Best Online Master’s in Project Management
In almost all industries, project managers oversee the planning and execution of complex organizational projects, including implementing new technology systems for businesses and coordinating the rollout of new products. Project management focuses on effective leadership and optimization, ensuring that organizations use resources efficiently and with minimal financial risk.
An online master’s in project management can give you the skills and versatility to lead projects across industries and professional fields, including business, government, and nonprofits. Many online programs also offer the flexibility to maintain your current job while you’re in school.
Our guide to online master’s in project management programs includes information on admission requirements, common courses, and popular career paths. You’ll also find our ranking of the top project management programs, which prioritizes quality and affordability.
Best Online Master’s Degrees in Project Management
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The masters of science in project management offered by Lewis University aims to develop the leadership, communication, and management skills in you. Among the many benefits offered by this university are convenience and no waiting time. They have rolling admissions which mean you can start getting your master’s degree any time you decide. The program consists of a total of five semesters. Classes are usually slated once a week with a time slot of 6PM to 10PM, in order to easily accommodate working adults. As a project management degree holder from this school, you are qualified to take the Project Management Professional examination.
- In-State$35,262
- Out-of-state$35,262
- In-State$14,760
- Out-of-state$14,760
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled6,513
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Tools and knowledge to complete projects before set deadlines, avoid going over budget and successfully hire and manage project team members are outcomes of Lehigh University's Master in Business Administration Project Management degree program. Corporate entrepreneurial ship, finance, marketing, international business and supply chain management are other concentrations that MBA majors can declare. Twelve credits of the MBA program focus on project management. Courses that make up these 12 credits include scope management, project risk management and decision making and ethics on projects. Instructors deliver class materials on a flexible, part-time schedule.
- In-State$56,980
- Out-of-state$56,980
- In-State$27,000
- Out-of-state$27,000
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled7,394
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students will gain a deep understanding of the core principles of management practice and theory through Harvard University's management master's degree program. Subject matter includes marketing, accounting, economic theory, organizational behavior and finance. At least four of the 12 required courses will be taken on campus. The Harvard Extension School is home to a wealth of resources, including career services, library and research tools, a writing center, money management resources, and computer and email services. The Completing Your Degree section contains all relevant information on thesis work and academic advising.
- In-State$51,143
- Out-of-state$51,143
- In-State$50,928
- Out-of-state$52,456
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate3%
- Students Enrolled21,209
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Brenau University
Gainesville, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Brenau University is one of Project Management Institute's registered education providers. The Master of Business Administration in Project Management at Brenau University consist of preparatory, core and concentration courses. MBA foundations and introduction to business communications are the two preparatory courses. Together these classes total six credits. Nearly 39 additional credit hours are required to complete the degree. During classes, students learn how to tie projects into budgets. They also learn about contract management and ethics.
- In-State$31,000
- Out-of-state$31,000
- In-State$13,590
- Out-of-state$13,590
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled2,704
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Project Management program has several aims, including preventing project managers from making costly mistakes, getting maximum output from team members and meeting project timelines. It is these aims that University of Mary seeks to offer adults interested in leading projects in its Master in Project Management degree program. The program is an online offering that generally takes two years to complete. To graduate sooner, students could get approved to enroll in the accelerated option. It takes 18 months to earn the accelerated degree. Up to seven concentrations fall under the degree. Examples of these concentrations are energy management, healthcare, human resources and public administration.
- In-State$18,340
- Out-of-state$18,340
- In-State$12,244
- Out-of-state$12,244
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled3,789
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Florida Institute of Technology offers four project management master's degrees. Project managers, adults in middle management leadership roles and other administrators can pursue a Master in Business Administration with a project management concentration or a Master of Science in Project Management. The school's other two project management master's degrees emphasize information systems and operations research. The MBA degree is fully online. Students pursuing the other three degrees have the option of completing their degree online or on campus. Courses built into the programs cover topics like statistics, economic analysis and leadership. Learning is provided through lectures, workshops, class discussions and guest speakers.
- In-State$42,346
- Out-of-state$42,346
- In-State$22,338
- Out-of-state$22,338
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled8,358
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
Upper Iowa University
Fayette, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of business administration degree program at Upper Iowa University immerses students in the concepts of risk assessment, ethical management and department integration. There are five possible areas of emphasis, but all include instruction on corporate legal issues, economics and market analysis. No matter the chosen concentration, all students will complete a research report as part of a capstone seminar assignment. Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the program does not require students to live on campus. Students can earn the degree at several campus locations or online through distance education.
- In-State$32,589
- Out-of-state$32,589
- In-State$19,685
- Out-of-state$19,685
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled3,031
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Saint Joseph’s University offers a master of arts in organizational leadership that emphasizes organizing and motivating people—the human side of business. They also offer a second program, the master of science in organizational development, which focuses on training students to guide a business during growth and success, as well as managing strategic change. The third program they offer, the master of science in organization development and leadership, combines the best features of the first two degrees. Application to the program is on a rolling basis and is offered six times a year.
- In-State$47,740
- Out-of-state$47,740
- In-State$18,144
- Out-of-state$18,144
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled7,863
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The Drexel University College of Engineering offers a graduate-level project management program that culminates in a master of science degree. The program is designed for working professionals who are at the mid-level of their careers and is delivered in a part-time format to allow greater flexibility. The degree could apply to a range of industries in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. The curriculum includes global leadership skills, team building, strategy development, communication, and both single-project and integrated-project management skills. The program can be completed in as few as two years.
- In-State$54,766
- Out-of-state$54,766
- In-State$36,234
- Out-of-state$36,234
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled23,216
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A master’s of arts in administrative leadership is offered by the University of Oklahoma. This makes it a perfect option for working adults who want to enhance their strategic thinking and leadership skills. During this 33-hour curriculum taught entirely online, students are taught organizational communication, project management, and theories of management and leadership. The program spans three semesters of schooling, and the flexible online courses allow working adults to advance their careers – no matter the field – while attaining a degree. Students must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 to graduate.
- In-State$4,920
- Out-of-state$21,488
- In-State$8,034
- Out-of-state$23,820
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled28,320
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
Why Get a Master’s in Project Management Online?
Increased Job Prospects
An online master’s in project management builds the skills to manage and lead complex projects, making you a natural fit for leadership positions in many industries. The skills you gain can also apply to different types of organizations, giving you more versatile career options and better employment prospects.
Increased Earning Potential
On average, master’s degree graduates can expect to earn a starting salary 22.5% higher than bachelor’s graduates as of 2021 (per the National Association of Colleges and Employers). Master’s graduates in all fields earn an average starting salary of $72,100, while bachelor’s graduates earn $58,900.
Networking Opportunities
In an online master’s in project management program, you’ll be surrounded by other ambitious students and professors who are business leaders. This environment can provide opportunities before and after graduation, such as internships and job opportunities. The connections you make in your master’s program can help you long after you graduate.
Did you know?
The United States boasts the highest median salaries for certified project managers worldwide, ranking ahead of countries like Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Project Management?
In general, project management programs focus on business operations, emphasizing concepts and methods for managing resources and improving efficiency. Projects can take many forms, but the theories and practices of project management translate across different industries. Overall, a project management program trains you to organize major projects and evaluate their efficiency.
Most project management programs require 30-36 credits and take about two years of full-time enrollment. Typical course topics include project plan creation, risk management, and financial planning. You’ll also develop leadership and communications skills and explore business ethics and best practices.
If you’re applying to a master’s in project management program, it pays to do your research. Consider some of the following steps when looking into different schools.
Follow Admission Requirements
- All master’s programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. Some online master’s in project management programs may require previous business courses, though many accept applicants of all majors.
- Most programs require a minimum 2.5-3.0 undergraduate GPA. Some may consider lower GPAs under certain circumstances.
- You may need to take a graduate test such as the GRE or GMAT, though not all schools require test scores.
- All programs require you to submit an official application online, which usually includes an application fee.
- You may need letters of recommendation from former professors or job supervisors.
- Your school may require you to submit a personal statement that describes your interest in the program and your professional goals.
Consider Degree and Specialization Options
- Some online master’s in project management programs let you choose a concentration or specialization as part of your curriculum.
- Choosing a specialization can help prepare you for work in specific industries.
- Potential specialization options include construction management, sustainability, and transportation management.
- A specialization can be a great choice if you already know what industry you want to work in or hope to advance in your current job.
- Most project management programs offer master of science degrees.
- You may be able to choose a project management concentration as part of an MBA or another business master’s degree. These programs build general business skills with a greater focus on project management concepts.
Research Popular Courses
While specific course offerings vary among schools, most project management programs touch on similar concepts. You’ll usually complete core courses, electives, and a culminating capstone experience. Common project management courses include:
- Principles of Project Management: This course introduces key concepts, methods, and tools for project management. Usually included as part of a program core, this course builds a foundation for further study in project management. The course may cover strategies for defining, planning, and executing projects. Other common topics include project scope, time, and cost.
- Agile Project Management: This class, offered as an elective or a core course, focuses on responding effectively to changing project conditions. Coursework highlights factors that can lead to changes in project scope, such as environment, competition, and shifts in customer needs.
- Capstone: Many programs include a final capstone or applied project in the final semester. Capstone experiences often require you to apply the skills you developed throughout the program to an issue or problem in project management.
How Much Do the Best Master’s in Project Management Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate students of all types can expect to pay an annual average of $20,500 as of the 2021-2022 school year. At public schools, you’ll save by paying an annual in-state average of $12,596. Private colleges are more expensive, charging $28,017 per year on average.
Online master’s in project management programs don’t necessarily charge lower tuition rates than in-person programs, and you may need to pay additional technology fees for online courses. However, distance education can help you save on other related expenses, such as relocation, transportation, and childcare.
You have different options to finance your graduate studies, including scholarships and loans. Scholarships are merit-based and never require repayment, while federal and private loans offer repayment options with interest. Other forms of financial aid, such as grants, are less common at the graduate level.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Project Management?
An online master’s in project management prepares you for leadership roles in many fields. Project management concepts can apply to industries such as business, government, and finance. You might also find work in healthcare or social work management.
In general, these careers focus on overseeing the key elements of complex organizational projects. Project management specialists coordinate details like personnel, budget, and schedule. Similarly, management analysts look at organizations’ business practices and find ways to improve overall efficiency.
Project management is a versatile field, but there are always opportunities to develop your skills. Earning additional certifications in certain areas of business, like human resources or accounting, can help you pursue more specialized types of project management.
Job Title | Industries | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
---|---|---|---|
Project Management Specialist | Finance and insurance, manufacturing, scientific and technical services | $98,580 | +6% |
Management Analyst | Management of companies and enterprises, finance and insurance, government | $99,410 | +10% |
Financial Manager | Business, insurance and financial management, government | $156,100 | +16% |
Social and Community Services Managers | Government, individual and family services, community and vocational rehabilitation services | $77,000 | +9% |
Human Resources Manager | Business, scientific and technical services, manufacturing, government | $136,400 | +5% |
Logistician | Government, manufacturing, business | $79,400 | +18% |
How Do You Choose a Master’s in Project Management?
Choosing an online master’s in project management is a big decision with plenty of moving parts. This list highlights some of the major factors to consider when researching programs.
- Faculty Credentials: Research faculty members to see if their interests and values align with your own. Ideally, you want to work with professors whose research and expertise match your professional aspirations.
- Cost/Financial Aid: Cost can be a deciding factor when choosing a program. Earning a degree that creates less debt can give you more options after graduation and improve your financial future. Always explore financial aid opportunities when researching any program.
- Prestige/Reputation: While you shouldn’t choose a program based on prestige alone, it doesn’t hurt to research a school’s reputation and examine what type of jobs graduates usually take. A more prestigious program might lead to better job opportunities after graduation, even if you end up paying more in tuition.
- Accreditation: Always make sure a school holds institutional accreditation before you enroll. Without accreditation, you can’t receive financial aid and your credits won’t transfer to other accredited colleges.
More Questions About Graduate Programs in Project Management
Accreditation is very important for online master’s in project management programs. Always make sure a school holds institutional accreditation from an agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Individual project management degrees may also hold programmatic accreditation from the Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs.