What is the difference between a project manager and a programme manager?

What is the difference between a project manager and a programme manager involves their focus and responsibilities. A project manager oversees individual projects, handling resources, risks, and communication. In contrast, a programme manager manages a collection of interconnected projects (a programme) aimed at strategic goals, often lasting for a long duration or indefinitely.

Last edited on: 16 Dec 2025


Project management career FAQs

Am I qualified to be a project manager?
Am I too old to be a project manager?
Are IT project managers in demand?
Are programme managers and project managers the same?
Are project managers in demand?
Are project managers in demand in the UK?
Are project managers well paid?
Can a non-IT person become a project manager?
Can a Scrum Master be a PM?
Can anyone be trained to be a project manager?
Can I do project management with no experience?
Can PMO become a project manager?
Can you be a project manager without qualifications?
Can you become a project manager online?
Can you start as a project manager with no experience?
Do you need a PM in Agile?
Does IT project manager require coding?
How can I be an IT project manager?
How do I become a certified project manager in the UK?
How do I become a project manager with no experience?
How do I become a project manager with no qualifications?
How do I qualify as a project manager?
How fast can you become a project manager?
How hard is it to become a PM?
How long does it take to become a PM?
How much money do project managers earn?
How to become a chartered project manager?
How to become a project manager?
How to become a project manager in the UK with no experience?
How to become an IT manager in the UK?
How to start as a project manager?
Is 40 too old to become a project manager?
Is a PM a Scrum Master?
Is a program manager a project manager?
Is a program manager higher than a project manager?
Is a Scrum Master just a project manager?
Is PMO better than project manager?
Is PMO more senior than project manager?
Is project management in demand in UK?
Is project manager a stressful job?
Is there a PM in Agile?
Is there a shortage of project managers UK?
Should I become a Scrum Master or project manager?
What are the qualifications of a project manager?
What credentials do I need to be a project manager?
What degree do you need to be a project manager?
What do you need to be a project manager in the UK?
What does a program manager do that project managers don't do?
What is entry-level project management?
What is PM in Agile?
What is the difference between a PMO and a project manager?
What is the difference between a project manager and a change manager?
What is the difference between a project manager and a programme manager?
What is the difference between program and project manager?
What is the difference between project and programme management?
What is the highest level of project management?
What is the job description of a project manager?
What makes a project manager successful?
What makes a strong project manager?
What qualifications do I need to be a project manager?
What qualifications do you need to become a PM?
What training is required to be a Project Manager?
Which certificate is best for a project manager?
Which certification is good for a project manager?

Project Management related articles

Project management CV
Project management CV
image
Write a project management CV that helps you stand out from the crowd. This guide will show you how to present your skills and achievements. Keep reading to give your job application a boost.
Book review: Applied Software Project Management
Book review: Applied Software Project Management
image
Explore the practical applications of software project management in 'Applied Software Project Management'. Read our review for insights.
An introduction to PRINCE2 Agile - webinar with Andrew Kell
An introduction to PRINCE2 Agile – webinar with Andrew Kell
image
Join Andrew Kell in a webinar exploring the integration of PRINCE2 and Agile methodologies. Ideal for professionals looking to adapt their project management approach.
Practical Project Management by Emanuela Giangregorio
Practical Project Management by Emanuela Giangregorio
image
Dive into 'Practical Project Management' for an easy-to-understand introduction to the field. Ideal for newcomers looking to get up to speed.
Project management glossary
Project management glossary
image
Discover essential project management terminology in our glossary. Gain clarity on crucial concepts and boost your project management skills as you explore our detailed guide.
Managing small projects
Managing small projects
image
Can large project management practices be scaled down? Explore the application of these practices in smaller projects by reading further.
Project management principles
Project management principles
image
Unlock the power of project management principles! Discover key insights to become a successful project leader and deliver on time and on budget.
Project management degree courses in the UK
Project management degree courses in the UK
image
Looking to further your career with a project management degree from a UK university? Our guide will walk you through the best project management degree courses available and help you find the perfect course to help you take your career to the next level.
Project management podcasts
Project management podcasts
image
Selecting the right podcasts in project management can be a great way to gain advice and insight. Our list of the best project management podcasts will bring you some of the best views from the experts in the field.
Social media on projects
Social media on projects
image
Uncover how social media can enhance project management and professional growth. Discover the platforms and techniques that can aid your career.
ai-in-project-management-hype-vs-reality-in-2025
AI in Project Management: Hype vs Reality in 2025
image
Scroll down to watch the video and explore how AI can enhance your project management skills today.
Diversity and inclusion in project teams
Diversity and inclusion in project teams
image
Consider the impact of diversity and inclusion in your project teams. Learn how to harness these aspects for better decision-making. Read on for professional insights.