mba project management online
In this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable online MBA in project management programs.

A project manager oversees specialized or general projects for the company. This management role requires planning, strategy development, and team leadership. According to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of management occupations, including project management, is projected to grow eight percent through 2026. With anticipated growth, more jobs are expected. To qualify for project management jobs, applicants must offer experience and education. Thankfully, MBA in project management online programs from accredited institutions are available. Now you can keep your day job and valuable work experience while earning your online MBA.

Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs Methodology

We looked at 81 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one MBA in project management online degree. We narrowed our original pool of institutions by applying the following criteria: Accreditation from esteemed governing bodies like AACSB, institution or program rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report, and affordable graduate tuition/fees. We then listed our top 30 programs according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the most affordable online MBA in project management programs of 2019.

#30 – South College

Online MBA in Project Management

Knoxville, Tennessee

Website

South College - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Affordable and accredited – South College’s MBA in project management online programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $26,225

South College offers one of the most affordable MBA in project management online degrees for working professionals seeking additional credentials that prepare them to lead teams and organizations within a wide range of business contexts and settings. Students come from a variety of backgrounds including law, finance, medical research, marketing, software development, and more. The program is offered fully online in an asynchronous manner allowing students to work on course materials when their schedule allows. The program has been approved for candidacy leading to accreditation by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 minimum GPA.

#29 – Pennsylvania State University

Online MBA in Project Management

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Pennsylvania State University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Penn State University’s online MBA in project management is ranked by U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,772

Pennsylvania State University is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable online MBA in project management programs in the country. The program is housed within the Smeal College of Business and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, which accredits approximately 5% of all business schools worldwide. The coursework is fully online allowing students the flexibility to maintain their careers while pursuing graduate education. Students have the opportunity to experience a five-day residency on campus as well as a global immersion starting in 2020. U.S. News and World Report ranks Penn State #33 in best business schools.

#28 – Concordia University

Online MBA in Project Management

Portland, Oregon

Website

Concordia University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Concordia University’s 38-credit MBA in project management online program offers online classes and flexible scheduling.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,910

Concordia University Portland has been consistently ranked as one of the most affordable and rigorous online project management programs of its kind. The 38-credit program allows students to transfer up to 12 credits, but all core MBA classes must be completed at Concordia. Core classes may include competition and strategy, financial reporting and control, leading organizational change, and research and analytics for business decisions. Project management courses may include managing project resources and teams and project monitoring and control. Admission components include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited school, 3.0 minimum GPA, transcripts from institutions attended, letter of intent, and professional resume.

#27 – American InterContinental University

Online MBA in Project Management

Schaumburg, Illinois

Website

American InterContinental University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
American InterContinental University’s MBA in project management online program is great for working adults.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,736

American InterContinental University’s MBA in project management online offers working students the opportunity to earn a graduate business degree focusing on preparing them to effectively lead projects and teams. Courses may include a managerial approach to marketing, business research for decision-making, global financial management, quality management and continuous improvement, and strategic management. The program is currently accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Delivered fully online, the program can be completed in just 12 months from start to finish. U.S. News and World Report ranks American InterContinental University #215 in best online MBA programs for its 2019 rankings.

#26 – Lawrence Technological University

Online MBA in Project Management

Southfield, Michigan

School Profile

Lawrence Technological University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Ranked and affordable – Lawrence Technological University’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,406

Lawrence Technological University provides students with one of the most affordable online MBA in project management programs. The 36-credit degree can be completed entirely online and finished in just two years. Courses may include agile project management, enterprise information technology, global business economics, operations and supply chain management, and strategic marketing management. The project management concentration teaches and trains students to effectively lead teams and projects for a wide range of business entities such as non-profits, governmental agencies, private sector organizations, and more. Coursework is built upon the Project Management Institute’s Project Management Body of Knowledge standards. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lawrence Technological University #458 in best business programs.

#25 – DeSales University

Online MBA in Project Management

Center Valley, Pennsylvania

Website

DeSales University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
100% online – DeSales University’s online MBA in project management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,160

DeSales University offers one of the most affordable online project management programs focusing on the knowledge and skills needed to become an effective project manager. Many of the graduates have gone on to successful careers occupying the c-suite positions of local, regional, and national organizations. Along with foundational coursework in business, the program drills down into project management concepts and principles that allow students to become excellent at guiding teams and projects within a wide variety of organizational settings. Courses may include advanced project management, financial and managerial accounting, integrating quality into your project methodologies, and project management essentials. U.S. News and World Report ranks DeSales University #126 in best online MBA programs.

#24 – Norwich University

Online MBA in Project Management

Northfield, Vermont

Website

Norwich University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
18 months! Norwich University – MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,360

Norwich University’s MBA in project management online offers students an accredited program focusing on the skills and knowledge needed to become effective project managers within a wide array of business organizations including private sector companies, non-profit organizations, higher education, and government. The university is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Additionally, the program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The Project Management concentration is accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs. The program includes a one-week residency program on campus. The program can be completed in just 18 months. U.S. News and World Report ranks Norwich #74 in regional universities North.

#23 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA in Project Management

Manchester, New Hampshire

Website

Southern New Hampshire University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Ranked by U.S. News! Southern New Hampshire University’s MBA in project management online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

Southern New Hampshire University offers a top-ranked and affordable online MBA in project management program. The program’s affordability, combined with its time to completion of just one year, make it a very feasible choice for the working professional seeking an advanced graduate degree that can be leveraged into a top project management position. Courses include foundational business classes along with advanced coursework in project management. Courses may include project management, project management for PMP certification, quantitative analysis for decision-making, and seminar in project management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern New Hampshire University #112 in regional universities North and #1 in most innovative schools.

#22 – Northcentral University

Online MBA in Project Management

San Diego, California

Website

Northcentral University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Fully online MBA in project management program at Northcentral University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,917

Northcentral University’s affordable online MBA in project management is an excellent choice for the working adult seeking the convenience of distance education with rigorous coursework in business and project management. The Northcentral program is recognized as a registered education provider by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The 30-credit degree can be completed in just 16 months and includes coursework in subjects such as accounting, finance, marketing, project management, and more. The program focuses on teaching students the essential and critical skills of project management such as organizational evaluation, effective communication with internal and external stakeholders, legal opportunities and challenges, and analytical decision-making.

#21 – Florida Institute of Technology

Online MBA in Project Management

Melbourne, Florida

Website

Florida Institute of Technology - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Affordability! Florida Institute of Technology’s online MBA in project management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,128

Florida Institute of Technology offers one of the most affordable online project management programs in the country designed for busy adults wanting to balance career, family, and education. The program is accredited by the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center that assures course content is designed around effective principles and skills needed for project management positions. Administered through the Nathan B. Fisk College of Business, courses include cases in applied project management, mastering project management, project tools and techniques, and strategic project management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Florida Institute of Technology #177 in national universities and #153 in best online MBA programs.

#20 – Maryville University

Online MBA in Project Management

Saint Louis, Missouri

Website

Maryville University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Ranked and accredited – Maryville University – MBA in project management online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,646

Maryville University’s MBA in project management is ranked as one of the most affordable online project management programs in the industry. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to confer MBA degrees. Additionally, the business program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution, academic transcripts, and personal statement. The program does not require an academic background in business or GRE/GMAT test scores. Courses may include controls for effective cyber defense, investment alternatives and portfolio construction, legal environment in business, strategic accounting issues, and tax planning and decision-making. U.S. News and World Report ranks Maryville University #198 in best online MBA programs.

#19 – University of Mary

Online MBA in Project Management

Bismarck, North Dakota

Website

University of Mary - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Only 20 months! University of Mary’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,630

Online MBA in project management programs such as the one offered by the University of Mary provide students with flexible online coursework that focuses on core business functions and in-depth project management skills and knowledge. The program takes just 20 months to complete upon matriculation. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission along with programmatic accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. Courses include executive economic analysis, human resource management, introduction to project management, and law in the managerial environment. Admission requires transcripts, two letters of recommendation, goal statement, and resume. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Mary #111 in regional universities Midwest.

#18 – Colorado Christian University

Online MBA in Project Management

Lakewood, Colorado

Website

Colorado Christian University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Five-week classes! Colorado Christian University’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,980

Colorado Christian University’s MBA in project management online provides students with the requisite skills and knowledge to become effective project managers within a wide array of organizations and contexts. The 39-credit hour program can be completed in just two years with full-time study and designed to accommodate the needs and flexibility of working adults. Most courses are completed in 5-week sessions and prepare the student to sit for Project Management Professional certification. Courses may include fundamentals of project management for business and strategic leadership of project management for business. U.S. News and World Report ranks Colorado Christian University #193 in best online MBA programs.

#17 – Colorado Technical University

Online MBA in Project Management

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Website

Colorado Technical University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
ACBSP-accredited – Colorado Tech’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,766

Colorado Technical University provides an affordable online MBA in project management for working adults seeking a graduate degree in business with a focus in project management skills and knowledge. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC). The entire program can be completed in as little as 12 months. Courses may include applied managerial decision-making in a project management environment, contracting and procurement in project management, schedule and cost control techniques, and strategic project and risk management in dynamic environments. U.S. News and World Report ranks Colorado Tech #187 in best online MBA programs.

#16 – New England College

Online MBA in Project Management

Henniker, New Hampshire

Website

New England College - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
20-month full-time MBA in project management online program – New England College.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,560

New England College’s graduate business degree is one of the most affordable online MBA in project management programs available to working students who need flexible coursework that enables them to balance their current obligations while attending school. The 40-credit degree offering includes classes such as economics for leaders, finance for leaders, organizational leadership and change, quality analysis for technology, and supply chain management. The program allows students to attend full- or part-time with a degree completion time of just 20 months for those attending full-time. U.S. News and World Report ranks New England College #114 in best online business programs and #215 in best online MBA programs.

#15 – Brenau University

Online MBA in Project Management

Gainesville, Georgia

Website

Brenau University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
The MBA in project management online program at Brenau University leverages careers in business.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,910

Brenau University offers an MBA in project management online for working professionals seeking a graduate degree to leverage towards upward career mobility within the project management pathway of occupations. The degree can be parlayed into top project management jobs within a wide range of industries and contexts. The program’s requirement for admission includes a bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution, official college transcripts, professional resume, and a minimum 3.0 grade point average. U.S. News and World Report ranks Brenau University #47 in regional universities South, #42 in best value schools, and #153 in best online MBA degree programs.

#14 – Montclair State University

Online MBA in Project Management

Montclair, New Jersey

Website

Montclair State University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Montclair State University’s MBA in project management online is fully accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,837

Montclair State University, through its Feliciano School of Business, offers one of the most affordable online project management programs in the industry. Programmatic accreditation includes the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, which accredits less than 5% of business programs worldwide. Courses within the project management concentration include accounting for business managers, advanced project management, agile systems development management, contemporary topics in project management, and systems development life cycle management. The program can be completed in 24-27 months. U.S. News and World Report ranks Montclair State University #169 in national universities and #131 in best online MBA program rankings for its 2019 cohort of institutions.

#13 – Endicott College

Online MBA in Project Management

Beverly, Massachusetts

Website

Endicott College - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Endicott College offers an MBA in project management online program that doesn’t require the GMAT or GRE.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,191

Through the Van Loan School of Business, Endicott College offers one of the most affordable online MBA in project management programs for students needing the flexible scheduling of a distance degree program combined with an accredited business degree focusing in project management. The project management concentration teaches students the valuable skills and concepts of how to effectively lead teams through complex projects to produce outstanding business deliverables that push the organization forward. The curriculum touches on subject matter such as leadership, project management fundamentals, marketing, business decision-making and analysis, and much more. The GMAT or GRE is not required to apply. U.S. News and World Report ranks Endicott College #25 in regional universities North and #46 in best value schools for its 2019 cohort of institutions.

#12 – Purdue University Global

Online MBA in Project Management

Cedar Falls, Iowa

Website

Purdue University Global - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Purdue’s MBA in project management online program is ranked and accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,414

Purdue University offers one of the most affordable online project management programs in the industry. The MBA is a valuable graduate degree that can be leveraged into top career opportunities and salaries. The project management concentration focuses on teaching students what is needed to be effective leaders of teams and projects within a wide range of organizational settings and industries. The 60-quarter credit hour program includes classes such as economics for global decision makers, financial accounting principles and analysis, financial management, marketing management, and strategic human resource management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Purdue University #56 in national universities.

#11 – Bellevue University

Online MBA in Project Management

Bellevue, Nebraska

Website

Bellevue University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Best online business program! Bellevue University – MBA in project management online!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,025

Bellevue University offers an affordable online MBA in project management for working or place bound individuals seeking an accredited graduate business degree from a top institution. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission with programmatic accreditation through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. Coursework will prepare the student for certification with the Project Management Institute (PMI). Courses may include accounting for performance management, business analysis for decision making, business performance management, financial management and strategy, and marketing and new media strategy. For its 2019 rankings list, U.S. News and World Report ranks Bellevue University #114 in best online business programs.

#10 – Grand Canyon University

Online MBA in Project Management

Phoenix, Arizona

Website

Grand Canyon University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Grand Canyon University’s MBA in project management online programs offer certifications.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,760

Of all graduate business degree programs, Grand Canyon University offers one of the most economical online project management programs that blends affordable tuition with coursework taught by experienced faculty members who have industry experience. The 54-credit offering includes courses such as agile project management, applied business probability and statistics, fundamentals of project management, and leadership and organizations. Completion of the program prepares students for certifications including Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP). The entire degree can be completed online. U.S. News and World Report ranks Grand Canyon University #230 in national universities.

#9 – Southern Wesleyan University

Online MBA in Project and Quality Management

Central, South Carolina

Website

Southern Wesleyan University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
24 months! Southern Wesleyan University’s MBA in project management online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,170

Southern Wesleyan provides an affordable online MBA in project management that teaches students to plan, lead, and execute projects within a multitude of organizations and industries. The 36-credit program is divided into seven-week courses and can be completed in approximately 24 months. The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges along with programmatic accreditation candidacy via the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Students without an academic background in business may be required to take MBA leveling courses in the fields of microeconomics, accounting, and statistics. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern Wesleyan #102 in regional universities South.

#8 – Trevecca Nazarene University

Online MBA in Project Management

Nashville, Tennessee

Website

Trevecca Nazarene University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Trevecca Nazarene University’s MBA in project management online program is top ranked.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,004

Trevecca Nazarene University’s MBA in project management online is designed for the working student that needs to balance their current career, personal obligations, and graduate school. Students matriculate to Trevecca for a variety of reasons including living in an area with no postsecondary institution or the need to take online classes due to their convenience. The Trevecca program can be completed in just 22 months taking one course at a time while maintaining full-time enrollment status. Courses may include accounting and finance for managers, business ethics and organizational culture development, and introduction to graduate business studies. U.S. News and World Report ranks Trevecca University #230 in national universities.

#7 – Mississippi State University

Online MBA in Project Management

Mississippi State, Mississippi

Website

Mississippi State University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
GMAT or GRE scores required – Mississippi State University’s MBA in project management online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,650

Mississippi State University provides an affordable online MBA in project management designed to teach and train students for project management positions in a wide range of industries and contexts. Graduates have gone on to hold positions in private business, non-profit organizations, postsecondary education, startup organizations, military, and public sector companies. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, GMAT or GRE scores from the last five years, transcripts, completed application and more. The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The program is accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. U.S. News and World Report ranks Mississippi State #26 in best online MBA programs.

#6 – Saint Leo University

Online MBA in Project Management

Saint Leo, Florida

Website

Saint Leo University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Accredited and affordable – Saint Leo University’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,498

Saint Leo University’s MBA in project management online offers students the flexibility they need to balance their work and academic lives as they progress towards a graduate degree. The Saint Leo MBA program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and includes courses such as applied project management case, best practices in project management, global business management, human resource management, and project process groups and product life cycles. The program is fully available online, which makes it an outstanding choice for students not able to attend on the ground courses. U.S. News and World Report ranks Saint Leo University #47 in regional universities South and #215 in best online MBA programs.

#5 – Liberty University

Online MBA in Project Management

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Liberty University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Accredited and ranked – Liberty University’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,333

Liberty University’s MBA in project management online is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 98th best online MBA program in the country. Additionally, Liberty ranks #98 in best online graduate business programs, #63 in best online MBA programs for veterans, and #230 in national universities. Project management coursework includes contemporary issues in human resource management, global project management, policy and strategy in global competition, and project management II. The 45-credit degree is available fully online with no residency requirement and can be completed in just two years. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

#4 – Lamar University

Online MBA in Construction Project Management

Beaumont, Texas

Website

Lamar University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
16 months! Lamar University’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,174

Lamar University’s affordable online MBA in project management focuses on the unique business aspects and challenges of construction project management. The 36-credit degree is accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and can be finished in just 16 months. The program welcomes students from all academic backgrounds, but requires some students to take MBA leveling courses as preparation for the program. Construction project management courses may include construction cost estimating and analysis, construction planning and scheduling, construction project management, legal practices in construction, and sustainable built environment and society. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lamar University #187 in best online MBA programs.

#3 – Doane University

Online MBA in Project Management

Lincoln, Nebraska

Website

Doane University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Ranked and affordable – Doane University’s MBA in project management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,218

Doane University’s affordable online MBA in project management is delivered through the College of Professional Studies and is designed for working adults seeking flexibility with their graduate education. The program conflates both quantitative and qualitative skills and knowledge to form a well rounded and complete business professional with advanced project management skills. Students with a current Project Management Professional certificate from the Project Management Institute may earn nine credits toward the degree. Courses may include executing and closing projects, initiating and planning projects, introduction to project management, and monitoring and controlling projects. U.S. News and World Report ranks Doane University #155 in national liberal arts colleges.

#2 – Park University

Online MBA in Project Management

Parkville, Missouri

Website

Park University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs 2019
Ranked and accredited – Park University’s MBA in project management online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,917

Park University offers students an affordable online MBA in project management designed to teach them the requisite skills and concepts needed to succeed in the fast paced career field of project management. The curriculum provides an advanced foundation in core business fundamentals such as accounting, finance, marketing, and human resources. Additionally, students learn project management skills that can be applied to a wide variety of contexts and industries. Coursework may include accounting for management decisions, business environments in sub-Saharan Africa, change management and conflict resolution, innovative techniques in quality management, and training development and evaluation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Park University #215 in best online MBA programs.

#1 – Columbia Southern University

Online MBA in Project Management

Orange Beach, Alabama

Website

Columbia Southern University - Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in Project Management Online Programs
#1 most affordable MBA in project management online program – Columbia Southern University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $3,735

Columbia Southern University offers an MBA in project management online for working professionals seeking career advancement within the project management occupation. The program includes 36 credits, of which up to 18 can be transferred in from other programs and institutions upon approval. The program allows for maximum flexibility with no start or end dates as students are able to learn at their own pace and speed. Coursework may include human resource management methods, international business, management information systems, organizational research and theory, and strategic management and business policy. Accreditation includes the Distance Education Accreditation Commission and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can individuals do with an MBA in project management online degree?

An advanced degree in business and project management opens doors to a variety of career possibilities. The occupational prospects cut across multiple careers and industries. No matter the sector, project managers must be excellent communicators, delegators, and be highly detailed. Additionally, project managers must be familiar with core concepts relating to the projects they manage whether in business, engineering, biotechnology, and information technology.

Individuals with an MBA in project management typically possess advanced knowledge of core business principles and concepts including accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, and economics. The main charge for project managers is to ensure the project they are overseeing is completed in a timely manner within the confines of the budget. Additionally, they oversee all aspects of the project and communicate with key project stakeholders including clients, supervisors, vendors, and personnel.

It is common for individuals with an MBA in project management to have professional experience in their particular industry before assuming the role of a project manager.

The most rapid growth for project manager positions is taking place within the IT and biotechnology fields. The construction business is also a sector that employs a great deal of project managers. Project managers can be found within several occupational spaces, as it is critical to have a point person to oversee all aspects of a project. Additional industries where project managers can be found include healthcare, real estate development, architecture, and finance.

What is the job outlook for those graduating with an MBA in project management online degree?

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not classify project management as an occupation and consequently provides little tracking in terms of job outlook for project managers. However, BLS does provide data for construction managers, computer managers, and information systems managers, which include the project manager occupation. Overall, a favorable job outlook for project managers is expected through 2026.

Project managers working in IT or information systems should anticipate an employment growth rate of 12 percent through 2026. This percentage is five percent higher than the average for all other occupations. As demand for computer, information systems, and IT grows, firms will expand their business practices and digital platforms.

Construction and engineering project managers should also see an increase in jobs. The job outlook for these industries is favorable and should project 11 percent growth over the next seven years. More construction managers will be needed to oversee the expected increase in construction activity over the next decade. Also, individuals with an MBA in project management will have the best job prospects in areas such as civil engineering, construction management, and construction science.

Another indicator of growth for project managers is the increased number of members of the largest project management association in the United States–the Project Management Institute.

How much money can I make with an MBA in project management online degree?

According to the salary and data analytics firm PayScale, the average salary for an individual with an MBA in project management is $80,000 a year. PayScale utilizes advanced crowdsourcing algorithms that are updated on a nightly basis to reflect the latest salary data and trends. The organization’s MarketMatch algorithm integrates over 250 compensable variables to define pay distribution for a particular occupation.

Average salaries for individuals with an MBA in project management vary greatly. PayScale indicates a general project manager earns between $55,000 and $114,000 per year. Variables such as industry and years of experience are also salient factors that dictate salary levels. For example, project managers in the construction field earn an average salary of $76,245 compared to their higher paid counterparts in the IT industry that earn $82,528 annually.

As with most occupations, experience plays a critical role in salary distribution. Senior project managers in the IT field average $99,920 a year, a considerable amount of accretion compared to entry-level professionals that earn $56,000 per year.

The top five paying industries for workers with an MBA in project management include aerospace and defense, information technology (IT) services, medical device manufacturing, manufacturing, and financial services. The highest paid industry of aerospace and defense paid out a salary of $93,019 per year.

What is the average length of time for an MBA in project management online program?

The time to completion for an MBA in project management online degree varies according to program requirements as designated by the institution. Our research indicates the average duration to complete the degree once the student has matriculated is approximately 24 months. Some programs can be completed in as little as 16 months.

The main factor in determining the length of time to completion is the student’s choice of enrollment level. Most online MBA project management degrees allow students to take courses either full or part-time. Part-time enrollment typically includes one course per term, while full-time enrollment generally requires concurrent enrollment in two courses. Some institutions follow a 6-8 week term where students can take just one class at a time and be considered full-time. In addition to minimum completion timelines, programs also specify the maximum length of time students must earn their degree. Most programs allot between 5-7 years for students to complete their studies, which allows students to take time away from their studies should they need to step out for a term.

Some of the programs on our list allow students to fluctuate their enrollment level each semester depending on situational factors including work and family obligations. Programs that are cohort-based typically require students to maintain consistent enrollment levels throughout the duration of their studies.

What are the admission requirements for MBA in project management online programs?

Admission requirements for an MBA in project management vary greatly by institution. Highly selective and top-ranked institutions generally require a robust list of admission components including high GRE or GMAT scores and a high undergraduate GPA ranging from 3.0-3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, selective institutions often require an academic background in business and 5-7 years of management experience.

Less selective institutions often waive GRE or GMAT score requirements for applicants with a 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA. Moreover, these institutions will often not require test scores be submitted for individuals with at least two years of relevant management experience. For students with undergraduate grade points averages below a 3.0, there are several institutions that may grant admission for applicants with GPAs ranging from 2.0-2.5. Moreover, less selective institutions often admit individuals from a variety of non-business academic backgrounds. In many cases, these students are required to take foundational undergraduate level courses in subjects such as finance, accounting, statistics, and marketing.

Both top-tier and less selective institutions typically require students to submit documentation of a completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution along with any postsecondary transcripts from institutions attended. Additionally, it is common practice for students to electronically submit a personal statement and 2-3 letters of recommendation.

BCO Staff
April 2019

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This concludes our list of the top 30 most affordable online MBA in project management programs of 2019.