Start Where You Are. Grow as Far as You Want.
The Project Management Practitioner program at De Anza College is designed to meet students where they are—whether they are new to project management, changing careers, or advancing into leadership roles.
The program offers flexible, stackable pathways that allow students to build practical skills, earn credentials along the way, and continue toward long-term academic and career goals.
Program Overview
Project Management at De Anza emphasizes:
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Hands-on, practicum-based learning
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Leadership, communication, and decision-making
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Risk-aware planning and execution
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Technology- and AI-supported project analysis
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Skills that apply across industries and roles
Students learn how to manage projects in environments where tools and technologies evolve—but human judgment and leadership remain essential.
Program Pathways
Certificate of Achievement (COA) - (20–20.5 units)
The Certificate of Achievement is an entry-level pathway for students who want to gain core project management skills quickly.
Students learn how to:
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Plan and execute projects
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Manage scope, schedule, and risk
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Work with vendors and stakeholders
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Support successful project delivery
This certificate is ideal for:
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Career changers
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Working professionals adding project management skills
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Students seeking a fast, practical credential
Certificate of Achievement – Advanced (COA-A) - (43–43.5 units)
The Advanced Certificate builds on foundational skills and prepares students for increased responsibility.
Students develop deeper capabilities in:
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Program and portfolio thinking
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Business and requirements analysis
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Emotional intelligence and leadership
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Strategic decision-making across multiple projects
This pathway is designed for students seeking:
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Leadership or coordination roles
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Broader organizational impact
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Preparation for advanced career growth
Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree - (90 units)
The Associate in Arts degree combines advanced project management coursework with general education requirements.
This pathway supports:
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Long-term career development
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Transfer opportunities
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Broader academic and professional preparation
Students completing the A.A. degree gain both technical project management skills and a well-rounded educational foundation.
Stackable by Design
Each pathway is intentionally designed to build on the previous one. Students can:
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Begin with a certificate
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Earn credentials as they progress
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Continue toward the Associate degree without repeating coursework
There are no dead ends—students can move forward at a pace that fits their goals and schedule.
Choosing Your Starting Point
Not sure where to begin? Many students start with the Certificate of Achievement and adjust their path as their goals evolve.
Course offerings are available in multiple formats, including online, hybrid, and in-person sections, depending on the quarter.
Take the Next Step
Explore the Program
Learn about certificates, the Associate in Arts degree, and how the program is structured.
Enroll in Classes – Check Schedule
View available courses, formats, and upcoming sections to plan your enrollment. Select the quarter (e.g. Winter 2026) and Department - CIS and look for course # in 95 series (e.g CIS 95A, CIS 95B etc.)
View Career Outcomes
See how project management skills translate into roles across industries and organizations.
Build one of today’s most essential, AI-augmented leadership skills.
Start your Project Management journey at De Anza College.
Watch a brief presentation to learn more about the Project Management program, pathways, and student experience.
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