Project MGMT HBFeb 242010
Project MGMT HBFeb 242010
Project Management
Program Handbook
Developed by
www.tech.ubc.ca/project
Contact Information
Executive Education
UBC Robson Square
800 Robson Street
Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 3B7
Tel: 604-822-1420
Fax: 604-822-1499
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.tech.ubc.ca/project
This program handbook is current as of February, 2010. Note that future editions of this program handbook may
contain changes to program requirements and policies that supersede those outlined in this book, except where
participants are notified otherwise.
Copyright 2010.
The University of British Columbia.
All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.
Contents
Program Overview......................................................................................................1
Program History ........................................................................................................1
Curriculum..................................................................................................................5
Project Management Processes....................................................................................5
Assessment Methods..................................................................................................7
Program Fees.......................................................................................................... 11
Administration..........................................................................................................15
Instructors.............................................................................................................. 15
The UBC Certificate in Project Management is delivered in three different versions – part-
time, full-time intensive or 100% online – allowing participants to choose a program best
suited to their learning needs. All versions offer a well-rounded educational experience with
a combination of lectures, readings, small-group work, discussions and group projects.
Program History
The UBC Certificate in Project Management was developed in response to an identified need
among aspiring project managers and experienced project managers to develop and
enhance new skills. It offers a formal education program with opportunities to apply lessons
learned in practical situations. In collaboration with professionals in the project management
field, the program was developed to fill a niche not currently served by other project
management programs.
In 2006, the UBC Certificate in Project Management won a Program Excellence Award from
Program Approach
The program reflects the reality faced by today’s project managers by tying concepts and
practices from every aspect of the project management process together. Each program
whether full-time, part-time or 100% online, provides you with a core curriculum of modules
that mirror real-world projects. Different emphases are provided in each program from
focusing on working within teams to applying specialized concepts to real work situations.
The programs are designed so that as each module is completed, a foundation is established
upon which each subsequent module will build. This progression ensures that participants
emerge with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are critical in today’s
workplace. As participants move through the various modules of the program, they develop
a greater understanding of the full breadth of project management.
The program is designed for aspiring and experienced project managers, as well as project
leaders and team members wanting to expand their knowledge and skills in planning,
participating and/or executing projects. The program is relevant to a variety of industries
including the high-tech, corporate, education, government and small business sectors.
Program participants must have, at minimum, a high school diploma, three years of work
experience or a combination of relevant work experience and education, and fluency in the
English language* (business English written and oral skills) before entering the program.
While work experience is not strictly interpreted as project management experience, some
management experience in this area is encouraged.
The program offers unique advantages to participants who want to strengthen existing
competencies and add new tools and techniques to their skill-set in order to enhance their
professional expertise and provide value to companies and clients. The program helps you:
• fast-forward your career with innovative project management skills and techniques
• become a project management expert within your industry, ensuring timely and
cost-effective completion of critical projects
The following outline provides a comparison of the three program delivery versions available
for completing the UBC Certificate in Project Management. Visit www.tech.ubc.ca/project for
current schedules, application deadlines, and more details on the three versions of the
program. Curriculum may be subject to change.
Format & Created for those with Created for those who Created for those who
Curriculum full-time job have the opportunity to want a flexible learning
responsibilities, the core participate full-time, the environment, the
program is delivered in a program is delivered curriculum is presented
part-time classroom over 4 months in face- in six 100% online
format over 3 months. to-face seminar and courses, each delivered
Participants complete the computer lab over a six to eight week
core program as a group, environments with most period. The online
and then select assignments/team program includes
specialization courses project work completed tutorials, exercises, case
that meet their personal in class. Participants take studies, and individual/
interests and needs. The part in a structured team assignments/
curriculum consists of a learning experience in projects.
core program of face-to- teams as well as develop
face sessions with essential skills in MS
assignment/team project Project, leadership, and
work completed outside business processes and
of class. analysis.
Curriculum
Focused on
Yes Yes Yes
PMI®
Standards
The UBC Certificate in Project Management is based on the Project Management Institute
(PMI) Body of Knowledge. The program offers an in-depth understanding of project
management and assists participants to develop practical skills by learning leading-edge
practices and tools.
The curriculum that comprises the certificate program will change over time to reflect the
needs of participants, developments in the profession and the availability of UBC resources.
Following is a list and description of the 5 project management process groups covered in
the program:
• Project Initiation
• Project Planning
• Project Execution
• Project Control
• Project Closing
Explore project management methodologies, project life cycles, phases and alternative
work-breakdown structures. Participants also examine processes repeated throughout a
project life cycle, plan development, project execution and continuous change control.
Project Planning
Project planning processes involves clarifying and refining the objectives and the scope in as
much detail as possible to develop a comprehensive project management plan. It also
involves establishing the team, and planning all of the activities necessary to achieve the
objectives and the scope. Planning processes include, among others, scope planning and
definition, scheduling, budgeting, risk planning, communications planning and quality
planning.
Project Execution
Project execution involves carrying out the project plan by performing the activities included
therein. The majority of work on most projects is applied during the executing processes.
During this activity, the project manager must apply leadership, team development,
communications and negotiation skills to ensure that the work is performed as planned. The
intent of this module is to determine the project manager's responsibilities during project
executing and to explore some of the behavioural management skills required by project
managers to be more successful.
Project Control
Project control involves measuring the progress of the project toward achieving the project
objectives and evaluating the remaining requirements for their completion. To effectively
control the project, it is crucial to take action. Remember that project management should
be proactive, this means correcting for negative trends before they get out of control, and
leveraging positive trends as they emerge. The focus of this module is to explore project
controlling activities which will help project managers achieve the project objectives
successfully.
Project Closing
Project closing is the last phase in the project life cycle, in which the results are verified and
accepted, and the project is transitioned to operations or sustainment. The primary purpose
of closing processes is to ensure that project objectives were achieved and that the results
of the project met the requirements. Another important reason for closing projects properly,
though, is that this process creates an opportunity for learning from the project and sharing
Once admitted into the UBC Certificate in Project Management, participants must complete
all requirements for graduation within the specified program duration timeframe. The most
current information on program requirements is available at www.tech.ubc.ca/project.
Assessment Methods
Projects are inherently team based activities. The ability to work with others in a
cooperative and collaborative way is one of the keys to successful project management. To
reflect this reality all program formats, Core, Intensive and 100% Online include a team
assignment/project. Spread over the duration of the program or course (Applied Project
Management in the 100% PM Online program), the assignment/project allows students to
work in teams while exercising the skills learned in the program. To promote effective team
work and to allow course participants to develop their team working skills, team members
enter into a “team agreement” that specifies the terms of reference within which the team
will function.
For face–
face–to-
to-face Project Management Intensive and Project Management Core
programs only:
only:
In support of the team agreement in the face-to-face programs (Project Management Core
and Project Management Intensive), a 360 degree feedback process is used throughout the
program to provide a method for team members to provide feedback to each. The process
is designed to provide constructive information that can help individuals understand how
their efforts are perceived by their colleagues. The 360 degree feedback process is an
integral part of the assessment system for the team based assignment and the marking
schema takes into account team feedback and the contributions to the team made by
individual team members.
To be granted the UBC Certificate in Project Management, 100% online participants must
successfully complete required coursework and demonstrate competency in project
management by earning a minimum passing grade 60% on each of the six courses.
In a typical educational program, students are obligated to make up for incomplete or failed
assignments in a module (course in online program) by retaking the module (course in
online program) on their own time at their own expense. Because of the cohort nature of the
part-time and full-time intensive programs, this is not always practical or possible. As such,
in the case of incomplete or failed assignments, individual accommodations may be made by
the Program Leader for a make-up assignment, project, exam or course. However, in
keeping with standard academic practice, students will be required to cover expenses for
any additional coursework, supervision or assessment involved.
Admission Information
The UBC Certificate in Project Management has a formal admissions procedure to ensure
quality education and student support services. The admissions process also helps to ensure
that the needs, intentions, and expectations of participants are adequately matched to the
program’s objectives and capabilities.
Application Process
A limited number of applicants are admitted to the UBC Certificate in Project Management.
Information on application forms and supporting documents should be as thorough as
possible so that the admissions committee will have sufficient information to base their
decision. Meeting minimum requirements does not ensure admission to the program.
To apply:
• choose a mode of study to suit your learning needs (part-time, full-time intensive or
100% online)
Application Form
• a one-page letter of intent that specifies your goals and objectives for taking the
program
Evaluation of Applications
An admissions committee reviews all applications. Individuals are advised in writing whether
they have been accepted into the program.
Participants should be aware that in some cases textbooks and materials related to courses
may constitute an additional cost to the fees outlined below. Fees may be subject to change.
Program The registration fee for The total registration fee The total registration fee
Fees the core part-time for the full-time intensive for the 100% online
program is $5,800 CAD, program is $9,200 CAD, program is $7,475 CAD
payable in two payable in two ($1,095-$2,000 CAD for
installments. installments. each course) plus a non-
refundable administration
The fee for the
fee of $175.
specialization ranges
from $1,800-$4,500 *Book fees are not
depending on the included in the
specialization and registration fee.
courses selected.
The policies in this section apply to participants enrolled in the UBC Certificate in Project
Management.
Changes to Curriculum
The courses that comprise the UBC Certificate in Project Management will change over time
to reflect the needs of participants, developments in the field of project management, and
the availability and best use of UBC resources.
• as the curriculum changes over time, participants are expected to complete the
overall requirements that were mandatory at the date of their acceptance into the
program
• participants who have completed courses that are subsequently removed from the
program curriculum will receive credit for those courses.
In the event of a major program change, participants will be notified of options for
completing under old or new program requirements.
Extensions
Limited Enrolment
A limited number of applicants are admitted to the UBC Certificate in Project Management.
This number can vary depending on the availability of instructors and teaching facilities.
Meeting minimum requirements does not ensure admission to the program.
Availability of Courses
Delivery format choices and course locations are reviewed regularly to respond to
participants’ needs, changing technologies and availability of facilities.
We are unable to accommodate requests for prior learning assessment, course substitution
or advanced standing.
UBC Continuing Studies takes academic misconduct in the form of cheating and plagiarism
seriously and such activities are not tolerated. Students found cheating or plagiarizing will
meet stiff penalties which may include dismissal from the program or course with a failing
grade with no refund of tuition fees. For additional information about cheating and
plagiarism policies, please read the UBC policy on academic misconduct at
www.vpacademic.ubc.ca/integrity/policies.htm.
The special nature of our programs obligates UBC Continuing Studies to foster a learning
environment that respects the diversity of individuals, but also applies standards and ethics
in keeping with a professional, adult workplace. Our goal is to make programs a positive
learning experience. Therefore students in our programs are expected to conduct
themselves in accordance with professional standards of behaviour, respect and scholarly
integrity. The ability to work respectfully in a team environment and specifically with other
students, instructors and staff is essential and will be assessed in one or more aspects of the
program.
In addition, the Senate of the University may require a student to withdraw from the
University at any time for unsatisfactory conduct, for failure to abide by regulations, for
unsatisfactory progress in a program of studies or training, or for any other reason which is
deemed to show that withdrawal is in the interests of the student and/or the University. In
such cases there will be no refund of tuition.
Participants must abide by the UBC Responsible Use of Information Technology guidelines.
For details, see http://www.universitycounsel.ubc.ca/policies/policy104.pdf.
Computer Access
It is expected that participants of this program have a computer with Internet access and a
printer at home. As an alternative, there are computers available for use during library
hours, as well as printing facilities for a small fee, in the UBC Robson Square library.
Cancellation Policy
Class and Speaker Cancellations: UBC Continuing Studies is sometimes forced to cancel
or postpone a class or speaker or provide substitute lecturers, and does not guarantee that
a particular class or speaker will be available at a particular scheduled time. When
appropriate, UBC Continuing Studies will schedule an additional class and/or activity.
Program Cancellation: Please note that this program will be offered only if sufficient
numbers of students are enrolled. Notwithstanding your acceptance into the program, this
program may be cancelled by UBC Continuing Studies without prior notice at any time up to
21 days before the start of classes. Cancellation may be due to insufficient enrolment or
other reasons.
Taking Courses Prior to Applying to the Program (part-time and 100% online program
only)
As specialization courses are open to the general public participants may take up to 40
hours of courses or one online course before making a formal application to the program.
This will help participants decide if the UBC Certificate in Project Management program is the
appropriate professional development program for them. In order to apply the credit for
these courses toward a specialization within the part-time certificate, participants must have
successfully completed the required course assignments.
UBC Continuing Studies presents the UBC Certificate in Project Management in partnership
with Executive Education, Sauder School of Business and in collaboration with the UBC
Faculty of Applied Science. All three groups recognize the need for skilled project managers
and are committed to delivering a program that graduates innovative leaders in this field.
UBC Sauder School of Business is one of Canada’s leading business schools. It offers
management development and strategic organizational development programs that enable
individuals to lead their organizations into the future.
UBC Faculty of Applied Science is British Columbia’s only comprehensive engineering school.
It offers outstanding and distinctive programs through six engineering departments and six
research centres, while engaging in research, scholarly activity and professional service of
the highest caliber. All activities are delivered with a forward-thinking, results-oriented and
community-responsive approach. UBC Applied Science also includes the Schools of
Architecture and Nursing.
Instructors
The face-to-face courses in the UBC Certificate in Project Management are taught by
professionals in the field who bring their education and work experience into the classroom
The instructors have been selected to provide a balance of academic instruction and real-
world experience, and they ensure that the program is comprehensive and dynamic. Our
instructors not only know project management because they work in the field, they also
know how to effectively communicate their knowledge to participants. Our teaching staff
includes instructors who work as independent consultants or as full-time staff in companies
that practice project management.
The UBC Certificate in Project Management was developed by UBC Continuing Studies in
partnership with Executive Education, Sauder School of Business and the UBC Faculty of
Applied Science, with significant input from professional project managers who are active in
this field, both in their careers and their professional associations.
David Gillen, Director, Centre for Transportation, UBC Sauder School of Business
Applicants should read and thoroughly understand the Program Handbook before applying to
the program. Payment of a portion of the tuition fee (part-time and full-time program) or an
administration fee (100% online program) is required upon acceptance into the program.
• a brief word-processed letter of intent that specifies your goals, interests, program
expectations and describes your level of computer knowledge and experience
(maximum 500 words).
Mode of Study:
HOME ADDRESS
WORK ADDRESS
a. List all degree(s), diplomas, certificates, and other formal or informal courses of
study/qualifications you consider relevant to your application. Applicants may be requested
to provide a copy of post-secondary transcripts, diplomas or degrees.
DEGREE/CERTIFICATE/DIPLOMA
DEGREE/CERTIFICATE/DIPLOMA
Work Experience
Give details about your current work experience or attach a résumé if preferred.
NATURE OF ACTIVITY
COMPANY/ORGANIZATION YEAR(S)
NATURE OF ACTIVITY
COMPANY/ORGANIZATION YEAR(S)
In a separate letter of intent, define your interests, program expectations and the goals you
expect to achieve upon completion of the program. Please also comment on your level of
computer literacy and familiarity with the Internet. Maximum of 500 words.
References
List the names and phone numbers of three academic or professional references, and
include their affiliation to you.
Fax: 604-822-1499
Email: [email protected]
Online registration form: www.tech.ubc.ca/project
Personal information provided on the registration form is collected pursuant to section 26 of the Freedom of Information and
Protection of Privacy Act (“FIPPA”), RSBC 1996, c.165, as amended. The information will be used for the purposes of:
admission; registration; academic progress; notification of future courses; and operating other UBC-related programs. UBC
collects, uses, retains and discloses information in accordance with FIPPA. UBC may share and disclose personal information
within the University to carry out its mandate and operations. Information, in aggregate form only, may also be used for
research purposes and statistics.
Should you have any questions about the collection of information, please contact Manager, Marketing Services, UBC
Continuing Studies, 410-5950 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3.
We respect your privacy. Your contact information is used to send you communications regarding upcoming UBC courses and
events that may be of interest to you. Your contact information will not be released to others. If you check these boxes you will
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