What is the Project Management Short Course?
A Project Management Short Course is a condensed training program designed to teach the fundamentals of managing projects effectively. These courses typically span from 1 to 5 days and are offered by institutions such as:
- Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM)
- Swinburne University
- RMIT Online
- Melbourne Business School
- CompTIA (Project+)
They cover essential topics like planning, scheduling, budgeting, stakeholder communication, and risk management ideal for professionals looking to upskill quickly or enter the field.
Why is the Project Management Short Course So Popular?
Short courses are popular because they:
- Offer fast, practical learning
- Require no prior experience
- Are affordable compared to full diplomas or degrees
- Provide immediate workplace value
- Can lead to formal certifications like PMP or PRINCE2
Is the Project Management Short Course Worth It Today?
Yes. In 2025, project management skills are in high demand across industries. Whether you’re in IT, construction, healthcare, or marketing, the ability to manage projects is a valuable asset. A short course is a great way to:
- Gain foundational knowledge
- Improve your employability
- Prepare for advanced certifications
Pros of Project Management Short Course
Job Availability
Project managers are needed in:
- Government and infrastructure
- IT and software development
- Finance and consulting
- Healthcare and education
Australia is projected to add over 100,000 project management roles by 2027.
Project Management Salary Potential
Salaries vary by role and experience:
| Role | Average Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Project Coordinator | $90,000 – $110,000 |
| Project Manager | $120,000 – $150,000 |
| Senior PM | Up to $180,000 |
| Portfolio Manager | $160,000 – $210,000 |
Global Recognition
Short courses often align with globally recognised frameworks like PMBOK, PRINCE2, and Agile, making them useful for international careers.
Career Pathways
A short course can lead to:
- Project Administrator
- Project Coordinator
- Junior Project Manager
- Agile Team Lead
- Business Analyst
Cons of Project Management Short Course
Cost Considerations
Costs vary by provider:
- Swinburne Fundamentals Course: $1,600 AUD (2 days)
- National Training Diploma: $1,975 AUD (online, self-paced)
- Open Universities Short Courses: $2,300–$3,464 AUD
Evolving Industry Demands
Project management now includes Agile, hybrid, and digital tools. A short course may not cover all modern methodologies.
Certification Difficulty
Short courses are beginner-friendly, but advanced certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 require more study and experience. PMP pass rates hover around 60–70%.
Where to Begin to Get Your Project Management Short Course
- Choose your provider:
- AIPM, Swinburne, RMIT, AIM, PMI
- Select your format:
- Online, in-person, or hybrid
- Enrol and attend:
- Most courses are 1–5 days
- No prerequisites required
- Earn a certificate of completion:
- Can be used to apply for further certifications
Key Topics Covered in Project Management Short Courses
- Project lifecycle: initiation, planning, execution, closure
- Time and cost management
- Risk and issue tracking
- Stakeholder communication
- Agile vs. Waterfall methodologies
- Tools like Gantt charts, WBS, and dashboards
Is a Project Management Short Course Enough to Get a Job?
It’s a great start, especially for:
- Entry-level roles
- Career changers
- Team leads transitioning into project roles
However, employers also value:
- Experience
- Advanced certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2)
- Soft skills like leadership and communication
Is Project Management Short Course Worth It in Australia?
Yes. With government investment in infrastructure and digital transformation, project managers are in demand. A short course is a fast, affordable way to enter the field or upskill.
Does Having a Project Management Short Course Pay Well?
It contributes to higher earning potential. Certified professionals earn:
- $90,000–$150,000 AUD/year on average
- Up to $210,000 AUD/year for senior roles
Is the Project Management Short Course Very Difficult?
No. Most are designed for beginners and include:
- Interactive workshops
- Practical exercises
- No formal exams
Is the Project Management Short Course Stressful?
Not typically. Learners report it as engaging and practical. It’s ideal for professionals who want to learn quickly without academic pressure.
How Many Fail Project Management Short Courses?
Short courses usually don’t have pass/fail exams. Completion is based on participation and assignments. Advanced certifications like PMP have pass rates around 60–70%.
The Future of Project Management Jobs in Australia
The outlook is excellent:
- 33% job growth expected by 2027
- Remote and hybrid roles increasing
- Digital and Agile skills in high demand
- Government and enterprise investment driving new projects