How Do I Become a Project Controller?

To become a project controller, you must fulfill certain requirements before being eligible for employment in this capacity. Specific education and training criteria have to be met, and you must have the willingness to further your education. It is not unusual for companies to seek controllers who have certain types of experience outside the classroom when filling a position. Most project controller candidates find that they need strong skills in communication, finance and budgeting as well as presentation skills to be successful in this role. There are a number of different college majors that you can use to prepare for a career in this field.

As with many types of specialized jobs, to become a project controller, it is necessary to obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field. Most people choose to major in business or finance during their undergraduate studies to develop the educational basis needed for this type of work. Business administration and economics are also very popular choices for preparing to become a project controller. Most colleges and universities offer several possible major choices for those wishing to explore this career field. It is up to the individual student to choose the best school and program for his or her needs.

A bachelor's degree is usually enough to become a project controller in an entry-level position, but many companies are looking for candidates who have more education or the willingness to work toward a master's degree or possibly another bachelor's diploma. Candidates who have additional credentials, such as a certified public accountant degree or other finance- or business-related specialties often find that they are more successful than those applicants who have only a bachelor's degree to their credit. Many companies are willing to hire the right person who has only a bachelor's degree, especially if that person has plans to further his or her education.

In addition to education, experience and networking count for a lot when trying to become a project controller. Serious candidates would do well to gain as much experience in the field while in school through internships, part-time jobs and other opportunities. Most career experts suggest beginning to work with and connect to other people in the business and finance world as quickly as possible. It is not uncommon for those contacts to come in handy following graduation. After a candidate has established contact with a variety of professionals in the field, he or she is a good position to ask the contacts for career advice or information.