Project management focuses on the skills and methods for leading teams and activities through various project stages. Online project management degrees often support lucrative management occupations in various public and private sectors. Project management students usually benefit from choosing a concentration in a particular industry.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that project management specialists earn a generous median annual salary of $77,420. Managers earn a median annual salary of $109,760. Financial managers, health services managers, and computer and information systems managers also enjoy positive job growth rate projections between 2019-2029.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org 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.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in Project Management?
Working professionals often pursue project management master's degrees online to acquire specialized skills, salary raises, or promotions. Master's-level degrees meet or exceed minimum degree requirements for many competitive management occupations, which garner a median annual salary of $109,760.
Online project management degrees may pay for themselves within a few years. Enrolling in flexible, online programs can allow learners to attend after hours, thereby advancing their education without sacrificing their income. Online programs also save enrollees money on commuting or residency fees and generally cost less per credit.
How Much Does a Project Management Degree Cost?
Master's in project management degree costs vary considerably by program and institution type. Online programs may charge lower tuition rates than on-campus programs at the same schools. Earning a project management master's degree online also saves learners on residency costs, commuting expenses, and on-campus fees.
Many online programs allow self-pacing, which means that enrollees can attend part time while maintaining a full-time job and income. Some online programs offer accelerated programs for learners who want to finish more quickly. Schools that charge a flat-rate per semester may cost less than traditional-length programs.
According to a 2020 college pricing report from the College Board, average annual tuition at private institutions costs over three times more than at public, in-state institutions. When choosing where to apply, prospective online project management students should seek out online programs at in-state public institutions or at out-of-state schools offering in-state tuition rates to distance learners.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
College degrees often prove very expensive, so compare online tuition prices and programs carefully. Affordable Colleges Online's affordability calculator can help you estimate what you can afford to pay for your online project management degree. To use this tool, gather key financial information such as income, estimated book costs and fees, living expenses, and your FAFSA results.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Project Management Majors Make?
Newer project management professionals often work in roles such as project scheduler, project coordinator, project management assistant, or project communications officer. According to PayScale salary data from April 2021, these careers often pay $50,000-$60,000 annually.
Advanced positions often pay more. Project management specialists make a mean annual wage of $84,290. When combined with requisite professional experience, a project management master's degree may also qualify graduates for high-level management positions in growing industries such as construction, software development, information technology, and healthcare.
Salaries and job growth rates vary heavily by role and industry. Some of the highest-paying management professionals include advertising and marketing managers, architectural and engineering managers, computer and information systems managers, and financial managers. BLS salary data suggests that these professionals make median annual salaries in the $140,000-$150,000 range.
Courses on Project Management
Online project management master's curricula usually entail at least 30 core and specialized course credits in areas such as operations and project management, quantitative analysis for decision-making, cost and value management, and planning and resource management. Many programs include internships and capstone projects.
Project management may appear as a concentration within a more general business or management degree, such as an MBA. However, some schools offer project management master's degrees with additional concentrations in areas like healthcare, construction, computer and information systems, or the public sector. Other possible specialized courses or concentrations may include construction or enterprise architecture, supply chain management, or engineering.
See below for some common courses in project management master's programs.
Introduction to Project Management
This interdisciplinary course provides an overview of the planning, budgeting, leadership, and management skills and activities involved in each phase of a project's lifestyle. Usually using real-world situations and problems as learning tools, this course helps enrollees anticipate common issues and make informed project management decisions. This introductory course often serves as a prerequisite for other courses.Cost and Value Management
This core course prepares participants with tools and techniques for controlling project costs. Enrollees gain fluency in cost estimation methods and processes, including budget identification, planning, and management. The course teaches students how to conduct variance analysis and corrective action. Participants also learn how to develop and control project budget baselines.Planning and Resource Management
Course participants explore project development stages and processes, including resource acquisition and management. Additional key areas of study include project scope, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. Learners can also gain knowledge and skills for people management and quality control.
Certifications and Licensure for Project Management
Project management master's degrees exceed minimum degree requirements for many careers in this field. However, advanced degrees can improve candidates' chances for promotion to high-level positions. Earning professional certifications can also boost job applicants' competitiveness. See below for three popular project management-related certifications.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) administers this globally recognized credential to applicants who pass a related certification examination. PMP certification signals readiness for roles such as project management specialist, assistant, or coordinator.
The PMI CAPM certification supports project management professionals seeking advanced skills useful for overseeing larger projects. This certification requires a high school diploma or associate degree, 23 hours of project management education, and a passing score on the CAPM exam.
PgMP certification serves senior-level project managers who manage multiple, related projects. Candidates need a secondary degree, PMP certification or 48 months of project management experience, and 84 months of program management experience. Four-year degrees can substitute for 36 months of program management experience.
Best Online Master's in Project Management
#1 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Charleston Southern University
- Charleston, SC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in South Carolina, Charleston Southern University is one of the best schools for online degrees. The rigorous curriculum and expert faculty make the master of science in project management program a top program in the field. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help distance learners complete their degree. The learning format maintains a high quality thanks to virtual communication with faculty and peers.
Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. According to the school, 99% of students receive financial aid and 59% take out loans. The admission rate for applicants across all programs is 50%.
Charleston Southern University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,491
Online Master's Program Totals: 7
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,500
Average Cost After Aid: N/A
Charleston Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
New England College
- Henniker, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
New England College delivers a respected online master's in information technology project management. With a variety of online offerings, the private institution enrolls 2,145 distance students. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, which are ideal for busy enrollees.
The rigorous curriculum emphasizes career-focused skills and knowledge. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. Learners develop specialized industry skills and knowledge. Master's graduates can often secure advanced roles. Students and alumni can benefit from the institution's career services.
The school offers learners access to career advising and financial aid counseling. The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Degree-seekers often apply for fellowships to fund their graduate education. The institution's average cost per credit is unknown.
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Saint Leo University offers an online MBA in project management. The Florida school enrolls 1,392 students in its online classes. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program emphasizes advanced skills and knowledge for project management careers. The institution reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, giving enrollees one-on-one time with faculty.
The school’s website provides more information about support services and student organizations. Degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. These options help master's students pay for their degree with less debt. Students can expect a graduation rate of 49% for this program.
Saint Leo University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 7,873
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 27
Graduate Tuition: $7,296 per year
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Bellevue University offers an online master of project management. The Nebraska school enrolls 505 students in its online classes. The accredited curriculum sets high standards for academic excellence. The program prepares enrollees for careers in project management with advanced skills and knowledge. The school reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 27-to-1, giving degree-seekers one-on-one time with faculty.
The institution's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The school charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This helps students afford the master's degree with less debt. The college reports a 24% graduation rate for its programs.
Bellevue University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 11,008
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 24
Graduate Tuition: $10,530 per year
The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Sam Houston State University offers accessible, affordable online programs. The public institution delivers 43 online programs, including 27 master's programs. Learners can pursue a master of science in project management. The program's flexibility can make earning a degree easier.
Degree candidates gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. The rigorous curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge, with an emphasis on industry-specific skills. Students usually earn their master's after 1-2 years of full-time study. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can contact an admissions advisor.
Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $5,765 for Texas residents. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. At the school, 86% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
- Platteville, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Platteville, University of Wisconsin-Platteville educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs.
The institution offers an online master of science in project management for busy students who want to earn their project management degree while maintaining employment. Program graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current project management career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
University of Wisconsin-Platteville Fast Facts:
Average Per-Credit Cost: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 86%
Students Receiving Loans: 50%
Total Master's Programs: 11
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
18%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Granite State College
- Concord, NH
- 4 years
- Online
Located in Concord, New Hampshire, Granite State College delivers academic programs online and on campus. The public school's online offerings include a flexible master of science in project management.
Master's students begin the online program by completing core courses that explore important project management principles. The curriculum also includes advanced courses covering in-depth project management topics. Faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and electives help graduate students individualize the program.
After completing the project management program, master's degree-holders can apply to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. Graduate students and alumni can receive professional assistance and resources from the institution's career counselors.
The school's average cost per credit is unknown. As an accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for federal financial aid programs. Learners can use grants, scholarships, and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. According to the school, 84% of the student body receives financial aid.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Colorado State University-Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 years
- Online
Colorado State University-Global Campus delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Aurora campus. The school offers 15 master's programs and 12 master's programs in an online format. One option includes an online master of project management.
The program prepares learners to pursue positions in the field or advance their current career. The school offers students access to faculty mentorship and career counseling.
Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates. Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Students who transfer credits can often save money on tuition.
Colorado State University-Global Campus Facts:
Average Per-Credit Fee: $408
Students Receiving Loans: 42%
Total Master's Programs: 12
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Applies Transfer Credits: Yes
Retention Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Among City University of Seattle's academic offerings is a respected master of science in project management program. A private institution located in Washington, the university enrolls 1,568 students in its distance learning programs. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, which are ideal for busy learners.
Degree candidates develop transferable skills and gain field-specific knowledge. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. Learners in the flexible online program benefit from industry-specific training. The project management master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's students and alumni.
In addition to career advising, learners can access financial aid counseling to ensure they explore all funding options. The school charges online students affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#10 Online Master’s Programs In Project Management
Golden Gate University-San Francisco
- San Francisco, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
California-based Golden Gate University-San Francisco offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners can pursue online programs in many fields.
The online master of science in project management is one of the best online project management degrees. Learners currently employed in the project management field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's. Student support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, help enrollees succeed academically and professionally.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. In addition to federal funding, degree-seekers can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Golden Gate University-San Francisco Fast Facts:
Average Tuition Per Credit: Unavailable
Students Receiving Loans: 30%
Total Master's Programs: 27
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
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
Factors to Consider When Earning a Online Master's in Project Management
Is a project management degree worth it?
According to PayScale data from April 2021, project management master's degree graduates average about $84,120 annually. Bachelor's in project management graduates make about $71,620.
Is a project management degree hard?
Project management requires various skills in planning, personnel management, communication, and quality assurance. Earning an online project management degree usually proves manageable for students with some aptitude in these skill areas.
What kinds of jobs can I get with a project management degree?
Online project management degree graduates can work in many roles, fields, and industries. Common titles include project management specialist, planner, manager, or administrator.
What are the highest paying project management jobs?
Earning a project management master's degree can help graduates qualify for many high-level management occupations, which often pay top salaries.
Reviewed by
