To become an assistant program manager, it is important to earn a bachelor's degree, preferably in a field related to the industry in which you would like to work. For example, if you want to become an assistant program manager in the software development industry, you should get a degree in a field such as computer science or computer engineering. In some fields, such as construction, it might be enough to earn a two year degree in construction management or to earn several years of experience in construction. In most cases, it is best to take courses in employee management and to learn basic back office programs, such as Microsoft Office®.
If you want to become an assistant program manager, it is important that you go through some formal education, this way you can learn to interact in a professional environment. Also, many employers see completion of a college degree as a sign of an individual's ambition and intelligence. Assistant program managers assist program managers in tasks such as overseeing procedural change, cost analysis, and employee management, so if you want to become an assistant program manager, it is essential that you go through training that can prepare you for these responsibilities. Aside from career paths such as construction or information technology, most people who become assistant program managers have degrees in business or management, though some do benefit from liberal arts degrees, specifically those in the social sciences.
Chances are that you can learn to use Microsoft Office® in your college program. If you do not have this opportunity, or if you feel that you can benefit from some further training, one option is to train yourself by accessing an online tutorial. Many community centers offer free or affordable training for individuals who want to develop computer skills. Colleges also might offer adult education courses for low costs where individuals can develop greater computer skills.
Since a person who wants to become an assistant program manager needs to be prepared to oversee important operations and a number of employees, he or she needs to have some experience in a particular field. For this reason, it is a great idea to begin at an entry level position prior to applying for an assistant program manager position. If you are interested in working in the insurance industry, for example, you can apply for a position as a claims processor while you are still in college. Once you graduate, you already will have the industry specific experience that can help to bring you closer to an assistant program manager position.