Best Online Master’s in Project Management
Organizations in every industry need project managers to lead each phase of a project to ensure it meets business goals in a timely, cost-efficient manner.
An individual with a master’s in project management or an MBA in project management possesses the skills and knowledge companies in just about every industry seek. With more corporations turning to a project-based approach to meet goals and assign responsibilities, effective leaders in project management remain in demand.
An online MBA in project management degree allows working professionals and non–traditional students to enhance their business and management skills without sacrificing their schedule.
An online master of project management (MPM) curriculum varies by program. Some adhere to the Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Management Body of Knowledge guide, while others prepare students for Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification. Still others maintain their own focus and concerns.
The Best Online Project Management Master’s
George Washington University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in project management degree at George Washington University, located in Washington, D.C, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of science in project management program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in project management or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
George Washington University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 41%
Total Online Master's Programs: 50
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,770
22%
$31,770
92%
$31,770
- Acceptance Rate
- 41%
- Students Enrolled
- 27,814
- Institution Type
- Private
Brandeis University
- Waltham, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Brandeis University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, offers a flexible online master's in project management. The master of science in project and program management helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on project management. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The admission requirements include a background in project management or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Brandeis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 30%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Science in Project and Program Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $51,940
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $51,940
7%
$51,940
93%
$51,940
- Acceptance Rate
- 30%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,825
- Institution Type
- Private
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
The online master's in project management degree at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, prioritizes flexibility. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in project management program. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in project management. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in project management or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 62%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,268
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,268
93%
$8,268
52%
$8,268
- Acceptance Rate
- 62%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,773
- Institution Type
- Private
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville
- Platteville, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in project management degree at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville prioritizes flexibility. The master of science in project management program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on project management. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in project management or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,640
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,771
18%
$ 7,640
79%
$16,771
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,271
- Institution Type
- Public
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in project management degree at Sam Houston State University, located in Huntsville, Texas, prioritizes flexibility. The master of science in project management program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to project management. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in project management or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
53%
$ 5,765
75%
$13,361
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 21,558
- Institution Type
- Public
Elmhurst College
- Elmhurst, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Elmhurst College, located in Elmhurst, Illinois, enrolls master's students in its online project management program. The master of project management strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in project management. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program builds on prior project management experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Elmhurst College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,667
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,667
20%
$31,667
82%
$31,667
- Acceptance Rate
- 68%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,453
- Institution Type
- Private
The College of Saint Scholastica
- Duluth, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's degree in project management at The College of Saint Scholastica, located in Duluth, Minnesota, offers high academic quality. The master of science in project management program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in project management. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in project management or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
The College of Saint Scholastica at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,986
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,986
34%
$13,986
81%
$13,986
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,906
- Institution Type
- Private
Charleston Southern University
- Charleston, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Charleston, South Carolina, Charleston Southern University offers an online master's in project management. The master of science in project management program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to project management. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants who majored in project management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Charleston Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,500
43%
$7,500
65%
$7,500
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,477
- Institution Type
- Private
Florida Institute of Technology
- Melbourne, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Melbourne, Florida Institute of Technology offers an online master's in project management. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in project management program. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants with prior experience in project management or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Florida Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 66%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $22,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,338
10%
$22,338
79%
$22,338
- Acceptance Rate
- 66%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,022
- Institution Type
- Private
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's degree in project management at Saint Leo University, located in Saint Leo, Florida, offers high academic quality. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of business administration in project management program. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in project management or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Saint Leo University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 72%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,296
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,296
72%
$7,296
69%
$7,296
- Acceptance Rate
- 72%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,912
- Institution Type
- Private
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
- Winona, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in project management program at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, located in Winona, offers a flexible online format. The master of science in project management program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in project management. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program builds on prior project management experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 92%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,180
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,180
33%
$9,180
84%
$9,180
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,548
- Institution Type
- Private
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University hosts a top-rated online master's in project management. The master of science in project management program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in project management. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in project management may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 39
Program Name: Master of Science in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
38%
$35,181
89%
$35,181
- Acceptance Rate
- 75%
- Students Enrolled
- 24,205
- Institution Type
- Private
Brenau University
- Gainesville, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's degree in project management at Brenau University, located in Gainesville, Georgia, offers high academic quality. The master of business administration in project management program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the project management field and related industries. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in project management or a related field for their bachelor's typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Brenau University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,834
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,834
60%
$12,834
52%
$12,834
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,817
- Institution Type
- Private
Wayland Baptist University
- Plainview, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Plainview, Texas, Wayland Baptist University offers an online master's in project management. The master of business administration in project management program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in project management. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a project management background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Wayland Baptist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,104
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,104
61%
$13,104
41%
$13,104
- Acceptance Rate
- 97%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,084
- Institution Type
- Private
Colorado State University Global
- Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Located in Aurora, Colorado State University Global offers an online master's in project management. The master of project management program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in project management. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with a background in project management typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Colorado State University Global at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 99%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Project Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,000
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,000
N/A
$9,000
N/A
$9,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 99%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,670
- Institution Type
- Public
Best Online Masters
Project Management
2023
Online Project Management Master’s Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyWhat is Project Management?
Many companies use a project–based approach to setting and accomplishing organizational goals and achieving growth. To meet these goals, companies often employ a project manager to lead projects and project teams. While project teams use a variety of specialists, each with unique and significant tasks, project managers possess a broader background that incorporates knowledge from many of these specialized fields. The best project managers can effectively organize, plan, lead, and execute a project, directing the team through the process and ensuring the project meets the deadline and satisfies the investors.
What Are the Differences Between a Project Manager and Scrum Master?
While a project manager leads projects as a whole, a scrum master specifically leads the project team, ensuring the team stays on task, on schedule, on budget, and productively works toward its goal. While project managers lead a project team, their job includes other, larger responsibilities as well, such as awareness of ethical and legal concerns, mediation between the company and the client, presentation of the project to the company, and resource management.
Part of a project manager’s job may involve hiring a scrum master to manage the team on a day–to–day basis while the project manager tends to other tasks. The scrum master maintains accountability for the team, but not accountability of the overall project. This falls to the responsibility of the project manager.
What is a Master in Project Management Degree?
A master in project management degree prepares students to pursue careers as leaders in a variety of fields, specifically in regards to organizing, directing, and executing projects. The best programs for this degree incorporate a healthy blend of theoretical and practical knowledge. They convey to students a strong foundation in all aspects and factors relevant to project management, including planning and execution, personnel management, and negotiation and mediation.
Subjects students in an MBA in project management online degree program might pursue include:
- Information risk in project management
- Cost–benefit analysis for a specific company
- Evaluation of quality of change in a company over time
- Planning a project for change in a company
- Planning a new product investigation
- Project management in the global economy
- Franchise expansion or acquisition and its effect on profitability
- Ethical and legal concerns for project management in foreign markets
The Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Project Management
Individuals who earn a master’s in project management online work in various fields and positions. In every industry, projects need managing. If you love film or photography, pursue a position as a project manager for a creative agency. If you possess an interest in architecture and construction, work as a project manager on a new development site.
Earning a master’s degree can open doors for higher–level management positions. For example, individuals with just a bachelor’s degree typically only qualify for project coordinator positions rather than project manager positions. Bachelor’s degrees provide foundational knowledge about a industry, but earning a master’s in project management online allows you to learn the ins and outs of overseeing projects from the comfort of your home.
If you’re still not convinced that earning a master’s degree is right for you, look at how much more you can make with an MBA in project management compared to a bachelor’s degree.
Online Master’s in Project Management Programs
Online MBA project management programs differ from traditional programs, but many students find the format convenient. Individuals remotely complete their degrees at their own pace, a flexible format ideal for busy professionals and working parents. In an online program, students complete homework, write on discussion boards, and sometimes watch video lectures. Most online programs allow students to take unsupervised timed tests.
Self–motivated students often find success with asynchronous learning. In this format, students move at their own pace and communicate with other students and professors via online discussion boards and email. However, students who lag behind in self–discipline might find more success with synchronous learning. This learning format requires students to attend online lectures and chats at specific times and can provide structure, immediate feedback, and stricter deadlines. Some students find this format too restrictive, while others love the dependable routine.
Choosing an Online Project Management Graduate Program
When it comes to choosing a master’s in online project management program, find a school that best fits your needs. Find an accredited program that offers coursework which aligns with your future career. Keep in mind that in–state programs generally cost less than out–of–state programs, though some online programs will charge in–state rates for all students.
Accreditation for Online Project Management Graduate Degrees
As you research online project management programs, pay attention to accreditation. Accredited schools receive regular assessments from private agencies that the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education deem reliable. Schools should list whether they possess regional or national accreditation. If you don’t see the accreditation listed online, a school might not hold accreditation. For regional accreditation, an accrediting agency reviews schools in a certain U.S. region. Schools with national accreditation receive their assessment from agencies certified to accredit schools anywhere in America.
You should also ensure your desired school boasts programmatic accreditation for project management. The Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs is the field’s leading accrediting agency.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master in Project Management Degree Program?
On average, full–time students complete an online master’s in project management program in just two years. Part–time students complete the degree in about four years. If you want to complete your degree faster, look for an accelerated program. These programs typically allow students to take more credits per semester. Course length remains typically shorter but faster to cover all the necessary material.
With rising tuition costs, completing your degree in a timely manner can save you money. In order to graduate on time, full–time students must take around 30 credits per year. Part–time students must take 15 credits per year. Choose a pace that works with your lifestyle.
Courses in an Online Master’s in Project Management Program
- Project Management Overview: This course offers a bird’s–eye view of the program. This course quickly covers the basics of project management and provides students with project management background knowledge that comes in handy in later courses.
- Project Management Technology: In this class, students learn how to use project management software to keep projects on track. Certain industries, such as engineering, require more advanced software, while fields such as marketing only require basic software that keeps employees on track with due dates.
- Project Budgeting: If you dislike math, you may not enjoy project management since the field requires budgeting. Most online programs include an entire class that teaches project estimate and budgeting techniques. Luckily, with the right software, many professionals budget with ease after taking this course.
- Effective Leadership: To succeed as a project manager, you must rise as an effective leader. Students in effective leadership courses learn to delegate and motivate employees to reach a common goal. This class also covers best practices for hiring and firing employees.
- Project Analysis: In this class, students learn how to analyze projects. The course teaches students how to determine a project’s scope and determine what needs to happen to achieve the project’s goal. Upon completion, students should also know how to evaluate a project’s quality and how to problem–solve.
Project Management Certifications
What is PMP Certification?
Like certification in any field, Project Management Certification provides professionals with a stamp of quality that opens up career opportunities and higher potential salaries. With the PMP certification from the PMI, students enjoy a better chance at career success in project management. Maintenance of PMP certification requires ongoing learning and achievement, and certified professionals must earn 60 professional development units every three years.
PMP Certification Requirements
Some master of project management degree programs offer curricula certified by the PMI or designed to PMP standards. These programs also help students meet the certification’s basic requirements. The requirements include:
Secondary degree
- 7,500 hours of leading and directing projects
- 35 hours of project management education
Four–year degree
- 4,500 hours leading and directing projects
- 35 hours of project management education
In order to get PMP certification, students must meet the prerequisite criteria and apply to take the certification exam through the PMI.
Master Certificate in Project Management
A master certificate in project management takes no more than a year to complete, and though not as lengthy or comprehensive as a full–blown master’s degree, a master certificate in project management provides a general overview of the subject. Whether earned after a student has returned to school, or as a complementary addition to a full master’s degree in a relevant field, a certificate provides students some extra qualification to enter or advance in project management, and presents a step toward a master’s degree.
What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
Construction managers oversee the building of roads, buildings, bridges, and other structures. Before starting the job, they create a plan for each project stage and make sure each task gets completed on time.
Engineering managers ensure that engineering projects get completed on time and stay on budget. They also train new and current employees on the latest industry advances.
Marketing managers often manage several marketing projects at once, whether it’s a social media campaign or influencer event. They manage marketing efforts for entire brands or single projects.
Production managers often work in the film industry and enhance a film project’s production workflow. They plan and implement all production process stages and assess content for quality.
Project Management Membership Associations
The best project managers commit to lifelong learning. By joining professional organizations and surrounding yourself with other successful project managers, you stay inspired and on top of the latest project management trends. Most professional organizations offer networking opportunities, training webinars, exclusive job boards, and other membership perks.
