Best MBA in Project Management Programs 2024

A master of business administration (MBA) is a 1-2-year graduate degree that covers the full array of business leadership skills, including topics in finance, accounting, strategic planning, human resources, and business operations. An MBA in project management focuses specifically on management skills for business leaders and can prepare current project managers for more complex and rewarding roles. Project managers execute business plans using a team, a budget, and a timeline.

Many industries need project management professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the number of project management specialists will increase by 7% between 2023 and 2033. According to the BLS, these professionals earned a median annual salary of $98,580 in 2023.

The following guide dives deeper into the various educational options that can lead to a leadership role in project management. Not only will you find our data-derived ranking of the best online MBAs in project management, but you’ll also learn more about the degree’s costs, requirements, and benefits.

Still unsure about your MBA college choice? Check out our overall best online MBA programs.

Students earning an MBA in project management gain an understanding of business concepts and build their leadership and management abilities, positioning themselves for senior-level management positions. Whereas a master’s in project management exposes students to concepts relevant to the field, an MBA program specifically in project management has a strong business focus.

Online degrees provide many learners with the opportunity to pursue an MBA regardless of location or work schedule. Another difference between online and traditional MBAs is the amount of self-discipline and time management they might require. People with the motivation to stay on top of their coursework in light of other demands might thrive in an online program.

Additionally, earning an online degree does not attract the scrutiny it used to. Many employers value an online degree as much as an on-campus credential.

The demand for project managers with an MBA or another graduate degree continues to grow. The BLS projects there will be at least 1.2 million management job openings each year between 2023 and 2033.

MBA students might focus on a particular career track, such as information systems, marketing, finance, sustainability, or human resources. Choosing a concentration can help students focus their careers and position themselves for employment in industries that suit their interests.

Earning an MBA in project management helps demonstrate your ability to manage complex projects and see them through. You can also gain an understanding of various business aspects and how a project ties in with a company’s overall goals. According to the BLS, management professionals tend to earn higher average pay than workers in other occupational groups.

An MBA in project management can help project managers step into high-level leadership positions within various contexts. This focused degree also provides students with finance and managerial competencies essential to overseeing and completing complex projects.

People who desire a managerial position might benefit from earning an online MBA in project management. This degree provides a relatively straightforward path to organizational leadership. However, competition for jobs in project management can be intense.

A master’s degree in project management allows students to focus on the specific skills they want to market during a job search, making them more attractive candidates. For example, this degree can signal to employers that a job candidate has taken coursework on planning and leading projects effectively and cost-efficiently.

Although similar, an MBA in project management typically has more coursework covering traditional business topics, such as management, communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.

Professionals who want to earn an advanced degree in project management and seek a managerial position might also consider pursuing a dual MBA/master’s degree. Students willing to commit the time and money can benefit from leadership training and exposure to advanced coursework in their field.