Effective project management is both a skill set and a leadership function that requires discipline in planning, organizing, and managing resources to execute projects to meet strategic goals and objectives. As such, this course will cover concepts in the four basic functions of management (planning, organizing, directing, and controlling) as applied to a project context. As not all projects are the same, students will also learn how to tailor specific tools and technique in each phase of the standard life cycle (Project Initiation, Project Planning, Project Execution, Project Monitoring and Control, and Project Closing) to adapt project management to different organizational and societal environments. Through the Project Management Institute (PMI), students can become a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) after completing COMM 495 and passing an exam administered through PMI.