# The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills an… Review (2026) — 8.5/10

> Independent review of The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course on EDX. Rated 8.5/10 by our editoria…

Project Management Courses

The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course

![The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course](/api/media/file/hero/the-program-manager-applying-power-skills-and-digital-enablers-course.png?width=800)

# The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course — Review (8.5/10)

This edX course from the University of Maryland delivers a forward-thinking curriculum focused on leadership and change management for program managers. It effectively blends power skills with digital...

Explore This Course

The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course is a 4 weeks online intermediate-level course on EDX by The University of Maryland, College Park that covers project management. This edX course from the University of Maryland delivers a forward-thinking curriculum focused on leadership and change management for program managers. It effectively blends power skills with digital awareness, preparing learners for evolving workplace dynamics. While light on technical depth, it excels in leadership frameworks and stakeholder strategy. Ideal for professionals aiming to lead transformational initiatives. We rate it 8.5/10.

## Prerequisites

Basic familiarity with project management fundamentals is recommended. An introductory course or some practical experience will help you get the most value.

## Pros

- Strong focus on leadership and change culture

- Practical stakeholder engagement frameworks

- Relevant for future of work and digital transformation

- Clear, structured 4-week format

## Cons

- Limited hands-on exercises or assessments

- No deep technical tools or software coverage

- Certificate requires payment for verification

## The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course Review

Platform: EDX

Instructor: The University of Maryland, College Park

Updated Apr 24, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate

## What will you learn in The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change course

- How to use effective leadership to create the culture for change-making, the attributes for a healthy “change culture, setup

- Program Stakeholders’ analysis and engagement and sensing approach refinement across the program life cycle

- The Power Skills, coupled with problem-solving and how to master these skills to drive effective decision-making and future success of program managers

- The importance of a good leader connecting various stakeholders to the big picture while excelling in team building to balance the demands of the short term and the various program/project roles using mentoring amongst other key skills

- Explore the value proposition of the leadership qualities within project management to become program professionals

- Where digitalization is heading in affecting success metrics, the role of program managers and the human and connected future of work

### Program Overview

### Module 1: Building a Culture of Change

Duration estimate: Week 1

- Defining change culture and its organizational impact

- Leadership behaviors that foster adaptability and innovation

- Strategies for embedding change readiness into team DNA

### Module 2: Stakeholder Engagement and Sensing Across the Lifecycle

Duration: Week 2

- Mapping key stakeholders and influence networks

- Dynamic sensing techniques for real-time feedback

- Adaptive communication strategies for diverse audiences

### Module 3: Mastering Power Skills for Decision-Making

Duration: Week 3

- Core power skills: empathy, resilience, and influence

- Integrating problem-solving frameworks with emotional intelligence

- Driving consensus in complex, cross-functional environments

### Module 4: Leading in the Digital Future of Work

Duration: Week 4

- Digital transformation trends reshaping program management

- Balancing human connection with technological integration

- Mentoring, team building, and future-proofing leadership

### Get certificate

#### Job Outlook

- Rising demand for leaders who can manage change at scale

- Increased need for digital fluency in senior project roles

- Program managers positioned as key drivers of strategic agility

## Editorial Take

The University of Maryland’s course on program management stands out for its timely focus on leadership in the age of digital transformation. Rather than teaching technical project tools, it emphasizes the human and strategic dimensions critical to managing change at scale. This makes it especially relevant for mid-career professionals stepping into broader leadership roles.

### Standout Strengths

- Leadership-Centric Design: The course prioritizes leadership behaviors over administrative tasks, teaching how to cultivate a culture where change is embraced. This mindset shift is essential for leading complex, long-term programs.

- Change Culture Frameworks: Learners gain practical models for assessing and shaping organizational culture. These tools help identify resistance points and build psychological safety across teams.

- Stakeholder Sensing Techniques: The module on stakeholder engagement introduces adaptive sensing methods that go beyond static mapping. This enables real-time responsiveness throughout the program lifecycle.

- Power Skills Integration: Emotional intelligence, influence, and resilience are treated as core competencies. The course links them directly to decision-making under uncertainty, a key challenge for program managers.

- Digital Fluency Without Tech Overload: It addresses digital transformation trends without diving into specific platforms. This keeps the focus on leadership strategy rather than fleeting tools.

- Future of Work Alignment: The curriculum anticipates hybrid work models and digital ecosystems. It prepares leaders to balance human needs with technological demands effectively.

### Honest Limitations

- Limited Hands-On Application: While concepts are well-explained, there are few opportunities to apply them through case studies or simulations. Learners must self-initiate practice to internalize skills.

- No Software or Tool Training: The course avoids teaching specific digital tools like Jira or Asana. This keeps it accessible but may disappoint learners seeking technical upskilling.

- Certificate Cost Barrier: Although auditing is free, earning a verified certificate requires payment. This may limit accessibility for some global learners despite the course’s value.

- Assessment Depth: Quizzes and reflections may not sufficiently challenge advanced learners. Those seeking rigorous evaluation may need supplemental resources.

### How to Get the Most Out of It

- Study cadence: Dedicate 3–4 hours weekly to fully absorb content and complete reflection exercises. Consistency enhances retention of leadership concepts.

- Parallel project: Apply frameworks to a current or past initiative. Use stakeholder mapping and change culture assessments in real time.

- Note-taking: Journal insights on power skills development. Track personal growth in empathy, influence, and decision-making over the four weeks.

- Community: Engage in discussion forums to exchange leadership challenges. Peer insights enrich understanding of diverse organizational contexts.

- Practice: Role-play difficult conversations using course techniques. Rehearse aligning stakeholders to a shared vision.

- Consistency: Apply one leadership behavior per week. Small, repeated actions build lasting change-maker habits.

### Supplementary Resources

- Book: "The Heart of Change" by Kotter and Heskett reinforces emotional engagement in transformation. It complements the course’s culture focus.

- Tool: Miro or Lucidchart for visual stakeholder mapping. These platforms help operationalize the course’s engagement models.

- Follow-up: Explore PMI’s Program Management Standard for structural alignment. It pairs well with this course’s strategic emphasis.

- Reference: McKinsey’s research on digital transformation provides real-world context. It deepens understanding of success metrics.

### Common Pitfalls

- Pitfall: Treating the course as purely theoretical. Without applying concepts, learners miss the transformative potential of power skills in real settings.

- Pitfall: Overlooking reflection prompts. These are critical for internalizing leadership growth and should not be skipped.

- Pitfall: Expecting technical certifications. This course builds strategic capacity, not software proficiency, so expectations must align accordingly.

### Time & Money ROI

- Time: The 4-week commitment is reasonable for busy professionals. Each module is concise and focused, maximizing learning per hour.

- Cost-to-value: Free auditing offers exceptional value. The content rivals paid leadership seminars, especially for change management fundamentals.

- Certificate: The verified credential enhances professional profiles, particularly for those transitioning into program leadership roles.

- Alternative: Free alternatives lack academic rigor and structured frameworks. This course’s university backing adds credibility and depth.

### Editorial Verdict

This course fills a critical gap in leadership development by focusing on the human and strategic aspects of program management. It doesn’t teach how to use project management software or create Gantt charts—instead, it builds the foundational power skills needed to lead change in complex, digital-first environments. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured, with each week building toward a holistic understanding of what it means to be a future-ready program manager. From cultivating a healthy change culture to mastering stakeholder dynamics, the course delivers actionable insights grounded in real-world leadership challenges. Its emphasis on emotional intelligence, mentoring, and systems thinking makes it particularly valuable for professionals aiming to move beyond tactical execution into strategic influence.

While the lack of hands-on projects and technical tools may limit appeal for some, the course’s strengths lie in its clarity, relevance, and forward-looking perspective. It’s best suited for mid-level project managers, aspiring program leads, and change agents who recognize that technical skills alone are insufficient in today’s volatile landscape. The free audit option removes financial barriers, allowing broad access to high-quality content from a reputable institution. For those willing to engage deeply and apply concepts proactively, the return on time investment is substantial. Ultimately, this course earns strong recommendation as a foundational step for anyone serious about leading transformational change in the digital era.

## How The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course Compares

| Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration |

| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |

| The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course | EDX | 8.5/10 | Intermediate | 4 weeks |

| Foundations of Project Management Course | Coursera | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Professional Planning Engineer Preparation Course | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Microsoft Project: The Five Keys - Key 3 Constraints | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

## Who Should Take The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course?

This course is best suited for learners with foundational knowledge in project management and want to deepen their expertise. Working professionals looking to upskill or transition into more specialized roles will find the most value here. The course is offered by The University of Maryland, College Park on EDX, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a professional certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers.

If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course.

### Career Outcomes

- Apply project management skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities

- Advance to mid-level roles requiring project management proficiency

- Take on more complex projects with confidence

- Add a professional certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume

- Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field

## More Project Management Courses on EDX

Explore other highly rated courses in project management available on EDX to expand your learning path:

- Persuasion and Presence for Program and Project Managers 8.5/10

- Capstone for Project Management Course 8.5/10

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- Video Clip: Using Jira To Create a Custom Dashboard Course 8.5/10

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## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms

Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated project management courses from other platforms cover similar ground:

- Foundations of Project Management Course 10.0/10 Coursera

- Professional Planning Engineer Preparation Course 9.8/10 Udemy

- Microsoft Project: The Five Keys - Key 3 Constraints 9.8/10 Udemy

- IBM IT Project Manager Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 Coursera

- Microsoft Project Management Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- IBM Project Manager Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Agile Project Management Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Business Value and Project Management Specialization Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Capstone: Applying Project Management in the Real World Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Project Management & Other Tools for Career Development Specialization Course 9.7/10 Coursera

## More Courses from The University of Maryland, College Park

The University of Maryland, College Park offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings:

- Platform Product Revival Course 8.5/10

- Persuasion and Presence for Program and Project Managers 8.5/10

- Stakeholder Outreach: Effective Communication of Complex Environmental Threats Course 8.5/10

- Identifying Entrepreneurial Opportunities Course 8.5/10

- Generating Vision: Long-Term Big Ideas That Motivate Employees and Stakeholders Course 8.5/10

- Agile, Healthy, and Attractive Organizations Course 8.5/10

- Gaining Business Acumen for Project Managers Course 8.5/10

- Innovation in Government: Navigating the Age of AI Course 8.5/10

View all courses from The University of Maryland, College Park →

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## FAQs

What are the prerequisites for The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course?

A basic understanding of Project Management fundamentals is recommended before enrolling in The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course. Learners who have completed an introductory course or have some practical experience will get the most value. The course builds on foundational concepts and introduces more advanced techniques and real-world applications.

Does The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course offer a certificate upon completion?

Yes, upon successful completion you receive a professional certificate from The University of Maryland, College Park. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Project Management can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development.

How long does it take to complete The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course?

The course takes approximately 4 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on EDX, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably.

What are the main strengths and limitations of The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course?

The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course is rated 8.5/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: strong focus on leadership and change culture; practical stakeholder engagement frameworks; relevant for future of work and digital transformation. Some limitations to consider: limited hands-on exercises or assessments; no deep technical tools or software coverage. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Project Management.

How will The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course help my career?

Completing The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course equips you with practical Project Management skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by The University of Maryland, College Park, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market.

Where can I take The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course and how do I access it?

The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course is available on EDX, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on EDX and enroll in the course to get started.

How does The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course compare to other Project Management courses?

The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course is rated 8.5/10 on our platform, placing it among the top-rated project management courses. Its standout strengths — strong focus on leadership and change culture — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding.

What language is The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course taught in?

The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course is taught in English. Many online courses on EDX also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction.

Is The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course kept up to date?

Online courses on EDX are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. The University of Maryland, College Park has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate.

Can I take The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course as part of a team or organization?

Yes, EDX offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build project management capabilities across a group.

What will I be able to do after completing The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course?

After completing The Program Manager – Applying Power Skills and Digital Enablers to Create Continual Change Course, you will have practical skills in project management that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be equipped to tackle complex, real-world challenges and lead projects in this domain. Your professional certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers.

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