The 20 Best Online Project Management MBA Degree Programs

Earning an MBA degree has become an essential part of showing today’s companies that you are qualified and ready to lead their organizations. Luckily, many universities are now offering high-quality MBA programs in convenient online and hybrid formats. This delivery method allows busy adult learners to maintain their work and home responsibilities while completing their degree. Many of the online programs available are also surprisingly affordable, making finding the right program an all-around positive investment for the future.

Many universities are now offering concentrations and certifications in Project Management within their MBA programs. This is an ideal blend for project managers due to the comprehensive coverage of business methods, problem-solving, leadership skills, and communications development. Financial analysis, budgeting, and marketing courses are also frequently included within the base curriculum for these programs. These are all skills that can easily transition into project management positions in a variety of fields such as construction, engineering, healthcare, financial services, and IT. PayScale reports that the average yearly salary for a general project manager is over $72,000. This level of expected growth, along with easily transferable skills, make earning an online Project Management MBA a responsible and well-informed choice.

The programs listed within this ranking have been assessed based on several data points including but not limited to affordability, prestige, and online student support services. The programs on this list are focused on overall management skills, leadership and communications development, and feature degrees that can be completed conveniently and efficiently. Many of the options can be achieved on a part-time or full-time basis, and all of them can be taken in an online format. We hope that this list of high-quality online Project Management MBA degrees will make the search for the perfect distance program a little bit easier!

Methodology

To find the very best Online Project Management MBA programs, MBA Central surveyed almost 550 online MBA programs. First programs were categorized based upon their project management-specific curriculum, and then ranked upon their Affordability (33%), Support Services (33%), and Quality of Classes (33%).
Each program in this ranking list has an Affordability Score. Score range from Very Affordable to Very Expensive based upon all the online MBA programs in the US. Ranges are as follows:

Very Affordable: under $15,000
Affordable: between $15,000 and $20,000
Average: between $20,000 and $30,000
Above Average: between $30,000 and $50,000
Expensive: between $50,000 and $100,000
Very Expensive: above $100,000

#1 Fayetteville State University College of Business and Economics – Fayetteville, North Carolina

Fayetteville State University students have a myriad of on-campus and online degree programs at their fingertips. The online Project Management MBA available through the College of Business and Economics is both exceptionally accredited by the AACSB and very affordable with pricing significantly below $14,999. US News and World Report recently recognized FSU at #2 for their elite online student support services. Additionally, they can be seen at #101 on the ranking of the Best Online MBA degrees. Core business courses such as Managerial Accounting, Business Analytics, Financial Management, and Modern Marketing account for 27 credits of the MBA program at Fay State. Students then participate in four concentration specific classes. The Project Management topics covered include communication and procurement, tools and techniques, risk management, and general cycles of projects. A Graduate Certificate in Project Management can also be earned in unison with the MBA degree. Both the concentration and certification options follow PMP guidelines, reflecting the program’s up to date standards.

Fayetteville State University is an elite member of the North Carolina State University System. This established school is a historically black university, as well as a recipient of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Regional accreditation for FSU is carried through the SACSCC. Nearly 75 degree options are offered to over 6,000 students who enroll annually. The online MBA offered through the College of Business and Economics is highly recognized for quality, value, and support services. Applicants to this top-ranking program must have completed an undergraduate degree with at least a 2.75 GPA, GMAT scores of at least 400 (or GRE equivalent), official transcripts, and recommendation letters.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Very Affordable

#2 University of Wisconsin-​Whitewater College of Business and Economics – Whitewater, Wisconsin

Students of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater can complete their online Project Management MBA degree at an average tuition rate between $20,000 and $29,999. The MBA offered through the College of Business and Economics is reasonably priced, as well as, highly recognized by US News and World Report in both the Best Online MBA Programs category and for distinguished online student support services. Accreditation is maintained with the AACSB, reflecting a commitment to quality business education. Along with a thorough core business curriculum, students at UW-Whitewater have the ability to complete an emphasis in Project Management with three courses or dive deeper with five courses in order to receive a Graduate Certificate in Project Management. Both are aligned with A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide), ensuring students that they are receiving the most up to date training for this in-demand field.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is an active member of the University of Wisconsin System. They carry regional accreditation with the HLC and educate close to 12,500 students every year. The University offers 13 high-quality graduate level programs including an online MBA offered through the College of Business and Economics. This program’s flexible format allows students to complete their degree with a variety of scheduling options that will enable maximum convenience for busy students. Applicants for this MBA program must have either seven years of qualified work experience or four years of work experience with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. GPA requirements differ based on the accreditation of the university the degree was completed and are combined with GMAT/GRE scores to create a composite score to be considered for admittance.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#3 Lehigh University College of Business and Economics – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

The hybrid MBA degree with a concentration in Project Management at Lehigh University carries elite accreditation with the AACSB. US News and World Report places the program within the Top 15 in both online student support services and best online MBA’s in the country. Quacquarelli Symonds also recognizes Lehigh at #20 on their prestigious Global Ranking for Online MBA degrees. The format of this degree is unique in that students have an opportunity to participate on-campus without it being a requirement. Students can view lectures and participate in class either by attending traditional in-person classes, interacting through live stream videos, or catching up at their own convenience with recorded sessions. The entire online Master’s of Business Administration program at Lehigh University is 36 credits. The concentration in Project Management includes 12 credit hours dedicated to a comprehensive list of courses such as Project Scheduling, Estimating, and Budgeting, Project Risk Management, Managing Project Quality, and Managing Projects for Innovation.

Lehigh University is a private research university that was established in 1865. The main campus sits in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and carries regional accreditation with the MSCHE. Each year, more than 7,000 students enroll and complete their degrees through four academic colleges. The College of Business and Economics includes a hybrid MBA with a concentration in Project Management. The FLEX MBA allows students to seamlessly blend online and on-campus classes at their convenience. Admissions are open three times a year. Students applying to the program need to submit an essay discussing career objectives and leadership roles, current resume reflecting a minimum of two years work experience, GMAT/GRE scores, official transcripts, and two recommendation letters.

Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Affordability Score: Above Average

#4 Mississippi State University College of Business – Mississippi State, Mississippi

MSU offers many well-respected undergraduate and graduate level degrees. Their online Project Management MBA program follows this standard of excellence and was recently ranked at #26 on US News and World Report’s list of the Best Online MBA Programs in the nation. The University is also seen at #28 for its high-quality online student support services. Mississippi State University’s online MBA carries prestigious accreditation with the AACSB while still offering affordable tuition rates between $15,000 and $19,999. Leadership skills, corporate finance, strategic business consulting, and business decision analysis are all relevant topics covered within the curriculum. The Project Management concentration includes two additional courses designed to deepen student’s understanding of this in-demand field. Affordability, flexibility, and quality all work together to make the fully-distance Master’s of Business Administration at MSU a stand out program.

Mississippi State University is the largest university in the state with an annual enrollment of nearly 22,000. The University carries regional accreditation with the SACSCC. Twelve unique colleges and schools offer close to 200 degree programs that can be completed in a variety of flexible formats. The College of Business at MSU is highly recognized in the business education world. Their online Master’s of Business Administration offers a great value with a flexible format. Admissions into this sought after program are competitive. Students without undergraduate business experience are considered, but many will be required to complete several pre-requisite courses after admittance. A completed bachelor’s degree with a competitive undergraduate GPA and excellent GMAT/GRE scores are an essential part of the application requirements at Mississippi State.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Affordable

#5 City University of Seattle School of Management – Seattle, Washington

At City University of Seattle, online students can complete their Project Management MBA degree in 48 to 51 credit hours. Online students will benefit from this MBA’s flexible format and ACBSP accreditation. Courses cover a variety of subjects such as Law for Global Business, Managerial Accounting, Business Strategy, and Applied Marketing. Twelve to 15 hours of elective coursework then follow within a comprehensive Project Management emphasis. CityU is a Registered Education Provider recognized by the Project Management Institute. This acknowledgment assures students that the classes within this concentration will align with readiness standards in preparation for the Project Management Professional exam. The University is also currently ranked within the Top 200 on US News and World Report’s ranking of the best online MBA programs in the country. They are further listed at #9 in best online student support services.

City University of Seattle is a proud member of the National University System. Their main campus is located in Seattle, Washington, but they offer a plethora of online degree options. The University’s regional accreditation sits with the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and serves over 2,000 students each year. CityU is comprised of five distinct schools including the elite School of Management. Within the School of Management, students have an opportunity to earn a fully online MBA with a focus on Project Management. Applying is as simple as filling out an application online and having official transcripts sent to the University. GMAT scores are not a requirement for this program, and some students may qualify for the Prior Learning Assessment Program which allows work experience to count towards credit hours.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Affordability Score: Above Average

#6 DeSales University Division of Business – Center Valley, Pennsylvania

The Division of Business at DeSales University includes a well-respected and fully online Project Management MBA degree. With only 12 courses this program is fast-paced and accessible with year-round start dates available. Core classes covering topics such as business and society, business computing, marketing management, and financial management make up the bulk of the curriculum. Students then have the opportunity to choose an area of concentration in several areas including Project Management. Accreditation for this business degree is held through the ACBSP. US News and World Report places DeSales University at #126 on their Best Online Business Programs ranking. They are also seen at #25 in online student support services. The combination of national recognition, high accreditations, and a flexible format all make an online MBA from DeSales a conscientious choice for students from all backgrounds.

DeSales University is a private, four-year, Catholic university located in Center Valley, Pennsylvania. The regionally accredited University offers bachelor’s through doctoral degrees both on-campus and online to around 3,500 students. DSU has an average student to teacher ratio of 13:1. This combined with small class sizes allows students in traditional classrooms, as well as, distance learners to have a personalized and comprehensive educational experience. Students interested in the online MBA offered through the Division of Business must have completed the following prerequisite courses before being considered for admission Principles of Macroeconomics, Principles of Marketing, Principles of Management, Principles of Microeconomics, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, and Statistics. Applicants must submit a current resume, a personal statement, official transcripts reflecting an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher, and three professional references.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Affordability Score: Above Average

#7 East Carolina University College of Business – Greenville, North Carolina

Graduate students at East Carolina University can earn an AACSB accredited online MBA with a certificate in Project Management from the comfort of their home. In addition to prestigious accreditation and flexibility, this program boasts very affordable tuition rates of less than $14,999. Foundations courses start students out on their curriculum path. Many of these courses offer waivers with acceptable prior academic experience. After the foundations are complete, the next phase of the program is a comprehensive common body of knowledge that includes courses such as Organizational Behavior, Financial Management, and Marketing Strategy. Electives are available in Project Management, as well as, a graduate certificate that is based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge. US News and World Report currently recognizes East Carolina University at #90 on their list of the best online MBA programs in the country. They are also placed at #89 for their online student services, making this an online degree that students can feel confident in.

East Carolina University is the fourth largest university in North Carolina with an annual student enrollment of nearly 30,000. This public, research university is regionally accredited with the SACSCC. Nine undergraduate colleges, four professional colleges, and a graduate school all work together to offer ECU students nearly 200 high-quality degree options. The College of Business offers a fully online MBA with a graduate certificate in Project Management. This program is well recognized and very flexible. Those interested in applying to this esteemed program have four deadlines to submit a completed application. Required documents include an up-to-date resume, official transcripts, and official GMAT/GRE scores.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Very Affordable

#8 Herzing University Online Campus – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

Herzing University’s Online Campus is specifically designed to meet the needs of today’s online students. Their online Project Management MBA is accredited with the IACBE and recognized at #153 on US News and World Reports list of the best online MBA programs in the country. Online support services at the University are also recognized within the Top 50. Students can complete this 39 credit hour degree for an average cost of $20,000 to $29,999. The top-notch curriculum includes foundations courses covering leadership, management, and research. Twenty-one credits of MBA centered coursework then follow with courses such as Technology and Innovation, Project and Operations Management, and Leadership and Organizational Behavior. Students interested in furthering their Project Management skills have an opportunity to complete three additional courses on the subject. This highly regarded program can be completed in 12 months on a full-time basis and also includes certification options in PMP and CAPM for those who plan to take the exam.

Herzing University has several locations around the United States, as well as, an online campus dedicated to serving distance learning students. The online campus carries the same regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission as the physical campus sites. Students enrolled in the online MBA program at Herzing University will appreciate the flexible format, quick completion time, and highly ranked support services. Additional certifications can also be completed along with the degree, making graduates fully prepared to enter their chosen field. Applicants to this fast-paced and fully-online degree must submit official transcripts reflecting a completed undergraduate degree with a least a 2.7 GPA.

Accreditation: IACBE, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#9 Ferris State University College of Business – Big Rapids, Michigan

Students of the College of Business at Ferris State University can complete their Project Management MBA degree in a convenient 100% online format. Pricing for this degree is average for this ranking and falls between $20,000 and $29,999. The versatile curriculum begins with self-paced foundation courses in Statistics, Accounting, Marketing, and Economics. Students then move onto core requirements in subjects such as Global Business Management, Corporate Finance, Managerial Economics, and Business Strategy and Innovation. Lastly, those interested in Project Management may take three elective courses covering the topic. US News and World Report recently listed the online MBA at Ferris State #126 in Best Online MBA Programs and #50 for online student support services. Both of these recognitions assure prospective students of the quality of this fully-distance degree.

Ferris State University is a public university located in Big Rapids, Michigan. Each year FSU educates nearly 14,000 students through eight colleges and several schools. The University holds regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission and offers many degree and certificate options from the associates level up to doctoral degrees. The College of Business is well-respected and provides an online Master’s of Business Administration program with a concentration in Project Management. The online application for this program will include submission of official transcripts reflecting a minimum of 3.0 GPA, current resume, one-page statement of purpose, GMAT/GRE scores, and three academic or professional letters of reference.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#10 Colorado Technical University School of Business & Management – Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Technical University offers a wide variety of online degree programs. The online MBA with a concentration in Project Management, available through the School of Business and Management, is accredited by the prestigious ACBSP. Their comprehensive curriculum includes a business core with classes such as Applied Managerial Marketing, Strategic Human Capital Management, and Strategic Management in Dynamic Events. Students can then choose from 12 concentration areas including Project Management. Three additional foundations courses may be required by students without undergraduate business experience. Tuition for this fully online degree is reasonable with a cost between $20,000 and $29,999. Driven students taking a full-time load can complete the program in as little as one year. The online MBA at CTU offers a quick completion rate, budget-conscious tuition rate, and is currently ranked at #187 on US News and World Report’s Best Online MBA Programs ranking.

Colorado Technical University’s student body of over 25,000 is primarily made up of online students. The central campus of the University is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado and carries regional accreditation through the HLC. There are six academic colleges that offer many diverse degree options including the online Master’s of Business Administration program through the School of Business and Management. The Project Management concentration is additionally accredited by the prestigious PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs. Applicants interested in learning more about this program are encouraged to contact an admissions advisor. For the application students must submit official transcripts from all universities previously attended, as well as, an entrance essay discussing goals and accomplishments.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#11 University of Colorado Colorado Springs College of Business – Colorado Springs, Colorado

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs provides students with many well-known programs both on-campus and online. The College of Business includes an AACSB accredited Project Management MBA degree with a convenient online delivery method. US News and World Report recently placed this degree at #90 in Best Online MBA Programs. They can additionally be seen at #34 on the QS Global Online MBA Ranking. Even with many top recognitions, the UCCS online Master’s of Business Administration can be completed with an average cost between $20,000 and $29,999. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply but may need to complete up to nine hours of foundations courses. Within the degree, classes will include up to date business topics such as information systems, corporate financial management, and marketing strategy.

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs is an accredited member of the University of Colorado System. Over 12,000 students attend UCCS each year and complete their degree through online and on-campus programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. The MBA program at UC Colorado Springs is offered in a fully online format and is designed to meet the needs of students both with and without a previous business education background. The program includes a comprehensive Project Management emphasis with small class sizes to maximize engagement. Applicants to the program are not required to meet minimum work experience or GMAT/GRE requirements but must submit an updated resume and test scores. Additionally, official transcripts and a statement of goals should be included with the application.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#12 University of Louisiana at Lafayette B. I. Moody, III School of Business Administration – Lafayette, Louisiana

Graduate students can complete an AACSB accredited online Project Management MBA degree in as few as 15 months. The online MBA offered through the B.I. Moody III School of Business Administration at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette includes a distinct Project Management concentration. The program requires 33 credits to complete and is available at a very affordable price point below $14,999. Eight-week courses cover core topics such as Data Analysis, Marketing Management, and Managerial Economics. Concentration classes look further into Organizational Behavior and Leadership, Analytical Methods for Planning and Control, and Project Management as a whole. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette was recently ranked at #153 in Best Online MBA Programs and #145 for student support services by US News and World Report. Students will appreciate this program’s fast pace, flexibility, and overall value.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is the second largest university by enrollment in the state of Louisiana. They are a proud member, and the largest, of the University of Louisiana system. The University is made up of eight academic colleges and is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. Many of UL Lafayette’s programs are highly recognized, and the online MBA program offered through the Moody III School of Business is no exception. To apply students must submit official transcripts, resume, and GMAT scores. Work experience and required GMAT score are evaluated depending on the applicant’s undergraduate grade point average.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Very Affordable

#13 Wright State University Raj Soin College of Business – Dayton, Ohio

Wright State University carries a very respected brand name. Their online MBA with a concentration in Project Management is offered through the Raj Soin College of Business. This program is highly regarded and currently sits at #175 on US News and World Report’s ranking of the best online MBA degree programs in the country. In addition to many recognitions, the program holds esteemed accreditation with the AACSB and is offered and an affordable tuition rate between $20,000 and $29,999. Students will participate in a broad range of business courses such as Principles of Accounting, Principles of Marketing, Business Writing, and Introduction to Information systems. There is then an opportunity to choose an area of concentration. Those who select Project Management will learn about this field from a holistic perspective. Topics covered include planning, scheduling, negotiations, relevant technology applications, and dispute resolution strategies.

Wright State University is a public, research university with an annual enrollment of nearly 16,000. Located in Fairborn, Ohio, the University carries regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission and offers degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level. The Raj Soin College of Business is one of seven academic colleges on campus. Their Master’s of Business Administration is offered both online and on-campus and includes a concentration in Project Management. Students applying to this rigorous program must have completed a four-year degree from an accredited institution. Those with undergraduate GPA’s of 2.7 or higher are not required to submit GMAT scores. Applicants with a GPA of 2.5 to 2.69 may petition for admission and submit GMAT scores of at least 400 in order to be considered for admission.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#14 Maryville University John E. Simon School of Business – Saint Louis, Missouri

Online students can earn an ACBSP accredited Project Management-focused MBA degree. The program is offered through the Simon School of Business at Maryville University and can be completed in as little as one year. With six start times per year and an average tuition cost between $20,000 and $29,999, this is an MBA that is ready to help students meet their education and career goals. There are nine concentration options available ranging from Health Administration to Project Management. The Project Management emphasis focuses on many aspects of this field including supply chain management, enterprise planning and control, and process and operations management. Maryville University offers many highly acclaimed programs. Their online MBA is no exception and is currently recognized at #158 on US News and World Report’s Best Online MBA ranking.

Maryville University is a regionally accredited, private university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Nearly 100 undergraduate and graduate level degrees are offered to the University’s student body of over 7,500 each year. There are six distinguished colleges and schools on campus including the Simon School of Business. Through this school students have an opportunity to earn a Master’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management from the comfort of their own home. The program also offers several additional start dates to ensure that students have an opportunity to begin as soon as they are ready. To apply prospective students will need a completed four-year degree, official transcripts from all universities attended, and a personal statement explaining qualifications for graduate level work. There is no GMAT/GRE, prior business experience, or application fee required for this program.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average

#15 Missouri University of Science & Technology College of Arts, Sciences, and Business – Rolla, Missouri

Individuals planning to take their career to the next level can earn a convenient online MBA degree with a certificate in Business Project Management at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Students can complete the program in 36 credit hours. The business framework includes relevant courses such as Teambuilding and Leadership, Managerial Accounting and Control, and Integration of Business Areas. In addition to core courses, there is also an opportunity to earn graduate certificates in a variety of subjects including Project Management. This certification option is aligned with the Project Management Institute’s standards, making it an excellent addition for professionals planning to take the PMP exam. US News and World Report currently ranks Missouri S&T within the Top 45 for both online support services and Best Online MBA Programs.

Missouri University of Science and Technology is a public, land and space grant university. Founded in 1870, the University now educates nearly 9,000 students each year through a variety of on-campus and online academic programs. Regional accreditation is held with the Higher Learning Commission, and many programs at Missouri S&T are highly recognized on the national level. The College of Arts, Sciences, and Business offers a fully online MBA with a graduate certificate in Business Project Management that is equally as prestigious. Applicants to this program must submit a current resume, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, GMAT/GRE scores, and official transcripts from all universities attended.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Above Average

#16 Florida Institute of Technology Nathan M. Bisk College of Business – Melbourne, Florida

The online Master’s of Business Administration with specialization in Project Management at Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the well-respected IACBE, as well as, the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center. This thorough program is 36 credit hours in length. In addition to business and project management courses, students will receive pre-approved contact hours that can be applied toward the eligibility requirement to take the Project Management Institutes credential examination. There are also pre-approved professional development units (PDUs) that may also be used by current PMI credential holders to meet continuing education requirements. US News and World Report recently placed FIT #153 in Best Online MBA Programs. They are additionally seen at #73 for online support services. A few of the courses included within this dynamic online degree include Essentials of Business Development, Marketing Management, Mastering Project Management, and Project Tools and Techniques.

Florida Institute of Technology is a private, four-year, research university located in Melbourne, Florida. The University holds regional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and is known for its emphasis on engineering and science. Nearly 7,000 students enroll at FIT each year with almost half of all students enrolled in engineering programs. However, the business programs offered through the Bisk College of Business are highly recognized as well. The Bisk MBA includes an accredited Project Management specialization that is sure to set graduates apart. To apply to this distance learning program students must submit an online application complete with official transcripts. GMAT/GRE scores are not required for entrance into this degree.

Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Above Average

#17 Stevens Institute of Technology School of Business – Hoboken, New Jersey

Students of the Stevens Institute of Technology can earn an AACSB accredited online Project Management MBA through the notable School of Business. Both on-campus and online formats of this degree are available. The online version of the program is currently listed at #45 on US News and World Report’s Best Online MBA Programs ranking. SIT also earned an impressive place in the top 10 for their exceptional online student support services. The program begins with three prerequisite courses. Students with prior business education experience may be able to waive this component. The degree is then broken into four blocks covering the Language of Business, Leadership and Innovation, Analytical Thinking, and areas of specialization. Several specializations are available including Project Management. Project Management Fundamentals, Strategic Perspectives on Project Management, Leading Across Projects, and Advanced Project Management are all courses within this concentration.

Stevens Institute of Technology is one of the oldest technological universities in the United States. SIT was established in 1870 and now serves nearly 7,000 students from across the world through their many on-campus and online degree programs. The University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has many national recognitions. The School of Business offers a top-notch online Master’s of Business Administration with a variety of specializations including Project Management. Decisions for part-time and online MBA programs are made on a rolling basis. Serious applicants should submit official transcripts reflecting an overall grade of “B” or better, a professional resume, GMAT/GRE scores, and two letters of recommendation.

Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Affordability Score: Expensive

#18 University of North Alabama College of Business – Florence, Alabama

The online Project Management Master’s of Business Administration program at the University of North Alabama is highly acclaimed by many of the leading business education ranking systems. In fact, US News and World Report currently places UNA at #175 among the best online MBA programs in the country. Tuition rates for this program are very affordable with a total cost of less than $14,999. And although the degree is completed 100%, online students will still benefit from the same AACSB approved curriculum as on-campus students. The base course schedule includes many relevant business topics such as global business, corporate financial strategy, management policy, and foundations of business. Outside of the core curriculum students may choose from a variety of concentration options in areas such as Accounting, Finance, and Project Management.

The University of North Alabama is Alabama’s oldest four-year public university. Over time UNA has grown in both prestige and enrollment. They carry regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and have an annual student body of over 7,500. 20 master’s level programs are offered through five academic colleges at the University of North Alabama. The College of Business offers an online MBA with specialization in Project Management that is programmed to train students with the knowledge and tools needed for a successful career within this in-demand field. Interested applicants should submit an online application with official transcripts from all universities attended reflecting a minimum of 2.5 GPA. Other requirements include at least three years of professional work experience, GMAT score of 450 or higher, or membership with the Beta Gamma Sigma Honors Society.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Very Affordable

#19 Ashland University Richard E. & Sandra J. Dauch College of Business & Economics – Ashland, Ohio

Ashland University’s many established degree options include an established online Master’s of Business Administration with specialization in Project Management. This fully-distance degree is accredited with the ACBSP and currently ranked at #101 on the Best Online MBA Programs by US News and World Report. Focused students can complete this rigorous degree in as little as one year. The curriculum is intensive and covers not only business essentials but preparation for the Project Management Professionals certification test as well. A few of the Project Management focused courses within the program include Foundations of Project Management, Increasing Organization Capacity in Project Management, and Advanced Topics in Communication Project Managers. Graduates will also appreciate that University fees included within this degree cover one year of membership to the Project Management Institute, as well as, the Project Management Professionals exam.

Ashland University is located in Ashland, Ohio and holds regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission. Four colleges within the University work together to serve over 6,500 students annually. The Dauch College of Business and Economics offers a variety of online and on-campus programs including a fast-paced Master’s of Business Administration in Project Management. This program provides ultimate flexibility with many scheduling options making it possible to complete the degree in as little as 12 months or up to three years. Admissions are considered on a rolling basis making it easy to begin your degree as soon as you are ready. To apply students should complete an online application which will include transcripts from universities previously attended, current resume, and GMAT scores. Applicants with significant work experience may qualify for a GMAT waiver.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Above Average

#20 Post University Malcolm Baldrige School of Business – Waterbury, Connecticut

At Post University students can earn an online Project Management MBA with esteemed ACBSP accreditation. This distance MBA is offered through the Baldrige School of Business and includes a concentration option in Project Management. The base curriculum of the program covers relevant business topics such as business analytics for managers, organizational dynamics and effectiveness, and strategic integrated marketing communications. The Project Management concentration allows students to also explore courses in Virtual Teams and Organizations, Project and Risk Management, and Issues and Applications in Project Management. The cost of the online MBA at Post University is average for this ranking and falls between $20,000 and $29,999. Along with reasonable pricing, this program is also recognized at #150 on US News and World Report’s Best Online MBA Programs rankings. They are additionally acknowledged at #134 for Online Support Services.

Post University is a four-year, private, for-profit university that educates over 8,500 students each year. The University is regionally accredited through the New England Commission of Higher Education and has a main campus in Waterbury, Connecticut, as well as, three satellite campuses in Wallingford, Meriden, and Danbury. There are over 25 bachelor’s and master’s level programs available including the well-respected online Master’s of Business Administration through the Baldrige School of Business. Individuals interested in applying to this distinguished program must have a minimum of three years of work experience and submit one to two letters of recommendation, a current resume, transcripts reflecting an undergraduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA in a business related field. Those with a GPA lower than 3.0 have an opportunity to apply, but will need to include a personal statement and must receive permission from the Dean.

Accreditation: ACBSP, New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Average

What is project management?

Managers all over the world are busy juggling the difficult task of moving their people and projects forward to meet organizational goals. Those with the intrinsic knack of seeing the big picture of projects and creatively motivate teams to the finish line might be interested in the exciting field of project management. Project Management is the holistic management of a team across the initiation and completion of a specific project. It covers a set plan with identifiable resources, components, and players that are specific to a particular project. Project Management is applicable to virtually every field; technology, retail, construction, hospitality, and engineering, to name a few. The Project Management Institute explains that the process of project management can be described as Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing.

What is interesting about project management, is that it is not about molding a culture or creating something in the long term, but it is about a project with a specific beginning, middle, and end. The system might be able to be replicated, but each project is unique. There are particular boundaries to take note of, like timing and budget, and also specifics in teams and production lines that offer unique challenges and opportunities. Project managers must be able to bring one project to the finish line and be ready to pick another project up and start the process all over again. Some project managers might also be responsible for coordinating multiple projects at one time. Organization is the name of the game in project management.

What does a project manager do?

A project manager needs to be able to grasp the big picture scope of things, as well as have the capacity to outline and manage minute details. Project Managers must be able to manage people, teams, finances, and products on a specific timeframe and meet the highest quality standards. These leaders must have very strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills with an understanding of the project management tools available to organizations today.

Some project managers that work in retail companies are responsible for manufacturing physical products that will be sold to the consumer. Other project managers might be in charge of leading a team that is renovating a house. Some professionals in this type of career might also have a certain level of involvement with clients as well. While there is a very technical aspect to project management, there can also be a great capacity for creativity as well.

Project managers must able to work well within and lead different types of teams. Because projects go through stages of development, creation, and distribution, project managers must be able to work with teams at each step to keep them on time and on budget and working cohesively toward the end goal.

Just how technology is the backbone of our everyday business function, there is a necessity of project managers to understand project management-specific technology. These tools can aid teams in mapping out timelines, budget goals, and generating reports. Having easy to integrate, use, and maintain project management technology is essential in today’s business world. The top project management tools available today include Scoro, ProofHub, Basecamp, Asana, Podio, and Workzone.

What will I learn in an Online Project Management MBA?

As in all online Master’s of Business Administration degrees, students will become up to date on all business fundamentals of economics, e-commerce, accounting, ethics, and business law. This fundamental business management work will give students the language in order for them to hold their own in any board room. Above and beyond this core curriculum work, students will get to dive deep into project management-focused courses. Students will be able to take classes like Decision Making and Ethics; Communication and Procurement; Project Scheduling, Estimating, and Budgeting; Tools and Techniques; Global Project Management; Risk Management; Sustainability Management; Quality Issues; and Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity. These topics will give professionals the experience and tools need to dive directly into a project management position.

The online nature of this type of degree is definitely beneficial to professionals who are already working toward a career in project management and juggle their responsibilities at home, work, and in class. Pursuing this degree will allow professionals to not only apply topics learned in class immediately into their day to day work, but it will enable them to collaborate on work issues with their peers in class. An added benefit will also be gaining essential virtual teamwork skills. As a project manager, virtual teamwork will be an everyday reality. Working with multiple different groups of professionals on a particular project means that project managers need to have a high level of expertise working with virtual teams. This degree can help students gain this essential quality.

Many programs will get students ready to sit for their Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. PMP certification is the most highly recognized certification for project managers. This certification is a four-hour test with 200 multiple-choice questions. While project managers can actively work in project management, and actually need cataloged hours leading and directing reports before taking the test, this certification holds many benefits that make it worth the effort. Professionals with PMP certification can use it as a competitive advantage to climb the ladder and receive pay increases. PMI reports that professionals holding a certification take home a 20% higher income on average. To sit for the certification test, professionals must either have a secondary degree, 7,500 hours leading projects, and 35 hours of project management education or hold a four-year degree, have 4,500 hours directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education. An Online Project Management MBA is a great step on a professional’s road to certification.

What is the job outlook for project management?

Project Management is an exciting and lucrative field. According to PayScale, the average Project Manager has an annual salary of over $72,000, with an average 25% increase throughout their career. Those with an MBA in Project Management are reporting having a take-home salary of $80,000. Those that are able to apply their experience and education to the pursuit of a PMP Certification, report an average take-home salary of $104,000 per year.