What Is a Master's in Project Management Degree?

A master’s in project management (MPM) is an advanced degree for professionals across industries who want to deepen their expertise in the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to manage projects effectively and efficiently. The MPM degree focuses on core principles of project management, including planning, execution, and risk management, preparing you for leadership roles in a wide range of sectors. With the growing demand for skilled project managers, earning an MPM can give you a competitive edge and open doors to exciting career opportunities.

Let’s explore what this degree entails: study options, curriculum, career paths, and the many benefits of earning this respected credential.

Understanding the MPM Degree

A Master’s in Project Management (MPM degree) builds both technical management and leadership skills, helping you align project results with strategic organizational goals. It’s a strong fit for business professionals who want an advanced degree like the MPM credential that aligns with global project management standards, such as those established by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Being able to complete my [MPM] program online helped. It’s a great option if you’re self-motivated and self-disciplined. If you can find an employer that’s supportive of your education, it keeps you fresh, and you’re able to incorporate your learning back into your projects.

– Tony Ellsworth, MBA, MPM, Bellevue University military student

What You’ll Learn in the Master’s in Project Management Program: Core Curriculum

The Master of Project Management (MPM) program at Bellevue University is built around a contemporary curriculum that you can apply immediately in your professional role. It aligns with PMI’s globally recognized standards and draws from the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide).

To develop qualified professionals who are skilled in project management, the curriculum includes, but is not limited to, coursework in:

• Managing Project Risks
• Project Communication Management and Leadership
• Project Management in Global and Virtual Workplaces
• Defining and Managing Requirements and Project Success
• Organizational Structures and Practices
• Emerging Trends in Project Management
• Schedule Management and Cost Control
• Quality in Projects
• Procurement and Contract Management
• Agile Project Management

You Are Assured of a Quality, Accredited Program

Bellevue University’s MPM program is accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC). Programs accredited by recognized organizations, such as GAC, often carry greater weight in the job market, as they adhere to rigorous academic standards.

Why Earn a Master’s in Project Management? Benefits of an MPM Degree

This advanced degree is ideal for project management practitioners who desire to work toward their Project Manager Professional (PMP®) credentials. It’s also a smart choice for a PMP® certification holder to earn an MPM degree to complement their extensive professional experience.

Students who have earned the following bachelor’s degrees may be especially interested in and benefit from the Master of Project Management: Computer Information Systems (CIS), Project Management, Information Technology (IT), IT Operations Management, Management of Information Systems (MIS), Software Development, and Systems and Network Administration. Other fields of study will also benefit, including the Sciences, Engineering, Healthcare, Business, and Finance.

Earning an MPM is a strategic investment in your career. Here's why:

• Increase Your Earning Potential
  Professionals with a master’s in project management often earn significantly more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

• Position Yourself for Leadership Roles
  An MPM sets you up for leadership and executive roles by demonstrating mastery of project strategy, execution, and management.

• Prepare for PMP® Certification
  The MPM curriculum can help prepare you for certifications like PMP® (Project Management Professional) and CAPM® (Certified Associate in Project Management),* further enhancing your credibility and job prospects.

  Why is a PMP® Credential Important?

  • Industry-wide recognized and respected credential
  • Leadership and strategic management skills gained
  • Networking opportunities with industry professionals

• Gain Practical, Immediately Applicable Skills
  Learn tools, techniques, and frameworks you can apply immediately in your current role or future opportunities.

• Earn a Terminal Degree
  The MPM is a terminal degree in the field—an academic signal that you’ve reached the highest level of formal education in project management.

Not only will you have the opportunity to gain these skills, but you’ll also build a professional network. Bellevue University offers students the opportunity for elevated levels of engagement with faculty and professionals in the field.

Bellevue University listens to its students by considering their career needs in curriculum design. Content is based on proven theory and innovative applications. Our online learning option allows you the flexibility to access course materials and complete assignments on your schedule, which is perfect for working professionals. Here’s a list of 4 things you can expect from an online MPM program.

Dr. Emad Rahim, Bellevue University project management Program Director and one of two recipients of the 2025 Curt Reimann Baldrige Scholarship and Quality Award, is participating in the Baldrige Examiner training program, which focuses on applying the principles of the Baldrige Excellence Framework in organizational improvement.

Dr. Rahim will use the Baldrige Excellence Framework to enhance academic and professional success for faculty and students within Bellevue University’s College of Science and Technology.

“By incorporating the core values of the Baldrige Framework, I aim to ensure our programs remain aligned with industry standards and are adaptable to the evolving demands of the marketplace,” said Dr. Rahim.

I had the opportunity as an alum to connect with MPM Program Director Emad Rahim and University President Mary Hawkins to share ideas. You would never get that somewhere else. They focus on being responsive to the practicality of incorporating your education into your career. They are very responsive to students.

– Tony Ellsworth, MBA, MPM, Bellevue University military student

Career Paths with an MPM Degree

Career opportunities for project management can vary widely, with many professionals progressing into senior management positions or specializing in areas like risk management or agile project management. Bellevue University’s MPM degree not only enhances your understanding of project management principles but also prepares you for leadership roles that involve strategic planning, risk management, and team coordination. Whether you aim to work in technology, healthcare, construction, or finance, you’ll build the knowledge and skills to effectively and efficiently manage projects.

With experience, individuals may also transition into executive roles, such as:

• Chief Project Officer
• Director of Operations
• Senior Project Manager or Director
• Portfolio Manager

Senior project managers influence organizational strategy and oversee large-scale projects. The versatility and demand for project management skills make a master’s in project management a valuable asset for enhancing career prospects and contributing to organizational success.

See also, What can you do with an MPM degree?

For instance, you could qualify for roles in industries with a high demand for project managers, such as:

• Science & Technology
• Healthcare
• Construction
• Finance
• Manufacturing
• Supply Chain & Logistics
• Engineering
• Sustainability
• Contract Acquisition and Management
• Government
• Consulting

*The Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC) has accredited the following three programs at Bellevue University:
*Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science in Project Management*
*Graduate: Master of Project Management, Master of Science in Management of Information Systems, Information Technology Project Management Concentration*

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn an online master’s in project management degree?
A: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students may take longer). Bellevue’s Master’s in Project Management (MPM) degree program requires 36 graduate credits. Students choose whether to take one or two classes at a time for three-month terms when there are three academic terms per year. If you choose to attend full-time and progress successfully without interruption, the program can be completed in 6 terms.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in an MPM degree program?
A: Requirements vary by school. Bellevue University does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Typically, you'll need to:

1. Apply
2. Submit official transcripts
3. Provide grades from the most recent 60 credit hours of a bachelor’s or completed master’s degree

4. Submit a resume, letter of recommendation, or other documents (if required)
   To qualify for Bellevue’s MPM, students must have at least one of the following:

   • A bachelor’s degree in project management
   • Completion of CIS 633 - IT Project Management or equivalent
   • 3 years of experience in project or program management
   • PMP® or CAPM® certification (or equivalent)
     See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a Master’s in Project Management?
A: Yes. PMP® and CAPM® are excellent complements and are recognized by PMI's Global Accreditation Center, two of several Project Management Certifications from the Project Management Institute (PMI.org).

Q: Can I earn a master’s in project management online?
A: Yes, you can earn the MPM degree at Bellevue University entirely online. See more about how online learning works.

Q: Are there scholarships available for Master’s of Project Management students?
A: Yes. Graduate students are eligible for various scholarships and federal student aid.

Apply for scholarships here.

Explore a Master’s in Project Management at Bellevue University

Earning your MPM degree is a strategic move toward higher earning potential, leadership growth, and long-term career success. You’ll gain industry-relevant skills, build a professional network, and learn from experienced faculty who care about your goals.

Learn more about the Master’s in Project Management (MPM) degree today.

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