University of Southern California3
12 Months
12 Months
Project Management is a thriving profession with many high-demand positions. Employment opportunities are available in almost all industry sectors – from health care to construction to Information Technology. Online Master’s in Project Management Degrees offers various courses to help shape potential leaders in the industry, technology, government, and other fields. Students and working professionals can get the training they need through online Master’s in Project Management programs, no matter what area they choose to work in, including public services, engineering, infrastructure, and more. According to a study by the Project Management Institute (PMI), employers will need 87.7 million individuals working in Project Management-oriented roles by 2027[1]. Learn about the Project Management degree, the skills attained, and the career paths this advanced degree will lead to.
The best online Master’s in Project Management Programs are accredited, imparted by well-trained and experienced faculty, and offer great value for money. Needless to say, top colleges should be recognized in the job market, making it easier for graduates to find employment. Since no two schools are the same, students should choose wisely and carefully after considering what they truly want from a Program. For further understanding, kindly refer to our methodology page for additional insights. Here is a list of the best Project Management programs to make that choice easier:
To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website
<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-masters-in-project-management/">Project Management Online</a>
Code copied successfully!
College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
#1 Northeastern University 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, Massachusetts 02115 | $25,264 | 89% |
#2 University of Maryland College Park, Maryland 20742 | $13,158 | 87% |
#3 Colorado State University 585 Salida Way, Aurora, Colorado 80011 | $9,000 | NA |
#4 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052 | $31,770 | 82% |
#5 New York University 70 Washington Sq South, New York, New York 10012 | $34,704 | 85% |
#6 Stevens Institute of Technology Castle Point On Hudson, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 | $37,414 | 85% |
#7 Georgetown University 37th and O St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20057 | $53,136 | 95% |
#8 Golden Gate University, San Francisco 536 Mission Street, San Francisco, California 94105 | $19,620 | NA |
#9 Brandeis University 415 South St, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454 | $51,940 | 87% |
#10 Boston University One Silber Way, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 | $56,854 | 88% |
#11 American University 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20016 | $34,533 | 79% |
#12 The College of Saint Scholastica 1200 Kenwood Ave, Duluth, Minnesota 55811 | $14,182 | 69% |
#13 Western Carolina University Highway 107, Cullowhee, North Carolina 28723 | $4,435 | 62% |
#14 Florida Institute of Technology 150 West University Blvd, Melbourne, Florida 32901 | $16,128 | NA |
#15 Regis University 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80221 | $14,322 | 64% |
#16 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 1 Aerospace Blvd., Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 | $18,228 | 62% |
#17 Missouri State University, Springfield 901 S National Avenue, Springfield, Missouri 65897 | $5,436 | 56% |
#18 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515 | $7,935 | 47% |
#19 University of New Hampshire 25 Hall Street, Concord, New Hampshire 03301 | $9,684 | 19% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
Online Master’s in Project Management programs are rather expensive to opt for. However, with many colleges offering this degree, finding one at a suitable or ‘affordable’ price is not arduous. To make the search easier, OMC has conscientiously compiled a list of colleges, factoring in the quality of teaching, reputation, value, etc. In a nutshell, OMC’s methodology aims to furnish individuals seeking a Master’s in Project Management with a thorough and trustworthy resource, aiding them in making informed educational decisions while remaining mindful of their financial constraints. Here is a list of affordable online Master’s in Project Management programs:
To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website
<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-masters-in-project-management/">Project Management Online</a>
Code copied successfully!
College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
#1 Western Carolina University Highway 107, Cullowhee, North Carolina 28723 | $4,435 | 62% |
#2 Missouri State University, Springfield 901 S National Avenue, Springfield, Missouri 65897 | $5,436 | 56% |
#3 Sam Houston State University 1806 Ave J, Huntsville, Texas 77340 | $5,765 | 54% |
#4 Harrisburg University of Science and Technology 326 Market Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101 | $7,200 | 31% |
#5 University of Wisconsin 1 University Plaza, Platteville, Wisconsin 53818 | $7,640 | 56% |
#6 Avila University 11901 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64145 | $7,798 | 55% |
#7 Charleston Southern University 9200 University Blvd, Charleston, South Carolina 29406 | $7,800 | 41% |
#8 Colorado State University 585 Salida Way, Aurora, Colorado 80011 | $9,000 | NA |
#9 Purdue University-Main Campus Hovde Hall of Administration, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907 | $9,208 | 82% |
#10 University of New Hampshire 25 Hall Street, Concord, New Hampshire 03301 | $9,684 | 19% |
#11 Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota 700 Terrace Heights, Winona, Minnesota 55987 | $10,260 | 64% |
#12 Bellevue University 1000 Galvin Rd S, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005 | $10,710 | 24% |
#13 Lasell University 1844 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton, Massachusetts 02466 | $10,800 | 59% |
#14 University of Maryland University College College Park, Maryland 20742 | $13,158 | 87% |
#15 University of Michigan-Dearborn 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, Michigan 48128 | $13,850 | 56% |
#16 The College of Saint Scholastica 1200 Kenwood Ave, Duluth, Minnesota 55811 | $14,182 | 69% |
#17 Regis University 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80221 | $14,322 | 64% |
#18 The University of Texas, Dallas 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080 | $14,560 | 70% |
#19 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 1 Aerospace Blvd., Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 | $18,228 | 62% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
The chief purpose of an online Master’s in Project Management program is for a student to gain a comprehensive understanding of the concepts, expertise, and practical applications involved in successfully completing any project. It also develops a student’s writing, analytical, research, and managerial skills. A good and efficient Project Leader or Manager should handle all aspects of a project from start to finish, including aspects such as procurement, tendering, budgeting, marketing, cost analysis and management, time and people management, problem-solving, reporting, and data analysis. In short, graduates of a Project Management degree will need to know and oversee different kinds of projects from conception to completion.
The best online Master’s in Project Management courses lay the foundation for electives and specializations. In some instances, a Capstone Course is the final learning experience through which one can investigate a practical issue in the chosen field of research. Across degree types, core subjects in an online Master’s in Project Management are similar but may vary by college and program. Generally, these core subjects include:
Students have a choice of a wide array of Electives, which include:
Apart from Core Courses and Electives, a Master’s in Project Management also extends by concentrations, such as:
Upon graduation, students of any Master’s in Project Management program will:
Online Master’s in Project Management are by and large available in three forms: MS (Master of Science), MBA (Master of Business Administration), and MA (Master of Arts). Although they are all similar in many ways, some differences set them apart.
A Master of Science or MS Project Management teaches students how to solve problems and complete projects. This program is more targeted than an MBA. It is, therefore, a preferred choice for students who already have a business background (academically) and want to focus more deeply on the specific area of Projects. Additionally, an MS in Project Management is more technical at its core and builds upon skills that go well beyond business administration.
A Master’s in Business Administration or MBA in Project Management emphasizes the business administration side of things, including administrative processes, risk management, managerial marketing, and organizational leadership. The program is structured to help students apply business principles and skills through an analytical decision-making process focusing on solving real-world problems. Students will prepare themselves for functional management in particular, focusing on recognizing and developing the best approach for completing tasks efficiently while being more productive and maintaining profitability.
A Master’s in Project Management or MPM degree focuses on core functions of project management, such as how to implement and execute a strategy, assess, communicate, budget, and generally manage a project from concept to completion. The program prepares students to take on complex projects, develop and deploy their problem-solving skills, and help in ethical decision-making. The curriculum of MPM is designed to teach students how to train, lead, manage, and direct teams and projects and is far more specific in its approach than a broader MBA degree.
Specializations, in addition to an online Master’s in Project Management, are almost certain to widen employment opportunities, elicit higher pay, and drive career growth. Any specialization will add value to the Master’s Degree and is a great way to fulfill personal interests and professional goals. Here are a few popular specializations available from a wide range of options:
Area of Focus | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
---|---|---|
Transport Management | This specialization focuses on the unique challenges of overseeing transportation-related projects. It delves into logistics, supply chain optimization, regulatory compliance, and sustainable transport solutions. Graduates are equipped to efficiently manage transportation projects efficiently, ensuring the seamless movement of goods and people while addressing environmental and regulatory concerns, making them indispensable in the field of transport management. | Transport Project Manager, Logistics Coordinator, Supply Chain Analyst |
Construction Management | This specialization hones expertise in overseeing construction projects efficiently and effectively. It covers project planning, site management, cost control, safety compliance, and stakeholder communication. Graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of construction projects, ensuring timely and on-budget completion while maintaining quality standards, making them indispensable professionals in the construction industry. | Construction Project Manager, Site Supervisor, Cost Estimator |
Real Estate Development | This specialization focuses on the intricacies of property development projects. It encompasses areas such as market analysis, financial modeling, zoning regulations, and project financing. Graduates emerge equipped to navigate the complex world of real estate development, from identifying lucrative opportunities to overseeing projects to successful completion, making them valuable assets in the real estate industry. | Real Estate Developer, Property Manager, Project Financier |
Information Technology | This specialization is tailored to the dynamic IT sector. It covers topics like software development, cybersecurity, IT infrastructure management, and project risk assessment. Graduates are adept at efficiently managing IT projects, ensuring technological innovations are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with security standards, making them essential professionals in the fast-evolving IT landscape. | IT Project Manager, Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst |
Typical Timeline: 1-2 years
Credits to Completion: 30-40
Many schools offer part-time online Master’s in Project Management programs to accommodate working professionals, taking up to two years to complete. Full-time programs are best for non-working students because they can finish the course anywhere between 9 and 12 months. For those schools that follow the credits system, 30 to 40 credits are expected to be completed between 18 and 24 months, extendable to a maximum of 36 months.
While most online Project Management Programs take between 18 and 24 months to complete, some programs require only about nine months to do so, provided they are taken full-time. A 1 year Project Management degree is excellent for students who wish to complete two or more courses quickly. Here are some examples of universities offering a 1-year online master’s in project management:
University of Southern California3
12 Months
12 Months
An MBA (Master of Business Administration in Project Management) is a comprehensive business-focused degree covering various management aspects, including finance, marketing, and strategy. A Master’s in Project Management, on the other hand, is specialized, concentrating solely on project planning, execution, and leadership. While an MBA provides a broader skill set suitable for various managerial roles, a Master’s in Project Management hones specific skills needed for successful project initiation, execution, and closure, making it ideal for those seeking specialized careers in project management.
Like most other Master’s Programs, online Master’s in Project Management programs have comparable admission requirements. Apart from the completed application form with an application fee, students must submit their Academic Transcripts and references, a Résumé or Statement of Purpose, and perhaps even an Essay or Personal Statement. Applicants must typically have a bachelor’s degree and should have maintained a Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher. Some colleges may call for a GMAT or GRE score, especially if the candidate’s Grade Point Average is inadequate. Here is a ready reckoner for admission requirements to a Master’s in Project Management Program:
Note: It is not uncommon for colleges to demand work experience (in a relevant field of business) of at least three years or more.
Only a handful of Programs require the submission of standardized GMAT or GRE test scores when applying for an Online Master’s in Project Management. Applicants with a good GPA and substantial and relevant work experience in Business Administration or a related field are not required to take these tests or submit these scores. In certain cases where the program demands a GMAT or GRE score, the college tends to have a waiver option, which one must ask for. Here are some universities offering No GMAT project management master’s programs:
In addition to endorsing the depth of one’s knowledge of Project Management, accredited online Master’s in Project Management Programs guarantee authenticity and recognition to the degree by the industry. Students should always opt for accredited Programs over unaccredited ones to add credence and value to the degree. In the case of online Master’s in Project Management Programs, many colleges have their courses accredited by agencies such as Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC)8, Higher Learning Commission (HLC)9, and Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)10.
Know why accredited programs are preferred when applying for an Online Master’s in Project Management Degree.
A quick search on the internet will easily yield a result of a free online Master’s Degree in Project Management, albeit with certain caveats. These claimed free courses are not entire Master’s Degrees; their certificates tend to be considered participation certificates rather than actual accredited degrees. However, signing up for free online courses is a good way to broaden one’s awareness and insight into specialized topics in Project Management. Here are a few to explore:
Course | Description | Provided by |
---|---|---|
Introduction to Project Management11 | This course is designed for individuals who need to manage projects without formal training. It suits those preparing for a project and wanting to acquire essential project management knowledge. The course covers project identification, goal setting, planning, scheduling, budgeting, and people management. Effective communication, leadership, and project management skills are emphasized. Whether the project is large or small, this course offers practical project management techniques to benefit future endeavors. | edX |
Project Management in Practice – Planning, Scheduling, and Resource Management12 | This free course covers planning, scheduling, and resource management. It explores project management principles and practices while emphasizing highly effective resource allocation methods for technical projects. The course includes a study of project planning, scheduling, risk management, costs, budgets, and resource allocation, all aimed at successfully achieving the project. | Alison |
Project Management: The Basics for Success13 | This free course integrates crucial Project Management and Team Leadership aspects into a single program. Individuals will gain deeper insights into leadership roles by actively participating in the course and engaging in reflective practices. This enhanced understanding will equip participants to apply their leadership knowledge within a project-based context effectively. | Class Central |
Rising tuition fees are always an obstacle for students. Online Master’s in Project Management programs are especially expensive to enroll in and require students to explore various funding options. Here are some means to alleviate the cost of advanced education:
The most popular form of college funding is Scholarships. A scholarship is available for almost every Master’s Degree, and an online Master’s in Project Management is no exception. Scholarships can save students hundreds and thousands of dollars, so locating one that is seemly is always advisable. The few Scholarships listed below are only from the many available across the country:
The PMI Educational Foundation offers scholarships to support students pursuing degrees in project management or related fields. These scholarships aim to empower the next generation of project management professionals by providing financial assistance to students dedicated to excellence in the field. Applicants can access various scholarship opportunities to aid their educational journey in project management.
Award Amount: $5000
Application Deadline: TBA for 2024
The Dr. Harold Kerzner Scholarships are prestigious awards for supporting students pursuing project management education. These scholarships, named after the renowned project management expert Dr. Harold Kerzner, provide financial assistance to outstanding individuals seeking to advance their knowledge and careers in this field, fostering excellence in project management education.
Award Amount: $7500
Application Deadline: TBA for 2024
The Matthew H. Parry Memorial Scholarship is a tribute to the memory of Matthew H. Parry and his dedication to project management. This scholarship aims to assist promising students pursuing project management degrees and honor the numerous contributions made by Mr. Parry to PMI and the project management profession by providing financial support for their education and fostering the growth of future project management professionals.
Award Amount: $2000
Application Deadline: TBA for 2024
(Note: To prevent being defrauded online, read about Scholarship Scams.)
Typically, colleges offering online Master’s in Project Management programs provide flexible payment options for tuition fees, allowing students to pay in equalized, incremental, or deferred installments. This financial flexibility helps students manage their educational expenses more effectively while pursuing their degree.
Grants are financial awards governments, institutions, or organizations provide to support various projects, initiatives, or educational pursuits. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, making them valuable resources for students, researchers, non-profits, and businesses.
Working professionals, especially those already handling some business functions in a large company, may have access to sponsorships for advanced education. Employers usually prefer internal career advancement, especially when an upcoming project requires a new manager.
All these options and more are better explained in the best financial guide.
Compared to graduates of most other Master’s Programs, students who have completed their online Master’s in Project Management are better placed to find good jobs and carve high-potential careers for themselves. Almost all sectors need Project Managers in some form or another who can plan, strategize, and guide businesses through major transitions, growth, and upgrades in process and technology. There is a long list of careers one could choose from, but here are a few Sectors that show an increasing demand for Project Management Professionals:
Project Management Professionals commonly carry Job Titles such as – Administrator, Consultant, Director, Program Lead, Program Manager, Project Manager, and Project Scheduler, among others.
As for remuneration, Project Managers are paid a fair bit more than most managerial roles. Pay ranges from an annual median of $61,330 that a Community Service Manager would earn17to an annual median of $146,244 an Architectural Project Manager would earn18.
Occupation | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Skills Required |
---|---|---|---|---|
Project Management Specialists19 | Project Management Specialists oversee various aspects of project planning, execution, and completion. They create project schedules, set goals, allocate resources, and monitor progress. Specialists collaborate with teams, address issues, and ensure projects meet objectives, budgets, and timelines. | $95,370 | 6% (as fast as average) | Communication skills, Leadership skills, Problem-solving, and resource allocation |
Project Controls Manager20 | They institute guidelines and operational strategies to detect, track, and alleviate potential risks that might affect project outcomes. Standardizes approaches to project estimation, procurement, financial management, work breakdown structure, contract administration, reporting, and related processes. These measures encompass cost management, scope modifications, vendor evaluations, and risk thresholds. | $150,732 | No Data Available | Leadership skills, Communication skills, Problem-solving, Decision Making, and Analytical Thinking |
Project Accounting Manager21 | Project Accounting Manager manages the establishment and upkeep of project-specific accounts. Ensures timely completion of all financial transactions, allocations, accruals, and disbursements about the project. Examines project status reports each month before project assessments. Assists project leaders in handling alterations in project scope or schedules and addresses any financial concerns potentially affecting project timelines. Monitors and assesses aggregated financial outcomes for all projects. | $128,682 | No Data Available | Financial expertise, Analytical skills, Communication skills, and Team Management |
Certifications are a novel and viable way of giving a Project Management Degree a leg up. They convey the specific nature of the candidate’s expertise, skill, and knowledge to the employer, making it potentially easy to land a niche job within the larger Project Management sector. Licenses to practice Project Management are generally not required, although some sensitive government projects may demand one. Here are a few Certifications of heft and repute:
This globally recognized certification remains valid for a lifetime, eliminating the need for costly and time-intensive recertification. Designed to be accessible worldwide, the certification is entirely online, allowing individuals to prepare at their own pace. It verifies proficiency in both the technical and interpersonal aspects of project management, showcasing the ability to manage projects not only from a technical standpoint but also with strong interpersonal skills.
Project Management Professional23
The PMP certification recognizes individuals adept at overseeing the people, processes, and business priorities of professional projects. Developed by PMI, the global authority on project management, PMP acknowledges project managers who demonstrate leadership experience and expertise in various approaches to project execution.
6Sigma.us offers global business classes, extending training and certification opportunities beyond traditional work settings. Obtaining certifications like Six Sigma Yellow Belt, Six Sigma Green Belt, Six Sigma Black Belt, Six Sigma White Belt, or Six Sigma Master Black Belt significantly boosts qualifications, making a standout candidate during crucial job interviews. Employers recognize 6Sigma.us training and certification as valuable assets for potential job positions within the company.
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)25
The CAPM® demonstrates possession of foundational knowledge and skills sought by project teams. It signifies readiness to undertake various projects, employing predictive project management, agile principles, and business analysis. Earning CAPM equips individuals with everything needed to initiate a career in project management.
Be it students or working professionals, one cannot ignore the importance of learning from outside the book and expanding the scope and scale of one’s knowledge. In particular, students of online Master’s in Project Management should connect with Project Managers – both novices and veterans – and learn how to solve complex problems, face difficult situations, plan better, strategize efficiently, and do much more than what books teach. The few resources below are excellent options to get started:
A Master’s in Project Management is an 18 to 24-month postgraduate degree that equips students with technical and professional project management, leadership, and business planning skills required to handle projects and diverse teams while assisting the company in meeting its strategic objectives.
University of Southern California
Southern New Hampshire University
University of Wisconsin, Platteville
Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
edX Introduction to Project Management
Alison- Project Management in Practice – Planning, Scheduling, and Resource Management
Class Central- Project Management: The Basics for Success
PMI Educational Foundation Scholarships
Dr. Harold Kerzner Scholarships
Matthew H. Parry Memorial Scholarship
Salary.com – Community Service Manager
Salary.com- Architectural Project Manager
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Project Management Specialists
Salary.com- Project Controls Manager
Salary.com- Project Accounting Manager
Project Management Professional
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
Association for Project Managers
International Association of Project Managers