CSU’s Project Management courses are designed for professionals from diverse backgrounds who seek to successfully manage complex projects. Students of the course will also prepare for a range of project management certifications such as those from the Project Management Institute (PMI).
| Duration 8 months part-time |
Intakes Six sessions a year |
| Study mode Online |
Units of Study 4 subjects |
What is this course about?
The aim of the Graduate Certificate in Project Management is to provide students with the essential project management and communication skills needed to successfully manage a project. The course will develop students’ understanding of key elements relating to project stakeholders, project plan development, the project lifecycle, and managing people. The course will also build students’ capacity to apply these skills in a professional context. Students will also prepare for a recognised project management certification.
On completion, graduates will be able to:
- demonstrate and apply knowledge of current and emerging trends in the management discipline, including the areas of human resource management, organisational behaviour, and managing a project;
- critically evaluate contemporary management and project management theories in the context of professional practice;
- effectively communicate concepts and solutions in a project management environment; and
- prepare for an international industry certification in project management.
Abstract
This subject develops students’ knowledge and understanding of contemporary management theory and practice. Students will be challenged to think critically about core management theories and evaluate and communicate their relevance to contemporary management practice in a complex, diverse and rapidly change globalised workplace. Students will be invited to embrace the subject innovatively and encouraged to develop and reflect on their own management competencies and experiences.
MGT501 Contemporary Management will cover the following topics:
- Management Theory - Traditional, Contemporary & Critical Approaches to Management
- Management Processes - Strategic Management, Change Management, Organisational Structure & Culture, Planning & Control
- Managing People - Leadership, Ethics, HRM & Management Skills for today's complex workplace
- Contemporary Issues in Management - Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Digital Disruption and Sustainability
Enrolment Restrictions
Incompatible with MGT571 and MBA501
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Term 2 (May), Session 2 (Jul), Term 3 (Aug), Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This is an industry subject based on the Project Management Institute (PMI®) methodology (as defined by the PMBoK®- Project Management Body of Knowledge) to prepare students for subsequent Project Management Professional (PMP®) or similar certification. In this subject, students will look at how to initiate, plan, control and complete projects effectively and ensure that projects are performed to meet objectives within specific cost and time constraints, according to the PMI®.
MGI511 Project Management Fundamentals will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to Project Management Principles
- Project Integration Management
- Project Scope Management
- Project Schedule Management
- Project Cost Management
- Project Quality Management
- Project Resource Management
- Project Communications & Stakeholder Management
- Project Risk Management
- Project Procurement Management
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Term 2 (May), Session 2 (Jul), Term 3 (Aug), Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject explores the key financial decisions faced by businesses in a modern economy. These decisions relate to funding business operations, evaluating investment proposals and the distribution of profits to providers of funds. It provides the basic concepts and theory for further studies in finance.
FIN516 Corporate Finance will cover the following topics:
- Introduction: distinguish between different types of business structures and identify the major corporate financial decisions and corporate objectives;
- Time value of money: present and future values including application to the valuation of debt and equity securities;
- Investment evaluation methods/capital budgeting: use of a number of accepted analytical techniques to evaluate capital investment projects;
- Risk and return: measurement of risk and return including portfolio theory and the Capital Asset Pricing Model;
- Cost of capital: estimation of individual sources of finance and the weighted average cost of capital;
- Capital structure: capital structure theories and concepts, as well as factors which influence the financing strategies of businesses;
- Dividend policy: evaluation of theories relating dividend policy to share price and the cost of capital.
Enrolment Restrictions
Incompatible with ACC515, FIN510, FIN571
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Session 2 (Jul)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject is an introduction to human resource management in organisations with a focus on developing solutions that are practical and effective in meeting business goals. Studying this subject will provide you with the skills to make a difference to the performance of organisations. In addition, you will develop skills in critical thinking, communication, research and collaboration.
HRM502 Human Resource Management will cover the following topics:
- HRM making a difference
- HR planning
- Work design
- Diversity, recruitment & selection
- Performance management & reward
- Employee development in the workplace
- Workplace health and safety
Enrolment Restrictions
Incompatible with HRM515 and HRM571
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Session 2 (Jul)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject allows students to develop skills that are necessary to identify ethical issues that are raised as a result of the advancement of information and communications technology (ICT). The subject will cover areas such as critical thinking, professionalism, ethical theories, privacy, security and crime in cyberspace, intellectual property, freedom of speech and regulation of the internet, systems reliability, and social and ethical issues of emerging technologies. By the end of the subject, students should be able to argue consistently and rationally about the moral problems raised by the adoption and use of ICT and propose solutions to those moral problems.
ITC506 Topics in Information Technology Ethics will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to ICT ethics.
- Introduction to critical thinking techniques.
- Professionalism and professional ethics.
- Ethical theories and analysis.
- Privacy.
- Security and crime in cyberspace.
- Intellectual property.
- Freedom of speech and Internet content regulation.
- Emerging technologies and ethics.
- ICT and Society.
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
Change is a dynamic and perpetual process, and this subject introduces students to a range of theoretical and practical perspectives that facilitate a critical awareness of organisational change. The relationship between the organisation and the staff affected by change is examined through contemporary change-management thinking. Knowledge gained is applied to analyse organisational change issues and explore alternative courses of action.
MGT540 Facilitating Change will cover the following topics:
- The change context: What is organisational change and why does it happen; and internal and external reasons for change
- The process of organisational change: How change is contructed; and who is involved in change management
- Identification and critical evaluation of change interventions
- Alternative perspectives to organisational change: Resistance; and ethical considerations
- Making sense of organisational change: Communication; and changing organisational and occupational identity
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Session 2 (Jul), Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject examines the identification, measurement and management of risk using multi-disciplinary techniques. The role of the decision maker and the role of decision-making heuristics and bias are studied together with key qualitative and quantitative techniques used to model, measure and treat risk. The subsequent treatment of risk through risk retention, self-insurance or the transfer and avoidance of risk is also examined. The subject allows students to identify these concepts from the perspective of a risk manager, e.g., establish risks in relation to individuals, property and legal liability. Whenever possible, study examples will be based on the real-world problems encountered in the work environment of students.
MGT580 Forecasting and Risk Assessment will cover the following topics:
- An Introduction to Risk
- Types of Risk
- Psychology of Risk
- Role of the Individual
- Modelling Risk
- Qualitative Analysis
- Quantitative Analysis
- Ranking and Treating Risk
- Transferring Risk
- Personal Risk
Enrolment Restrictions
Incompatible with MGT589 and MGT581
Subject Availability
Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
Marketing is used by managers to identify and develop markets and align the organisation's resources to achieve its business goals. The key focus of marketing activity is to research and develop an understanding of the needs and wants of consumers and the evolving nature of markets in a complex, diverse and rapidly changing globalised world. This subject will introduce managers to foundational ideas and theories that explain why marketing is an essential activity in any organisation. Students will also investigate and critically discuss how marketing practice operates within a dynamic contemporary marketplace.
MKT501 Marketing for Managers will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to contemporary marketing practice;
- The marketing environment: Market based trends and issues
- Market research;
- Markets; customers and consumers;
- Segmentation, targeting and positioning;
- Digital marketing; and
- The contemporary marketing mix including brand management
Enrolment Restrictions
Incompatible with MBA503, MKT531, and MKT571
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject will introduce the principles and practices of Agile Project Management. Students will learn the background and origins of various Agile concepts and methodologies. Scrum will be examined in detail, as well as the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe®). Students will also study the strengths and weaknesses of Agile, and the steps involved in managing an Agile project.
ITE518 Agile Project Management will cover the following topics:
- Agile Core Principles
- The Agile Model
- Agile Methodologies
- Scrum: Core Concepts
- Scrum: Planning
- Scrum: Managing
- Agile Tools
- SAFe®: Agile in Enterprise
- SAFe®: Agile Release Planning
- SAFe®: Scaling Agile
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject discusses how to communicate effectively, and efficiently in professional environments. Students who undertake this subject will gain a wide range of practical communication skills supported by the latest intellectual and psychological behavioural theory. This subject explores the details of how and why humans communicate in certain ways and will equip students to communicate at all levels of professional business for effective outcomes. Students are encouraged to challenge their own communication habits and to undergo a journey of personal change through this subject.
MGI521 Professional Communications will cover the following topics:
- Communication Psychology of Knowledge Exchange
- Business Language & Document Writing
- Digital Communications & The Media Experience
- Creating Business Proposals & Reports
- Digital Presentations & Tools
- Selling & Obtaining Buy-In
- Facilitating Workshops & Meetings
- Managing Business Conflict & Negotiation
- Differences Between Leadership, Management & Mentors
- Personal Presentations & Public Speaking
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb), Session 2 (Jul), Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject is focused on the role of the PRINCE2 Project Management Lifecycle as a means of delivering organisational change. The subject will guide the participant from the start of a project idea, through planning, creation of deliverables and handover to the customer or client. The subject also discusses controls and processes that are needed to maximise the chances of long term success. This subject will explore and explain the use of the PRINCE2 project management framework as a guide to managing the complete project lifecycle.
MGI512 The Project Lifecycle will cover the following topics:
- Project Lifecycle Introduction
- Change Management
- Business Case
- Introduction to PRINCE2®
- Principles of PRINCE2®
- Tailoring & Themes 1-3
- Themes 4-7
- PRINCE2® Processes Intro & Startup
- Directing, Initiating & Controlling
- Managing Delivery, Boundaries and Closing
Subject Availability
Session 1 (Feb)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject focuses on the leadership skills, knowledge and understanding required to deliver successful projects as the head of the project team. Students will learn the executive aspects of project management which sit above the project methodology layer, as well as exploring modern developments in project management. Team leadership and management techniques are compared and analysed as well as techniques to handle common project challenges. The core project constraints are explored in the overview. Students will learn how to effectively engage stakeholders and maintain positive outcomes for their project whilst avoiding or overcoming typical obstacles to success.
MGI514 Project Management Leadership will cover the following topics:
- Project leadership versus management
- Relationships between organisational structure, projects and those who lead them
- Team leadership, EQ and culture
- Dealing with conflict, politics and personalities
- Business Justification and benefits realisation
- Project value and scope management
- Time, cost and quality management
- Project communications management
- Project risk management
- Data science and project reporting
Subject Availability
Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
Program management encompasses the coordinated management of multiple projects designed to implement strategies and deliver specific benefits. Portfolio management encompasses those programs and projects needed to achieve strategic business objectives. This subject gives students the skills and understanding required for coordinated management of multiple projects directed toward strategic business and organisational objectives. Students will learn the Project Management Institute (PMI®) processes for both program and portfolio management and will be able to apply them in the correct context and situation.
MGI518 Program and Portfolio Management will cover the following topics:
- Introduction and definitions of project, programs and portfolios
- Integrating projects into programs or portfolios
- Defining Program Scope and its boundaries
- Time, cost, quality, and resources for programs
- Communication between PMO, projects and stakeholders
- Risk Management between programs and projects
- Program/Portfolio integration
- Managing Stakeholders at the program level
- Governance of Programs and Portfolios
- Using portfolios for strategic change
Subject Availability
Session 2 (Jul)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
In this subject students will learn how to research business problems and priorities using current solution-based investigation and sales principles. Students will learn how to define clear objectives and strategies for managing and leveraging a business relationship and generating stakeholder buy-in and alignment for preferred solutions. This subject will offer students a detailed knowledge of the most effective and current solution-based sales techniques and methods, and how to apply them to influence stakeholder decisions.
MGI522 Developing Solutions will cover the following topics:
- Concepts & Buyer Needs
- SPIN - Situation & Problem Questions
- SPIN - Implication & Need/Payoff Questions
- Solution Selling
- Leveraging Relationships
- Existing Customers
- Capability & Solution Design
- Closing
- Objections & Competition
- The Challenger Sale Method
Subject Availability
Session 3 (Nov)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Abstract
This subject introduces the concepts and skills of business analysis and its implementation. The subject covers the entire process from problem investigation through requirements and information gathering to solution engineering. It also examines stakeholder communication and buy-in principles as part of the solution process, as well as change management and implementation.
MGI530 Foundations of Business Analysis will cover the following topics:
- Introduction: the role of business analysis
- The BA lifecycle within enterprise
- Requirements elicitation
- Analysing requirements
- Documenting requirements
- Validating and managing requirements
- Tools and techniques
- Stakeholder buy-in and communication
- Business analysis and technology
- Implementation and change management
Subject Availability
Session 2 (Jul)
The information above was accurate the time the subject was last run, but may change in future. Be sure to check the details in your subject outline upon enrolment.
Note: Assessment items are subject to change. Your official subject assessments should be confirmed in your online Subject Outline upon enrolment in that subject.
Sample Assessment
Assessments in your subjects will take a variety of forms, all designed to test and enhance your learning. You might be called upon to sit an exam, write a marketing plan, design an application, produce a video presentation, sit a quiz or any number of tasks. Why not try a small sample based on the core subject MGI521 – Professional Communications?
- Which of the following is the best description of the role of context in communications?
- A frame of reference within which conceptual rules should apply.
- A separation of one situation from another.
- An understanding of how the content might apply to the concepts
- All of the above are useful descriptions of the role of context.
- There are several types of language we should limit or avoid in professional writing. Which of the following is NOT considered one of these?
- Technical language
- Dramatic language.
- Exaggeration or embellishment.
- Slang or colloquialisms.
- If you need to have a complex but urgent discussion with someone, which of the following is the best way to use instant messaging to achieve your purpose?
- Use the IM to make arrangements for a more direct verbal conversation.
- Use the IM immediately to get the key points of your urgent message across.
- To ask them to urgently check their email for your complex message.
- Nothing, IM should not be used for this at all.
- Which of the following messages is least likely to be effective if given using email?
- A suggestion that all staff contribute to buy biscuits for the coffee room
- A notice to a client that you will not be able to meet their expectationsli>
- A complaint about a colleague’s personal behaviour.
- A request to a colleague to meet after work for drinks.
- Of the three vectors of change, what is the purpose or role of the emotional vector in the user experience?
- To manipulate their desires in the direction you want them to go.
- To make the user happy or otherwise positive.
- To help the user to like the author or what they say.
- To help the user find a reason to invest energy or effort.
- The most important thing we should clarify before writing any professional communication is…?
- Its purpose.
- Its intended recipient.
- Our disposition.
- The medium we should use.
- In the absence of fact or true understanding we tend to:
- Create assumptions to fill the gap.
- Enquire to find out more.
- Ignore what is not there.
- Rely on the opinion of others.
- In email, what is the main purpose of the content of the subject line?
- To get as much of the message across as possible in case the email is not read.
- To stand out more than all the other emails in the recipient’s inbox.
- To help the reader decide whether or when to read the email.
- All of the above.
- If two people share a similar understanding of a situation following a communications interaction and they are both aware that each of them has a similar understanding – what do we call this?
- Agreement.
- Meaning.
- The motivational vector of change.
- Alignment
Answers: D, A, A, C, D, A, A, C, D
Applicants without a tertiary qualification may be admitted to the Graduate Certificate in Project Management on the basis of professional attainment and/or work experience.
Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate, students will also be eligible for admission to the Master of Project Management.
Information on applying can be found on the How to Apply help page.
Master of Project Management
The Graduate Certificate in Project Management is designed in partnership with the Master of Project Management. The Graduate Certificate can be stand alone or, upon successful completion, students may proceed (with full credit) into the Master of Project Management.
| Domestic Students $3600 AUD per subject |
International Students $3820 AUD per subject |
Students who complete a Graduate Certificate and then choose to proceed into the Master of Project Management attract a 10% alumni discount on their fees for their Masters enrolment.
More information on Fees can be found on the Fees page.
If you want to reduce your cost per course you may be eligible for credit.
Academic credit is available to students who can provide proof they have passed relevant industry certification examinations or who have completed previous study. No fees are charged for subjects students receive credit for.
Prospective students can obtain an estimate of credit entitlements from Industry Examinations by filling out the Credit Eligibility Form.
NOTE: The actual level of credit awarded will be confirmed upon acceptance into the Degree.
Find out more with a personalised assessment of your eligibility, or apply now!
