Online Project Management Degree
To respond to industry need, many schools offer online project management (PM) degrees. Talented PMs help a business stay productive, effective and competitive. If you are a details person, earning a PM degree online may further your career.
An online project management degree studies the skills that take a project from start to end. Things such as how to get a contract, plan, time, staff, control, and close projects. One may find online PM degrees at all levels. Bachelors, masters and PhDs. At each level, you may learn the tools and techniques to manage the life cycle of a project. Things such as scheduling, budgeting and cost control.
At the bachelors level, a project management degree is intro level. You are likely to explore basic business and leadership ideas and methods. As a grad, you may have the skills to oversee an organizational project. A masters in project management dives deeper. It tends to look at ways to manage projects in global business contexts. Once you graduate, you may be able to manage agile and virtual teams and projects. PhD in project management programs focus on research. As a student, you work on original research in an area of interest. Grads may be ready to tackle a more strategic leadership role, consult or teach.
Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management
An online bachelors in project management is an entry level degree. It tends to entail 120 credits and four years of study. Many schools offer one of two formats. A bachelor of arts (BA) which includes more liberal arts topics like ethics and law. And a bachelor of science (BS) which takes a more analytic approach and may cover metrics and risk. Apart from these differences, you are likely to learn how to manage a project life cycle. From how to get a contract through to the tools you need to plan the project out.
Some of these tools speak to the sequence, time lines and scheduling. While others touch on cost analysis, staffing and budgeting. To qualify for admission to a BA or BS program, you need a high school diploma or GED. Some schools also set an acceptable GPA and may want to see your ACT or SAT scores. You may need to write a personal essay too. Tuition is another factor, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. If you attend a public college, the average cost for a project management degree is $6,826. It is higher ($28,922) if you choose a private institution.
Master’s Degree in Project Management
An online masters in project management is a grad degree. It tends to entail 36 credits and about two years of study. Many schools offer MBA and other professional degrees. Of them, the master of science (MS) is likely the most technical. So, it often stresses business analytics, risk and performance metrics. Students often pursue an MS for its career focus. In some schools, there is an option to apply PM skills to a niche such as IT or engineering.
While you study key areas like cost, planning, and project control, you may build skills. Most programs focus on ones needed to make executive decisions and oversee a portfolio of complex projects. To ‘get in’ to a masters program, you need an accredited bachelors degree. Apart from this, each school sets standards for admissions. It is reasonable to expect you will have to submit transcripts and meet an acceptable GPA. Possible too are GRE or GMAT scores, references, resume and personal statement.
PhD in Project Management
An online PhD in project management is a research degree and the highest award. It tends to entail around 48 credits and abo
ve three years of study. One of the goals of a PhD is to refine your leadership expertise in business and project management. You are also likely to develop solid research skills through a final dissertation paper. Each of these directions makes most PhD programs wide and deep. Wide to expose you to all the functions of senior PMs. And deep to help you with your original research. As a result, some students may want to use their PhD to step into a strategic executive role. And others, may want to consult or teach.
To gain admission into a PhD in PM program, you are likely to need an accredited masters degree or MBA. Apart from transcripts, you must have an acceptable GPA. Since all schools assess candidates based on their standards, some are more selective. They may ask for resume, references, research interests and strong personal essay.
How much might it cost to earn a master’s project management or PhD online? The average cost of a graduate degree from a public college is $11,303. That means you may find more affordable as well as more expensive options.
What can I do with an Online Project Management Degree?
An online project management degree may be a gateway to a broad range of current and emerging jobs. As PMs contribute to productivity, their work impacts business, science, IT, and engineering. As many of these sectors continue to expand, there may be jobs for all levels of education. In many management jobs, one needs a bachelors for entry level roles. Given that some projects are more complex and technical, some PMs may also need a masters degree or higher. It may also be helpful for workers to have a background in the area in which they work.
1. IT Project Manager
An IT project manager (PM) is in charge of a company’s computer needs. Things like making sure there is a plan to install and upkeep hardware and software. Other duties include security issues such as knowing what and when to suggest upgrades. As a rule of thumb, one is likely to need a masters or MBA for complex computer system needs.
2. Project Engineer
A project engineer handles technical or engineering projects. In this type of role, you work with stakeholders at all levels. As a problem solver, you also manage personnel, budget, safety, quality and scheduling. Apart from these complex skills, you tend to need a bachelors degree, if not a masters.
3. Construction Manager
A construction manager keeps a finger on the pulse of building projects. Such projects include homes, offices, industrial structures, roads and bridges. When doing so, their job is to budget, create a workflow, oversee contractors and staff. As construction processes turn more complex, one tends to need a bachelors degree for entry roles.
4. Operations Manager
An operations manager oversees the day to day admin tasks. Things like setting a staff schedule, assigning jobs to people, and making sure they complete them in a timely manner. In some corporate settings, the role of an operations manager also has some crossover with those of a CEO. As a result, there may be jobs for both bachelor and masters prepared people.
5. Office Manager
An office manager juggles many admin duties that make a business run with ease. They set deadlines, goals, oversee upkeep to equipment and make sure the office complies with rules. Other tasks may be more detailed like managing all the documents or the office building grounds. That said, many employers prefer to hire candidates with a bachelors degree.
6. Project Manager
A project manager (PM) creates a plan to bring a task from start to finish. Some of the things they do are figure out cost, budget, staff needs, and timelines. Most PMs also collect metrics and quality records. And, as there are projects of all sizes may need a bachelors or higher degree. Many PMS also seek certification through the Project Management Institute (PMI).
7. Research Managers
A research manager takes charge of science focused projects. So, they may oversee the work of chemists, physicists and biologists. Also, things like setting budgets, staffing, and stocking the lab. Many people in this role are already scientists and may research on their own too. As a result, many people in these jobs have a masters degree or PhD.
Is a Degree in Project Management worth it?
A degree in project management may provide transferable skills, opportunity and above average earning potential. Jobs in management are also more in demand than others. Per the PMI, many sectors will start to rely on talented PMs in the years to come. They also say there’s a lack of qualified PMs. And this can cost companies billions of dollars if the gap’s not filled.
If you have strong IT skills, this is one of the areas where there is high demand for PMs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that there will be 11% more jobs for IT project managers through 2028. Another area with faster than average growth is the construction sector. This industry expects a 10% growth spurt for construction managers through 2028. Salaries in all these areas vary. Among the highest earners are IT managers. In 2018, many earned between $87,840 and $146,360 (BLS).
Project Management Degree Jobs & Salary
| Occupation | Average Salary | Jobs |
| IT Project Manager | $146,360 | 46,800 |
| Project Engineer | $144,830 | 5,400 |
| Construction Manager | $95,260 | 46,200 |
| Operations Manager | $104,690 | 150,600 |
Top States for Jobs as a Construction Manager
| State | Jobs | Annual Mean Wage |
| TX | 34,560 | $97,970 |
| CA | 32,830 | $121,540 |
| FL | 23,820 | $98,840 |
| NC | 13,500 | $111,250 |
| IL | 13,040 | $95,120 |
What classes will I take with an Online Project Management Degree?
Most project management degrees touch on aspects of supply chain, leadership and finance. These areas help students understand what to do at all stages of a project life cycle.
- Procurement – getting the contract
- Scheduling – timelines
- Cost control – budget for products, services, staff
- Risk – being adaptive to delay and shifts
- Personnel – keeping the team on point
You may study many of these topics when you pursue a PM degree online. But each level of degree tends to do this in a particular way. Some programs also serve as study guides for PMI certification. PMI certification is a credential you might pursue when you have a certain stage of formal education and experience. Below are some examples of what the classes might look like at the bachelors, masters and PhD levels.
Bachelor’s Degree Courses
Classes in an online BA or BS in project management are basic. They tend to look at how to be successful when you plan, execute and close a project. To do this, you have to understand the tools and techniques used, not only to manage a project. But also, how to bid for a contract, get it, and negotiate terms. A project manager also needs a strong grasp of finances. So other topics may help you plan a budget, weigh costs and assess staff needs. Along the way, you may hone softer skills too. So, you may study how to build and motivate teams as well as communicate in a professional way. Other sample bachelors in project management classes are:
Assessing and Managing Risk
This type of course helps to give students the skills they need to identify and analyze project risk. You may learn how to assess, categorizing, and then control risk. You may learn how risk is managed in various industries. Many times, this course also looks at what causes risks and how they can mitigate it using methods and tools.
Project Leadership
In this type of course, you may learn about the link between leadership skills and project management. You may learn how project managers can learn leadership as a way to enhance their project’s success. You may also learn about negotiation and teamwork, as well as how to manage conflict from a managerial aspect.
Operations Management
In this course, you may learn the process of product development. You may learn about quality improvement. Students often learn concepts related to operations, quality, and overall process management. You may often cover mathematical models that can help to influence decisions in inventory, quality, and materials.
Project Procurement and Contract Management
This course often looks at aspects of management knowledge as it relates to contracts. You may learn how to work with vendors and how to gain skills to meet any legal requirements in place. You may learn about contracts as it relates to this industry. Many times, students get to learn about and examine best practices in this environment.
Graduate Degree Courses
Classes in an online MS in project management go deeper. They tend to blend theory with the practical skills needed to manage more complex projects. To do this, many programs feature core classes, a focal area and electives. Core topics may frame PM math and statistics for forecasting and analytics. Focal area classes may help you apply PM leader skills to a certain area. Like supply chain management or engineering.
Also popular among masters in PM programs are techniques for agile management. Agile teams are pods that help a business be productive and timely. As they can be virtual teams, a PM needs to understand the logistics and strategy of using them. Plus, have the skills to integrate them with a business’s functional areas.
Classes in an online PhD in project management are advanced. They tend to stack research and writing classes with business and management topics. You may study ways to initiate, plan, execute, watch, control and close complex projects. Plus, have a more strategic and operational mindset when you do. In your own research, you may develop new PM ideas and practices that might progress the field. To help you do this, there may be a series of classes that explore methods to collect and present data. For some of these classes, you may need to take part in some on campus visits. In these residencies, you might get a chance to network, meet with a mentor and engage in practical exercises. Other sample graduate classes in project management are:
Intro to Project Management
As a master level course, this type of class often preps you for the hands on work in the field. That may include supply management, getting a team together, and managing scheduling. You may learn resource allocation as well as time and cost trade offs in the field. Most often, they will rely on case studies to develop these skills and an understanding of the area.
Project Risk Assessment and Management
This course often looks at managing risk at many phases of a project. It is a way of overall project planning process management. You may learn about the high level risk assessment tools available to use. They may also learn how to create risk planning strategies. Assessment and classification of risk is also a topic in many of these courses.
Project Procurement Management
The focus of this class is often to gain procurement skills as it applies to project management. You may learn about acquiring products and services. You may learn about planning. This course often looks at project admin and closing procurements. There are often insights on ethical issues, contract capacity, and public and private bidding.
Project Planning and Scheduling
This master course is often an important one. It often involves planning, scheduling, and controlling aspects. You often learn about topics like critical path systems, chain scheduling, and analysis from a statistical area.
Popular Areas In Project Management
Project management skills apply to many industries. As a result, some online schools offer a choice of concentration. This is a grouping of online classes that may help you tailor a program to your goals and interests.
1. Organizational Behavior
This focal area may delve more deeply into leader skills for the corporate world. You may grow an ability to manage teams, negotiate and handle conflict.
2. Human Resource Management
Build skills and knowledge on the people side of project management. You may study gender and race issues. Plus how to develop a business through strategic HR practices. Like recruiting, union and management.
3. Managing Engineering Projects
Learn to apply a range of engineering management tools. These relate to being able to forecast, plan and schedule. You may also learn to apply Six Sigma to design and improve products and services. These areas often help to create value to customers in the manufacturing space,
4. Emergency Management
This track is about the critical thinking skills needed to manage in a crisis. You may learn to identify risk and hazards. As well as how to craft and execute response plans.
5. Healthcare Management
A focus in health care may grow your grasp of key topics that managers in this field need to know. Your classes are likely to discuss the U.S. health care system, policies and services. You may also look at quality assurance and ethical decision making.
6. Information Technology
IT managers plan the computer needs of a company. So in this focus you may learn about information systems. And how to use them to meet an organization’s goals.
How long does it take to get an Online Project Management Degree online?
The time it takes to earn a project management degree online can change as each person decides on their course load. As a rule of thumb, it takes four years to earn a bachelors in project management online. If you bring in transfer credits, your program is likely to be shorter. Once you graduate, you may need from one to two years to earn a masters degree in project management online. And, from there, at least three more years to earn a PhD in project management online. Keep in mind, there are full and part time options and you will need time for research.
| University | Level of Degree | # of Credits Required | Starts Per Year | Minimum Months to Complete |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelors | 120 | 6 | 24 |
| Colorado State University Global | Bachelors | 120 | 12 | 48 |
| Ashford University | Bachelors | 120 | Every 5 weeks | 47 |
| Pennsylvania State World Campus | Masters | 30 | 3 | 12 |
| George Washington University | Masters | 36 | 4 | 18 |
| Georgetown University | Masters | 30 | 3 | 24 |
| Capella University | PhD | 90 QC | Multiple | 39 |
| Walden University | PhD | 49 – 103 QC | Multiple | 39 |
| Colorado Technical University | PhD | 100 QC | Multiple | 36 |
Scholarships For Project Management Majors
Many eligible online students receive financial aid to make their degree more affordable. Scholarships are a monetary gift. So, they lessen the need for student loans and help offset tuition rates. Apart from the colleges you are applying to, these may be options.
AfterCollege Business Scholarship
For U.S. undergraduate and graduate students who are majoring in a field of business. There are four awards of $500 each planned.
Deadline: December 31
Goldman Sachs MBA Fellowship
For outstanding students. Fellowship recipients receive a $35,000 award in addition to the Summer Associate salary. Upon successful completion of the summer internship and acceptance of a full time offer, recipients receive an extra $40,000. Plus any full time Associate signing bonus, as applicable.
Deadline: March 28, 2021
Business Professionals of America (BPA) Scholarship
For students who plan to pursue a career in business management, IT, finance, accounting, office administration, and related fields. Recipients must exemplify exemplify the core values of BPA. Leadership, service and involvement. From one to two recipients may receive up to $7,500 each.
Deadline: April 1, 2021
MBA Bauer Excellence Scholarship
University of Houston’s Bauer College of Business offers more than 100 merit based scholarships. These awards of up to $10,000 go to well qualified full time MBA and Professional MBA students.
Deadline: June 1, 2021
Frank Blau Jr. Scholarship
For students who are majoring in business administration or (construction) management. Applicants must be a citizen of the United States, Australia, Canada, or the Cayman Islands. There will be one recipient of a $6,000 non renewable award.
Deadline: August 1, 2021
15 SCHOOLS WITH ONLINE PROJECT MANAGEMENT DEGREES
We have ranked our top 15 schools based on the number of graduates from the program in 2019. Our process looks at 2019 data from the NCES. And, it may help you narrow your search down.
- University of Phoenix Arizona
- Colorado State University Global
- Capella University
- Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
- Ashford University
- Webster University
- Grantham University
- Colorado Technical University
- University of Wisconsin Platteville
- Bellevue University
- Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
- Georgetown University
- Central Michigan University
- Florida Institute of Technology
- George Washington University
FIND AN ONLINE PROJECT MANAGEMENT DEGREE
Here is a closer look at the 15 schools where you might earn a project management degree online.
1
University of Phoenix Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Business – Project Management Certificate
Online
UOPX offers a 120 credit program. It may help you learn to design project costs and timelines. As well as manage project teams and track projects using industry software. At the same time, the core program looks at business functions. Like accounting, marketing and finance.
- Project Risk Management
- Project Estimating
- Leading Projects
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $9,552
Grad $16,752
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$4,010
Average Net Price:
$12,767
More Degree Programs:
- MS in Management
2
CSU Global offers a 120 credit program. It blends theory and real world uses with the soft skills that leaders need. So you may find it helps you understand how to build teams and manage projects using your own strengths. If you want to personalize your studies, there are six areas, each 15 credit hours.
- Quality Management
- Operations
- Procurement
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $8,400
Grad $9,000
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$3,682
Average Net Price:
N/A
More Degree Programs:
- MS in Management
- MS in Project Management
3
Capella offers a 180 quarter credit program available in FlexPath format. It may help you develop project strategies as well as assess how well they perform. You may also gain skills that align with select PMI® and CompTIA certifications. Plus, it may be possible to receive vouchers to take them for free.
- Integration and Scope
- Communication
- Process Groups
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $14,540
Grad $15,233
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$3,781
Average Net Price:
$17,368
More Degree Programs:
- MBA
- DBA
- PhD in Business Management
4
Embry Riddle offers a 120 credit program. It relies heavily on use of current Project Management Information Systems (PMIS) software. As such, it may help you grow skills in word processing, spreadsheet use and presentations. At the same time, PM courses support skills needed to manage, drive and execute projects. There is also a solid business core that draws from law, finance, marketing and operations.
- Risk
- PM in Aviation Operation
- Agile PM
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $9,912
Grad $8,268
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$2,543
Average Net Price:
$20,500
More Degree Programs:
- MBA in Aviation
- MS in Project Management
- MS in Management
5
Ashford’s program entails 120 credits and classes last 5 weeks long. The focus is on ways to start, plan, execute and close projects. That said, students also study a range of business classes. Including accounting, economics and info systems.
- Cost and Schedule Control
- Management
- Intro to PM
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $12,400
Grad $12,810
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$6,217
Average Net Price:
$20,415
More Degree Programs:
- MBA
6
Webster offers an MBA with a focus in PM. The core courses aim to help you apply business skills to boost a company’s value. And the PM coursework is about the practical skills needed to finish projects on time and within budget. In all, you must complete 39 to 42 credits.
- Intro to PM
- Procurement
- Advances in PM
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $28,700
Grad $13,500
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$2,981
Average Net Price:
$23,265
More Degree Programs:
- BS/BA in Business Administration
7
Grantham offers a MS and MBA in PM. The MS is about the knowledge and skills to manage information systems projects. As a Registered PMI Education Provider, grads may be able to go for Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification. There are 30 credits of online courses which many finish in 24 months or less and courses begin monthly.
- Management Info Systems
- PM Essentials
- Emerging Tech
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $8,280
Grad $4,800
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$15,686
Average Net Price:
$8,400
More Degree Programs:
- MBA in Project Management
8
CTU’s offers a GAC accredited program. The Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs is the accrediting body for PMI. It covers areas such as project scope, time and cost management. Plus risk analysis, procurement and scheduling. There are three possible start dates and 48 credits to complete including a capstone project.
- Project Scheduling
- Contracting
- PM Processes
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $12,529
Grad $14,321
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$5,039
Average Net Price:
$16,260
More Degree Programs:
- Bachelor of Business- Project Management
- Doctor of Management – Project Management
9
U Wisconsin offers a PMI® accredited program. As such it may help you sit for project management certification exams. There are from 30 to 36 credits and many students need 2 years to earn their degree. Foundational classes cover managerial themes. How to communicate with stakeholders. Also, accounting and organizational behavior. You also take a full set of PM classes.
- PM Techniques I & II
- Interpersonal Skills
- Project Scope
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $7,353 / $15,473
Grad $8,845 / $17,976
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$5,039
Average Net Price:
$16,260
More Degree Programs:
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Management
10
Bellevue’s 36 credit GAC accredited program is a terminal degree. It may show you how to balance project demands, build and manage a virtual team, and e leadership. You may also grow the skills to help an org reach its strategic goals. And, meet customer needs by bringing a project in on time and within budget constraints.
- Managing Risk
- Cost Control
- Quality in Projects
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $7,851
Grad $11,205
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$4,961
Average Net Price:
$13,261
More Degree Programs:
- BS in Business Leadership and Management
- BS in Project Management
- MBA
11
Saint Mary’s offers a 36 credit PMI GAC accredited program that may prep you to take the PMP certification exam. The school also has a choice of six graduate certificate offerings to add on to your degree. Many students complete the program in two years. While doing so, you may grow leadership skills for cost control and productivity.
- Project Leadership
- Risk
- Financial Management
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $36,670
Grad $9,180
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$21,205
Average Net Price:
$20,369
More Degree Programs:
- MBA
12
Georgetown’s program melds focused coursework and practical, hands on experience using case studies. You must complete 30 credits which includes electives. There are a few core topics such as ethics and communication. You also study to learn how to operate with governance and oversight.
- Frameworks for Lean Enterprise
- Initiation and Planning
- Execution and Delivery
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $56,058
Grad $51,790
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$42,040
Average Net Price:
$28,442
More Degree Programs:
- MS in Supply Chain Management
13
CMU Online offers a 36 credit MBA with a focus in PM. The main courses aim to grow advanced skills in accounting, finance, marketing, and management. And the PM courses may help you multitask, manage your time and bring your ideas in on budget.
- Application of PM Principles
- Data Analysis
- Applied Lean Six Sigma
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $56,058
Grad $51,790
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$42,040
Average Net Price:
$28,442
More Degree Programs:
- BS in Business Administration
- MS in Administration
14
Florida Institute of Technology
Master of Science in Project Management – Information Systems
Online
FIT’s program entails 33 credits. It focuses on database and computers systems as well as core PM skills. In required courses, you study cost, risk and strategic project management. The program also makes use of case studies and a practicum. You choose up to three electives which may round your studies out. These draw from areas within IT.
- Project Tools and Techniques
- Telecomm System Mgmt.
- Intro to Managerial Statistics
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $42,470
Grad $22,588
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$24,210
Average Net Price:
$32,776
More Degree Programs:
- BA in Business Administration
- MS in Acquisition and Contract Management
- MBA
15
GW’s program offers online learning with a “live” option. You may take part while the course happens on campus or view the session later. The course plan entails 36 credits and is a blend of PM, leadership and managerial training. You must take classes in a specific order, beginning with basics. Then come core PM and decision sciences topics, mgmt. principles and electives.
- Risk Analysis
- Cost Estimation
- Executive Decision Making
Tuition and Fees:
Undergrad $56,935
Grad $31,824
Special rates available for military students.
Avg Grants & Scholarship Aid:
$29,939
Average Net Price:
$38,829
More Degree Programs:
- MBA
*Unemployment Earnings. Sources for school stats and data include the NCES and IPEDS.