Why This Matters
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MORE THAN 500,000 NEW JOBS WILL BE AVAILABLE BY 2029
Project management positions are growing at a faster-than-average pace. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects there will be 505,000 new positions for project managers by 2029.
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THERE ARE 325,000+ ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES MANAGER JOBS
Administrative services managers are in particularly high demand. They oversee operations and personnel in various settings, and there are 325,900 positions just for this position.
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PROJECT MANAGERS CAN INCREASE THEIR EARNINGS BY $34,600
Payscale reports that the average annual salary for project managers is $74,413, compared with $39,810 across all jobs. Project managers with specializations can earn even more.
Our Research
We reviewed many Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees that focus on project management, and we included both online and on-campus programs to meet different students’ needs. Online programs might require a brief in-person component, such as a seminar or internship.
The programs listed include both regionally and nationally accredited graduate schools. Many of the programs also have business-specific accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
- 74 hours to write this article
- 185 universities and colleges we assessed
- 273 education programs we compared
The Top 50 MBA in Project Management Degree Programs
Discover More Options
What You Should Know About This Degree
Either an MBA in Project Management or a Master of Science in Project Management can help advance your career, but the two degrees are not identical. An MBA program includes courses on project management as well as other business-related subjects, such as human resources, accounting, marketing, and ethics. An MS will be more narrowly focused on project management, and it’ll require less time as a result. Consider your career aspirations and available time as you evaluate these two degree options.
Most online degree programs can be completed remotely, but some might have in-person components. For example, a program may require an on-campus seminar or an in-person internship. In the case of an internship, you might be able to meet such an obligation in the city where you live. Take into account any in-person requirements as you evaluate online programs to be sure your schedule will allow it.
Certification isn’t required to work as a project manager, but it can help set you apart from others in the field. Several voluntary certifications are available through the Project Management Institute and organizations.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask as you consider MBA in Project Management programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? MBA programs require an undergraduate degree, but the subject of that degree varies depending on the program. Some programs require incoming students to have a bachelor’s in a business-related field, while others accept students with any bachelor’s degree. Review a program’s eligibility requirements to make sure you qualify before applying.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most MBA degrees require two years of full-time classwork, although they can be completed at a slower pace. Attending classes part-time could extend a program to three or four years in most cases.
Once you’ve identified programs of interest, find out what the application process requires. Check schools’ websites or ask them directly about required materials and deadlines.
Also consider how you’ll pay for tuition and other costs. Check with programs to see what financial aid and merit-based scholarships are available. If you’re employed, you might qualify for tuition reimbursement from your employer.