Fundamentals of Project Planning and Management course Syllabus

This course provides a clear and practical introduction to project management fundamentals, designed for beginners with no prior experience. Over approximately 8–10 weeks of part-time learning (2–3 hours per week), you’ll explore core concepts through structured modules that build progressively from defining a project to managing stakeholders and risks. The curriculum is based on proven frameworks from the University of Virginia and includes real-world examples, practical tools, and a final project to apply your knowledge. Lifetime access allows you to learn at your own pace and revisit key concepts as needed.

Module 1: Introduction to Project Management

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Define what constitutes a project and distinguish it from routine operations
• Understand the role and responsibilities of a project manager
• Explore the project lifecycle: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure
• Analyze real-world case studies of successful and failed projects

Module 2: Project Planning and Scope Management

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Learn how to define project objectives, deliverables, and success criteria
• Understand the importance of clear scope statements
• Identify causes and consequences of scope creep
• Apply frameworks to control scope and manage changes effectively

Module 3: Scheduling, Resources, and Risk Management

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Sequence project tasks and develop basic timelines
• Apply fundamental scheduling techniques such as Gantt charts
• Understand resource constraints and prioritize activities
• Identify potential risks and create mitigation strategies

Module 4: Stakeholder Management and Communication

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Identify key project stakeholders and their interests
• Develop effective communication plans for different stakeholder groups
• Manage expectations and resolve conflicts during project execution

Module 5: Applying Project Management Frameworks

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Integrate scope, schedule, and risk planning into a cohesive project plan
• Use practical tools and templates used by project managers
• Review best practices from top business school methodologies

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Define a project idea with clear goals and deliverables
• Create a comprehensive project plan including scope, schedule, and risk assessment
• Present a stakeholder communication strategy and mitigation plan

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic business concepts is helpful but not required
• No prior project management experience needed
• Access to common productivity tools (e.g., spreadsheets or word processors)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain core project management concepts and terminology
• Define project scope and prevent scope creep
• Develop realistic project schedules and allocate resources effectively
• Identify and manage project risks and stakeholder expectations
• Apply practical frameworks to lead small-scale projects confidently