10 Affordable Online Project Management MBA Programs 2025

If you're thinking about pursuing or advancing a career in project management, you may be curious about the educational programs that can help you reach your goals. In particular, you want to find out more about an affordable online MBA in project management programs.

Keep reading as we explore some schools offering these types of programs online. We'll also define this type of degree program and answer some common questions you may have.

What Is a Master of Business Administration in Project Management?

A Master of Business Administration, or MBA degree, is an advanced college degree program that prepares students for various high-level business and management careers. MBA programs often offer specializations ?and project management is a common specialization.

Students pursuing an MBA in project management are typically interested in careers as project management specialists. They may also already have experience in project management and are looking to move up in their field.

Most MBA in project management programs take about two years to complete. Accelerated MBA programs online may be completed in as little as 10 to 12 months, while those studying part-time may take three years or more to finish their degree.

How Much Does an Online MBA in Project Management Cost?

Tuition costs can vary widely from school to school. Private universities typically charge higher rates, sometimes more than $1,000 per credit hour, though this isn't always the case.

Those pursuing an MBA project management online often pay much lower tuition rates, commonly around $500 to $1,000 per credit hour. Among the affordable schools discussed in this article, tuition rates range from around $275 to $659 per credit hour. Students should also look into scholarships and other types of financial aid to save more money.

Cheapest Online Project Management MBA Programs

If you have a bachelor's degree and are ready to take your career to the next level, a project management online MBA may be the next step you're looking for. Let's take a look at our top choices for affordable online programs.

1. University of Texas Permian Basin

The University of Texas Permian Basin is a public school in Odessa, TX. It offers an affordable online MBA with several specializations, including project management.

The program helps students improve their decision-making and problem-solving skills to prepare for leadership roles within companies. Students complete coursework on their own schedules and pay some of the most affordable MBA tuition rates in the U.S., potentially graduating in as little as a year.

• Estimated tuition cost: $274.87 per credit hour
• Program length: As little as one year
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Amberton University

Amberton University is a private Christian School located in Garland, TX. More than 60% of its programs are completed entirely online, including its MBA in project management.

The program consists of 36 credit hours and prepares students for real-world scenarios, handling complex projects for companies. Coursework covers project planning, performance, and delivery; this helps students pursue careers in industries such as healthcare, information technology, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $325 per credit hour
• Program length: Varies
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University is a private, for-profit online school headquartered in Orange Beach, AL. Its MBA in project management comprises 36 credit hours and allows students to transfer in up to 24 of those hours.

The program features highly flexible, self-paced courses, multiple yearly start dates, and affordable tuition rates. Students learn the fundamentals of project management and gain a strong skill set to succeed in various business environments.

• Estimated tuition cost: $359 per credit hour
• Program length: Varies
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Southeastern Oklahoma State University is a public school in Durant, OK. It offers a 30-credit MBA in project management that is completed online in as little as 12 months.

The program teaches essential project management skills such as coordination and strategy. Students also take courses in financial management, data analysis, accounting, and more to give them a well-rounded business foundation.

• Estimated tuition cost: $391 per credit hour
• Program length: As little as one year
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana is located in Evansville, IN. This public school offers an MBA in project management that students can completed within one year.

Students learn basic methodologies in project management and gain wider business skills. The program can lead to various career opportunities in project management, operations management, human resources, supply chain management, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $465 per credit hour
• Program length: As little as one year
• Accreditation: HLC

6. University of South Carolina Aiken

The University of South Carolina Aiken is a public school in the University of South Carolina System. Students can pursue enrollment in its flexible, 10-month MBA in project management program.

Students learn essential skills in Agile project management, procurement, and more as they work through this accelerated program. Students have some flexibility in choosing the courses they take and can also choose from various yearly start dates to begin when it's convenient for them.

• Estimated tuition cost: $467 per credit hour
• Program length: As few as 10 months
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. National University

National University is a private school headquartered in San Diego, CA. It offers many online and on-campus degree programs, including an MBA in project management.

The program offers accelerated eight-week course sessions for flexibility and convenience. Courses cover topics such as project monitoring and control, team building, and leadership.

• Estimated tuition cost: $578 per credit hour
• Program length: Varies
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

8. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private Christian school in Lynchburg, VA. It offers a wealth of online programs and concentrations, including an MBA in project management.

The school is highly transfer friendly, allowing students to transfer up to 50% of their total credits toward their degree. Flexible online courses are offered in eight-week sessions, and both full-time and part-time options are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $580 per credit hour
• Program length: Varies
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University is a private Christian school in Lakewood, CO. Known for its adult-centered education, it provides a flexible online MBA with an emphasis in project management.

Students complete coursework in five- and seven-week sessions. All courses are available online and are flexible enough for students to graduate in under two years even when working full- or part-time.

• Estimated tuition cost: $628 per credit hour
• Program length: As few as 18 months
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private school serving a large online student body. One of its many programs is an online MBA in project management.

All courses are completed in 10-week blocks and are highly flexible. Courses combine theory with practical applications, helping students prepare for their future careers without sacrificing work or other life commitments.

• Estimated tuition cost: $659 per credit hour
• Program length: Varies
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

How We Rank Schools

We strive to choose top programs when creating our school rank lists. We used the following criteria when selecting the project management degrees discussed above:

• Accreditation: Each college is institutionally accredited, and many of the business schools maintain accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
• Affordability: Each graduate program offers affordable tuition below $700 per credit hour.
• Program reputation: All of the schools are known for providing high-quality graduate and undergraduate degrees to help students meet their career goals.

What To Expect From an Online MBA in Project Management

Online MBA programs are often designed for working professionals; they provide highly flexible coursework that students can fit around their busy schedules. They typically take from one to three years to complete, though some programs allow students even longer to graduate.

Students pursuing an MBA with a project management specialization take a blend of business core courses, project management courses, and electives. Common course topics include project planning, project risk, risk management, budgeting, and organizational behavior.

Total tuition costs can range from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars per credit hour, depending on the type of program you pursue and the school offering that program. Utilizing transfer credits can help you save both time and money as you work toward your degree.

FAQs About Online Project Management MBA Programs

If you still have questions about attending a college of business for an MBA in project management, you're not alone. Read on for answers to some frequently asked questions.

Is an MBA in Project Management Worth It?

Project managers are in high demand and are typically well compensated for their work. If your goal is to work in project management and you would like opportunities for career advancement, earning an MBA can be well worth the time and money you put into it.

Should I Get an MBA or a Master's in Project Management?

There are two types of project management master's degrees: a Master of Science in project management and an MBA with a project management specialization. The first type of degree provides an in-depth, specialized education on project management, while the second type provides a broader foundation in business skills along with an emphasis on project management.

Earning a master's in project management versus an MBA in project management may have benefits if you want to take a deep dive into the subject; however, if you're interested in a wider variety of business career opportunities, an MBA might be a better fit for you.

Should I Get an MBA or a PMP Certification?

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is available through the Project Management Institute (PMI), and it is available to candidates who meet basic education and work experience requirements. Earning an MBA takes longer and provides more advanced credentials. Many aspiring project managers opt to earn both an MBA and a PMP certification, as these combined credentials can make them more desirable candidates and potentially help them earn more.

How Long Does It Take To Complete a Project Management MBA?

Project management MBAs typically vary in length, as there are both full-time and part-time programs available ?and some schools offer a great amount of flexibility. Accelerated learners can earn their degree in as little as 10 to 12 months; those interested in moving at a more relaxed pace may take two to three years, if not longer, to graduate.

Are Online Project Management MBAs Good for Engineering or Tech Careers?

Earning a project management MBA online can help you pursue a wide range of career opportunities, including jobs in engineering and tech fields. This is especially true if you have an undergraduate degree or professional certifications in the tech industry of your choice.

How Much Can I Earn With a Project Management MBA?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), project management specialists earn an average MBA in project management salary of $100,750 per year and $48.44 per year. Those with more experience and more advanced qualifications can earn even higher wages.

Discover Online MBA Programs

If you're ready to boost your leadership skills and become a project manager, explore the schools featured here on Learn.org. Contact any of the colleges to find out about their admissions requirements and to choose the right degree program for you.