Project Management Masters Degrees: Best Programs, Job, and Salaries
Project managers are an integral part of the current economic landscape. They work in the engineering, production, business, finance, information technology, and healthcare industries. Usually, employers of project managers require only a bachelor’s degree from prospective candidates, but one of the best Master’s Degrees in Project Management can open pathways to more lucrative job roles.
This article focuses on some of the best project management master’s degrees, schools, and accreditations, as well as some of the careers and salaries offered to master’s degree holders. If you are interested in a project management master’s degree program, this article can help you make an informed decision about your education path.
What Is Project Management?
Project management is the application of specific skills, knowledge, techniques, resources, and tools to achieve project objectives within a particular timeframe. Project managers can oversee both short-term and ongoing projects. Projects such as the development of software, construction of infrastructure, and creation of new products are managed by project managers.
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Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
The best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Project Management are located all around the United States. Some even offer fully online programs that can be completed from anywhere in the world.
What Schools Offer the Best Project Management Master’s Degrees?
- Bellevue University
- DeVry University
- Granite State College
- Metropolitan College of New York
- Southern New Hampshire University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Project Management vary between schools. However, most programs require a cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher. You will likely also need two to three letters of recommendation, a written personal essay and statement of goals or objectives, and a copy of your current resume.
This program typically takes two years for full-time students to complete, although students in accelerated programs may finish earlier. During the program, students are required to complete 40 to 60 credits, which includes core courses and more specialized coursework in project management, such as construction management or IT management.
Project Management Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Undergraduate degree in the same field or a related field
- Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- Personal essay and/or statement of goals
- Current academic and/or professional resume
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Project Management
You can get a project management master’s degree by first earning an undergraduate degree in the same or a similar field. Almost every graduate degree program requires students to have first earned a bachelor’s degree before starting their master’s or doctoral degree. Then, you wil have to complete all of your chosen program’s requirements.
The best way to get a project management master’s degree is to begin studying the subject as early as possible. If you can take any project management courses in high school, it will cut down the time it takes to earn your bachelor’s. During your bachelor’s program, try to take as many project management electives as possible, because these prerequisites often count toward the credits needed to graduate from a master’s degree program.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
You need 40 to 60 credits for a Master’s Degree in Project Management. The number of credits you need to earn varies depending on the school and program, whether you have any transferable credits, and whether the program is on a quarter or semester system. Be sure to chat with an advisor to determine the exact number of credits you will need to earn.
Project Management Degree Requirements
- 40 to 60 credit hours
- 20 core credits in classes such as Fundamentals of Project Management
- 20 elective credits
- 2.5 or higher cumulative GPA
- Capstone project and/or thesis paper
Best Project Management Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Bellevue University | Master of Business Administration in Project Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Boston University | Master of Science in Project Management | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Brenau University | Master of Business Administration in Project Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| DeVry University | Master of Science in Project Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Granite State College | Master of Science in Project Management | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Lehigh University | Master of Business Administration in Project Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Metropolitan College of New York | Master of Science in Project Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Missouri State University | Master of Science in Project Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota | Master of Science in Project and Program Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Master of Business Administration in Project Management | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Schools for Project Management: Top Project Management Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools for a project management master’s degree are available all around the country and even online. These schools offer some of the top project management master’s programs. Whether you prefer in-person, online, or hybrid learning, there is an option out there for you.
A Master’s Degree in Project Management is valuable for anyone pursuing a career or looking to advance their current career in project management. Look below for detailed information on the top programs listed in the table above.
Best Schools for Project Management: Top Project Management Master's Degree Programs
Bellevue University is a private institution based in Bellevue, Nebraska. It first opened its doors in 1966 and has since begun offering a variety of both in-person and online degree programs. The school is focused on providing quality education to working adults.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management
The project management program at Bellevue University provides graduate students with the skills needed to oversee complex projects for a variety of organizations. Their applied learning approach allows students to integrate real-life business scenarios into the learning process. Students also benefit from their strong professional network after graduation.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $630/credit
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 23%
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.5 or higher
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Bellevue University
- Request more information about the program to speak with an admissions counselor.
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the $50 application fee.
- Submit official transcripts showing an eligible bachelor’s degree program and a 2.5 GPA or higher.
- Apply for financial aid, if desired.
Boston University
Boston, MA
Located in Boston, Massachusetts is Boston University , a distinguished university made up of 17 different schools and colleges. It sees 33,500 students enroll in its 300 different programs each year from over 100 different countries.
Master of Science in Project Management
Boston University offers master’s degree programs in project management and IT project management. Students may choose to specialize in Agile project management or project portfolio management depending on their long-term career goals.
Master of Science in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $30,525/semester
- Required Credits: 40 credits
- Program Length: 1 to 2 years
- Learning Format: In person, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 89%
Master of Science in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: $85
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume/CV
Applying to Boston University
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the $85 application fee.
- Submit official transcripts.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
- Provide a 200-to-500-word personal statement and copy of your current resume or CV.
Brenau University
Gainesville, GA
Brenau University is a private institution based in Gainesville, Georgia, with other locations in Atlanta and online. It was founded as Brenau College in 1900 and became a university in 1992. Since its inception, this learning institution has put an emphasis on helping women and military personnel receive a high-quality education.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Brenau University offers a world-class interdisciplinary project management degree program that equips students with the skills needed to assume project management responsibilities in a wide range of organizations. The program also prepares students for Project Management Institute (PMI) certifications.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $785/credit
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Resume
Applying to Brenau University
- Speak with an admissions counselor about your program, if desired.
- Complete the online application via Brenau University or Common App.
- Submit official transcripts showing a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Submit a copy of your current resume.
- Apply for financial aid, if desired.
DeVry University
Naperville, IL
DeVry University is a private university based in Naperville, Illinois with multiple campuses around the country. It is focused on helping close the workforce gap by offering students a modern and technology-based education.
Master of Science in Project Management
Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University offers a master’s degree program in project management. It includes core courses in the principles of project management, such as planning, budgeting, leading, and executing projects. Students can also choose to learn through an online or hybrid format.
Master of Science in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $575/credit (military); $776/credit (non-military)
- Required Credits: 57 credits
- Program Length: 1 to 2 years
- Learning Format: Hybrid, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%
Master of Science in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.5 or higher
- Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Interview
Applying to DeVry University
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit official transcripts showing a 2.5 GPA or higher.
- If GPA is below 2.5, submit GMAT or GRE scores.
- Complete admission interview.
Granite State College
Concord, NH
Granite State College , founded in Concord, New Hampshire in 1972, is dedicated to offering affordable, accredited, and accessible education to working adults. It began by offering only night, evening, and weekend courses but has since grown to offer a wide variety of completely online degree programs.
Master of Science in Project Management
Granite State College’s postgraduate program for project management provides a high-quality and effective learning pathway for students. The program focuses on expanding students’ perspectives and skills to work in modern settings. Students learn to oversee complex projects while achieving cost-effective results.
Master of Science in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $545/credit (in state); $595/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 1 to 2 years
- Learning Format: Hybrid, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%
Master of Science in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Statement of goals, references, resume
Applying to Granite State College
- Complete the online application.
- Submit official transcripts showing a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Write and submit a brief statement of your goals and purpose for applying to the college.
- Provide contact information for two professional references.
- Submit a copy of your current resume.
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
Lehigh University was founded in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in 1865. It has since grown and now sees nearly 7,500 students enroll in its variety of programs each year. It boasts small class sizes, with the average student-to-faculty ratio being nine to one.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Lehigh University’s master's degree program in project management prepares students to learn how to conceptualize, manage, and implement strategies for complex projects. The curriculum emphasizes conflict resolution, sustainability, and leadership skills to help students succeed in the field of project management.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $1,235/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 3.5 years
- Learning Format: In person, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 87%
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE (optional)
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Personal essay, resume, letters of recommendation
Applying to Lehigh University
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the $75 application fee.
- Submit official transcripts with the option of including GMAT or GRE scores.
- Write a personal essay about your achievements and goals, and submit it with a resume containing two years of relevant work experience.
- Provide contact information for two people who can write letters of recommendation.
Metropolitan College of New York
New York City, NY
The Metropolitan College of New York was founded in 1964 to address the education needs of women. Today, the school offers 20 different undergraduate and graduate degree programs to both men and women, who may attend any of its locations throughout New York.
Master of Science in Project Management
The project management postgraduate program is developed for people who want to advance their careers in project management. Students develop core competencies in fundamental project management concepts, such as resource allocation, decision sciences, risk management, cost management, and managerial finance.
Master of Science in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $9,669/semester
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 1 year
- Learning Format: In person, hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 30%
Master of Science in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Personal statement, resume, letters of recommendation, interview
Applying to Metropolitan College of New York
- Complete the online application.
- Submit official transcripts showing an earned bachelor’s degree.
- Submit a copy of your current resume, along with a 300-to-500-word personal statement.
- Provide contact information for two people who can write letters of recommendation.
- Complete an entrance interview.
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO
Missouri State University is based in Springfield, Missouri. It offers undergraduate degrees in West Plains, Missouri and teaches other courses in Mountain Grove, online, and even in partnership with a university in Dalian, China. About 26,000 students enroll in this university’s various programs each year.
Master of Science in Project Management
Missouri State University offers a project management master’s degree program that is ideal for people wanting to advance their careers in project management. It equips students with hard and soft skills to manage complex projects while meeting all the objectives.
Master of Science in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $3,125/semester (in state); $5,762/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 1 to 2 years
- Learning Format: In person, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 59%
Master of Science in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.75 or higher
- Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
- Application Fee: $55
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume
Applying to Missouri State University
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the $55 application fee.
- Submit official transcripts showing a 2.75 GPA or higher.
- Write and submit a statement of purpose with your current professional resume.
- Provide contact information for two people who can write letters of recommendation.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Winona, MN
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is located in Winona, Minnesota. It was founded in 1912 as a private Catholic university. Today, it has nearly 5,000 students enrolled in a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Master of Science in Project Management
The project management master’s degree program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota equips students with the required skills and tools to manage teams in the execution of a variety of complex projects. The coursework addresses modern workplace needs and explores effective management practices.
Master of Science in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $580/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person, online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 57%
Master of Science in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation
Applying to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
- Complete the free online application.
- Submit official transcripts showing an earned bachelor’s degree.
- Submit your current resume.
- Write and submit a personal statement of achievements and goals.
- Provide contact information for two professional references.
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Southern New Hampshire University is a private university based in Manchester, New Hampshire. It is well known for its plethora of undergraduate and graduate programs that are offered completely online.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Southern New Hampshire University offers this Master of Business Administration in Project Management degree completely online. It is taught by faculty who have experience working in the field. Required courses include Leading People and Organizations, Organizational Strategy in a Global Market, and Strategy for High-Performing Organizations.
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $627/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 1 to 1.5 years
- Learning Format: Online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%
Master of Business Administration in Project Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA
- Standardized Tests: No tests required
- Application Fee: No fee
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Southern New Hampshire University
- Meet with an admissions advisor to ask any questions you have about the program.
- Complete the free online application.
- Submit all official transcripts.
- Determine if you have any transfer credits.
- Apply for financial aid, if desired.
What Is a Project Management Master’s Degree?
A Master’s Degree in Project Management is a graduate degree that teaches you how to effectively oversee and execute projects. This degree combines business administration, economics, and marketing concepts. Graduates with project management master’s degrees can pursue careers in engineering, construction, healthcare, and information technology.
A Master’s Degree in Project Management allows students to specialize in technical areas of their choice. Students can choose to focus on risk management, system analysis, development and planning, infrastructure, supply chain management, and many other concentrations.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
It is very important to have a Master’s Degree in Project Management if you want to be hired for a senior-level position in this field. You can definitely get away with just a bachelor’s degree, but there are many benefits to earning a master’s.
The main reasons why a project management master’s degree is important are:
- Qualification for senior-level jobs
- Important training and education for various job-related tasks
- Increased salary potential
- Improved employability
- Advantage over competition for various jobs
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Project Management?
You can get the following types of Master’s Degrees for Project Management:
- Master’s degree
- Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Professional Studies (MPS)
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Business Administration in Project Management?
It is better to get a Master of Business Administration in Project Management because it trains you for work in the business sector. Not every project management job will be in business, but it is a very common role in this industry. Earning an MBA will educate you both in project management skills and in business skills, making your education much more versatile.
The difference between a Master of Business Administration degree in project management and a Master of Science degree is that an MBA offers a business-centered education while an MS offers a theory- and concept-based education. For project management, an MBA provides more hands-on learning opportunities through projects and internships, while an MS focuses on the theories and concepts behind project management ideas and tools.
What Is the Difference Between a Project Management Master’s Degree and a Project Management Certificate?
The main difference between a project management master’s degree and a certificate in project management is the curriculum. A degree program will try to cover as many aspects of project management as it can, and it will go in-depth into all of them. A certificate, on the other hand, will focus on only a few key components of the area of study.
You should get a project management degree instead of a certificate because you will impress more employers, earn a higher base salary, and have an easier time finding employment overall. A certificate can definitely get you a job, but having a master’s degree tends to do increase your chances.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
A project management master’s degree is a graduate degree costing an average of $19,792 per year , according to the National Center of Education Statistics. The cost of these programs varies based on the institution and location of study. Students living on campus can expect additional living charges that students studying online do not incur.
The best ways to cover the cost of a master’s degree program are through scholarships and financial aid grants, both of which have eligibility requirements based on the type of aid you apply for. Another common option is to apply for student loans, which offer a variety of repayment options depending on the lender.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Project Management Master’s Degree?
It takes approximately two years to get a Master’s Degree in Project Management. The Master’s Degree in Project Management length varies from program to program. You can also choose a part-time or full-time schedule, which impacts how long the program will take to complete.
By enrolling in a part-time program, you can often take as long as five years to complete the degree. On the other hand, if you enroll full-time, you will certainly finish in two years, or even as little as eighteen months. Even better is an accelerated program, which can often be finished in as little as one year.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Project Management?
A Master’s Degree in Project Management is not very hard to get. The reason a project management master’s degree is easier to earn than others is because of the curriculum. It does not include much scientific, mathematical, or technological content. This means you will be focusing solely on theories, concepts, practices, and ethics, rather than learning new algorithms, functions, software, and hardware.
Why Should You Get a Project Management Master’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a project management master’s degree are that it:
- Provides important education and training for various careers;
- Qualifies you for a plethora of senior-level positions;
- Increases your salary potential and employability; and
- Teaches valuable theories and practices.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Project Management?
The required courses for a project management master’s degree vary from program to program. However, there are a few core courses you can expect to run into in just about every program. The following are five courses you will likely take on your way to getting a project management master’s degree.
Project Chartering and Planning
Project Chartering and Planning is one of the most common project management courses in a master’s degree program. This course involves learning how to take charge of projects, determining the best plan of action for executing them, and figuring out how to interact with everyone considered a key participant in the project.
Ethical Decision-Making
Ethical Decision-Making is another common course in a project management master’s degree program. In this course, the focus is on making big decisions and doing so ethically. You will study various hypothetical ethical dilemmas and learn how to make the best decisions.
Leading Teams
Leading Teams is a valuable project management master’s degree course. This course focuses solely on being the leader of a team and how to do so effectively. You will learn through various hands-on situations that teach how to best become an effective project team leader.
Building Diverse and Inclusive Organizations
Building Diverse and Inclusive Organizations is a higher-level course required for a project management master’s degree. In this course, students learn how to incorporate both diversity and inclusivity in organizations and individual teams.
Negotiation, Contracting, and Procurement
In Negotiation, Contracting, and Procurement, you study the business side of project management by learning how to negotiate with contractors, when to outsource work, and how to best collect things needed for your team’s project.
Continuing Education Paths for Project Management Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a project management master’s degree is directly into your career. You can pursue a PhD degree from various schools, or even graduate certificates, but you will want to get your feet on the ground in your desired career first. If you do want to pursue a doctoral degree, graduate certificate, or project management certification, consider doing so while getting your career started.
Related Project Management Degrees
What to Look For in the Best Project Management Master’s Degree Programs
The best project management master’s degree programs have accreditation, experienced faculty, and good class sizes. The following five points are things to consider when determining how to best pick a project management master’s program.
Accreditation
Accreditation is almost like a reward given to universities for meeting a predetermined set of educational requirements. This is important to look for because it shows that your school and desired program meet national and industry standards.
Faculty Credentials
Faculty credentials show that a program’s faculty members are knowledgeable and experienced in the area of study they teach. This is important to look for when determining a program as it shows the instructors you learn from are experts in what they teach.
Cost
The cost of a program includes tuition, fees, and all other expenses necessary to successfully complete your program. It is important to take all aspects of the cost into consideration when deciding on a program, as you will definitely want to remain within your budget to avoid financial stress.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
The student-to-faculty ratio is how many students there are for each individual faculty member in a program. A good student-to-faculty ratio is smaller, preferably less than 20 students for every instructor. This ensures you have plenty of one-on-one learning time, if and when needed.
Accelerated Options
Accelerated options are available to help students complete their programs faster than expected. Where the average master’s degree program will take two to three years to complete, accelerated options allow students to complete their programs within one year.
What Is the Most Affordable Project Management Master’s Degree?
The most affordable Master’s Degrees in project management are:
- Missouri State University’s Master of Science in Project Management
- Granite State College’s Master of Science in Project Management
- Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s Master of Science in Project Management
- Lehigh University’s Master of Business Administration in Project Management
- Bellevue University’s Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Salary and Job Outlook for Project Management Master’s Degree Graduates
In this section, we dive into project management master’s degree jobs. We will also discuss the average Master’s in Project Management salary, and what the top-paying jobs are. Read on to find out what jobs you can get, how hard they are to get, and how much you can make with this degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Project Management Master’s Degree?
It is relatively easy to get a job with a project management master’s degree. This is because most jobs in this field only require a bachelor’s degree, and the degree is quite versatile. Project management is needed in nearly every industry, which gives you a plethora of jobs to choose from.
What’s the Average Project Management Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Project Management is $76,000 per year. There are great benefits to earning a Master’s Degree in Project Management. A project management master’s degree will increase your salary and add to your professional value. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), project managers earn an average annual salary of $94,500.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Project Management Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a project management master’s degree are high-paying and in demand. There are jobs available in many different industries, from healthcare to business to tech, making for a vast job market for those with this degree.
Project Management Degree Jobs
- Information Systems Manager
- Director of Product Management
- Construction Manager
- Senior Project Manager
- Operations Manager
Potential Careers With a Project Management Degree
Highest-Paying Project Management Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Project Management Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Director of Product Management | $149,832 |
| Senior Portfolio Manager | $125,215 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $101,340 |
| Administrative Services Manager | $99,290 |
| Construction Manager | $98,890 |
| Senior Project Manager | $94,509 |
| Senior Business Analyst | $86,796 |
| Program Manager | $86,788 |
| Operations Manager | $68,265 |
Best Jobs for Project Management Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for project management master’s degree grads are high-paying and in high demand. Below, we discuss in detail the top ten jobs you can get with a Master’s Degree in Project Management. The following information includes the average salary, job outlook, number of jobs, and the highest-paying states for those jobs.
Information Systems Manager
Average Salary: $159,010
Information systems managers direct and oversee all computer-related activities in an organization. They analyze the organization’s technological needs to create goals and recommend solutions to meet those goals.
- Average Salary: $159,010
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 482,000
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey
Director of Product Management
Average Salary: $149,832
A director of product management plans and implements the product business cycle. They direct and oversee product development operations within an organization, through collaborating with product managers, organizing department collaborations, and contributing to policy and procedural decisions.
- Average Salary: $149,832
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Delaware *
Senior Portfolio Manager
Average Salary: $125,215
Senior portfolio managers work with individual as well as corporate and institutional clients to identify the best investment decisions for them. They collaborate with analysts from investment companies and banks to utilize their statistical analysis skills throughout the investment process. They also conduct market research to ensure minimal financial loss and maximum profit.
- Average Salary: $125,215
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Delaware *
Medical and Health Services Manager
Average Salary: $101,340
Medical and health services managers direct and oversee medical activities in a health facility. They work with physicians, surgeons, laboratory technologists, and other health workers to provide health services that meet set standards.
- Average Salary: $101,340
- Job Outlook: 32% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 429,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, District of Columbia, Massachusetts
Administrative Services Manager
Average Salary: $99,290
Administrative services managers are tasked with planning, directing, and coordinating activities to ensure the smooth and successful operation of an organization. They formulate policies and change procedures to improve operations.
- Average Salary: $99,290
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Delaware *
Construction Manager
Average Salary: $98,890
A construction project manager directs the operations of the construction site to ensure productivity and the efficient use of time. They coordinate with architects, contractors, and clients to deliver results in accordance with agreements.
- Average Salary: $98,890
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 448,000
- Highest-Paying States: Alaska, New Jersey, New York
Senior Project Manager
Average Salary: $94,509
Senior project managers are responsible for the planning and execution of projects through effective budgeting and planning. Their duties include providing feedback, meeting deadlines, communicating with clients, and overseeing teams and steps throughout a project.
- Average Salary: $94,509
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Delaware *
Senior Business Analyst
Average Salary: $86,796
A senior business analyst creates cost-effective ways to improve an organization’s operations. They recommend new systems and solutions for project execution and make observations about methods and equipment.
- Average Salary: $86,782
- Job Outlook: 14% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 907,600
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York
Program Manager
Average Salary: $86,788
Program managers monitor project progress, improve business strategies, and coordinate various projects to meet enterprise goals. They also collaborate with project managers for the timely completion of projects.
- Average Salary: $86,788
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Delaware *
Operations Manager
Average Salary: $68,265
Operations managers are responsible for implementing, managing, and planning projects to ensure that organizations meet their professional goals. Their duties include meeting with staff, developing long-term strategies, analyzing the project, and overseeing collaborations between departments.
- Average Salary: $68,230
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030*
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400*
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Delaware *
*Information taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics report on General and Operations Managers
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is a Master’s Degree in Project Management Worth It?
Yes, getting a Master’s Degree in Project Management is worth it if you are interested in a rewarding career. A Master’s in Project Management would open up job opportunities in multiple industries and allow you to earn a higher salary.
Since a master’s degree is one of the highest levels of education, you’ll be considered for nearly any position that you wish to have in this field. When considering your potential salary, benefits, and overall job satisfaction, it is safe to say a project management master’s degree is worth it.
Additional Reading About Project Management
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Project Management Master’s Degree FAQ
No, you do not have to get a master’s degree to work in project management. Most project managers pursue a bachelor’s degree. However, many reputable companies and senior-level positions do require a master’s degree.
It takes two years to complete your Master’s Degree in Project Management program. However, most universities offer flexibility that allows you to choose an accelerated or slow-paced program. This means you can choose to finish your master’s degree program in as little as a year or as long as five years.
No, studying project management is not hard. While people who have studied project management will have varying answers, most agree that project management is not difficult to learn. However, it does require a certain level of discipline, dedication, and interest to succeed. Luckily, students have many resources available to
gain project management skills
.
Project management is closely related to technology and many other fields. It spans multiple professional settings and industries. You can choose to work in technology, healthcare, business, production, finance, engineering, and many other fields.
