Master's Degree in Project Management | Admissions, Curriculum & Tuition

A master's degree in project management provides the advanced skills necessary to lead complex projects across various industries in public, private, or non-profit sectors.

Below, we explain how to apply for this degree, what courses are typical, and how much tuition is. Whether you're aiming to advance your career or specialize further, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

What Is a Master's Degree in Project Management?

A master's degree in project management, which should always be accredited, is an advanced academic program that teaches students how to manage projects from inception to completion. The curriculum, taught by experienced faculty, typically covers key areas such as project planning, risk management, budgeting, quality control, and leadership.

The program often includes a combination of theoretical coursework and practical experiences, such as case studies, simulations, and internships. These experiences are designed to provide students with a real-world understanding of project management challenges and solutions.

Graduates with a master's degree in project management can pursue leadership roles in construction, information technology, healthcare, and finance. The degree is particularly valuable for those looking to advance their careers, switch industries, or specialize in areas such as Agile project management, construction management, or IT project management.

Additionally, the degree provides a strong foundation for professional certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Master's Degree in Project Management Admissions Requirements

The typical admissions requirements for project management master's degrees include:

• bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or higher (transcripts)
• GRE/GMAT scores (may be waived)
• experience (work-related, internships, or extra-curricular)
• completed application
• letters of recommendation
• purpose statement

Some tips for applying successfully include not procrastinating. Start working on your application well before the deadline. Also, ensure that your purpose statement is written clearly and reflects your career goals and motivation.

When you pick your references, choose teachers or professionals who can speak to your character and ability to manage projects. They usually will have to fill out a form that the school provides.

Last, if test scores are required, take a few practice exams first so that you feel prepared when taking them for real. Always ensure that you complete this step well ahead of the application deadline in case you want to retake them.

Types of Master's Programs in Project Management

There are a few types of project management master's degrees you can enroll in according to your experience and goals.

• Master of Science in project management: focuses on the technical aspects of project management, including methodologies, tools, and analytical techniques
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in project management: combines core business management education with specialized project management training
• Executive master's in project management: tailored for experienced professionals aiming for senior leadership roles, often available in part-time or hybrid formats

Specializations in Master's Programs in Project Management

You can choose one of the following concentrations to focus on a specific type of project management.

• IT project management: prepares students to manage technology projects, including software development and IT infrastructure
• Construction project management: focuses on managing construction projects, covering areas such as cost estimation, scheduling, and safety management
• Healthcare project management: equips students to manage projects in healthcare settings, focusing on improving patient care and operational efficiency
• Agile project management: specializes in Agile methodologies, which are widely used in software development and other dynamic industries
• Sustainability project management: emphasizes managing projects with a focus on environmental sustainability and social responsibility

Master's Degree in Project Management Coursework

Although specific project management courses will vary according to each program, many are going to include courses that focus on the following topics.

• Project planning and scheduling: techniques for effective project planning and scheduling, including the use of Gantt charts and critical path method
• Risk management: strategies for identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks
• Budgeting and financial management: budgeting methods, cost estimation, and financial control for projects
• Leadership and team dynamics: leadership theories and practices, team management, and conflict resolution
• Quality management: principles of quality control and assurance in projects, ensuring deliverables meet the required standards

Timeline To Complete a Master's Degree in Project Management

Project management master's degree programs are around 30 to 36 credits. Therefore, full-time students take around two years to complete the degree. Part-time and online students can adjust that timeframe to meet their needs.

Cost of a Master's Degree in Project Management

On average, tuition for project management programs ranges from $20,000 to $60,000. We've listed the tuition of respected programs below.

• Arizona State University: $23,868
• George Washington University: $58,950
• New York University: $76,449
• Sam Houston State University: $11,529

How To Pay for a Master's Degree in Project Management

You can use several financial aid options to help pay for your master's degree in project management.

• Scholarships, which do not require repayment, are often awarded based on merit or specific criteria related to project management.
• Grants, typically need-based, are available through federal and state governments and do not need to be repaid.
• Federal student loans offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms than private loans and can be a valuable resource for financing your education.
• many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to support employees pursuing advanced degrees.
• For military service members, veterans, and their families, education benefits such as the GI Bill can cover tuition and fees.

Careers With a Master's Degree in Project Management

Some common careers that you can have once you graduate include:

• Project manager: leads projects across various industries, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget
• Program manager: oversees multiple related projects, aligning them with the organization's strategic goals
• Project management consultant: provides expertise to organizations to improve their project management processes and outcomes
• IT project manager: manages technology-focused projects, including software development and IT infrastructure upgrades
• Construction project manager: leads construction projects, coordinating with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure successful project delivery

FAQs About a Master's Degree in Project Management

Review the frequently asked questions below to help you decide if this degree is right for you.

Is Getting a Master's Degree in Project Management Worth It?

Yes, earning a master's degree in project management is worth it if you want to advance your career as a project management leader. The degree provides a competitive edge in the job market and can lead to higher earning potential.

Can I Earn a Master's Degree in Project Management Online?

Yes, many accredited institutions offer online master's degrees in project management, providing the flexibility needed for working professionals or those with personal commitments.

Do I Need Work Experience to Apply for a Master's Degree in Project Management?

While work experience is not always required, many programs prefer or require applicants to have relevant professional experience in project management or a related field. This experience can enhance your application and provide practical insights during your studies.