A degree in project management increases both your earning and hiring potential. This discipline prepares students to apply advanced communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills to achieve business objectives. If you’re wondering how to reach your project management career goals, you can start by finding the best schools for project management.
Besides detailing the best project management schools, this article explores ideal career paths and salary outlooks for project management graduates. It also outlines the key factors to review when deciding the best project management colleges for you. While reading, you’ll also discover ideal ways students enrolled in the best project management universities fund their education.
Best Project Management College and University Rankings: Top 10 Project Management Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | AZ | In-person, online | 117 |
| Boston University | MA | In-person, online and hybrid | 42 |
| Drexel University | PA | In-person, online | 103 |
| Georgetown University | DC | In-person, online and hybrid | 23 |
| Liberty University | VA | In-person, online | 299-391 |
| Northeastern University | MA | In-person, online, and hybrid | 49 |
| Northwestern University | IL | In-person | 9 |
| Purdue University | IN | Online | 49 |
| Regis University | CO | In-person, online | 227 |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | NJ | In-person, online | 83 |
Project Management School Rankings: Best Project Management Colleges and Universities
The best project management colleges and universities are accredited by the Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC). The list below explores the unique offerings of each school, including the curriculum and the graduation requirements for the various project management programs.
Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Project Management: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
The best schools for project management will offer different types of college degrees and university programs, such as an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a certificate, or a master’s degree. While most schools rarely have a doctoral degree program for project management, universities that do will offer a Doctor of Business Administration degree. The list below summarizes what a typical project management program entails.
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Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Project Management Schools: Other Project Management University Rankings
Project management university rankings outline the best schools offering specific degrees in project management, given the rarity of project management programs. All the project management schools listed are accredited and licensed to offer project management programs by the globally-acclaimed Project Management Institute.
Best Online Project Management Schools
- Charleston Southern University. Charleston Southern University is a private Christian college in South Carolina and an ideal place to pursue an online program and degree in project management. It offers an online bachelor’s degree and Master’s Degree in Project Management.
- City University of Seattle. The City University of Seattle is an affiliate institution of the National University System, alongside Northcentral University. This school is in Seattle, Washington. It offers a GAC-accredited Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management, a graduate certificate in project management, and a Master’s Degree in Project Management online.
- Walden University. Walden University is an online, private institution in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It offers online degrees and certificates in project management. If you’re interested in specializing in project management as a researcher or business leader, a doctorate with a specialization in project management and a graduate certificate in applied project management can help you achieve this.
Best Community Colleges for Project Management
- Clackamas Community College. The Associate of Applied Science degree offered by Clackamas Community College is a two-year program that requires the completion of 90 to 92 credit hours of study. At the end of your program, you should have a fundamental knowledge of project management and be able to use advanced project management tools and industry software.
- Columbia Basin College. The Associate of Applied Science in Project Management from Columbia Basin College is a 90-credit program that covers courses in project planning, execution, and control, project procurement, risk management, and quality management. You can complete your curriculum over a two-year period and may include project management internships for credit.
- Ensign College. Ensign College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Business with an emphasis in project management. This degree is acquired through an experience-focused program that leads to a solid foundation of project management processes, tools, techniques, and methods. This 61-credit program includes preparation to become a certified associate in project management professional.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Project Management
- City University of Seattle. The Bachelor of Science in Project Management requires the completion of 180 credit hours in a business-focused curriculum in an online format. This GAC-accredited program also has an information technology emphasis. Within four years, you’ll tackle content in information systems, information security, systems design and analysis, IT service management, data management communication, and networking.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Certified project management professionals from the Project Management Institute developed this 120-credit bachelor’s program in project management. This degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University helps you learn to apply project management tools and techniques as well as analyze project management metrics for control. This program teaches students how to use the Project Management Information Systems (PMIS) software.
- Northeastern University. The online Bachelor of Science in Project Management prepares you to lead a team, communicate effectively across an organization, reduce risks, increase quality, implement an Agile approach, and facilitate innovation. Enrolled students in this online degree are required to complete a minimum of 120 credits over a four-year period in courses such as communication studies, economics, and information technology.
Best Graduate Schools for Project Management
- Liberty University. Liberty University offers both a 45-credit master’s degree and a 60-credit doctoral degree program in project management. These degrees are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Enrollment in these programs prepares for employment with companies like Apple, KPMG, Google, PwC, Deloitte, and Ernst & Young. You’ll learn advanced project management tools and methods.
- Northcentral University. Northcentral University offers students interested in building specialized knowledge of business project management the opportunity to specialize in project management through master’s and doctoral degree programs in business and information technology.
- Walden University. Walden University offers both master’s and doctoral degree specialization programs in project management. Both programs have been accredited by the ACBSP. The master’s degree program includes 30 credits and a capstone project. The doctoral degree program includes up to 121 credits. Students have up to eight years to complete this program.
Best Project Management Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- George Washington University | Dual Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in the Field of Project Management. George Washington University allows you to share 21 credits between both programs. You’ll be earning a project management specialization degree and an MBA from its business school by the end of the program. Your admission into this program is based on your academic achievement including GRE and GMAT scores, work experience, recommendations, interviews, and essays.
- Indiana Wesleyan University | MBA Project Management and MS Management – Information Technology. This program requires the completion of 20 courses online over a 28-month period. The curriculum prepares you to take on leadership roles in management and information technology, including positions as information technology manager, project portfolio manager, supply chain manager, and project management consultant.
- University of Connecticut | MBA/MS in Business Analytics and Project Management. The joint program in business analytics and project management from the University of Connecticut can be completed through full-time or part-time study on campus. The curriculum comprises 79 credits, 42 of which apply to the MBA degree, and 37 apply to the MS degree.
Best Schools With Accelerated Project Management Programs
- George Washington University | Bachelor’s/Master of Science in Project Management. The accelerated bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Project Management can be completed in five years through the 4+1 program at George Washington University. You can apply for this program at any time. Once you’re accepted, you can apply for both program courses with the permission of your program manager.
- Saint Louis University | Project Management, Bachelor’s to MS Accelerated Program. The accelerated project management program is offered through the School of Professional Studies at Saint Louis University. This online program was designed for working professionals interested in obtaining their degrees simultaneously. You’ll be allowed to transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits from your undergraduate degree program.
- University of Houston | Accelerated BS/MS Degree Program in Human Resources Development/Technology Project Management. The University of Houston allows outstanding undergraduate students to transfer six hours of credits to their graduate degree. To qualify for this program, you should be enrolled in the Human Resources Development undergraduate degree program.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Project Management Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for project management is worth it. Graduate schools prepare students to take on leadership roles across business industries. Project management graduate school doesn’t simply teach you Agile best practices. It also prepares you to lead innovations in the development of these technologies.
Students in a graduate-level project management program learn how to source for and manage complex business portfolios in such a way that helps organizations cut costs and maximize returns on investments. They study diverse disciplines, including engineering, technology, and finance, which enables them access to higher-income jobs and more career opportunities.
What Jobs Can You Do With a Project Management Degree?
The jobs you can do with a project management degree include project manager, project portfolio manager, business consultant, supply chain manager, IT manager, and business analyst. Most project management schools provide opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through collaborations with industry leaders.
These internships and cooperative program experiences offered by project management schools make it easy for students to transition into these roles after graduation. Some students even secure full-time employment through these external programs.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Project Management?
With a degree in project management, you can earn a good income. According to PayScale, you can make an average annual salary of $65,000 with an associate degree in project management. Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Project Management can earn an average wage of $75,000 per year. With a Master’s Degree in Project Management, you could earn $85,000 yearly. The average annual salary for a doctoral degree holder in project management is $90,000 per year.
You should know that the average median salary for each degree is not fixed for each state. Depending on your geographical location, technical and soft skills, industry experience, and professional affiliations, you could earn considerably above or below the salary average for your degree level.
Highest-Paying Project Management Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $159,010 |
| Marketing Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $133,380 |
| Financial Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $131,710 |
| Compensation and Benefits Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $127,530 |
| Sales Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $127,490 |
| Training and Development Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $120,130 |
| Public Relations Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $119,860 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $101,340 |
| Construction Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $98,890 |
| Management Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $93,000 |
Best Jobs With a Project Management Degree
The best jobs with a project management degree are jobs in information technology, business management, and risk management that allow you to apply your skills to roles across various industries. These jobs often require knowledge of several diverse disciplines, so you would need advanced education or professional training. Below are some of the career paths you can pursue with a degree in project management.
How Can I Pay for Project Management School?
You can pay for project management school through internal sponsorship or external sponsorship. The internal sponsorship includes your personal funds and support from family members. External sources include employer sponsorships, loans, government grants, and scholarships. Below you will find different ways to help you sponsor your education.
- Scholarship. Scholarships are financial awards offered to students who exhibit outstanding academic achievement or students who come from minority groups. Scholarships are an excellent source of college funding. Aside from covering the cost of your education, they often set a standard for industry success.
- Government grant. Several government organizations, universities, and non-profit organizations often make financial aid available to students enrolled in accredited academic programs and career training programs. These grants often come with strict requirements, but the upside to them is that you don’t have to repay the funds. You can apply for a federal grant through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Loan. As a student enrolled in an accredited college or career program, you can apply for tuition support from the federal and state governments. Most schools walk their students through this process. The advantage of a federal loan is that it comes with low and fixed interest rates. You can also apply to popular loan providers like Ascent, Earnest, and Sallie Mae.
- Employer sponsorship. If you can’t afford the college cost and you already work for a company, you could request full or partial sponsorship from your employer. However, this method comes with considerable risk. One of which is that you may have to work off your debt. Also, you may also have to support some aspects of your college education with your personal income.
- Personal funds. Most project management programs have flexible schedules, making them ideal for working individuals. The courses are usually self-paced, meaning the student can extend their degree completion beyond the average number of years. If you took on a job and were enrolled in a part-time program, you could easily cover a good portion of your tuition and fees while still pursuing your studies.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Project Management School for You
To choose the best project management school for you, you have to first consider factors such as the accreditation of the school, the reputation of the program, career programs and services, barriers to entry, specializations, and curriculum content, among others. Below are the top three factors you should consider during your school search.
Accreditation
An ideal project management school should have its program accredited by the PMI or the ACBSP. These are the most acclaimed professional bodies in the project management industry, which means a degree from a PMI or ACBSP-accredited school will help you get the attention of top recruiters in the industry.
Career Programs and Services
A good study program should incorporate internships and cooperative programs for students to build professional hands-on experience with industry leaders. The best project management universities also offer students access to a career center that provides dedicated mentorships.
Some services you should expect from your ideal school include portfolio reviews, interview preparation, resume and cover letter support, mock interviews, and real-world simulations.
Specialization and Curriculum Content
If you want to increase your career opportunities and earning potential, then ensure your ideal program offers a multidisciplinary project management program. Look for schools that offer project management specializations or provide this discipline as a dual program.
A multidisciplinary curriculum gives you the opportunity to build diverse knowledge and skills across fields simultaneously, making you more desirable to potential employers.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Project Management?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for project management. Some schools are typically more academically-advanced than others. These schools often hold international and national recognitions, which you’ll most likely find on their ranking pages. Your ideal school should have state-of-art facilities and resource guides for learning.
The best project management schools have their programs accredited by globally-recognized organizations like PMI and ACBSP. The reputation of your school, combined with your degree grade can boost your industry leverage.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Project Management University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Project Management
We ranked the best Project Management schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our Project Management university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of Project Management degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Project Management
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Best Project Management Schools FAQ
Yes, project management is a good career path for individuals who have adequate communication, analytical, and organizational skills. A project management career provides challenging yet engaging tasks for professionals. This field also makes it easy to build transferable project management skills that you can apply to a wide range of job roles and careers across several industries.
Yes, project management is still in demand. Several organizations rely on the expertise of project managers in planning and executing complex business objectives. Recruiters contract or hire project managers with specialized skills to take up a wide range of tasks in the organization, such as operations optimization, cost minimization, and profit maximization. Moreover, project manager salaries can be quite competitive if you have the right qualifications.
The best degrees for project management are degrees that include interdisciplinary specialization. Typically, most students enroll in programs that combine business, technology, and engineering specializations. They also go for bachelor’s or Master’s Degrees in Project Management, as these degrees enable them to build advanced technical and managerial skills.
Project managers can work as employees or independent contractors. As independent contractors, they bid for contracts and negotiate their compensations. Project managers use various tools to plan, design, and implement strategic projects. They also manage resources such as time, equipment, money, and people to ensure the project outcome meets the specifications of their clients.
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