CSP003 - Advanced Project Management
Course Description
A Strategic Approach to Project Launch
Learn to lead successful projects before they begin. Dive into the important pre-project phase, where strategy, ideation and business alignment take root. Develop skills to guide new initiatives through early stages of development and learn how to gain the support needed to succeed. With hands-on exercises, market analysis tools and persuasive communication techniques, learn how to build stakeholder alignment, craft compelling business cases and confidently present projects to executive sponsors.
This advanced-level project management specialization is designed for project leaders, project managers, startup sponsors and anyone responsible for driving innovation.
Aligned with the PMI Talent Triangle's Business Acumen domain, this program will empower you to think strategically, act decisively and influence effectively. Gain knowledge and skills to position yourself as a high-value contributor, with strategic insight and execution readiness, to distinguish yourself within your current organization or stand out in the competitive talent market.
Course Outline
Key topics include:
- Ideation and Market Awareness (SWOT, STEEP, Porter's Five Forces)
- Business Case Development and Financial Modeling
- Stakeholder Identification and Engagement Strategies
- Executive Communication and Pitching
- Project Scoping, Charters, and Change Management (Kotter's 8-Step Model)
- Leveraging AI to Accelerate Project Planning
Program Expectations
- Attend weekly live online sessions
Engage in interactive discussions, instructor-led workshops and collaborative activities designed to deepen your understanding and application of pre-project strategy. - Complete assignments, case studies and real-world projects
Apply key concepts through individual and team-based work that mirrors real-world challenges faced by project leaders and sponsors. These practical exercises are designed to build your confidence and decision-making skills in high-stakes environments. Students are encouraged to come to the program with a project idea in mind, which you’ll develop throughout the course using the tools and strategies introduced in each session. Between classes, you’ll complete focused assignments that build toward a final capstone presentation, where you’ll showcase your strategic thinking, leadership, and project planning skills.
Learner Outcomes
When you complete the program, you will walk away with a powerful set of outcomes designed to elevate your impact and career trajectory, along with tangible professional assets you can use to demonstrate your capabilities to current or prospective employers.
Master Pre-Project Ideation
Gain the confidence and skills to lead the front-end phase of strategic projects. Learn how to shape, validate and present compelling business cases that align with organizational goals.
Strengthen Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Identify and analyze key stakeholders, and build the influence and trust needed to move projects forward. Develop relationship strategies that support long-term project success.
Make Strategic, Data-Driven Decisions
Apply proven tools - like STEEP analysis, SWOT, Porter's Five Forces and financial modeling - to make informed recommendations and assess project viability from multiple angles.
Communicate with Executive Presence
Craft persuasive pitches and presentations that resonate with senior leaders. Build the confidence to advocate for project ideas and secure executive buy-in.
Build a Strong Foundation for Project Launch
Develop clear project scopes and charter documents to ensure alignment, accountability and a smooth hand-off into execution.
Proactively Plan for Risk
Identify potential risks early and design effective mitigation strategies to reduce uncertainty and protect investment value.
Leverage the Power of AI
Understand how to incorporate AI and emerging technologies to streamline planning, enhance forecasting and increase overall project success.
Position Yourself for Leadership Growth
Build the business acumen, communication skills and strategic insight executives look for, whether you're advancing in your current company or exploring new opportunities.
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites. This program is an excellent next step for anyone who has completed SMU's Project Management Certificate program and is ready to deepen their strategic and stakeholder engagement skills.
Recommendations
Who Should Enroll in this Specialization?
- Project leaders, project managers, startup sponsors and anyone responsible for shaping, pitching or sponsoring new project ideas
- Innovation and strategy professionals looking to strengthen their influence and cross-functional impact
- Professional with the PMP® certification seeking additional PDUs that align with the PMI Talent Triangle
- Individuals preparing for leadership roles who want to enhance their ability to develop business cases, align with strategy and lead projects from concept to approval