Inside Online Master’s in Project Management: Reviewing Top Programs

Before You Begin… Ask These Questions

Before you apply, ask yourself the following questions to see if you’re ready for grad studies and to ensure a project management master’s aligns with your goals:

1. Do I have clear career goals in project management? — Consider how an advanced degree will help you achieve specific roles (e.g. transitioning from team member to project lead or aiming for a program manager position).
2. Am I prepared to balance work, life, and online studies? — Honest introspection about your time management is crucial. Succeeding in an online program requires discipline to juggle job projects, coursework deadlines, and personal responsibilities.
3. Do I enjoy leading teams and solving organizational challenges? — Project management careers center on coordinating people and resources. If you thrive on communication, problem-solving, and leadership under pressure, that’s a good sign.
4. Is a specialized project management master’s better for me than a general business degree? — Think about whether you want in-depth project management knowledge versus more broad MBA coursework.
5. Will this degree complement my experience? — If you already have project experience, a master’s can refine your skills and boost your credentials. If you’re new to the field, you can leverage academic knowledge in real-world settings through internships or entry-level project roles.

Comparing Online Project Management Master’s Programs

The Cost of an Online Project Management Master’s

The cost of an online project management master’s can vary widely depending on the program and institution. Per credit tuition charges are typically the biggest cost, and are usually lower at public universities versus private schools. Some programs offer a flat rate for full-time enrollment, which can benefit those taking more courses at once. You can also expect fees for technology, campus libraries, and other services of a few hundred dollars per semester. 

As an online student, you’ll save on relocation or commuting costs by studying from home and many online programs offer the same rate for all students, in or out of state. Below is a comparison of the three featured programs above:

Note: Costs are approximate and based on 2024–2025 data. Always check the latest tuition rates.

Careers with a Master’s in Project Management

Earning a master’s in project management can open the door to advanced career opportunities across many industries. Project management skills are highly transferable, meaning you aren’t limited to one sector. Graduates often step into roles such as project manager, program manager, IT project manager, or project management office director. ​The degree can also help mid-career professionals break into new fields.

Many graduates use their degree to move from supporting positions into managerial roles. You could go from being a project coordinator to a full project manager, and in time, to a senior project manager overseeing multiple projects. These higher-level roles often come with greater responsibility, leadership of larger teams, and higher compensation.

Speaking of compensation, project management is a rewarding field financially. Project management specialists earn a median annual salary around $98,500 in the U.S.​ In sectors like IT or construction, or at the program director level, salaries can surpass six figures. PMP certification (which many pursue after or even during the master’s program) can further boost credibility and pay — 66% of PMP holders reported a salary increase in the last year​.

Your Questions, Answered

Is a master’s in project management worth it if I already have a PMP certification?

It depends on your goals. PMP certification demonstrates project management experience and knowledge, and a master’s degree provides a graduate credential and deeper academic training and theoretical frameworks. If you already have a PMP, a master’s can complement it, expanding skills in areas like strategic management or advanced leadership. Many professionals find that having both an MS degree and a PMP sets them apart, but consider your career stage: PMP is great for validating experience, while an MS is great for building expertise and academic credentials.

Can I work full-time while pursuing an online project management master’s?

Yes, most online project management master’s programs are designed with flexibility for working professionals. Courses are often asynchronous and you can usually take 1 or 2 courses per term to manage your load. Expect to dedicate 10-15 hours per week per course. Some companies provide schedule flexibility or even tuition assistance if they value the degree.

What’s the difference between an MS in Project Management and an MBA?

An MS in project management is a specialized degree focused on project management skills and knowledge. Coursework is tailored to managing projects and teams effectively. In contrast, an MBA (Master of Business Administration) provides a broader business education covering finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and management, with possibly a concentration in project management or a few electives on the topic. If you aspire to be a project management specialist or PMO director, the MS gives you targeted expertise and often aligns with PMI standards (some MS programs are PMI-GAC accredited, which MBA programs usually are not). If you’re aiming for general leadership roles or want a wide-ranging business skill set (and project management is just one of many hats you plan to wear), an MBA might suit you better.

What background do I need to apply? Do I need a specific bachelor’s or work experience in project management?

You do not need a bachelor’s in business or a related field. Applicants come from engineering, IT, healthcare, liberal arts, and other areas, so if your undergraduate GPA meets the program’s threshold you have a decent shot. Work experience in project management is usually not an admissions requirement (except for some executive or advanced programs), but having professional experience can strengthen your application. Many programs admit students right out of undergrad, especially if they have internship or group project experience.

Are online project management degrees respected by employers?

Yes, employers recognize accredited online project management master’s degrees as equivalent to on-campus degrees and are often more interested in your skills rather than learning mode. Programs accredited by PMI’s Global Accreditation Center or schools with regional accreditation/AACSB carry weight and signal quality​.

Best Online Master’s Programs in Project Management

When it comes to choosing the right program, a data-driven ranking can be a helpful guide. Our list of the best online master’s degrees in project management was created by analyzing extensive data from the U.S. Department of Education and over 7,700 universities.​ We looked at key factors including affordability, availability of financial aid, the number of online programs, accreditation, and student support services. This list spotlights top project management master’s programs to help you find the best fit for you.