How to become a program manager
Program managers supervise multiple related projects to advance a larger objective. Learn about this management-level career path and connect with educational opportunities that can help you enter the field.
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What is a program manager?
Businesses may create a coordinated series of interconnected projects to achieve high-level organizational goals. Program managers supervise these individual projects, ensuring they work together to advance the broader organizational objective.
What does a program manager do?
A program manager's duties typically include:
- Designing project-based programs in support of a strategic organizational goal
- Monitoring progress on each individual project
- Supervising and directing the managers responsible for each project
- Managing project budgets and distributing financial resources
Program managers also create progress reports and present them to upper management.
Program manager vs. project manager
People often confuse program managers and project managers. While the roles share some similarities, they are distinct. In essence, the program manager analyzes organizational needs to identify specific strategic objectives and create programs to meet them. Meanwhile, the project manager manages a single individual project that functions as part of the overall program.
Steps to become a program manager
The traditional path to becoming a program manager involves the following steps:
Step 1: Get a relevant degree.
Earn at least a bachelor's degree, and consider that a master's degree may support your advancement. After completing your bachelor's degree, you can proceed directly into a graduate program or upgrade after gaining professional experience (see Step 2).
Relevant areas of study include:
An MBA in project management can prepare you well for a career in program management.
Step 1: Get a relevant degree.
Earn at least a bachelor's degree, and consider that a master's degree may support your advancement. After completing your bachelor's degree, you can proceed directly into a graduate program or upgrade after gaining professional experience (see Step 2).
Relevant areas of study include:
An MBA in project management can prepare you well for a career in program management.
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Published June 19, 2025