What You Should Know About This Degree
Being a successful project manager means seeing a project through from conception to close. Project managers must be able to stay organized, solve problems creatively, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively. When considering a career as a project manager, it’s important to reflect on your personal strengths to determine if you have the right aptitudes for this job.
Earning an MBA in project management is just one way to enter or advance in the project management field. You can also earn a Master of Science (MS) degree, which will have a more research-focused approach that may include completing a thesis. There are also a number of graduate certificate programs offering project management education. These types of programs tend to have a faster completion time and cost less, although they do not result in the granting of a full degree. When deciding which type of project management program you want to pursue, think about what your ultimate career goals are and the type of education that will best prepare you.
Once you finish your degree, you will likely want to pursue one or more professional certifications in project management. These certifications are voluntary, but they demonstrate to employers your knowledge and commitment to the project management field, making you a more attractive job candidate.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching Online MBA in Project Management programs:
- Are there any in-person requirements for this program? Although these programs are delivered primarily online, some programs may have in-person requirements, either for on-campus residencies or off-site internships. As you research programs, find out if you will be required to complete any requirements in-person so that you can plan to accommodate them in your schedule and budget.
- Do I meet the qualifications for this program? Some MBA programs are open to students of all educational and professional backgrounds, while others require students to have an undergraduate degree in business or a related field and/or professional experience. Be sure to review the program’s eligibility requirements before applying to confirm that you meet the program’s minimum qualifications.
At this point, you should also begin gathering application materials, taking any necessary standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT, and considering your options for funding your graduate degree. Financial aid resources include student loans, scholarships, assistantships, and tuition remission or reimbursement benefits from your employer.