In the field of project management, a doctoral degree is the highest level of academic attainment. It may allow you to pursue career paths in business, government, or nonprofit and maintain professional freedom. Good knowledge of the best PhDs in Project Management will help you find a suitable school and program to help you achieve your goals.
To aid your research, this article will provide details on the best schools that offer a PhD in Project Management, lucrative project management jobs, and expected salaries, to help you decide if a project management PhD is worth it.
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What Is a PhD in Project Management?
A PhD in Project Management is a research-oriented graduate program also referred to as a Doctorate in Project Management. This program provides a curriculum covering advanced project and strategic management principles that prepare students for projects in the industry. This degree program takes an average of three to five years to complete.
How to Get Your PhD in Project Management
If you’re skilled at leadership, strategizing and critical thinking, then project management is most definitely in your wheelhouse. Project management experts are sought after in several industries because they are reliable leaders who can delegate work and push a project forward. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about earning a PhD in project management.
While a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the subject will teach you the fundamentals, a doctorate degree will take your career to the next level. From degree programs to financial aid or top project management institutes, CareerKarma has got you covered.
How to Choose a Project Management Doctorate Program
Today’s technology has influenced several aspects of our lives and has made it easier to send and receive information, which is why more and more students are turning toward online degrees. An online PhD is often more convenient and less expensive than a regular one. During the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning seems to be the only feasible way to continue your education.
Before enrolling for an online PhD, there are several factors you should consider. Firstly, you should try to pursue an affordable PhD program that doesn’t require arbitrary fees, such as graduation or assessment fees. You should also make sure that you are well-equipped with the resources you’ll need to earn your project management degree.
Furthermore, you should research whether your graduate program is asynchronous (self-paced) or not. A self-paced course is preferred by some because you do not have to worry about deadlines.
It is also important to make sure your program is accredited and legitimate so you don’t face issues down the road when it comes to transferring credits or seeking employment. You can do so by visiting school websites, checking program reviews or by contacting schools directly for further information.
How to Get Into a Project Management PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The requirements to get into a project management PhD program include a master’s degree from an accredited university, letters of recommendation that reflect your academic and professional experiences, and proof of funding for your doctorate. Alongside official transcripts, some programs require a statement of purpose as part of the admission requirements.
Depending on the university you are applying to, you may require a master’s degree relevant to your field of study. If they are part of the admission requirements, you may also need to provide GRE or GMAT scores. A completed application is also a vital part of the admission requirements.
PhD in Project Management Admission Requirements
- A master’s degree from an accredited institution
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of funding
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose
Project Management PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Project Management?
It is not very hard to get into a PhD program in project management. Although getting into a PhD program is statistically difficult, you may be accepted into a PhD program in project management if you meet the admission requirements of the school and program.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
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Best PhDs in Project Management: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| DePaul University | PhD in Business Administration | No |
| George Fox University | PhD in Business Administration | Yes |
| George Washington University | PhD in Business Administration | No |
| Hampton University | PhD in Business Administration | Yes |
| Jacksonville University | PhD in Business Administration | Yes |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | PhD in Business Administration | No |
| The University of Arizona | PhD in Management | No |
| University at Buffalo | PhD in Management | Yes |
| University of Maryland | PhD in Project Management | No |
| University of Tennessee | PhD in Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and Organizations | No |
Best Universities for Project Management PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Project Management
The best universities for project management PhDs are The University of Arizona, George Washington University, DePaul University, and the University of Tennessee. If you are wondering where to get a PhD in Project Management, explore the best schools below.
DePaul University, founded in December 1898, is the largest catholic university in the United States. This private research university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctorates in various disciplines.
PhD in Business Administration
The Doctor of Business Administration program at DePaul University helps professionals increase their credentials, expertise, and experience. The curriculum blends intellectual rigor with a professional network and serves as a platform for career growth. This degree will assist you in advancing your career in the corporate world or higher education.
PhD in Business Administration Overview
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $129,000
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, Scholarships
PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts for bachelor's and master's degrees
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Current resume
George Fox University is a private Christian university founded as a Quaker school in 1891. It now has over 4,000 students spread throughout its main campus and locations in Portland, Salem, and Redmond. The school offers online and onsite graduate and undergraduate programs to help students succeed in their chosen career paths.
PhD in Business Administration
The PhD in Business Administration with a project management focus is available at George Fox University. Human resource development, organizational theory and behavior, and strategic management are core courses in the management concentration specialized study.
This program is for students interested in becoming professors or consultants and business professionals seeking enrichment, information, and opportunity to extend their leadership horizons in finance, management, and technology. Students can complete this online-hybrid program in four years.
PhD in Business Administration Overview
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $964/credit hour
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Grants, scholarships
PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's and master's degrees with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Five years of professional experience
- Proof of completion of undergraduate or graduate-level courses in accounting, economics, and finance
Founded in 1821, George Washington University provides career-focused programs and equips students with job-ready skills with the aid of an expert faculty to help them achieve their goals. Popular majors at George Washington University include social sciences, business, management, engineering, and computer and information systems sciences.
PhD in Business Administration
George Washington University's PhD in Business Administration program equips students for successful employment in the business world or at a top research university. Accountancy, International Business, Finance, Decision Sciences, Management, and Strategy are among the areas of study for a PhD in business administration.
Students gain skills in research and scholarship while working with a qualified faculty and learning to contribute as important members of a vibrant community of scholars. Graduates of this program may work as professors at prestigious business institutions across the world, balancing teaching and research.
PhD in Business Administration Overview
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $1825/credit hour
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waiver, fellowships, travel support, teaching assistantship, research grants
PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements
- A master's degree
- Statement of purpose
- Standardized test scores (GMAT or GRE)
- Three recommendation letters
Hampton University, founded in 1868, is committed to promoting learning, developing character, and preparing promising students for leadership and service positions. The university's rich curriculum and qualified faculty offer online and on-campus programs to students from undergraduate to doctoral levels.
PhD in Business Administration
Hampton University's PhD in Business Administration is a hybrid online/offline doctoral program in business that includes two four-week summer residencies. Management, accounting, finance, and marketing courses are part of the Business Administration curriculum.
This 60-credit-hour business program comprises a published article and a dissertation, held on campus, with a final dissertation defense. The program is for students who want to pursue advanced degrees to support leadership roles in companies or aspire to become researchers, consultants, or academicians.
PhD in Business Administration Overview
- Program Length: 3.5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $695/credit hour
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Financial aid for those who qualify, scholarships, grants
PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements
- Master's degree in an approved program
- GMAT with a minimum score of 400
- Three years of relevant work experience
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of career or professional plans
- A copy of your state or federal identification
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
Jacksonville University, founded in 1934, offers over 100 graduate and undergraduate programs, including degrees in business, marine science, engineering, physics, and nursing. With the support of a full-time faculty and small class sizes, you will find real-world learning experiences that will set you apart from other graduate students across the country.
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PhD in Business Administration
The PhD in Business Administration program at Jacksonville University is a flexible program for the working professional. Students can complete the program in three years with in-person classes for the first two years or entirely online. Students can enroll in the 63-credit DBA program with no concentration or the 75-credit DBA program with a concentration.
Management, accounting, finance, and healthcare leadership are the key concentrations available in this degree. Students can take courses in responsible leadership, teamwork and organizational transformation, strategic thinking, and human resource management as part of the management concentration.
PhD in Business Administration Overview
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $33,000/year
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, teaching assistantships
PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements
- Completed application
- Application fee
- A master's degree
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework
- A statement of purpose
- A resume detailing a deep professional understanding of business
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Three letters of recommendation
- Corporate letter of support
Founded in 1870, the Stevens Institute of Technology provides research-based education to students who want to enhance their qualifications and participate in the global marketplace through collaboration with an experienced faculty. The private research university challenges both graduate and undergraduate students to succeed and achieve career goals.
PhD in Business Administration
The PhD in Business Administration program encourages students to perform creative and original research in one of the school's three major research concentrations. The concentrations include information systems and analytics, innovation and entrepreneurship, and finance.
This 54-credit program gives students a solid foundation in fundamental areas such as management and economic theory, research technique, computing tools, and statistical methods. The faculty is dedicated to producing high-quality research and teaching and they are passionate about values and work ethic in the PhD in Business Administration students.
PhD in Business Administration Overview
- Program Length: 4.5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- Tuition and Fees: $19,704/semester
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, fellowships, work-study
PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in a business discipline, computer science, information systems, or finance.
- Valid GMAT or GRE scores
- A statement of purpose
- Current resume
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Evidence of prior scholarly work
The University of Arizona is a public land-grant research university founded in 1885 by the 13th Arizona Territorial Legislature. The University of Arizona ensures that students are on the right track to attaining their goals by focusing on academic quality. The school offers a free tuition cost to the average student at the doctoral level and research grants for dissertation projects.
PhD in Management
The University of Arizona PhD in Management program equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage organizations effectively and comprehend organizational structures and processes. They will develop critical thinking skills and organizational leadership skills through the 66-credit-hour program.
Organizational theory, management theory, strategy, judgment, and decision-making are among the fields of study in the program. Ideas and approaches from sociology, psychology, political science, economics, and management are all included in the study.
PhD in Management Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Tuition and Fees: $0 (covered by the university)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Research assistantship, associateship stipend, dissertation support
PhD in Management Admission Requirements
- 3.0 GPA with emphasis on upper-level undergraduate and prior graduate-level academic performance
- Bachelor's degree (master's degree not required)
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Completed online application
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official test scores
University at Buffalo, founded in 1846, is among the top-ranked universities in the nation. The university provides solid doctoral programs and assists students in accomplishing their goals with the support of a qualified faculty. It offers campus residencies and flexibility for students at every degree level.
PhD in Management
University at Buffalo’s PhD in Management program is classified into six specializations. They include accounting, finance, marketing, and management science and systems. Students also have the option to focus on operations management and strategy or organization and human resources.
The program equips students for leadership positions by teaching strong business principles that can be applied across a wide range of industries. Students collaborate with qualified faculty to prepare for a career in project management positions such as senior project manager.
PhD in Management Overview
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $7,194 (in state); $13,089 (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, scholarships, fellowships, financial aid, third-party financing
PhD in Management Admission Requirements
- Master's degree
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Writing sample
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- Resume
The University of Maryland was established in 1856 as a public land-grant research university and has almost 300 degree-granting programs spread over different schools and colleges. It has a qualified faculty teaching many excellent programs. The University of Maryland consistently ranks among the top public research universities worldwide.
PhD in Project Management
The PhD in Project Management program at the University of Maryland is for advanced graduate students with outstanding academic credentials who want to specialize in a specific research topic. The program includes advanced-level courses and a PhD dissertation for the full-time student during the 36-credit degree.
PhD in Project Management Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $1,269/semester (in state); $2,496/semester (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantship, research assistantship, fellowships, and internships
PhD in Project Management Admission Requirements
- Master's degree from a regionally-accredited US institution or equivalent
- A 3.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework
- GRE scores
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official Transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
The University of Tennessee, established in 1794, is a public land-grant research university with 10 undergraduate colleges and 11 graduate colleges. With a qualified faculty, the University of Tennessee provides undergraduates and graduates alike with quality education to advance career opportunities.
PhD in Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and, Organizations
The PhD in Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and, Organizations program at the University of Tennessee's Haslam College of Business focuses on studying entrepreneurial and established enterprises at the CEO, founder, and top-management levels. Students can complete this program in four to five years with a minimum of 69 credit hours.
Individual firms and industry innovation, financial, and other performance measures are also of significant interest to the program. The coursework includes organizational behavior, strategic management, and entrepreneurship theories. Students also complete a set of research methods courses that will help them during their advisor-approved dissertation.
PhD in Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and Organizations Overview
- Program Length: 4 to 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $0 (tuition waiver)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waiver, research assistantship, doctoral student scholarships
PhD in Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and Organizations Admission Requirements
- Online application
- Master's degree (MBA preferred)
- GRE or GMAT
- Undergraduate degree
What Courses Do These Programs Include?
A PhD in project management will help you master everything from risk management to information technology. Most programs include coursework that extensively covers topics such as advanced concepts in project management, complex adaptive systems, risk management systems and current field trends. Certain programs, like the one at Walden University, also require students to complete a doctoral writing project and on-campus residencies.
Other courses include operations management, advanced theory and practice in program management, and human resource development, among others.
This combination of practical and theoretical learning will give you keen insight into the workings of business management and information systems. As a result, you will emerge from the program prepared to handle high-level project management leadership roles with refined skills in analysis, measurement and problem-solving.
Can You Get a PhD in Project Management Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Project Management online. You can obtain an online doctorate if you study full-time and complete a total of 60 credit hours. The online project management doctorate covers coursework and a research-based dissertation. However, you may be able to earn your PhD in Project Management online in less time if your university offers an accelerated program.
Best Online PhD Programs in Project Management
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Capella University | Online Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management | 3 years |
| Colorado Technical University | Online Doctor of Management | 3 years |
| Liberty University | Online Doctor of Business Administration in Project Management | 3 years |
| Northcentral University | Online Project Management, PhD-BA | 3 to 4 years |
| Walden University | Online Doctor of Business Administration in Project Management | 2 to 3 years |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Project Management?
It takes two to five years to get a PhD in Project Management. Generally, students will need to complete 60 credits, a dissertation, and a thesis to graduate from the program. Due to the level of research and specific study topics, the time it takes to complete the program can vary greatly.
Some programs require you to complete the core courses in the first two years and focus on your dissertation for the following year. Graduates of project management PhD programs work in various areas, including information technology, finance, and education.
Is a PhD in Project Management Hard?
No, a PhD in Project Management is not hard. A PhD in Project Management is not intellectually challenging, but it does require dedication and determination to complete your coursework and research dissertation.
Some of the challenges you may face while trying to earn a PhD in Project Management include time management, funding issues, stress, and managing a work/life balance. If you can manage these issues during your program, you will complete the program with ease.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Project Management?
It costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Project Management, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. According to these reports, private colleges have higher tuition rates and cost estimates for a project management doctoral degree than public institutions.
Different factors determine the cost of a project management degree. Just as schools vary, tuition rates also vary. Since many universities charge higher tuition for out-of-state students, state residency is an essential issue. On the other hand, some universities charge set tuition for online students regardless of their location.
How to Pay for a PhD in Project Management: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Project Management include teaching assistantships, research fellowships, scholarships, student loans, and funding from universities. These funding options provide you with the opportunity to complete your program with ease, pursue your research effectively, develop skills, and achieve your goals.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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What Is the Difference Between a Project Management Master’s Degree and PhD?
The difference between a project management master’s degree and a PhD is that a Master’s Degree in Project Management is career-oriented, whereas a PhD is research-oriented and prepares you for a career in academic research. However, some students pursue a PhD in Project Management to enhance their qualifications and move up the professional ladder.
Another difference between a project management master’s degree and a PhD is the duration it takes to complete. A Master’s Degree in Project Management takes one to two years to complete, while it takes three to five years on average to complete a project management doctorate.
Master’s vs PhD in Project Management Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for a Master’s Degree in Project Management should increase by 17 percent from 2016 to 2026, the fastest rate of any education level. PhD-level project management jobs are also likely to grow at around 13 percent, faster than the 7 percent average foreseen for all occupations.
Difference in Salary for Project Management Master’s vs PhD
The average yearly salary for a professional with a project management master’s degree is $85,000, while a professional with a PhD in Project Management earns up to $96,000 in a year. The salaries often vary according to qualifications and years of experience.
A project management master’s degree holder could earn more than a professional with a PhD if he has more years of experience. Some of the experience levels in project management include early career level, mid-career level, and professional career level. While experience is an asset, a PhD holder will start at a higher salary than a master’s holder.
Related Project Management Degrees
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Why You Should Get a PhD in Project Management
You should get a PhD in Project Management because it will boost your skillset and provide you with the necessary qualifications to pursue a project management career in an academic or professional field. Below are some specific reasons for getting a PhD in Project Management.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Project Management
- It gives you a competitive edge. A PhD in Project Management will provide you with an advantage in today’s job environment. It establishes exceptional credibility by demonstrating competence in your field and a lifelong dedication to learning, which will aid you in achieving your career goals in any field.
- You can hone your skills. With a PhD in Project Management, you will learn new strategies for leading people and managing projects. You can also learn valuable skills that are transferable to any employment field. This project management degree can also help you make wholesome contributions to your job.
- You can become a scholar-practitioner. A PhD in Project Management will give you the knowledge and confidence to attend and present at academic conferences. You will develop your scholarly voice, prepare a dissertation, and publish peer-reviewed publications in renowned journals in your field.
- It makes you a better thinker. A good PhD program in project management encourages you to do more than just consume information. You’ll acquire new levels of strategic thinking by moving past passive learning, which you may apply in new and exciting ways in your job, company, and subject of interest.
Getting a PhD in Project Management: Project Management PhD Coursework
Getting a PhD in Project Management requires doctoral students to take various courses within an area of concentration. Project management PhD coursework may include project risk management, operations management, and human resource management. Students will also learn about project-based strategic leadership and quality management and control.
Project Risk Management
Risk management is critical during projects’ conception, planning, and execution. In the project risk management course, you will learn how to analyze potential risks that may arise during the project management process. You will also discuss techniques to limit the influence risks have on the project’s outcome.
Operations Management
Operations management examines standard strategies for managing operations staff and business processes in for-profit and non-profit enterprises. Students will benefit from learning how to efficiently manage, control, and supervise commodities, services, and people.
Human Resource Management
This project management course examines core human resource management methods and discusses the use of training, development, and performance management. Human resource management is critical in shaping, strengthening, and changing an organization’s culture.
Project-based Strategic Leadership
The main goal of project-based strategic leadership is to motivate project managers to be the business leaders of their projects. This course provides them with the tools and knowledge they need in order to learn the formal approaches to strategic and business-oriented aspects of projects.
Quality Management and Control
Quality management and control are vital to maintaining a successful company that offers products that meet consumers’ expectations. This course covers strategies for evaluating and improving the quality of processes, manufacturing, and how quality affects customer relationships.
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How to Get a PhD in Project Management: Doctoral Program Requirements
It is vital to understand how to get a PhD in Project Management before beginning your journey toward a career in the project management profession. Below we have broken down the doctoral program requirements to help you understand what it will take to graduate with a PhD in Project Management.
Depending on your university, you will need to complete a certain amount of credit units to qualify for graduation. Credit units are a standard for measuring your efforts in your project management PhD program. A credit point value is assigned to each course based on various factors such as the student's workload, learning outcome, and contact hours.
It is essential to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 during your PhD in Project Management program. In order to graduate, your CGPA must be maintained throughout your program. A PhD program requires vigorous work and dedication to complete.
During your PhD program, you will need to pass any examinations for your courses in the relevant field. The exams may be related to quantitative research techniques, concentration options, or any other comprehensive exams related to aspects of project management.
Throughout your program, you will need to complete an advisor-approved dissertation. This is an opportunity to create a theory or add to the existing knowledge in the field. You will write a dissertation proposal that proposes a question or an answer to a problem, then submit it to a review panel. You will then have an opportunity to defend your dissertation at a later date.
Most project management PhD programs require a research-based project, such as a thesis. Students will choose various subjects in the field and compile the research to show what they have learned throughout the program. During the thesis, students will adequately answer any questions they posed during their program.
Potential Careers With a Project Management Degree
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PhD in Project Management Salary and Job Outlook
An average PhD in Project Management salary can range from $82,360 to $126,230, depending on the career path. With a PhD, you can gain employment in high-demand managerial positions. Below are some examples of these jobs and their salaries.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Project Management?
With a PhD in Project Management, you can pursue many different career options, including leadership, project management, teaching, and research positions. With your degree, you can work as a management analyst, industrial production manager, human resources manager, operations manager, and operations research analyst.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Project Management
- Management analyst
- Industrial production manager
- Human resources manager
- Operations manager
- Operations research analyst
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Project Management?
The average salary for a PhD in Project Management is $71,000, according to PayScale. Specific salaries vary according to the profession, education level, the field of practice, and current field standards. With advanced training and competitive skills you’ll be able to advance into a higher annual salary.
Highest-Paying Project Management Jobs for PhD Grads
| Project Management PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Human Resource Managers | $126,230 |
| Operations Managers | $115,250 |
| Industrial Production Managers | $103,150 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $82,360 |
Best Project Management Jobs with a Doctorate
The best project management jobs with a doctorate degree are human resource managers, operations managers, industrial production managers, management analysts, and operation research analysts. Below is a detailed breakdown of these jobs.
Human resources managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing an organization's administrative operations. They are in charge of recruiting, interviewing, and employing new personnel. They consult with top executives on strategic planning and act as a link between management and staff.
- Salary with a Project Management PhD: $126,230
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 161,700
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, District of Columbia, Rhode Island
Operations managers oversee various departments or locations while planning, directing, or coordinating the operations of public or private sector enterprises. Duties include formulating policies, supervising daily operations, and organizing the use of materials and human resources. You may help systems managers or work as a program manager.
- Salary with a Project Management PhD: $115,250
- Job Outlook: 25% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 104,100
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Delaware, District of Columbia, New York, Massachusetts
Industrial production managers coordinate manufacturing and related plant operations. In the project management field, they organize, coordinate, and direct the actions that go into making various items, such as vehicles, computers, and paper. They also make sure that they meet production targets.
- Salary with a Project Management PhD: $103,150
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 189,300
- Highest-Paying States: Colorado, Delaware, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Massachusetts
Management analysts, sometimes known as project management consultants, make recommendations to increase the efficiency of a company. They advise executives on business strategy and budget management to make companies more lucrative by lowering costs and increasing revenues.
- Salary with a Project Management PhD: $93,000
- Job Outlook: 14% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 907,600
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Washington, Illinois
Operations research analysts utilize math and communication skills to assist businesses in making educated decisions on solving challenges. They gather information from various sources, including databases, sales records, and consumer feedback. They receive input from workers and subject-matter experts to discover solutions to the problems they identify.
- Salary with a Project Management PhD: $82,360
- Job Outlook: 25% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 104,100
- Highest-Paying States: Virginia, Alabama, Maryland, Hawaii, New York
Is a PhD in Project Management Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Project Management is worth it. With a doctorate, there is no limit on what you can achieve and how far your organization can go with your qualification and skills. You’ll be able to work in various fields and make a lucrative salary.
A bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Project Management will teach you the foundations, but a doctorate will propel your career forward. Project management professionals are in high demand across a wide range of organizations because they are dependable leaders who can delegate tasks and move projects forward.
Additional Reading About Project Management
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PhD in Project Management FAQ
Yes, project management is a good career choice. The profession provides high salaries and gives plenty of opportunities for advancement. However, a project management career can be quite demanding and stressful.
Project management has several drawbacks, including resource loss, security concerns, scheduling difficulties, and interpersonal conflicts. Furthermore, outsourcing work or recruiting new personnel to complete the project could result in hefty costs for your company.
Yes, project management is in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in management occupations should increase by nine percent between 2020 and 2030, which is roughly in line with the national average.
Some of the benefits of studying project management include gaining skills that give you a competitive advantage over others, standing out from the crowd, improving the quality of your job, working smarter, and achieving desired results.
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