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What Are the Goals of a Project Management Degree?
Natural leaders thrive as project managers, who execute and oversee an idea from its inception to completion. Highly organized individuals with strong interpersonal communication skills also excel as project managers, who supervise teams in hospitality, civil engineering, healthcare, and human resources.
Online master's programs in project management introduce students to methodologies and skills such as quality assurance, risk management, human resources, and team leadership. Online master's programs also provide hands-on experience through capstone projects in which students assess operations in local organizations.
Many learners enter project management programs with military or career experience that can often count as college credit. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), project managers earned a median annual salary of $73,570 in 2019.
Read on to learn more about the courses offered in an online master's in project management degree and the scholarships available.
Recommended Schools
FAQ on Project Management Degrees
What does a project manager do?
Project managers supervise teams of employees, prioritize tasks, manage budgets, and conduct risk management. Project managers serve as a liaison between staff and management.
What project management software is there?
Project management software such as Trello, Asana, and Monday.com allows all members of a team to easily share information, track project developments, and manage assets.
What industries need project managers?
Project managers have the tools and educational background that appeal to employers across different industries. Employers in construction, finance and insurance, and healthcare rely on project managers.
Accreditation for an Online Project Management Degree
Accreditation provides students with evidence of a school or university's credibility. Under the guidance of the U.S. Department of Education, third-party agencies oversee the national and regional accreditation process. Employers often prefer candidates who earn a degree from a school with regional accreditation, a designation considered more prestigious than national accreditation.
Accreditation matters for practical reasons. Students pursuing online graduate programs cannot receive federal financial aid from schools that do not hold nationally recognized accreditation.
Online programs also receive accreditation. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission assesses online programs to ensure that they meet quality standards and policies. To receive accreditation, distance learning programs must undergo a voluntary examination and meet academic criteria.
The best online master's in project management degrees offer students a flexible and well-rounded curriculum with competitive tuition rates. The online master's programs listed below serve students through concentrations, specialized courses, and comprehensive capstone projects.
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
George Washington University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
George Washington University, a private college located in the District of Columbia, specializes in rigorous programs that meet the diverse needs of today's learners. The institution’s 50 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to study from wherever they live. One of these is the MS in project management degree-seekers in the field.
Online education's flexibility and adaptability attract many graduate students to this graduate program. They can earn the degree by attending sessions and completing coursework at convenient times that often do not require real-time interaction. This online format allows faculty to seamlessly integrate academic rigor, advanced career preparation, and flexible scheduling.
An acceptance rate of 41% of applicants is the average, with some variations across programs. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Applicants may also need to submit official transcripts, provide letters of recommendation, and participate in an interview.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,453
Out-of-state
$54,453
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$31,770
Out-of-state
$31,770
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
27,814
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
New York University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
An emphasis on accessibility is a key part of New York University’s mission, as it delivers programs for prospective graduate students pursuing programs such as degrees. Learners can choose from 28 online master's programs, some of them top-ranked degrees offered from the New York City-based school. Accessibility is a key determining factor for many degree-seekers exploring graduate school, and the MS in project management program addresses that concern with a flexible format.
The admissions criteria for a master's varies depending on the degree, but applicants typically need a bachelor’s in a related major. Students complete a rigorous curriculum that immerses them in advanced knowledge and field preparation that a bachelor’s alone cannot provide. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this project management program.
The average tuition for students living in New York or other states is $33,408 per year. Many learners receive grants and scholarships, both from the school and outside sources, to help finance their degree. Loans may also be available to help students pay for all or part of the program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,684
Out-of-state
$50,684
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,408
Out-of-state
$33,408
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
52,885
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Georgetown University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
Georgetown University offers a number of graduate programs through its online platform. Learners who hold a bachelor's degree in project management will be especially interested in the excellent master's in project management. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedule.
The school’s 11-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities to master's in project management students. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by project management experts. Obtaining this degree is of great benefit to those who want to advance their careers and pursue higher-paying positions.
The institution charges students $51,336 in tuition per year, regardless of residency. Many degree-seekers qualify for financial aid such as grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. Another option is student loans, and about 25% of enrollees use them to finance all or part of their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,440
Out-of-state
$55,440
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
19,593
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Golden Gate University
San Francisco, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
At Golden Gate University, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The master of science in project management is a very good option for people with a bachelor’s in project management who want to earn an advanced degree online. The program blends academic rigor and online course delivery that is flexible and affordable.
Students in the master's in project management program study in classes with a 12-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that is conducive to personalized learning. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by project management experts. Obtaining this degree prepares graduates for more advanced career opportunities than a bachelor's degree typically allows.
Making tuition competitive is a school priority, and learners pay an average $19,620 per year, regardless of residency. The scholarships and grants available to many degree-seekers help them reduce the price of tuition. There are also student loans available, an option taken up by about 30% of enrollees at this institution.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,840
Out-of-state
$15,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,620
Out-of-state
$19,620
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,432
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Regis University
Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
At Regis University, prospective graduate students can earn a project management degree while they work or juggle other responsibilities. From the school’s location in Denver, Colorado, faculty deliver 26 online master's degrees such as the master of science in project leadership and management.. This degree does not require relocation or daily transportation, which contributes to the popularity among full-time workers and others who need flexible schedules.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in the same field or other criteria as stipulated on the program website. The master's in project leadership and management program provides advanced education beyond a bachelor’s, preparing enrollees for career advancement and other opportunities. Preparation for a doctoral program is another benefit of this degree.
The current tuition rate stands at $14,441 per year for in-state and out-of-state students. If they qualify, learners can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Many students may also want to consider loans as an option to afford tuition.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,830
Out-of-state
$37,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,441
Out-of-state
$14,441
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
6,908
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Boston University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of science in project management at Boston University is a top-ranked degree designed for online students. Learners pursue this degree to build on prior knowledge attained in a bachelor’s, receiving training specifically related to the field. Students earn this so they can also pursue a doctorate later on if they choose.
Busy learners are drawn to the school because of the online format. A big part of this project management program's allure is that it allows students to manage other aspects of their lives without sacrificing their education. Whether enrollees are learning in person or online, they study in a supportive academic environment.
Applicants usually need a bachelor’s in order to be considered for this program. People applying to this school get accepted at a rate of 19%. The tuition rate for Massachusetts students is about $54,720 per year, and learners can fund their education with grants, loans, and scholarships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
4 years
Campus
Northeastern University is a private college located in Boston, Massachusetts, with a strong catalog of academic programs and a learning experience tailored to meet learners’ needs. Project management students can pursue a master's program among the options.
Graduate students can use online education such as this master's in project management program to accomplish a goal that may otherwise seem unachievable because of logistical issues. They can do so by using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. The degree provides a rigorous education that does not sacrifice strong preparation for career advancement.
Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 18% per year, but some programs may vary. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Consult the department to find out more details like how to submit transcripts and recommendation letters if required.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,420
Out-of-state
$52,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,793
Out-of-state
$24,793
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
22,207
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PA
4 years
Online
From the University Park campus, Penn State World Campus is a public college with graduate programs in different fields. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers 52 remote master's programs. The master of project management is one such option for students interested in the field.
Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Busy enrollees may have access to recorded videos that facilitate anytime viewing, and can complete their assignments within a reasonable timeframe as faculty allow. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.
The school’s admission statistics show that about 76% of applicants get in, with some variations across programs. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Contact the program department, or admissions, to determine entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,484
Out-of-state
$13,484
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,682
Out-of-state
$21,682
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Prospective graduate students can earn a project management degree at Liberty University, an institution known for developing flexible graduate programs.Learners can choose the master of science in project management from 67 online master's programs, some of them top-ranked degrees offered from the Lynchburg, Virginia, school. This adaptable program opens up access to full-time workers and others with scheduling challenges preventing in-person graduate education.
A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. What the master of science in project management program provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experiences. The program also provides the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.
Students can expect to pay $7,980 per year in tuition, whether they reside in Virginia or another state. If they qualify, learners can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Loans are another way to help pay for part or all of the program's tuition.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Florida Institute of Technology’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. People with a bachelor’s in project management may want to explore the top-ranked MBA in project management. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.
MBA in project management students enjoy a 14-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio in their classes. Learners receive strong preparation using a curriculum that emphasizes advanced theoretical concepts and practices in project management. In an increasingly competitive workforce, those with a master’s degree stand out because of the rigorous academic preparation they underwent.
The tuition rate stands at $22,338 per year for Florida residents and out-of-state students. The price of tuition is lower if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. Degree-seekers may also be directed to financial aid, used by about 36% of the school’s enrollees, as a means to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,720
Out-of-state
$41,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,338
Out-of-state
$22,338
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
6,022
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
City University of Seattle is home to rigorous graduate programs, some available online. The master's in project management is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in project management who want to advance their careers in this field. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.
The benefits of a 6-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that master of science in project management students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. Learners complete a strong curriculum in project management delivered by faculty with industry expertise. Graduates leave the program well-prepared for careers in academia, business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.
Students enrolled in the program pay a yearly average of $11,430 in tuition, regardless of residency. Many degree-seekers qualify for financial aid such as grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. Student loans are another option, and about 26% of enrollees use this popular funding stream to afford their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,120
Out-of-state
$13,120
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,430
Out-of-state
$11,430
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,960
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#12 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota offers project management students an online MS in project management degree that is a top-ranked program in its class. The program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. The MS in project management gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.
Learners like the fact that this program’s format helps them more efficiently manage their time. Students can fit in other responsibilities such as work, caregiving, and family life because of the program’s flexibility. Enrollees enjoy a student-focused environment whether they study remotely or on campus.
For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. The acceptance rate is 92% at this school, but expect some differences across programs. If accepted, students in Minnesota can expect to pay about $9,180 per year before applying grants, loans, and scholarships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,050
Out-of-state
$36,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,180
Out-of-state
$9,180
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
5,548
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN
4 years
Online
Purdue University Global, a public college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the West Lafayette, Indiana, campus. People who need flexibility are drawn to the institution because of 29 master's degrees available online. Among the options is the master of science in management and leadership for students in project management.
Online education's flexibility and adaptability attract many graduate students to this master's program. They can study using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. The degree provides a rigorous education that does not sacrifice strong preparation for career advancement.
A bachelor’s degree in the field, or a related one, is the usual threshold for entry into a master’s program. The department can tell you more about application requirements such as transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,791
Out-of-state
$9,768
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,138
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
American University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
A private college situated in the District of Columbia, American University administers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. A leader in online graduate education, the institution offers 16 remote master's degrees. The master of science in measurement and evaluation is one such option for students interested in the project management field.
Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which was designed with adaptability and flexibility in mind. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. Students receive the rigorous academic preparation they expect without sacrificing quality.
Though this number can vary between programs, applicants get admitted at a rate of 36% each year. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. The best way to find out more is to contact the program and explore entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$49,070
Out-of-state
$49,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,351
Out-of-state
$30,351
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
14,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#15 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
The College of Saint Scholastica
Duluth, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Prospective project management graduate students should consider The College of Saint Scholastica for flexible programs that allow them to earn an advanced degree while they work. At the school’s location in Duluth, Minnesota, faculty deliver six online master's degrees such as the master of science in project management. This degree offers a flexible online format that accommodates the needs of busy professionals and others who work.
Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree or a related credential to apply to master’s programs. The enhanced job opportunities and potentially higher pay make the master's in project management program a worthy pursuit for many people. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this program.
Competitive tuition rates are a key selling point at this school, which charges residents of Minnesota and other states $13,986 per year. Many learners receive grants and scholarships, both from the school and outside sources, to help finance their degree. Students can help pay for a graduate degree with federal loans.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,622
Out-of-state
$37,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,986
Out-of-state
$13,986
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
3,906
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Brandeis University’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. The master's in project and program management is an excellent choice for people with a bachelor’s in project management who want to advance their education with a master’s. Enrollees complete a curriculum that is very rigorous using a flexible format that accommodates their schedules.
The benefits of a 10-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that master's in project and program management students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in project management. The master's program prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.
Paying for college is a top issue, and students in any state can expect to pay $51,940 per year. Many degree-seekers reduce this bill with grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. About 39% of the school’s learners take out student loans, another way to fund their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,340
Out-of-state
$55,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,940
Out-of-state
$51,940
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
5,825
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#17 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
University of Maryland, College Park
College Park, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Maryland, College Park’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. The master of engineering in project management is a very good option for people with a bachelor’s in project management who want to earn an advanced degree online. Enrollees maintain more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.
The benefits of an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. The curriculum is steeped in advanced theoretical concepts and practices in project management. Graduates leave the program well-prepared for careers in academia, business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.
Maryland students enrolled in the program pay a yearly average of $13,158, while those elsewhere pay $29,250. Many learners at the institution qualify for grants and scholarships to help reduce the price of tuition. Another option is student loans, and about 30% of enrollees use them to finance all or part of their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,824
Out-of-state
$34,936
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,158
Out-of-state
$29,250
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
40,743
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#18 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Colorado State University Global Campus
Aurora, CO
4 years
Online
Colorado State University Global Campus students can pursue an online degree that ranks highly among master's in project management programs. The program equips learners with advanced training that can lead to career advancement in their field. If they choose, graduates with a master's in project management can also pursue a doctorate later on.
Busy learners are drawn to the school because of the online format. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning environment no matter the mode of delivery they choose to pursue advanced education at this institution.
Unless otherwise stated, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. Acceptance letters go out to about 99% of applicants to this school, but expect some differences across programs. Once accepted, students will pay $9,000 per year in in-state tuition, with grants, loans, and scholarships popular funding streams for those who qualify.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,400
Out-of-state
$8,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
12,670
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Morgan State University
Baltimore, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
Morgan State University delivers one of the nation’s top-ranked online project management programs to students around the country. The MS in project management program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. The master's provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.
The effective management of time is a key consideration for many learners, and this program accommodates that need. This flexibility gives students more control over their schedules and makes it easier to juggle multiple priorities. Here it is not enough to emphasize academic rigor and flexibility. Support from faculty and the community plays an integral role in enrollees' academic development.
The application requirements for this program include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts, but the department can provide more information. The admittance rate to this school is 68%, with some differences possible across programs. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs Maryland residents about $8,190 per year.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,477
Out-of-state
$15,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,190
Out-of-state
$16,092
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
7,763
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#20 Best Online Master’s In Project Management Degrees
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Missouri State University is home to a number of quality online graduate programs. One of these options is the master of science in project management for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in project management or a related field. Enrollees complete a curriculum that is very rigorous using a flexible format that accommodates their schedules.
More individualized attention and opportunities to collaborate with peers are key benefits of the 20-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy. The curriculum is steeped in advanced theoretical concepts and practices in project management. This academic preparation is a prerequisite for higher-level careers in business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.
Paying for college is a top issue, and Missouri students can expect to pay $5,202 per year. Out-of-state students pay $10,476 annually. The price of tuition is lower if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. Student loans are another option, and about 44% of enrollees use this popular funding stream to afford their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$14,850
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,202
Out-of-state
$10,476
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
23,453
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Career and Salary Outlook for Project Managers
Experience, educational level, and location all impact a project manager’s salary. Salaries also vary depending on the industry. For example, project managers working in information technology make an average annual salary of $87,895, according to PayScale. In construction, project managers make an average salary of $74,036 per year. On the lower end of the pay scale, project managers in marketing make an average of $61,497 annually.
Project managers with additional credentials or continuing education credits can further boost their earning potential. Earnings may also differ depending on bonuses and commission. The PayScale salary averages listed below represent estimates.
No matter the industry, management positions should increase in the coming years. The BLS projects all management jobs to grow by 7% between 2018 and 2028.
Certifications and licenses provide project managers with specialized project management training to enhance their resumes. Employers often prefer candidates with specialized skill sets and mastery of industry software or methodologies. Students can obtain certifications during an online master’s program. Professional organizations also offer post-graduate certifications, including the three options listed below.
The CAPM certification appeals to professionals who manage large-scale projects. Administered by the Project Management Institute, the three-hour test consists of 150 questions. Candidates must complete 23 hours of project management continuing education before applying. This certification prepares project managers to take the project management professional exam.
This certification appeals to project managers across all industries who want to strengthen their understanding of Scrum methodology and frameworks. Project managers who pursue this certification generally work in software development. The certification consists of an online or in-person session with a certified Agile coach. To earn the certification, applicants must complete a 50-question test, which takes about 60 minutes.
This certification is the next stepping stone in professional development for individuals who took the CAPM. Candidates need a four-year degree with three years of career experience and 35 hours of continuing education experience in project management. Otherwise, applicants need a current CAPM certification or five years of work experience and an associate degree.
Courses in Project Management Programs
Earning an online master’s in project management provides students with a foundation in current industry standards and methodologies. Graduates leave these programs with an understanding of risk management and how to maximize team performance and perform a cost analysis. The practical skills students learn through hands-on assignments teach them how to prioritize, plan, and schedule projects. They also become adept at using industry tools and software.
However, each online master’s degree differs in focus. For example, a master’s in business administration degree with a concentration in project management features more business-focused courses than an online master’s in project management.
The following examples are common courses featured in an online master’s in project management.
Agile Fundamentals
This course teaches students how to implement incremental management practices as outlined in the Agile Manifesto. Developed to manage software development projects, Agile now applies to many industries.
Project Risk Management
This course teaches students how to mitigate and respond to risks. Students learn about the internal and external risks involved in project management and how to conduct qualitative and quantitative project risk analysis. The tools and skills that students learn in this course can apply to construction, finance, and healthcare.
Project Planning and Scheduling
This course teaches students how to implement frameworks to proactively manage project schedules and work under time and financial constraints. Coursework covers topics like linear resource leveling, chain scheduling, and program evaluation review techniques. Students also learn about the legal responsibilities associated with contracts.
Introduction to Project Management
Students taking this course learn the principles and skills needed to become project managers. Topics include resource allocation, risk assessment, progress monitoring, and recruitment. Instructors often use case studies to demonstrate how project managers can implement industry tools and methods.
Capstone Project
At the end of a master’s program, students must typically complete a capstone project that allows them to integrate what they have learned. Students often work at a local organization to assess and analyze management operations for a final capstone project.
Scholarships for Project Managers
Students earning a master’s in project management can explore the five scholarships below.
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate and graduate learners studying project management at an accredited college can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit a resume, transcripts, two references, and an essay. Amount: $7,500
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate and graduate women pursuing business-related majors can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must be in their final year of a master’s program. Applicants must submit an essay to their local Zonta club. Amount: $1,000-$7,000
Who Can Apply: The Project Management Training Institute offers a $500 scholarship to aspiring project managers. Applicants must be enrolled full time in an accredited college. Amount: $500
Who Can Apply: The Securities and Insurance Licensing Association Foundation offers this scholarship to college learners studying business administration, education, finance or accounting. Students pursuing information technology, insurance studies, marketing, or math may also apply. Candidates need a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and U.S. citizenship. Amount: $2,500
Who Can Apply: Established to honor the founders of the Baltimore chapter of the Project Management Institute, this scholarship benefits undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a project management program in Baltimore, Maryland. Amount: $2,500
