A Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a project management concentration can help you advance your career, creating job opportunities in senior-level positions as a project or program manager. Online MBA in project management programs allow you to balance your studies alongside a full-time job or family responsibilities.
While the average annual cost of graduate school tuition is $20,513, the return on investment is immense as the demand for skilled project management professionals continues to rise.
We interviewed Michelle Pickett, director of Northern Illinois University’s Academic Advising Center, for her insights on selecting the best online MBA program and how aligning your career goals can enhance your academic success.
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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
Our Methodology
Our list features the best online Project Management degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
The Top 26 Accredited Online MBA in Project Management Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Fayetteville State University
Intelligent Score: 99.95In-state: $2,982
Out-of-state: $14,590
In-state: $3,438
Out-of-state: $3,438
SAT: 840-1000
ACT: 16-20
Resident: $224
Non-Resident: $887
Online
Global Accreditation Center
39
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater
Intelligent Score: 97.94In-state: $9,273
Out-of-state: $37,161
In-state: $10,728
Out-of-state: $10,728
SAT: 1260-1460
ACT: 27-32
$678
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
36-42
Lehigh University
Intelligent Score: 96.73In-state: $54,790
Out-of-state: $54,790
In-state: $27,000
Out-of-state: $27,000
SAT: 1260-1433
ACT: 29-33
$1,295
Online, On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
36
Mississippi State University
Intelligent Score: 94.79In-state: $8,800
Out-of-state: $23,840
In-state: $8,800
Out-of-state: $8,800
SAT: 1050-1270
ACT: 22-30
$537
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
City University of Seattle
Intelligent Score: 94.07In-state: $13,658
Out-of-state: $13,658
In-state: $11,812
Out-of-state: $11,812
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$735
Online, On-Campus
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
39-51
DeSales University
Intelligent Score: 92.09In-state: $38,500
Out-of-state: $38,500
In-state: $20,520
Out-of-state: $20,520
SAT: 1010-1240
ACT: 22-28
$915
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
36
Herzing University
Intelligent Score: 91.03In-state: $34,284
Out-of-state: $34,284
In-state: $31,984
Out-of-state: $31,984
SAT: 1,275 or better
ACT: 17 or better
$554
Online
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
33-36
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Intelligent Score: 90.54In-state: $38,878
Out-of-state: $66,516
In-state: $46,012
Out-of-state: $46,012
SAT: 1000-1270
ACT: 21-28
Resident: $839
Non-Resident: $987
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30-36
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Intelligent Score: 90.28In-state: $5,407
Out-of-state: $19,135
In-state: $5,511
Out-of-state: $5,511
SAT: 1000-1210
ACT: 20-26
$387
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
33-39
Wright State University
Intelligent Score: 86.76In-state: $9,469
Out-of-state: $18,887
In-state: $14,298
Out-of-state: $14,298
SAT: 958-1220
ACT: 18-25
Resident: $780
Non-Resident: $1,245
Online, On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
33
Maryville University
Intelligent Score: 86.72In-state: $24,766
Out-of-state: $24,766
In-state: $14,346
Out-of-state: $14,346
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$749
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
39
University of Mary
Intelligent Score: 85.72In-state: $17,980
Out-of-state: $17,980
In-state: $16,875
Out-of-state: $16,875
SAT: 1000-1220
ACT: 20-26
$580
Online, On-Campus
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
36
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Intelligent Score: 84.63In-state: $9,330
Out-of-state: $28,563
In-state: $10,452
Out-of-state: $10,452
SAT: 1238-1390
ACT: 26-31
$950
Online, On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
36
Florida Tech
Intelligent Score: 84.44In-state: $42,346
Out-of-state: $42,346
In-state: $22,338
Out-of-state: $22,338
SAT: 1130-1330
ACT: 23-30
$920
Online
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
36
Stevens Institute of Technology
Intelligent Score: 84.21In-state: $53,828
Out-of-state: $53,828
In-state: $37,414
Out-of-state: $37,414
SAT: 1320-1480
ACT: 31-34
$1,864
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
39-48
Cornerstone University
Intelligent Score: 83.15In-state: $22,000
Out-of-state: $22,000
In-state: $13,920
Out-of-state: $13,920
SAT: 1040-1060
ACT: 19-26
$610
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission, Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
38
University of the Southwest
Intelligent Score: 81.91In-state: $16,000
Out-of-state: $16,000
In-state: $22,500
Out-of-state: $22,500
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$799
Online
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
36
University of North Alabama
Intelligent Score: 81.85In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $19,200
In-state: $6,660
Out-of-state: $6,660
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$495
Online, Hybrid
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
34
How To Choose an Online MBA in Project Management Program
Choose your area of study
Project management is an exceptionally unique field due to its versatility. Many MBA in project management programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus on managing projects for a particular industry, such as IT, construction, or healthcare. Assessing your strengths and career goals, as well as industry trends, will help you determine the most suitable area of study for your MBA in project management.
“When considering a major or area of study, select a program you are interested in studying and learning more about,” Pickett advises. “Researching the growth opportunities for a career is also important. Understanding this information is just one factor individuals can use to make a well-informed decision about their career path.”
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve decided on a specialization in project management, you can conduct focused research on the schools and programs you’re most interested in.
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your MBA in project management program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). These accrediting organizations have particularly high standards for project management education programs.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Pickett recommends that students take advantage of the following to learn more about their programs:
- Check out the school’s admissions website
- Take a virtual tour
- Browse the school’s course catalog
- Visit the webpage of the academic department you are interested in
- Research the school’s support services for students
- Explore their housing and dining options
- Learn about their financial aid options
Prepare for tests and applications
Now that you have narrowed your project management program search to a shortlist, you can prepare for applications and standardized tests. To begin, carefully review the applications and deadlines for each option on your list (each school and program may have different application requirements). Then, you can effectively plan a timeline and gather the necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
“In your personal statement, address why you’re interested in the institution and your selected area of study, and discuss your personal or professional goals for the future,” Pickett recommends. “A personal statement can also allow students who may not meet all admissions criteria to provide details about their circumstances.”
Create a study schedule for standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE and utilize resources like practice tests, review books, and online tutorials. Consider signing up for a test preparation course to improve your readiness for the upcoming exam. These courses are designed to enhance your preparation and help you develop effective strategies for success. It’s worth noting there are online MBA programs that don’t require GMAT scores, though.
Also, you should contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your MBA in project management program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some project management programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Speak to financial aid counselors at the schools you’re interested in for the most accurate and specific information about program cost. Paying for your degree can feel daunting, but with enough planning and preparation, you can alleviate a significant portion of the financial burden.
Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal loans and work-study programs. Additionally, research and apply for scholarships and grants specific to business or project management, including those offered by professional organizations, foundations, or your institution.
What Can You Expect From an Online MBA in Project Management Degree Program?
An online MBA in project management provides the versatile, comprehensive education needed to excel as a project manager or project management consultant. Project management courses typically cover topics such as:
- Business administration
- Human resources management
- Quality management
- Risk management
- Supply chain management
- Leadership skills
- Team development skills
- Managing complex projects
- Project scope
- Project management lifecycle
Students can expect to learn about various project management tools, methodologies, and techniques to effectively initiate, plan, execute, monitor, and close projects. If studying full-time, most students complete the degree requirements for an MBA in project management in one-and-a-half to two years.
Many project management students seek out online education because of the flexibility it offers. Students can access coursework and lectures from anywhere, allowing them to study independently while balancing personal and professional commitments. In most cases, these programs don’t have in-person obligations or residencies, making them ideal for aspiring project management professionals who cannot relocate or commit to full-time on-campus study. However, some online project management programs may require students to attend occasional on-campus or virtual residency sessions for collaborative projects, networking, or immersive experiences. Still, these are typically limited and not a major program component.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online MBA in project management program
- Project Planning and Execution: A common core requirement, this course focuses on the fundamentals of project planning, scheduling, and execution. Students will learn to define project scope, create work breakdown structures, develop schedules, and allocate resources.
- Risk Management in Projects: This course explores the identification, analysis, and mitigation of risks in project management, therefore building a crucial skill set that employers respect. Students will learn various techniques to assess project risks, develop risk management strategies, and monitor risk throughout the project lifecycle.
- Leadership and Team Management: An elective in most curricula, this class delves into the essential principles of leadership and team management in project-based environments. Students will study leadership styles, team dynamics, conflict resolution, and motivation techniques.
- Strategic Project Management: This class examines the strategic aspects of project management, integrating projects into organizational strategies. Students gain expertise in aligning project goals with business objectives, conducting feasibility analysis, prioritizing projects, and evaluating project success. They will develop the ability to think strategically, make informed decisions, and manage complex projects within the broader organizational context.
- Agile Project Management: This course introduces students to agile methodologies and their application in the project management field. Students will become proficient in agile principles, frameworks like Scrum and Kansan, and iterative project delivery.
What Can You Do With an Online MBA in Project Management?
Career outlook
Since project managers work across most sectors of the business world, a person with an MBA in project management can choose to specialize in an area that interests them. For example, you could focus on the healthcare industry, where project managers work in hospitals, clinics, and health systems, ensuring that operations run smoothly and projects are completed correctly, on time, and on budget.
Here are some other common career paths for an individual with training in project management:
- Project management specialists — Oversee all aspects of a project, including budgeting, staffing, training, and progress monitoring.
- Median annual salary: $98,580
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
- New job openings projected: 68,100 annually
- Information systems managers — Assess an organization’s technology needs, plan IT projects, and hire and supervise IT staff.
- Median annual salary: $169,510
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 15%
- New job openings projected: 46,900 annually
- Management analysts — Advise organizations on how to increase revenue, reduce expenses, and improve efficiency.
- Median annual salary: $99,410
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 10%
- New job openings projected: 92,900 annually
Online MBA in Project Management Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online MBA in project management degree program?
While many colleges and universities share similar application criteria, such as transcripts from all previous institutions, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose, some schools may have additional, specific requirements. For example, some schools require standardized test scores like the GMAT or GRE, while others may have moved to a test-optional policy or provide waivers based on work experience. For these reasons, speaking with an admissions counselor while you’re in the initial phases of preparing your applications is essential. They can provide guidance on specific requirements, deadlines, and additional information you’ll need for a successful application.
How much does an online MBA in project management degree cost?
On average, the annual cost of graduate school tuition is $12,596 at public universities and $28,017 at private universities. It’s essential to factor in additional expenses as well, like textbooks, learning materials, and technology, when determining how much a program will cost. You’ll also want to account for travel costs if your program’s curriculum requires any in-person workshops or residencies.
How long does it take to earn an online MBA in project management degree?
On average, most students take 18 months to two years to complete a full-time online MBA program. However, part-time options are often available, allowing students to extend the duration to suit their needs better. The number of required credits also impacts program length, with most online MBA programs typically ranging from 36 to 54 credits. It’s important to note that online programs may have different completion times than their in-person counterparts, as they allow students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. This variance can shorten or extend the timeline depending on individual circumstances.
Is an online MBA in project management worth it?
An online MBA in project management can be a valuable investment for individuals seeking to advance their careers. This MBA program offers a unique blend of business knowledge and specialized project management skills that can enhance a professional’s marketability and potential for career growth.
One of the key advantages of pursuing an online MBA in project management is the diverse job opportunities it opens up. Graduates can assume roles as project managers, program managers, consultants, and leaders in various sectors, including IT, construction, healthcare, finance, and more.
In addition, an MBA curriculum equips students with a comprehensive understanding of business principles, strategic planning, and financial management. This holistic approach to project management sets MBA holders apart from individuals with only technical project management skills.
Online programs are an especially good fit for adult learners with personal or professional commitments that limit their availability to attend classes on campus.