most Undergraduate programmes take three to four years, while Postgraduate options such as Diplomas or Master’s Degrees may range from one to two years.

3. Is a project management degree recognised internationally?

Yes. Project management qualifications are widely recognised, and many align with international standards such as PMI (Project Management Institute) frameworks.

4. What career opportunities can I pursue with this degree?

Graduates can work as project managers, programme coordinators, operations managers, or consultants in industries like IT, construction, finance, and healthcare.

5. Do I need work experience to study project management?

Undergraduate Degrees usually don’t require prior experience, but Postgraduate and executive programmes may expect applicants to have relevant work backgrounds.

Register for a project management degree online

Choosing to study a project management programme is an investment in a future filled with opportunities. With demand for skilled project managers rising across industries worldwide, graduates gain a versatile qualification that opens doors to both local and international career paths. 

If you want to learn more about what a PM Degree entails and what you can expect to learn, have a look at MANCOSA’s BCom in Project Management. 

If you aren’t ready for a degree yet, you can also consider the Higher Certificate in Project Management, which is a one-year programme.