Project management is the application of expert knowledge, resources, skills, and methodologies to meet a set of objectives within a given time frame. The project management field is fast-growing, and you can earn a degree by choosing one of the best online project management associate degrees to begin your project management career.
This article provides insight into schools and programs to get an online Associate Degree in Project Management. It also includes project management associate degree jobs, with their salaries and job outlook.
Where Can I Get a Project Management Associate Degree Online?
Some of the best schools to get a project management associate degree online include Clackamas Community College, Ensign College, Saint Paul College, and Davis College.
What Schools Offer the Best Project Management Associate Degrees?
- Clackamas Community College
- Ensign College
- Saint Paul College
- Davis College
- Salish Kootenai College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Project Management Associate Degree?
The admission requirements for an online project management associate degree are a high school diploma, GED, or an educational equivalent. Depending on the institution you apply to, some may require a minimum high school GPA of 2.0, official transcripts from a postsecondary institution or high school, and a completed application.
Preliminary courses can also help prospective students boost their applications. Students will have an easier time getting accepted into an applied degree program if they have taken math, science, and computer science classes in high school before enrolling in an online associate degree program.
Online Project Management Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma
- GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- Official school transcripts
- Preliminary courses
How to Get a Project Management Associate Degree Online
The best way to get a project management associate degree online is by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. An online degree may require between 60 and 90 credits to be completed. The credit hours will consist of major courses, some support courses, and several elective credit courses. Students will also need to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0.
The requirements vary by school, but the average is between 60 and 65 semester hours. By enrolling part-time and attending online courses for 5-6 semesters or longer, online students may be able to reduce their learning time. Listed below is a list of requirements for a project management degree.
Project Management Degree Requirements
- Complete up to 40 credits in major courses
- Complete up to 30 credits in major support courses
- Complete up to 20 credits of general education courses
- Maintain minimum 2.0 GPA
Best Online Project Management Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology | Associate of Science in Data and Project Management | Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools |
| Central New Mexico Community College | Business Administration Associate of Applied Science – Project Management Concentration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Clackamas Community College | Project Management Associate of Applied Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Columbia Basin College | Project Management Associate of Applied Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Davis College | Project Management Associate Degree | Higher Learning Commission |
| Ensign College | Business – Project Management, Associate of Applied Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Forsyth Tech Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Project Management Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Saint Paul College | Project Management Associate of Applied Science Degree | Higher Learning Commission |
| Salish Kootenai College | Grant Projects Management Associate of Arts | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Wake Technical Community College | Business Administration: Project Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Project Management: Top Online Project Management Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for an online project management associate degree in the United States that can give you access to quality programs include Saint Paul College, Columbia Basin College and Ensign College. Below you will find a detailed list of some of the top online project management programs you may select based on curriculum, location, and cost.
What Is an Online Project Management Associate Degree?
An online project management associate degree is a program that prepares students for entry-level project management jobs or the advancement of their studies. The program often takes two years to complete and provides students with a basic understanding of their chosen fields.
This online project management degree can assist students in learning the essentials of project management and the fundamentals of marketing, human resources, and company operations. The online platform allows students to complete this program from anywhere and provides a flexible schedule to fit their everyday life.
Online vs In-Person Project Management Degrees
The main difference between online and in-person Associate Degrees in Project Management is the location. There is no need to be on-campus when you are pursuing an online program. Interactions with students and teachers are done online, along with all classes, seminars, and course projects. An in-person degree would require you to be present on campus, with the majority of your education being structured for in-person learning.
Choosing between an in-person and an online project management degree is a big decision, even though an online Associate Degree in Project Management can be as good as an in-person program. However, it is best to discover which approach better suits your learning style before applying to a course. We’ve created a list of the benefits of both programs below.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Associate Degree in Project Management
- Flexibility. Students enrolled in an online Associate Degree in Project Management program can take online classes without having to visit a college campus. Working students who want to keep their jobs while taking classes will appreciate the program’s flexibility.
- No commuting. An online Associate Degree in Project Management takes less time because you do not have to commute to school. If mobility is a challenge for you, an online class option solves this challenge.
- Affordability. Because the cost of tuition is less than on-campus programs, online institutions may be able to reduce or eliminate many common higher education expenses. Students who study online rarely move to a new place or drive to campus, making college more feasible and cheap.
- Interaction with peers. Discussions in an online class help you interact and understand your courses. You can take your time to ask meaningful questions and respond to other students’ comments in an online discussion forum.
- Better time management. Because online project management associate degree programs have no established classroom times and students can create their calendars, you can reach out to faculty ahead of time and finish assignments on time.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Associate Degree in Project Management
- Availability of faculty. With an in-person project management associate degree, professors are often available because the schedules of on-campus faculty include office hours. So, if you require personal assistance, you can either make an appointment or simply show up if you have any questions.
- Community. When you obtain your project management associate degree in person, you build a community with your classmates and professors. It’s also easier to make peer-to-peer connections in person.
- Consistency. There is a learning structure and schedule for classes with an in-person project management associate degree. Having a set schedule for classes can help you manage your time better.
- Availability of facilities. When you enroll in an in-person Associate Degree in Project Management program, you have access to facilities such as a library to help you with research. Tutoring and homework assistance are also available on campus if you need them.
- More structure. There is a structure in an in-person associate degree because you have someone who guides your learning process. Some students rely on the learning structure to make the best out of their education.
What Types of Online Associate Degrees Can You Get in Project Management?
You can get the following types of online Associate Degrees in Project Management:
- Associate of Science (AS)
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
- Associate of Arts (AA)
- Associate of Applied Business (AAB)
- Associate of Applied Arts (AAA)
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Arts in Project Management?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Project Management if you want to learn about the technical components of this field. Similarly, the Associate of Arts in Project Management is for you if you are interested in business with project management. Both paths allow you to continue your education into a bachelor’s program and access successful career paths.
How Much Does a Project Management Associate Degree Cost?
An online Associate Degree in Project Management has an average cost of $11,391, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The cost will also depend on other factors such as the school, the specific program, and whether it’s a private or public institution.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Project Management Associate Degree Online?
It takes two years to get an online project management associate degree. The program also runs for an average of four semesters, with a typical range of 60-65 credit hours, depending on the institution. Some programs are longer and require 85-90 credit hours.
During your program, you will participate in core classes, electives, and possibly a final project. If you’re in a 60-credit program, you could take 15 credits of classes per semester and graduate in two years. However, an online accelerated Associate Degree in Project Management will take less time, but this will vary from one institution to another.
Are Online Project Management Degrees Respected?
Yes, online degrees in project management are respected. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 7,313,623 students were enrolled in online education courses at postsecondary institutions in the fall of 2019. An online project management degree will give you the necessary skills to access a range of industries and a career in project management.
Is Project Management Hard to Learn Online?
No, project management is not hard to learn online. Getting an online education in project management is as demanding as any other program of study. However, with the right schedule, interest, and persistence, it won’t be challenging to learn project management. If you find that online project management classes are hard, you can always ask for help from members of the faculty.
Project Management Bootcamp vs Online Project Management Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An online project management associate degree is better for students who want a concentration in project management with the possibility of expanding and continuing their education afterward. A project management bootcamp is better for those who want a short program as it is designed to train students on specific technical skills and for those that want to move directly into the workforce.
Both bootcamps and associate degrees have varied benefits that you should consider when choosing an education option. Below we’ve outlined the benefits of both.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Project Management Associate Degree
- Transferable college credits. Associate degrees are ideal for those looking to advance their education with a bachelor’s or master’s degree after they complete their program.
- Entry-level job preparation. An associate degree program will equip you with the proper project manager tools to gain access to entry-level positions.
- Reasonably affordable. Associate degrees in project management offer an affordable education alternative compared to most bachelor’s degree programs.
- Easier to secure jobs. Most hiring managers prefer to employ candidates with degrees. Earning an associate degree increases your chances of securing employment in the field of project management.
- Low barriers to entry. Most colleges have minimal entry requirements for an associate degree. This makes it easier for prospective students to be accepted into a project management program.
Top 5 Benefits of a Project Management Bootcamp
- Significantly shorter than traditional educational programs. Bootcamps are known for their focus on coursework to allow students to complete their programs in a few weeks. Most bootcamps will usually last for 12 to 24 weeks.
- Cheaper than university programs. Bootcamps are way more affordable than two-year or four-year degree programs offered by colleges and universities.
- Access to career services. Many bootcamps provide career services that help students with job placements, interview negotiation skills, and resume building. These services are helpful when looking for employment opportunities and career advancement after completing the programs as they also offer a wide range of career development resources.
- Focus on job-specific skills. Unlike most programs from colleges and universities that feature various topics in the curriculum, bootcamps focus on job-specific skills to help you launch your career.
- Flexible learning schedules. Bootcamps offer several learning schedules to provide students with a flexible and relaxed learning experience.
Why You Should Get a Project Management Associate Degree Online
You should get a project management associate degree online because it is flexible, cost-effective, and gives you project management experience. Some other benefits of getting an online Associate Degree in Project Management also include the ability to break into the profession, obtain entry-level roles, and transfer credits toward undergraduate degree programs in business management, business administration, or project management. There is a big job market for project managers.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Associate Degree Program in Project Management?
The best online Associate Degree in Project Management courses you can take are business law, project management fundamentals, project risk management, financial accounting, and management principles. Below is a detailed description of these courses of study.
Business Law
Business law, also known as commercial law, teaches about the commercial relationships between people, whether through convention, agreement, or national or international legislation. This course is essential to help students understand corporate, consumer, and commercial laws to set organizational standards for efficient project management.
Project Management Fundamentals
Project management fundamentals are an introduction to project management’s fundamental knowledge and principles. Students are introduced to core project definitions and will also learn about project management topics like scope, budget, schedules, project leadership skills, and development models.
Project Risk Management
Students will gain knowledge on how to detect project risks, analyze risks, and respond to risks. Quantitative and qualitative risk analysis, risk monitoring and control methodologies, risk possibility, and risk implications are all covered in this course.
Financial Accounting
Finance is an essential part of project management because companies must plan every project according to a budget. For this reason, the financial accounting course is a part of the project management curriculum to teach students how to make financial analyses and reports for simple and complex projects.
Management Principles
The management principles course gives students insight into how to manage an organization. The principles course teaches students how to assist managers in determining what actions they should take to complete specific tasks and deal with problems that may emerge in the workplace.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Project Management Associate Degree Graduates
An Associate Degree in Project Management online is a good starting point in the project management profession. An online bachelor’s degree, a graduate certificate, and a master’s degree in project management are all options for continuing education after an associate degree.
Related Online Project Management Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Project Management Associate Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best project management associate degree programs are cost, accreditation, student-to-faculty ratio, and graduation rates. The reputation of the school and program is another important factor to consider.
Cost
When choosing an Associate Degree in Project Management, the cost is an essential factor to consider. It’s a good idea to choose a program that fits your budget and see if there are any financial aid options.
Accreditation
Accreditation is significant because it shows that a school has achieved exceptional student outcomes, such as high retention, graduation, and employment rates. It also aids students in determining whether colleges are suitable for enrollment, the advantages of a program, and whether or not transfer credits are available.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
It is advantageous to have a low student-to-faculty ratio because it allows the faculty to dedicate more time to students. Professors can better manage their students in smaller groups, allocate more time to interact with their needs and concerns, and find opportunities for feedback.
Graduation Rate
When applying to schools for an online project management associate degree program, graduation rates are vital to consider. The rate indicates whether students earn their degrees on time. Higher graduation rates are associated with more committed faculty, students, and overall experience. It also offers you a sense of the school’s overall quality.
The Reputation of the School and the Program
A school’s reputation is significant because it represents the institution’s perceived excellence, influencing prospective students’ judgments when selecting a school or program. Choosing a project management associate degree program from an institution with an excellent reputation for providing a positive learning environment is critical.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Project Management Associate Degree?
The most affordable online project management associate degree is the Associate in Applied Science in Project Management Technology program at Forsyth Tech Community College. The in-state tuition is $76 per credit and requires students to complete 64 credits before graduation. The program’s total cost based on the total number of credits required for graduation is $4,864.
Can I Get a Project Management Associate Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a free online Associate Degree in Project Management. However, you can learn project management online for free by taking relevant courses to acquire the skills you need to advance your project management career. Furthermore, any accredited program, including online institutions, is eligible for financial aid packages through dederal student aid schemes.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Project Management Associate Degree Graduates
After you’ve graduated with one of the best online project management associate degrees, you’ll be qualified for a wide range of career opportunities. Most of these project-oriented jobs offer associate degree holders entry-level roles with room for career advancement.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Project Management Associate Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a project management associate degree. However, it is essential to note that an Associate Degree in Project Management prepares graduates for various entry-level jobs in the project management job market. Dedication toward career advancement will help you build a successful career.
What’s the Average Online Project Management Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an online Associate Degree in Project Management is $76,066 per year. The specific salaries of project managers vary from entry-level project managers to experienced project managers.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Project Management Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online project management associate degree are project coordinator, project scheduler, cost estimator, entry-level project manager, and management analyst. You’ve already taken the key steps to become a project manager by getting a good education. The next step is finding a job that suits your career path.
Project Management Degree Jobs
- Project Coordinator
- Project Scheduler
- Cost Estimator
- Management Analyst
- Entry-level Project Manager
Potential Careers With an Online Project Management Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Project Management Associate Degree?
You can make between $48,454 and $83,447 with an online project management associate degree. There is room for advancement in your career if you meet job requirements and you are willing to develop new skills through a continued educational experience.
The highest-paying project management associate degree jobs and salaries are broken down in the table below. You will get a clear description of each job, the number of jobs available, and the states that pay the highest salaries.
Highest-Paying Online Project Management Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Project Management Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Project Scheduler | $83,447 |
| Management Analyst | $68,247 |
| Operations Consultant | $67,333 |
| Cost Estimator | $58,575 |
| Project Coordinator | $48,454 |
Best Jobs for Online Project Management Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for online associate degree holders in project management include project scheduler, management analyst, and operations consultant. Cost estimators and project coordinators are also very successful career choices.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Project Management Associate Degree Worth It?
Yes, getting an online project management associate degree is worth it if you are interested in this field and want to access high-paying jobs. If you are having trouble combining work, family, and education, an online Associate Degree in Project Management may be the solution to help you develop your project management skills and advance your career.
If you want to increase your job prospects in business, technology, and management, online associate degree programs in project management are a good option. Furthermore, you can get essential work experience after finishing this program and use transferable college credits gained here to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Additional Reading About Project Management
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Online Project Management Associate Degree FAQ
You can complete your online project management associate degree in two years, and you can expect to get your associate degree faster if you are a full-time student. If your institution provides an accelerated program, you can earn your online associate degree in 12 to 18 months.
Yes, project management is an excellent career with plenty of opportunities for professional development. There are many different sectors to work in, and all of them have a good job outlook and a good annual salary, especially for project management specialists. If you don’t have any experience in this field, you can still transition to project management easily by gaining a professional project management qualification.
With an online project management associate degree, you can work as a project leader, project coordinator, cost estimator, administrative assistant, consultant, or construction manager. In most of these jobs, however, you will be qualified for entry-level positions.
To enhance your project management education and become eligible for higher positions, you must consider pursuing degrees such as a Bachelor’s in Project Management and other relevant project management education programs.
Yes, you can work as a project manager without a degree, but you will need training and practical experience. A project manager degree and project management certifications are beneficial since they can help you enhance your business acumen, although effective project managers gain many skills required for this field by experience.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
