Best Online Master’s in Project Management Programs of 2025

As organizations look for skilled leaders who can effectively manage and oversee complex projects from start to finish, there’s a strong demand for project management specialists. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that jobs for project management specialists will grow by 7% between 2023 and 2033.

A master’s degree in project management can provide you with advanced leadership and planning skills, preparing you for in-demand roles in project, product, and operations management.

To help you make an informed decision, we compiled a list of the best online master’s in project management programs that offer high-quality education and the flexibility for you to balance your studies and your personal life.

Picking the best project management master’s degree is a personal decision, but making sure your choice is affordable, accessible, and rewarding is a good start.

Here are some important factors to consider:

Graduate education can be expensive, but online learning can sometimes be a more affordable option.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual cost for an online master’s in project management is approximately $11,000. This is about 50% less expensive than the average cost for an in-person program, at $22,000.

Additionally, an online program can reduce your travel costs and facilities fees, making it more budget-friendly.

Despite these savings, 21% of the online students we surveyed in our 2024 Online Education Trends Report said that paying for their education and minimizing student debt was their greatest challenge. Financial aid offices at many schools offer graduate students scholarships, grants, and fellowships, so contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

A typical master’s program takes around 36 credits and up to three years to complete, though accelerated options exist. For example, the University of New Hampshire offers an online master’s in project management program that can be finished in 18 months.

Admission requirements for a master’s degree program in project management typically include:

A master’s in project management can prepare you for leadership positions in several sectors, including manufacturing, business, and healthcare.

These degrees also equip you with in-demand skills, such as strategic planning, risk management, budget control, adaptability, sustainability, and AI and data integration. According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), project managers with strengths in these areas are in high demand.

The following table highlights some of the occupations project management master’s graduates can pursue:

Pursuing your master’s in project management online offers the benefit of schedule flexibility and less travel time, making it easier to balance work and study.

Additionally, it can open doors to senior-level career opportunities and higher salaries. Data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, Individuals who earn a master’s degree in a management-related field can expect to earn over $30,000 more in starting salary compared to those who only hold a bachelor’s degree.

Earning a master’s in project management can lead to more advanced degrees, such as a doctorate in business or management. These degrees can prepare you for executive leadership positions, specialized consulting roles, or teaching and research positions in academia.

Note that some doctorates, such as a doctor of business administration (DBA), may require prior professional experience for admission. Top executive and consulting positions typically prefer candidates with practical experience, so gaining hands-on project management experience before or during your doctoral studies may enhance your career prospects after graduation.