By TBD Staff
July 2017
According to the Project Management Institute, there will be 15.7 million new project management positions created around the world. Project managers have the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to deliver project both on-time and on-budget. With tight budgets and time constraints impacting how many companies and organizations conduct business, effective project managers are becoming an essential business element. Earning a master’s in project management can be a great way to advance your career and become a valuable asset to your company. Fortunately, many schools offer online master’s in project management which allow professionals to continue working and applying their knowledge and skills throughout the program. We created this list of the best online master’s in project management to help you find a quality program to meet your professional goals.
We started collecting data for our list using College Navigator, a database of institutions around the country. We sought out colleges offering degrees in project management and then narrowed down our list to just those offering an online master’s degree. As we researched these schools, we learned that those accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs offered a curriculum sought after by employers in the field. We further fine tuned our list to include schools of distinction such as those ranked by U.S. News and World Report and the Princeton Review, as well as those accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or the European Foundation for Management Development Program Accreditation System, all indicators of quality programs. We put our top 24 schools in order of their average graduate tuition as indicated by College Navigator. Below are our top 24 online master’s in project management degree programs for 2017.
Our Top Online Master’s in Project Management Degree Programs 2017
#24 Boston University-Boston Massachusetts
Online Master of Science in Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $49,176
What’s Unique
Boston University features the 10th best online master’s degree programs in management according to U.S. News and World Report. Accredited by the European Foundation for Management Development Program Accreditation System, the AACSB, and the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs. Faculty are experts in areas such as agile project management, project improvisation, mega projects, and earned value analysis. The program can be completed entirely online and is comprised of 10 online courses, two of which can even be applied to an Administrative Science’s graduate level certificate.
#23 Stevens Institute of Technology-Hoboken, New Jersey
Master’s in Enterprise Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $33,328
What’s Unique
Stevens Institute of Technology features an online business program ranked #33 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. Students participate in live lectures and group discussions designed to prepare students to excel in project management. Courses cover a variety of topics including strategic perspectives, project planning, project portfolio, and project leadership. Students can take three electives in an area of specialization to gain further knowledge and expertise in a particular focus area. Courses can be applied to Project Management Professional certification or to maintain current certification.
#22 Northeastern University-Boston Massachusetts
Online Master of Science in Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $22,633
What’s Unique
The online Master of Science degree program in Project Management is accredited by the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center (GAC). Students who study at Northeastern receive a balanced education that includes courses in scheduling, conflict resolution, and budget management. Real world case studies allow students to experience how to handle both long term and short term projects. Concentration areas are offered in: Clinical Trial Design; Construction Management; Geographic Information Systems; Information Security Management Leadership; Leading and Managing Technical Projects; Organizational Communication; and Program and Portfolio Management.
#21 University of Pennsylvania World Campus-University Park, Pennsylvania
Master of Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $19,712
What’s Unique
Penn State World Campus is not only accredited by the AACSB, but is a Project Management Institute Registered Education Provider. This 30 credit hour program includes elective coursework in areas such as enterprise architecture, enterprise resource planning, and supply chain management. Students interested in developing their skill set to manage large complex projects are encouraged to apply. Graduates have gone on to work as project managers, master schedulers, sales managers, and business planning analysts.
#20 Norwich University-Northfield, Vermont
Online Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $17,073
What’s Unique
Norwich University offers an innovative master’s in information security and assurance with a concentration in project management. Students benefit from this specialized program which blends management with technical training in information security and assurance to help protect an organization’s information. Students learn from a case study approach using their own workplace or familiar organization. Students complete six courses over three semesters, followed by a one week on campus residency experience featuring recognition ceremonies and graduation. Most students can earn their degree in just 18-24 months.
#19 Capella University-Minneapolis, Minnesota
Master of Science in Information Systems and Technology Management-Project Management Specialization
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $715 per credit
What’s Unique
Capella University’s online master’s in project management is a flexible program designed to schedule coursework around your busy life. This 48 credit hour program features 10 week courses. Students can move quickly through concepts they are familiar with and take additional times with new subjects or ideas.
#18 City University of Seattle-Seattle, Washington
Master of Science in Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $13,914
What’s Unique
The 45 credit hour project management master’s online program at the City University of Seattle is accredited by both the ACBSP and the Global Accreditation Center for Project Management. This top accredited online master’s in project management is designed for students who plan to achieve career advancement in a variety of settings, including government, manufacturing, healthcare, IT and insurance. Students can expect to learn to lead both international and domestic teams, develop effective business solutions, align project goals to business objectives, and be fluid to apply different tools to different situations depending on the needs of the situation. There are no on campus residency requirements and students have the flexibility to check assignments and participate in discussion topics when it is convenient.
#17 Walden University-Minneapolis, Minnesota
Master of Science in Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $12,844
What’s Unique
Walden University is a leader in online education so it’s no surprise that its online master’s in project management makes our list. Not only is Walden accredited by the Project Management Institute, Walden is also an approved Registered Education Provider of project management training through PMI. Courses are offered in an eight week format and cover relevant topics such as budgeting, the social impact of project management, sustainability, and planning and administering project contracts. Online students benefit from 24/7 technical support, a writing center, and a career services center.
#16 The University of Texas at Dallas-Richardson, Texas
Master of Science in Management and Administrative Science with a Project Management emphasis
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $12,418
What’s Unique
The online master’s in project management program at the University of Texas at Dallas is an entirely online program designed around weekly lessons. A 21 credit hour project management core is the foundation of the program and leads to the graduate certificate in project management. An additional 18 credit hours of electives and an international study tour which allows students to develop a global perspective. This highly selective program is ideal for the self motivated professional with some level of experience in project or program content/management.
#15 Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs, Colorado
Master of Science in Management-Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $12,139
What’s Unique
Colorado Technical University features an accredited online master’s in project management ranked amongst the best online programs of 2017 by U.S. News and World Report. This 48 credit hour program can be completed entirely online and features multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to get started when it is most convenient. CTU offers a number of programs and initiatives to lower the cost of this top master’s in project management including: a military discount; a liberal transfer credit policy; eligibility for a Corporate Alliance Grant; and grants or scholarships offered by CTU. Students graduate with knowledge and experience in a variety of areas including project design, scheduling, budgeting, procurement, and risk management.
#14 University of Maryland-College Park, Maryland
Master of Science in Civil Engineering with a Specialization in Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $11,718
What’s Unique
The University of Maryland Project Management Center for Excellence features a cutting edge online master’s in project management designed for engineers, architects, and others with a technical background. Online students can listen to class lectures live or watch recordings when it’s more convenient. Weekly video conferences give online students the opportunity to talk with students and faculty and discuss course material. This 30 credit hour program includes a thesis which includes a report and a verbal presentation. Elective coursework covers a wide variety of topics including web-based project management, cost engineering and control, project procurement management, and advanced project scheduling.
#13 Regis University-Denver, Colorado
Master of Science in Organization Leadership: Project Leadership and Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $11,250
What’s Unique
Regis University is considered to be one of the best regional universities in the west according to U.S. News and World Report. The online master’s in project management is offered entirely online with no set meeting times. This 30 credit hour program features nine credits of core requirements and 18 credit hours in the project management specialization. Students focus on project management from a strategic perspective through use of critical thinking, ethics, risk taking, and change management. Students have the opportunity to complete a dual specialization by pairing a specialization in Enterprise Resource Leadership and Planning, Human Resource Management and Leadership, or Organizational Leadership and Management with the Project Leadership and Management concentration.
#12 Bellevue University-Bellevue, Nebraska
Master of Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $9,810
What’s Unique
Bellevue University offers a master’s in project management online with both hands-on and theoretical components. Students learn the lifecycle of a project and how to deliver within the appropriate time frame and budget. This 36 credit hour program is aligned with the Project Management Institute’s standards and is taught by professionals who have earned their Project Management Professional designation. Students must have at least three years of experience in the field in order to apply.
#11 The University of Alaska Anchorage-Anchorage, Alaska
Master of Science in Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $9,768
What’s Unique
The University of Alaska has offered a PMI accredited master’s in project management since 2007, and has been a PMI Registered Education Provider since 2002. Designed for working professionals, students can attend class online through state-of-the-art, real-time video conferencing. Faculty bring a wealth of field experience into the classroom, providing students with relevant case studies and examples to help facilitate learning. Students interested in research have the opportunity to participate in research opportunities alongside faculty. Those who need additional hands-on experience or are newer to the field can also take advantage of internship opportunities.
#10 Kaplan University-Chicago, Illinois
Master of Science in Management, Project Management Specialization
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $9,432
What’s Unique
The Master of Science in Management program with a specialization in Project Management at Kaplan University is designed to develop leaders in today’s rapidly changing business environment. The online master’s in project management is a 16 credit concentration that is in addition to a 40 credit hour business core. Project management courses cover the lifecycle of a project and align with the guidelines set forth by the Project Management Institute. A capstone research project, completed in the final semester, is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical coursework and real-world application.
#9 University of Maryland University College-Adelphi, Maryland
Management Master’s Degree with Project Management Specialization
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $8,244
What’s Unique
The University of Maryland University College offers an online master’s in project management specialization program for students who plan to work in project coordination, project management, or program management. This 36 credit hour program teaches students how to initiate, plan, track, and close a project as well as how to follow a budget, deal with conflicts, and manage risks. The program can help prepare students earn certifications such as the PMI Certified Associate in Project Management and the PMI Project Management Professional. All courses are available online and students can earn their degree in about two years.
#8 Granite State College-Concord, New Hampshire
Master of Science in Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $8,208
What’s Unique
Top ranked by U.S. News and World Report, the master’s in project management online program at Granite State College is one of the best in the nation. Students benefit from affordable tuition rates and faculty who are experts in the area of project management. Courses are available 100% online but integrate real world examples with traditional text learning. This program is ideal for managers who want to enhance their project management skills, motivate their workforce, and stay within budget.
#7 Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota-Winona, Minnesota
Master of Science in Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $8,100
What’s Unique
The fast-paced online project management master’s program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is versatile enough to be applied to a variety of industries. Students complete 24 credits of project management coursework and nine credits of management courses. A required capstone experience finishes out the program which includes a major research paper and presentation integrating all of the knowledge and skills attained throughout the program. Online students receive an iPad loaded with Saint Mary’s online learning platform for one click access to course content and materials. Students can expect to focus on real world scenarios and interactive exercised throughout the program.
#6 University of Houston-Houston, Texas
Master of Science in Technology Project Management
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $7,956
What’s Unique
The innovative online master’s in project management program at the University of Houston is a 36 credit hour program designed for students with a background in technology who plan to advance into leadership roles within their organization. The curriculum follows PMI guidelines and students learn the project lifecycle and how to implement, monitor, and close down a project. Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of areas such as education, engineering, architecture, government, military, and software development.
#5 University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Wisconsin
Master of Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $7,640
What’s Unique
The University of Wisconsin at Platteville offers an online master’s in project management ideal for professionals who manage time, budget, and scope of complex projects within their organization. Students who have already earned their Project Management Professional certification can earn advance standing in the program. Courses cover areas such as project scope management, project management techniques, human resource management, project risk management, and business ethics. This 30-36 credit hour program can be completed in two years of full time study, but most students attend part time and finish in three to four years.
#4 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach, Florida
Master of Science in Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $7,440
What’s Unique
The master’s in project management online program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University prepares students to manage projects in a variety of professions including technology, healthcare, global infrastructure, renewable energy, and finance. Concentrations are available in: aviation and aerospace; management; leadership; logistics and supply chain management; financial management; systems engineering; information systems; technical management; global management; and human resources management. Students complete an e-Portfolio during their capstone course that showcases the skills developed throughout the program and can be presented as a professional portfolio.
#3 University of Management and Technology-Arlington, Virginia
Master of Science in Management-Project Management Concentration
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $7,020
What’s Unique
The University of Management and Technology in Arlington, Virginia features an online master’s program in project management designed to provide students with a foundation of analytical, leadership, and communication skills to effectively manage and lead project efforts. The concentration is 18 credit hours of project management specific courses that cover planning and control, finance, risk, and contracts and procurements. Faculty are experienced as both project managers and educators, having taught more than 30,000 professionals in the field.
#2 Missouri State University-Springfield, Missouri
Master of Science in Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $4,644
What’s Unique
Missouri State University offers an affordable online master’s in project management program that provides a STEM education to project management professionals. Following the guidelines provided by the Project Management Institute’s Project Management Body of Knowledge, the program teaches students how to manage projects, keep them on schedule and within budget, and satisfy the customer. Courses are offered 100% online and cover areas such as project control systems, project leadership, project management, and cost analysis. Admission to the program is competitive.
#1 Western Carolina University-Cullowhee, North Carolina
Master of Project Management Online
Tuition
Average Graduate Student Tuition for an Academic Year: $4,348
What’s Unique
The most affordable online master’s in project management to make our list is offered by Western Carolina University. Considered one of the best schools to offer online degree programs, WCU was the first program to be accepted for accreditation by PMI back in 1983. Students gain a broad project management perspective that is not related to one specific industry. By completing this degree program in an online format, students have the opportunity to learn about and work as a part of a virtual team. Faculty are highly educated, having earned a doctorate degree and PMP certification through the PMI.
This concludes our selection of the top 25 online master’s in project management degree programs 2017.