Project management is an in-demand skill in fields like healthcare, business, and technology, and the best online project management master’s degrees are a great way to improve your skills and earn a respected credential. Online project management master’s degrees have flexible schedules and can be completed remotely from anywhere in the world.
In this article, we’ll share where to find online Master’s Degrees in Project Management, as well as their application requirements, common courses, and graduation requirements. We’ll also cover in-demand project management master’s degree jobs with information on average salaries, job growth outlook, and common day-to-day tasks.
Where Can I Get a Project Management Master’s Degree Online?
You can get a project management master’s degree online from accredited universities with online programs such as Arizona State University, Southern New Hampshire University, University of Maryland Global Campus, Bellevue University, and Purdue University.
What Schools Offer the Best Project Management Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Purdue University
- Bellevue University
- University of Maryland Global Campus
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Project Management Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online project management master’s degree are a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0 to 3.0 and GRE or GMAT scores. You will also need to include one or more letters of recommendation, official undergraduate transcripts, a professional resume, and a personal statement in your online application.
These requirements vary by school, whether you are a full-time or part-time student, or whether you are a domestic or international student. For instance, most schools require international students to take an English language proficiency exam. Check the admission requirements and speak with an admissions counselor to make sure you meet the requirements before applying.
Online Project Management Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 to 3.0
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume
- GRE or GMAT scores
How to Get a Project Management Master’s Degree Online
You get a project management master’s degree online by fulfilling all graduation requirements. These requirements include completing 30 credits of core classes within the stated time frame and paying all tuition and fees. Graduation criteria may differ from school to school. The most common graduation requirements from top-performing schools are listed below.
Project Management Degree Requirements
- Maintain active student status
- Maintain a minimum GPA
- Complete at least than 30 credit units in core classes and electives classes
- Complete a capstone course
- Pay tuition and other fees
Best Online Project Management Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Project Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bellevue University | Master of Project Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Brandeis University | Master of Science in Project and Program Management | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Master of Science in Project Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Penn State World Campus | Master of Project Management | Middle State Commission on Higher Education |
| Purdue University | Master of Science in IT Project Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Master of Business Administration in Project Management | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Houston | Master of Science in Technology Project Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Master’s in Managment: Project Management | Middle State Commission on Higher Education |
| Western Carolina University | Master of Project Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Project Management: Top Online Project Management Master’s Degree Programs
With so many schools offering distance education, it can be hard to narrow down the best project management schools with online master’s degree programs. We have put together a list of 10 high-ranking schools where you can get the best online project management master’s degrees.
What Is an Online Project Management Master’s Degree?
An online project management master’s degree is an advanced degree in project management obtained via remote learning. This credential demonstrates advanced knowledge of project management, risk management, cost control, corporate leadership, and business dynamics. Graduates with this degree can land mid and upper-level management positions in any industry.
An online project management master’s degree takes one to two years to complete, and these graduate programs are available to part-time and full-time students. The online educational experience also allows students to continue working in their current jobs and study at any business school in the country without having to relocate.
Online vs In-Person Project Management Degrees
Online and in-person project management degrees vary in tuition costs, delivery methods, duration, and school structure, but both have similar curricula, student services, credit unit ranges, employment opportunities, salary ranges, and values in the industry.
The biggest difference between the two is that project management online programs have flexible schedules, and students can attend classes whenever is most convenient for them. In-person academic programs give students the opportunity to interact face-to-face and network with professors and other students.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Project Management
- Flexible schedule. You can earn an online Master’s Degree in Project Management according to your own schedule, so you can continue working while you complete your online master’s degree.
- Accessible from any location. Unlike in-person project management master’s degrees, online students can learn from anywhere in the world as long as they have a stable Internet connection and a reliable laptop or tablet.
- International connections. Your online campus will be full of students from all over the world. With an online degree, you’ll get a global experience and make international connections.
- More affordable. An online degree is usually more affordable than an in-person degree. With an online program, you can earn the same degree at a lower cost. You also don’t have to consider extra costs like on-campus housing or transportation.
- Smooth transition to next degree. Distance education allows you to easily progress to an online PhD degree program in project management or a related field.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Project Management
- On-campus resources. When you attend classes in person, you have the opportunity to visit the library, career services office, and other on-campus resources offered by your school’s college of business.
- Better motivation. Many people find it challenging to complete an online degree because it is more difficult to self-motivate when you don’t attend classes in person. Seeing your professors in person is great motivation to keep studying.
- Hands-on experience. An in-person master’s degree in project management provides you with real-time interactions to help you develop the soft skills needed to thrive in project management.
- Local networking. You will attend classes weekly with other local business professionals, as well as get to know your professors who are experts in management. It is a great opportunity to network with local business professionals.
- On-campus events. With an in-person master’s degree program, it is easy to attend any on-campus events offered by your university’s school of business. These events are great ways to meet more professionals in your area who work in the field of project management.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Project Management?
The types of online Master’s Degree you can get in project management are a Master of Art, a Master of Science, or a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Project Management. The most common types of online project management master’s degrees are Master of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or a Master of Business Administration in Project Management?
Both a Master of Science and Master of Business Administration in Project Management are excellent degrees, and one is not necessarily better than the other. Both project management degrees take a similar amount of time and both are respected by potential employers. However, the two degrees prepare you for different future careers.
A Master of Science focuses on scientific and technical aspects of project management. It is also primarily offered in specialized fields like technology or construction. On the other hand, a Master of Business Administration degree covers management more generally and how to manage complex projects in business and the corporate world.
How Much Does a Project Management Master’s Degree Cost?
It costs about $19,314 per year to get a Master’s Degree in Project Management, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, the cost of a degree may vary depending on your desired school, state of residence, military status, and learning format.
The cost of a degree is different at public, private, and non-profit schools, so research the exact cost of a two-year master’s degree at your school of choice before applying. Fortunately, you can apply for federal financial aid through the FAFSA if you enroll in an accredited school.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Project Management Master’s Degree Online?
It takes two years to get a project management master’s degree online in most programs. These degrees are at least 30-credit hour programs, and the typical full-time graduate student takes six credits per semester. These credit hours are spread over general, core, and elective courses.
The exact length of each program varies by institution and learning format. Some schools offer accelerated master’s degree programs while others only allow students to enroll as part-time students. Some programs allow you to transfer up to nine credit hours from your bachelor’s degree to fulfill core curriculum requirements in your master’s degree.
Are Online Project Management Degrees Respected?
Yes, online project management degrees are respected. Most potential employers consider online degrees as good as in-person degrees. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that over one million graduate students enrolled in online academic degree programs in 2019, so you won’t be the only one with an online degree. Plus, online diplomas look exactly the same as in-person diplomas.
Is Project Management Hard to Learn Online?
No, project management is not hard to learn online. The key skills like critical thinking, conflict management, adaptability, and leadership all require practice, and you will practice these skills during your capstone course. Because of the flexibility of online education, most students work full time while earning their degree, so they can practice new skills in their current jobs.
Project Management Bootcamp vs Online Project Management Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A project management bootcamp is better if you want to learn about the field of project management field in less than two years. On the other hand, an online master’s degree is a more advanced credential and will allow you to pursue a doctorate degree or PhD. Both types of programs have unique benefits, which we’ll discuss in detail below.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Project Management Master’s Degree
- Eligibility for a PhD program. A master’s degree is an admission requirement for many PhD programs. Unlike a bootcamp, an online project management master’s degree makes you eligible for a PhD program in project management or a similar field.
- Specialized curriculum. A master’s degree covers topics in more detail and allows you to enroll in elective courses relevant to your specific career goals.
- Job prospects. Some management jobs require a master’s degree as a minimum education requirement. A bootcamp certificate might not be enough for some roles.
- Advanced expertise. Acquiring your online Master’s Degree in Project Management shows employers that you have advanced knowledge in project management techniques and strategies.
- Higher earning potential. An online project management master’s degree holder can earn over $75,000 on average annually, according to PayScale. Salaries are higher for professionals with more years of work experience.
Top 5 Benefits of a Project Management Bootcamp
- Immersive courses. A project management bootcamp covers just the essential skills needed to help you become a professional project manager. This is especially useful for bachelor’s degree holders who want to advance their careers but don’t want to pursue a master’s degree.
- Real-world learning perspectives. Most bootcamps teach using real-world situations, case studies, and practical applications. They primarily focus on real-life projects and prepare you for situations you can expect to find in the workplace.
- Affordability. Bootcamps are usually more affordable than master’s degrees, and bootcamps have a variety of different payment options.
- Guaranteed relevance. Because bootcamps are short programs, they can adjust to current industry trends more quickly. Bootcamps make curriculum changes to eliminate outdated skills, so you’re guaranteed to receive a relevant and up-to-date education.
- Career services. Bootcamps have great career services with industry connections, job fairs, resume reviews, and salary negotiation tips.
Why You Should Get a Project Management Master’s Degree Online
You should get a project management master’s degree online to advance in your career without needing to pause your professional and personal life. A project management online degree helps you gain the necessary expertise while taking classes from the comfort of your own home. Even full-time students can balance school and other responsibilities with an online degree.
Getting a project management master’s degree online is an important credential to add to your resume that increases your earning potential. A master’s in project management shows that you have the project management skills to oversee teams, deliver results, and meet deadlines.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Project Management?
The courses you take in an online Master’s Degree in Project Management program include foundations of project management, risk management, supply chain management, portfolio management, and business research. Different project management concentrations will also include specialized courses in your particular field.
Foundations of Project Management
This course introduces students to fundamental terminologies and concepts in project management. Topics include utilizing resources and integrating different practices to successfully manage programs at different scales.
Supply Chain Management
This course helps students understand supply chain management and the different levels of the decision-making process in a complex system. They learn how to work closely with subordinates and superiors to ensure smooth project execution.
Quantitative Analysis
This course teaches students how to use mathematical and statistical tools in decision-making processes. Students learn how to identify problems, create and evaluate solutions, and implement them to ensure smooth workflow within an organization.
Business Research
This course provides students with an overview of the primary and secondary research methodologies used in business. Students learn how to conduct research and use the results to design and inform projects.
Project Management Capstone
A capstone course assesses students’ ability to integrate the skills and knowledge gained from their coursework and apply them to real-world situations. Students will plan, evaluate, and execute real-life projects individually or in a group, and the course ends with final project presentations.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Project Management Master’s Degree Graduates
After you complete your online project management master’s degree program, you can pursue a Doctorate in Project Management or a similar field, either online or in person. This is the most advanced degree you can obtain, and it takes three to five years to complete. Most students who go on to a doctoral degree work full-time for several years after completing their master’s.
If you don’t want to spend more years in an academic degree program, a certification in project management is a great way to boost your resume. A certification is not the same as a certificate, it is a professional exam that you take to show you have a certain set of skills. A popular certification in this field is Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Related Online Project Management Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Project Management Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best project management degree programs are cost, graduation rates, career services, accreditation, and reputation. We’ll discuss these five factors below to help you with your school search journey.
Cost
Cost varies widely across Master’s Degree in Project Management programs. Make sure you understand the financial requirements for your program, including tuition costs, application and graduation fees, and other learning fees. Prospective students should check to see if they meet the residency requirements to qualify for the in-state tuition rate at local schools.
Accreditation
You don’t want to spend your time and money studying in a school that is not certified to deliver distance education programs. It is essential to check the program and university status before applying. You should also check that the accreditation organization is authorized in the US.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate measures student enrollment vs the number of students who graduate. The graduation rate depends on many factors, but it gives you an idea of whether on-campus and online student resources are available to support students during their degrees.
Career Services
Career services will help you get a job after you graduate with virtual job fairs, resume reviews, and even practice interviews. Check to see if your university or college of business has a career services department, and see what programs they have available for students, recent graduates, and former graduates.
Reputation
Some universities have a college of business with great name recognition. While reputation shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, a master’s degree from a well-known school of business will help your resume stand out.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Project Management Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online project management master’s degree is at Western Carolina University. It costs only $320.53 per credit for in-state students, which works out to $11,539.08 for the total cost of tuition. Arizona State University has the best deal for out-of-state students at $554 per credit or $18,282 for the total project management online program tuition.
Can I Get a Project Management Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you can’t get a project management master’s degree online for free. However, you can apply for scholarships and grants from the federal government, your school, or non-profit organizations to supplement costs. It is unlikely that you will be able to cover the entire cost of your programs with scholarships and grants, but the best project management scholarships will help a lot.
If you decide that a master’s degree is too expensive, you can take advantage of a less expensive project management bootcamp. You could also take project management certificate programs or free online courses offered by websites like Coursera or Udemy.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Project Management Master’s Degree Graduates
The salary and job outlook for online project management master’s degree graduates are impressive. In the next section, we’ll discuss some of the high-paying project management master’s degree jobs and how to position yourself for employment.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Project Management Master’s Degree?
It isn’t hard to get a job with a project management master’s degree since it an important role in virtually every sector, from non-profit organizations to industrial engineering firms. With an up-to-date resume, a strong professional network, and previous work experience, you should have no trouble finding a job after graduation.
What’s the Average Online Project Management Master’s Degree Salary?
The average online project management master’s degree salary is $75,926 per year, according to PayScale. This is an average across the field of project management. Master’s Degree in Project Management salaries will vary depending on your job position, experience, qualifications, company structure, and location.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Project Management Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can do with an online project management master’s degree are management-level jobs across many different sectors. You can become a general project manager and gradually advance in your career to upper management. Overall project management jobs are growing, so you are likely to land a good job after completing your project management online degree.
Project Management Degree Jobs
- Construction Project Manager
- Management Analyst
- Project Management Specialist
- Medical and Health Services Manager
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
Potential Careers With an Online Project Management Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Project Management Master’s Degree?
You can make from $93,000 to $159,010 with an online project management master’s degree. However, your annual pay can grow larger depending on your job position, experience, location, and the type of company. You can be confident about making a good income with your online project management master’s degree.
We have listed some high-paying jobs, salaries, and job growth rates for graduates of project management online programs. While some of these jobs only require a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree will help you earn more than the average salary. See the section below for more details.
Highest-Paying Online Project Management Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Project Management Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $101,340 |
| Construction Project Manager | $98,890 |
| Project Management Specialist | $98,420 |
| Management Analyst | $93,000 |
Best Jobs for Online Project Management Master’s Degree Grads
Best online project management master’s degree jobs are available to graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in project management, information technology project management, business management, or other management fields.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Project Management Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online project management master’s degree is worth it if you want to achieve your professional goals. Earning an online project management master’s degree will provide you with additional knowledge and skills to become a project management professional at a relatively low cost.
Furthermore, you can use an online Master’s Degree in Project Management to earn a Doctoral Degree in Project Management or any related field. The degree is also recognized in the United States and can land you a high-paying job immediately after graduation. Consequently, you’ll be glad you took this step at the end of your study duration.
Additional Reading About Project Management
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Online Project Management Master’s Degree FAQ
Project managers work between 35 to 40 hours per week as remote or in-person workers. However, weekly work hours can vary depending on their responsibilities, position, and experience level. During a critical period, they could easily work up to 60 hours a week or more.
There is no age limit for acquiring a project management master’s degree. Once you have earned a bachelor’s degree, you can enroll to get your master’s degree in project management. However, this degree is typically designed for professionals with several years of work experience who are ready to move up in their careers.
Yes, you need a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification after acquiring your master’s degree because it is the most significant, industry-recognized certification for project managers. A PMP certificate greatly increases your job opportunities. After completing your master’s degree, it should be relatively easy to pass the PMP exam.
Yes, the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam is quite hard to pass. It is one of the most challenging certification assessments. However, an online Master’s Degree in Project Management should prepare you well for the PMP exam.
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.
