MBA Project
Management Online

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
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Those new to online education or graduate degrees might not know what to expect from an MBA project management online. Current business professionals looking to learn effective leadership, strategy, and management skills often pursue this degree, though schools sometimes offer several options. 

Common Specializations for an MBA Project Management Online

MBA in project management students sometimes have specific career goals in mind and choose a concentration that aligns with their goals. Two popular project management MBA specializations include project leadership and operations management. 

MPM Vs. MBA in Project Management: Understanding the Differences

Just because a business professional is interested in project management doesn’t mean an MBA is the best option. Depending on each students’ individual goals, a master’s in project management could be a better graduate-level option than an MBA in project management. Below are some factors for each option and how they align with different student goals. 

Online MBA in Project Management Admission Requirements

Graduate programs, including online MBA in project management programs, want to make sure that candidates meet minimum levels of qualification so they can succeed in the degree. Some common online MBA in project management requirements include:

• Work Experience: Most MBA programs are designed to help current business professionals advance their careers. An online MBA in project management may require 1-2 years of relevant work experience.
• Undergraduate Degree: All online MBA programs require applicants to first earn an undergraduate degree. While not always required, schools usually prefer applicants with bachelor’s degrees in business. 
• GMAT/GRE Scores: Many colleges and universities require GMAT and/or GRE scores. The GMAT measures MAB readiness and the GRE measures general graduate degree readiness. Specific requirements vary by institution. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Graduate schools want to enroll high-caliber students. To learn more about applicants, schools require several letters of recommendation from current/previous employers and professors. 
• GPA: Even when not required, a strong GPA strengthens applications and increases the chances of earning a scholarship. In some instances, a high GPA could remove GMAT/GRE requirements. 

Curriculum for an Online Master of MBA in Project Management Program

An MBA in project management combines general business principles with courses focused on different project management skills, theories, and topics. While specific course names and materials vary by school, many colleges and universities require courses similar to these. 

• Leadership: A lower-level course that covers broad business topics, leadership focuses on the application of leadership techniques as a manager within a business. Students learn different leadership skills, including communication and managerial styles, to learn how to best lead within an organization. This course prepares students for their future careers as workplace leaders. 
• Project Tools and Techniques: A course specific to project management, project tools and techniques introduces the different ways to plan and implement projects to meet overall goals. Students learn about different tools and techniques, then learn how to apply tools and techniques at different stages of the project. This course serves as a foundation for future project management courses. 
• Project Management: An overview of the entire field, project management looks at different processes, concepts, and practices. This course covers the life cycle of a project, including planning, executing, and closing. 
• Operations Management: Usually required or offered as an elective course, operations management lets students explore the production and delivery of items. Great for those interested in careers in supply chain management, operations management teaches students to design, operate, and improve supply chains through supply chain management software, decision trees, and lean management principles. 
• Quantitative Analysis for Decision Making: A math-heavy course required later in the MBA, quantitative analysis and decision making combines statistics and mathematics to determine the probability of various outcomes. Students learn to use quantitative analysis to make better project management decisions, then explain their reasoning to others. 

Skills Gained in an Online MBA in Project Management Program

Aside from earning a graduate degree, students enroll in online MBA in project management programs to learn sought-after skills. Students learn these skills through instruction, coursework, and sometimes internships. 

• Project Management: A skill all on its own, students master project management during their MBA. Because project managers work in a variety of fields, the project management skills learned should apply to any project management positions. 
• Communication: After finishing their MBA, graduates end up in management roles where they oversee employees and work with other managers. Students learn to communicate with workers at every level of the organization to maintain a smooth business flow. 
• Leadership: Project managers serve as the head of a project, meaning they must possess excellent leadership skills. Through group projects, course theories, and previous experience, MBA programs help students develop their leadership skills. 
• Decision Making: Projects rarely go exactly as planned, and project managers must make quick decisions. Through quantitative analysis and individual projects, students learn to make smart, effective decisions on short notice. 
• Business Ethics: From remaining compliant with regulations to maintaining a healthy company culture, ethics plays a large role in business operations. Project management students learn to practice effectively while remaining ethical. 

By studying online, MBA in project management students could secure a lower tuition rate than on-campus students. However, learners still need a way to cover the rest of their degree costs. Fortunately, MBA students have several ways to help pay for their degrees. 

Techniques for Paying for Your Online MBA

Scholarships for Online Master’s in Project Management Students

Aside from the methods mentioned before, online MBA in project management students take advantage of scholarships to help cover some, or all, of their academics costs. Some potential scholarships include:

• PMI Academic Scholarships Who Can Apply: The PMI Educational Foundation awards various academic scholarships. Award sizes and requirements vary, though students should be pursuing a degree related to project management. Amount: $1,000-$7,500
• PMI Professional Development Scholarships Who Can Apply: Another array of scholarships offered by the PMI, the professional development scholarships help those planning on becoming project managers pay for their education. Winners are selected based on financial need and background.Amount: Up to full tuition
• APTF Public Transportation Scholarships Who Can Apply: The American Public Transportation Foundation offers multiple scholarships to students interested in a career in public transportation. Some awards only applicants pursuing graduate-level management degrees.  Amount: Varies
• Ray Piper Global Project Management Education Scholarship Who Can Apply: Available to anyone studying or planning on studying project management, the Ray Piper Global Project Management Education Scholarships can be used at any college or university in the world. Amount: $1,000
• Kosciuszko Foundation Tuition Scholarships Who Can Apply: With various scholarships available, the Kosciuszko Foundation awards scholarships to students of Polish descent who pursue a graduate degree, including an MBA. Students must be studying full-time. Amount: $1,000-$7,000

Project managers work in an array of industries, and job titles can vary. Most project managers end up working for a large business or corporation, managing multiple clients projects at a time. Some potential industries of employment include construction, healthcare, marketing, hospitality, and entertainment. 

Note that no amount of education guarantees any specific position, salary, or a career at all. While job titles and responsibilities vary, many online MBA in project management graduates end up in positions like these. 

Students interested in project management benefit from joining professional organizations. These professional organizations offer networking opportunities, workshops, industry resources, and job boards, making them great resources for online MBA in project management students and new professionals. 

• American Business Women’s Association: Founded in the aftermath of WWII, the American Business Women’s Association works to connect women in business to foster personal growth, continued education, and professional recognition. 
• American Management Association: Great for new management professionals, the American Management Association teaches professionals new skills to navigate the evolving field of management. Member benefits include a free seminar, industry research, and various discounts. 
• Business Professionals of America: Business Professionals of America has over 45,000 members, many of whom are current students pursuing a business degree. Members can learn new skills and connect with other MBA in project management students. 
• International Project Management Association: With locations in every major area around the globe, IPMA consists of over 70 smaller organizations. Students can use this resource to learn more about scholarships, locations, and professional development. 
• Project Management Institute: The leading organization for project managers, the Project Management Institute offers both students and professional memberships. PMI also awards leading industry certifications.