Brief Overview of Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs
Pursuing a Master's degree in Project Management through an online platform has become an increasingly popular choice for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and advance their careers. These programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively plan, execute, and oversee projects across various industries. Here's what you can expect from an online Master's in Project Management:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses typically cover topics such as risk management, project finance, procurement, and leadership. Students learn how to apply project management principles using both traditional and agile methodologies.
Flexibility: One of the main advantages of an online degree is the ability to complete coursework on your own schedule. This is ideal for working professionals who need to balance their studies with other commitments.
Interactive Learning Environment: Despite being online, these programs often offer a highly interactive experience through discussion forums, group projects, and virtual simulations. This fosters collaboration and networking with peers and faculty.
Accreditation: It is crucial to choose a program that is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC). Accreditation ensures the quality and relevance of the educational program.
Student Support Services: Top online programs provide excellent support services including academic advising, career services, and technical assistance, which are essential for distance learners.
Affordability: Many online programs offer competitive tuition rates and financial aid options. Additionally, students save on commuting and relocation costs.
Program Outcomes: Graduates of these programs often report improved job performance, promotions, and the ability to lead complex projects. Prospective students should consider schools that publish positive program outcomes.
Accessibility: Courses are accessible from anywhere in the world, provided you have internet access. This opens doors to international expertise and global perspectives on project management.
When choosing a program, consider our proprietary algorithm that ranks the best online Project Management Master's degree programs based on several factors:
Affordability: How does the cost of the program compare to others, and what is the return on investment?
Program Outcomes: What is the success rate of graduates in terms of employment and career advancement?
Accessibility: How easy is it to access course materials and faculty support?
Student Support Services: What resources are available to support you throughout your studies?
Accreditation: Does the program have proper accreditation ensuring it meets high standards?
Flexibility: Can you tailor the program to fit your schedule and learning pace?
Program Reputation: What is the overall reputation of the program among industry professionals and academic circles?
With these considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision about which online Master's in Project Management program will best suit your personal and professional goals. Remember to research thoroughly and choose a program that not only fits your budget but also has a strong track record of student success.
Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
#1 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Western Carolina University
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$320
Contact: businessgrad@wcu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
With its PMI-GAC accreditation, affordability for both in-state and out-of-state students, and comprehensive curriculum covering advanced project management topics, WCU's Online Master of Project Management stands out for its quality, accessibility, and projected ROI.
#2 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$730
Contact: admission@smumn.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Saint Mary's has a strong emphasis on ethics, social justice, and preparation for the PMP exam. The program's PMI Global Accreditation and option for adding graduate certificates offer a mix of technical expertise and value, weighing heavily on quality and curriculum relevance.
#3 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Kansas
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$585
Contact: edwardsinfo@ku.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Offering a variety of project management education programs with flexible formats, this university excels in accessibility and curriculum diversity. Its experienced faculty and practical coursework aligned with PMI's PMBOK guide provide a solid foundation for career advancement.
#4 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Elmhurst University
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$900
Contact: admit@elmhurst.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Elmhurst's program offers flexibility through its EU Flex model and is notable for its focus on core competencies development, business electives, and PMP readiness. The blend of online and on-campus learning, along with the option for a graduate certificate, ensures both depth and accessibility.
#5 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Maryland Global Campus
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $514
Out of State: $659
Contact: gradschool@umd.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
UMGC's specialization in project management within the MS in Management, focusing on real-world applications and industry certifications, addresses the demand for skilled project managers. Despite the higher cost for out-of-state students, its fully online format and accreditation by the PMI Global Accreditation Center enhance accessibility and quality.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Project Management in 2024
Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
---|---|---|
Aerospace Project Manager | $159,920 | $76.88 |
Automotive Project Manager | $159,920 | $76.88 |
Engineering Project Manager | $159,920 | $76.88 |
Marketing Manager | $140,040 | $67.33 |
Product Manager | $140,040 | $67.33 |
Procurement Manager | $131,350 | $63.15 |
Customer Relationship Manager | $130,600 | $62.79 |
Sales Manager | $130,600 | $62.79 |
Telecommunications Project Manager | $130,600 | $62.79 |
Human Resources Manager | $130,000 | $62.5 |
Energy Project Manager | $128,620 | $61.84 |
Environmental Project Manager | $128,620 | $61.84 |
Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
#6 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Program Accredited By: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$627
Contact: admission@snhu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
With a low online tuition rate, SNHU's Masters in Project Management highlights operations management and preparation for the PMP exam. The program promises quick completion and affordability, with flexibility enhancing its accessibility.
#7 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
City University of Seattle
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$715
Contact: info@cityu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center and offering both online and on-campus coursework, CityU's program is tailored for those seeking to align project outcomes with business goals across various sectors. Its focus on professional competency and global networking opportunities adds significant value.
#8 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Colorado State University Global
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$500
Contact: enroll@csuglobal.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Lack of specific program information aside, CSU Global's history of affordability, online education focus, and the general reputation of its business programs suggest a solid option for those prioritizing cost and flexibility.
#9 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Liberty University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$565
Contact: residentgraduate@liberty.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Liberty's 100% online Master's in Project Management emphasizes affordability and accessibility, with a significant military discount and the ability to transfer up to 50% of the degree total. Its commitment to keeping tuition costs unchanged for nine years makes this program especially attractive for budget-conscious students.
#10 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Sam Houston State University
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$482
Contact: graduate@shsu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
The PMGT program's strong focus on functional and strategic management aspects, along with preparation for PMI certification, positions it as a quality choice. Its affordability and the comprehensive 36-credit online curriculum make it appealing for professionals.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Project Management
Acquire, distribute and store supplies.
Adhere to legal policies and procedures related to handling digital media.
Administer systems and programs to reduce loss, maintain inventory control, or increase safety.
Advise clients on aspects of capitalization, such as amounts, sources, or timing.
Advise licensees or other individuals or groups concerning licensing, permit, or passport regulations.
Advise managers on organizational policy matters, such as equal employment opportunity and sexual harassment, and recommend needed changes.
#11 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Florida Institute of Technology
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$896
Contact: grad-admission@fit.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Florida Tech's emphasis on practical experience and a curriculum integrating operations research and information systems cater to those seeking a dynamic project management education. Despite the slightly higher cost, the program's hands-on approach and diverse study opportunities offer substantial ROI.
#12 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Denver
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$766
Contact: ucoladm@du.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Although primarily known for its array of Graduate Certificate programs, the university's emphasis on specialized knowledge and skills development in project management, along with high educational standards, make it a solid choice for professional enhancement.
#13 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Regis University
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$948
Contact: ruadmissions@regis.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Regis University's focus on leadership and problem-solving skills within its M.S. in Project Leadership and Management, alongside PMI accreditation, makes this program a compelling choice, especially given its online flexibility. The current pause on applications, however, may affect accessibility.
#14 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Connecticut
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $1010
Out of State: $2,227
Contact: gradschool@uconn.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
While UConn's MS in Business Analytics and Project Management offers a hybrid delivery mode and emphasizes preparation for PMI certification, its higher cost per credit and focus on Business Analytics alongside Project Management places it lower in terms of specific project management focus.
#15 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Brandeis University
Program Accredited By: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$976
Contact: gps@brandeis.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Brandeis University's program stands out for its leadership emphasis and swift completion time, but the highest cost per credit here requires a significant financial commitment, impacting its affordability despite the quality education and comprehensive curriculum it offers.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Project Management
Accounting software
- Bookkeeping software
- Intuit QuickBooks
Analytical or scientific software
- Data visualization software
- Google Analytics
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
#16 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Drexel University
Program Accredited By: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,342
Contact: enroll@drexel.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Its high cost per credit notwithstanding, Drexel University's Online Graduate Certificate in Project Management aligns with PMI credentialing benchmarks and serves various fast-growing industries, ensuring quality and relevance despite the considerable investment required.
#17 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Charleston Southern University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$650
Contact: enroll@csuniv.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Charleston Southern's accelerated online format and emphasis on integrating faith in learning provide a unique perspective on project management education. However, its moderate cost and lack of specific program accreditation compared to others place it lower in the ranking.
#18 in Best Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Stevens Institute of Technology
Program Accredited By: PMI Global Accreditation Center
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,776
Contact: graduate@stevens.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Despite its strategic focus and PMI accreditation, Stevens Institute of Technology's very high cost per credit significantly impacts the program's accessibility and affordability, positioning it at a disadvantage compared to more economically feasible options.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Project Management Master's Degree?
Earning a Master's Degree in Project Management online opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities across various industries. With the knowledge and skills you'll acquire, you can step into roles that involve leadership, strategic planning, and complex problem-solving. Here are some of the positions that graduates with this advanced degree can typically qualify for:
Project Manager: As a project manager, you'll be responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. You'll lead teams, manage resources, and ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the specified quality standards.
Program Manager: In this role, you oversee multiple related projects to ensure alignment with organizational goals. Your focus will be on strategy and implementation, managing the interdependencies between projects.
Portfolio Manager: Portfolio managers take a higher-level view than project or program managers, overseeing a collection of projects or programs to achieve strategic business objectives. They prioritize initiatives and allocate resources accordingly.
Project Management Consultant: As a consultant, you provide expert advice to organizations on project management practices. You might help set up project management offices (PMOs), develop methodologies, or troubleshoot troubled projects.
Senior Project Analyst: In this position, you analyze project data to inform decision-making. You'll work closely with project managers to identify trends, forecast outcomes, and recommend process improvements.
Project Coordinator: This entry-level role involves supporting project managers and teams with administrative tasks such as scheduling, resource tracking, and documentation.
Scrum Master: If you're interested in Agile project management, becoming a Scrum Master might be your path. You'll facilitate Agile practices within teams, helping them work more efficiently and effectively.
IT Project Manager: Focusing specifically on information technology projects, IT project managers plan and execute projects that involve software development, system implementation, or IT infrastructure upgrades.
Construction Project Manager: In the construction industry, project managers oversee building projects from conception through completion, ensuring they meet all regulatory standards and requirements.
Healthcare Project Manager: Healthcare project managers specialize in managing projects in the medical field, which may include implementing new health information systems or overseeing facility renovations.
With these diverse options available to graduates of an Online Project Management Master's Degree program, the potential for career advancement is significant. Each role leverages the core competencies of project management—such as risk management, stakeholder communication, and time management—while offering unique challenges and rewards within its specific sector.
Furthermore, according to authoritative sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in project management are expected to continue growing over the next decade. This growth is driven by the increasing complexity of business operations and the need for organizations to innovate and improve efficiency.
As you consider your career trajectory post-graduation, remember that obtaining relevant certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) can further enhance your job prospects and potentially lead to higher salary opportunities. These certifications demonstrate your commitment to the field and your expertise in project management methodologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Project Management Master's Degree Programs
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online project management master's degree program?
Most online project management master's degree programs require applicants to have:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA, often around 3.0
- Professional experience in project management or a related field (varies by program)
- GRE or GMAT scores (requirements vary; some programs may waive this for experienced professionals)
- Letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose
How long does it typically take to complete an online master's in project management?
The time to completion can vary depending on several factors:
- Full-time students can typically complete the program in 1.5 to 2 years.
- Part-time students may take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 years.
- Accelerated programs could allow completion in as little as 12 months.
Are online project management master's degrees respected by employers?
Yes, online master's degrees in project management are respected by employers, especially when they are:
- Earned from accredited institutions, such as those accredited by the Project Management Institute Global Accreditation Center (PMI GAC)
- Paired with relevant professional experience
- Supported by additional credentials like Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
Can I get financial aid for an online project management master's program?
Financial aid is often available for online students who qualify. Options include:
- Federal student loans and grants (fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility)
- Scholarships from universities or industry organizations
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Military and veterans' education benefits
How do online project management courses compare to in-person classes?
Online project management courses offer:
- Comparable curriculum and learning outcomes to in-person classes
- Flexibility to learn at your own pace and schedule
- Interactive learning tools, discussion forums, and virtual group projects
- Access to digital resources and libraries
However, they require self-discipline and time management skills.
What kind of support services are available for online project management students?
Online students can typically access a range of support services, including:
- Academic advising and tutoring
- Career services and networking opportunities
- Technical support for online learning platforms
- Access to online libraries and research resources
Is there a difference in course quality between more affordable and expensive online project management programs?
Not necessarily. Course quality is influenced by factors such as:
- Faculty expertise and industry experience
- Curriculum relevance and alignment with industry standards
- Accreditation status of the program Affordability does not always equate to lower quality, especially with our ranking algorithm that considers program reputation.
Can international students enroll in online project management master's degree programs?
Many online programs welcome international students. However, they should consider:
- Ensuring they meet technology and participation requirements due to time zone differences
- Verifying that their bachelor's degree is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree
- Checking if additional English language proficiency tests are required
Will I need to complete a thesis or capstone project?
Most online project management master's programs require one of the following:
- A capstone project, where you'll apply what you've learned to a real-world problem
- A thesis, which involves original research under faculty supervision Some programs may offer a choice between the two or neither, focusing instead on coursework.
Remember that each program has its own unique features and requirements. It's crucial to research individual programs thoroughly and reach out to admissions counselors for detailed information tailored to your situation.