online phd project management

Top 10 PhD in Project Management Online Degree Programs 2024

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Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson / Reading Level: Grade 10 / First Covered: January 2020

Key Takeaways:

• Coming in at #1 in our ranking of the top PhD in project management programs is Liberty University , followed by Saint Leo University .
• Pursuing a PhD in project management can open doors to advanced career opportunities in academia, research, and high-level consulting or executive roles in various industries.
• Project management graduates can find work in fields like architecture, engineering, marketing, and software development .
• With a PhD in project management, you can earn an average salary of $173,670 , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics..

In this ranking, we profile the top 10 PhD in project management online programs. With few online doctorate in project management programs available, choosing a reputable one can be challenging. It is important to look for schools and programs with:

Featured Programs

• accreditation
• solid curriculum

These important points will lead to a project management PhD online. If project management doesn’t feel like a good fit check out our online phd in organizational leadership degrees . Our research team found a list of reputable programs. They are suited for those seeking online doctorate in project management or closely related degrees. Our methodology is explained below.

Top 10 PhD in Project Management Degree Online Methodology

We reviewed 39 colleges and universities listed by the NCES College Navigator. These schools offer PhD in project management online degree (or closely related) programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools to the 10 top online programs by applying the following criteria:

• accreditation by a reputable governing body
• online pathways to the project management online PhD
• institution rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report

Below are the results of our list of top 10 online PhD in project management programs.

#10 – Jacksonville University

Jacksonville, florida.

Graduation Tuition : $16,293

Jacksonville University has an online DBA. It is recognized as the only AACSB-accredited DBA program in Northeast Florida. It might appeal to those seeking project management program PhD online options. Jacksonville University does not require the GRE or GMAT for admission. It takes a minimum of three years to complete. While classes are delivered online, some courses require campus visits and are delivered in a hybrid format. During the first phase of the program or the first two years, students complete a series of core courses. After the completion of the first phase, students take a:

• comprehensive exam
• oral presentation
• dissertation proposal

The final phase of the DBA program requires students to focus on their dissertation. Jacksonville University ranks #28 among the best regional universities in the South and #36 in best value schools.

• Top regional university
• Smaller class sizes
• More diverse
• Limited tech support

#9 – Colorado Technical University

Online doctor of management in project management, colorado springs, colorado.

Graduation Tuition : $13,937

Colorado Tech has a doctorate in project management program. The online Doctor of Management in Project Management is accredited and ranked. The program is offered entirely online. It consists of 100 credits and offers multiple start dates throughout the year. Also, students move through the program at a quick and rigorous pace. They may earn their doctorate in three years. The program’s focus is project management, and classes emphasize topics in the discipline. These courses cover topics like:

• advanced career strategies for the scholar-practitioner
• life-cycle and performance management
• portfolio and project management
• risk and quality management
• special topics in project management

According to U.S. News and World Report, Colorado Tech is recognized among the top national universities in the country.

• Nationally ranked graduate business programs
• 24/7 tech support
• Low graduation rate
• Larger class sizes

#8 – Baker College

Flint, michigan.

Graduate Tuition : $12,510

An online DBA is one alternative to a doctorate in project management program online. Baker College offers an online DBA that covers various business and management topics, such as:

• project management
• organizational leadership

Students complete a total of 60 credit hours. This includes the dissertation proposal and dissertation defense. Courses are delivered online and taught by Baker College’s experienced faculty. These courses cover topics like:

• corporate and personal ethics
• doctoral writing and literature review
• introduction to research methods and designs
• knowledge management and information systems
• leading the 21st-century organizations
• managing in a worldwide context

While a private institution, Baker College offers rankings and accreditation. In fact, Baker College has received multiple rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.

• Small class sizes
• Nationally ranked regional university
• Less diverse

#7 – Hampton University

Online phd in business administration, hampton, virginia.

Graduate Tuition : $13,099

Hampton University offers a DBA for those seeking online doctorate in project management programs. Coursework covers many of the topics found in project management graduate programs. Students may tailor the broader business administration degree. This means taking electives that meet career goals. Some of the online courses include:

• advanced topics in research
• behavioral research methods
• organizational behavior
• organization theory and practice
• strategy and business policy
• teaching methodology

The courses are delivered online, but two summer residencies that run four weeks are required. To successfully apply to the program, you must hold a master’s degree from an approved program and have received at least a 400 GMAT score. Hampton University ranks #280 among best national universities, according to U.S. News.

• More competitive
• Significant time on campus required

#6 – Bellevue University

Online phd in human capital management, bellevue, nebraska.

Graduate Tuition : $11,340

Bellevue University’s offers a human capital management PhD. It is a doctoral degree designed for working individuals who are seeking online doctorate in project management programs. Curriculum focuses on leadership, management, and organizational behavior. Classes cover topics like:

• economics of human capital valuation
• human learning and decision making
• introduction to human capital modeling and research
• research in organizations
• seminar in leadership theory

The school and program are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, Bellevue ranks with U.S. News as a best regional university in the Midwest.

#5 – Grand Canyon University

Online dba in management, phoenix, arizona.

Graduate Tuition : $10,655

Grand Canyon University has an online DBA in project management program. It emphasizes professional management within organizations and businesses. GCU, a private and faith-based institution, encourages study through the lens of a Christian worldview. However, the online DBA covers similar topics as highly ranked secular programs. The courses are delivered online and taught by GCU’s esteemed faculty. These courses cover topics like:

• economics for business decisions
• emerging issues in financial management
• management theory in a global economy
• the sustainable future
• using business analytics for competitive advantage

Grand Canyon University has received rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks GCU #395-#435 among the best national universities.

• Top-rated national university
• Affordability
• Lower graduation rate

#4 – Wilmington University

New castle, delaware.

Graduate Tuition : $9,216

Wilmington University offers an alternative to a doctorate in project management degree online. It is an online DBA. This leadership doctoral degree is IACBE-accredited and available 100 percent online. The program takes as little as three years to complete and consists of 54 total credits. Courses cover topics such as:

• advanced organizational behavior
• business intelligence
• ethics in business and management
• executive decision-making
• managing innovation and change
• organizational strategy and policy
• a seminar on research in management

There are several admission requirements that must be met for a successful application. These include:

three letters of recommendation

• a carefully written statement of goals and objectives
• a current resumé
• official transcripts

Wilmington ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and offers one of the most affordable online PhD programs on our list.

• IACBE-accredited program

#3 – University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, maryland.

Graduate Tuition : $9,252

University of Maryland Global Campus offers an alternative to the online doctorate in project management program. With the DBA from the University of Maryland, students become equipped to work in all areas of business and management. This includes project management. The online DBA is open to executive-level working professionals with business and management experience. Courses are delivered online and the program requires a total of 48 credits. Courses include topics like:

• data analytics in practice
• designing evidence-based management solutions
• evidence-based research methods
• interpreting and translating management theory in practice
• research as a tool for management decision-making

The University of Maryland ranks #55-58 among the best public schools by U.S. News and World Report.

• Top-ranked public school
• Very low graduation rate

#2 – Saint Leo University

Saint leo, florida.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $18,436

Individuals seeking doctorate in project management online programs might also consider the versatile online DBA such as the one offered by Saint Leo University. This fully accredited and online degree provides graduates with skills in:

• critical analysis
• business application

The program is highly flexible, offering courses entirely online. Some of the courses offered include:

• analytics for decision making
• global leadership and ethics
• global perspectives in human resource
• organizational behavior and social responsibility
• research methods and quantitative research foundation
• strategic management in global organizations

Saint Leo is ranked and accredited. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #25 in the best regional universities in the South and #5 in best value institutions.

• Nationally ranked online business programs

#1 – Liberty University

Online dba in project management, lynchburg, virginia.

Graduate Tuition : $7,893

Instead of a doctorate in project management online, Liberty University offers an online DBA in project management. This versatile and entirely online doctoral degree consists of 60 credit hours and takes three years on average to earn. Courses run eight weeks in length and move at a rigorous pace. Project management courses cover topics like:

• global project management
• human resource development
• operations management
• quality management and productivity

To apply to the program, you’ll need official transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. Also, applicants must hold a master’s degree in business or business-related discipline and a 3.0 GPA. In addition to accreditation, Liberty has received rankings with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Liberty ranks #395-435 in best national universities.

• 99% acceptance rate
• Nationally ranked online graduate business programs

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with a doctorate project management degree.

With an online doctorate in project management, you will be qualified to work in various leadership roles. Graduates of these programs are eligible to oversee all sizes of projects. The following include possible career options for project managers:

Architecture project managers :

Architecture project managers oversee design projects within architectural firms. They ensure materials and methods uphold safety and structural standards and meet regulations. Those with advanced project management degrees are ready to lead architecture teams or manage their own firms.

Engineering project managers :

Engineering project managers hold advanced project management and/or engineering degrees. They must have at least seven years of experience. They are responsible for leading engineering teams and adhering to project schedules. They also ensure safety standards are met.

Marketing project managers :

A marketing project manager oversees the development and implementation of strategic marketing campaigns. They work with clients and manage tight deadlines, ensuring client relations are favorable.

Software development project managers :

Software development project managers are highly trained professionals. They facilitate the development and implementation of new software programs. They lead teams of programmers and are well-versed in multiple programming languages.

How long does it take to earn an online project management PhD?

A traditional PhD program takes anywhere between four and six years to complete. Online programs fall somewhere in between the average but generally take four to five years to complete. However, several factors impact completion time.

Enrollment status impacts completion time. What is the enrollment status? Whether you are enrolled on a part-time or full-time basis. As expected, when enrolled full-time, students take heavier course loads than part-time students. Full-time students usually complete program requirements quicker than part-time students. This means a full-time student may earn their degree faster than part-time students. The average completion time for a full-time student enrolled in an online PhD in project management is four to six years. The average completion time for a part-time student enrolled in the same type of program is five to seven years.

While full-time enrollment shortens completion time, full-time programs require more time and effort. On the flip side, part-time programs offer flexibility. Part-time programs are beneficial to students who work and have outside obligations, such as family responsibilities.

While there are benefits to both enrollment types, it is important to determine your needs before choosing an online program and embarking on your online doctorate in project management journey.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a project management online PhD?

Employment of management occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is projected to grow faster than average through 2032. This growth rate will result in over 1.1 million jobs each year. Project management jobs, a niche of the management sector, will also see an increase in new jobs.

According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), an internationally recognized certification organization, the field will see job growth of 33 percent through 2027. Not all of these jobs will be created in the United States, but the overall job outlook will be favorable within the next seven to eight years.

Recent college graduates with an online doctorate in project management should see favorable job prospects. In fact, project managers with advanced education will be needed to fill positions in academic institutions as well as private businesses and corporations. Employment growth for project managers and other management positions is expected to be driven by the creation of new organizations and businesses. Also, growth is anticipated due to the expansion of existing organizations. As businesses grow and expand their services, project managers will be needed to lead new projects and oversee existing ones. Individuals with advanced degrees, such as the online PhD in project management, should see plentiful job prospects.

Are there professional organizations for individuals with an online PhD in project management to join?

Students earning an online PhD in project management have access to joining professional organizations. These organizations benefit students by providing access to opportunities and resources. Opportunities may include additional training programs, seminars, or access to certifications. Below are the most popular and reputable professional organizations for project management students.

American Management Association :

The American Management Association or AMA offers access to publications, webinars, and webcasts. Students may visit hundreds of online training seminars within twenty-four areas of business management, including project management. AMA also offers access to project management courses put out by the association. These courses cover both basic and advanced concepts in project management.

International Project Management Association :

The International Project Management Association is joined by sixty membership countries. The IPMA hosts events for students and project management professionals, such as training courses and certification opportunities. One of the biggest benefits of joining the IPMA is access to ongoing education opportunities.

Project Management Institute :

One of the most well-known project management organizations is the Project Management Institute or PMI. PMI offers access to professional development opportunities and plentiful resources. Only members of PMI gain access to these resources and development opportunities. Members may also take online courses and seminars through PMI. In addition to the internationally recognized certification program opportunities, PMI offers access to a global job board that advertises employment openings.

What classes will I have to take for an PhD in project management online degree?

Online PhD in project management programs offer the same courses as traditional, on-campus doctoral project management programs. Coursework is designed to build skills and knowledge in project and strategic management while improving research and writing skills.

According to the programs on our list, courses cover a wide range of topics. However, courses build on a similar business and management acumen.

Some of the courses seen on PhD in project management online programs include management principles and practice, management theory, organizational leadership, project management, qualitative research methods, and strategic thinking for decision-making. Many of these courses are taught during the first two years of the doctoral program. Advanced courses build on the foundation set in the formative years. Once the foundation courses have been completed, students begin work on their research projects or thesis.

Some project management doctoral degree programs offer concentration opportunities. Degree specializations allow students to tailor their courses to align with career goals. Coursework emphasizes specific areas of project management like organizational performance or risk management. Some of the most common project management specializations include life-cycle and performance management, program and portfolio management, project-based strategic leadership, and risk and quality management. These specializations allow students to pad their resumé with niche knowledge and skills.

• National Center for Education Statistics
• PayScale.com
• Project Management Institute
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics
• US News & World Report

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This concludes our list of top 10 PhD project management online programs.

Online Doctorate in Project Management

Degree Options & Potential Careers

Like any terminal degree, earning a doctorate in project management online qualifies graduates for many of the most senior jobs in the field. Mid-to-late-career project managers — who have at least 5-10 years of experience — can advance into positions like senior executives, business professors, or high-level managers for corporations or nonprofit organizations.

While job requirements vary, most employers — especially those at large corporations and high-profile institutions — prefer to hire  top executives  who hold an advanced degree and possess ample experience in project management or a related area. Many top executives are self-employed or work in professional, scientific, or technical services.

Should I Earn an Online Doctorate in Project Management?

While the decision to pursue a doctorate in project management online requires a strong commitment, students can look forward to a wealth of personal and professional benefits if they put in hard work. Like any field, project management rewards those who possess terminal degrees with exclusive job opportunities and increased salary potential.

Project managers with a doctoral degree are eligible for many of the highest-paying jobs in the field. For example, experienced top executives, like  CEOs and operations managers , can earn an annual salary of more than $200,000.

Graduates of a doctoral program in project management have a broad set of career options available to them. These workers can qualify for roles throughout business, government, and academia.

Project managers with a doctoral degree can also make their own hours. While many project managers work in professional, scientific, and technical services — or for the government — the  largest sector  of project management doctoral degree-holders (23%) is self-employed. For example, consultants typically obtain years of experience in addition to an advanced degree, giving them maximum flexibility in their work schedule and field of expertise.

Earning a doctoral degree in project management online can also save students time and money. Whether a doctoral candidate plans to move up to an executive or academic career, pursuing an online degree enables students to accumulate industry experience while fitting their education into their busy schedule.

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Project Management?

Project managers with a doctorate and years of experience can pursue their choice of career. Equipped with highly adaptable skills, managers with a doctorate may possess the qualifications needed for employment within public and private institutions, government agencies, and academia.

Nearly every sector of the workforce requires project managers. A  large percentage  of project managers provide professional services for private businesses, large corporations, and startup companies. Many senior project managers in their late career work in fields such as IT, construction, and manufacturing. Others work as self-employed consultants or management and leadership specialists. While specific requirements vary, employers often prefer candidates who also hold the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Project managers may also pursue a more specialized career path at a government agency, working as a scholar or a research scientist. Doctoral degree-holders can also qualify for jobs in the public sector such as mayors or governors.

Professionals may qualify for different types of positions depending on what kind of degree they earn. For instance, a doctorate in business administration (DBA) is typically reserved for professionals interested in jobs in the business world. These graduates pursue careers as top executives within global corporations. They may also work as independent consultants.

Alternatively, a Ph.D. usually leads to a more research-oriented degree path. Graduates with this degree usually fill scholarly positions, such as college professors, or serve as research experts for private institutions. While some community colleges and vocational schools accept instructors with only a master’s degree, graduates with an online doctorate in project management may qualify for postsecondary education positions at national and international universities, including Ivy League institutions with world-renowned business schools.

Project Management Doctoral Program Overview

Students interested in achieving a doctoral education in project management have multiple options from which to choose. The field offers different terminal degrees, each with their own set of characteristics and each leading to different career paths for graduates. The sections below outline the application instructions, sample curricula, and potential careers for these doctoral degrees in project management.

Types of Doctoral Degrees in Project Management

Prospective doctorate in project management students can choose a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in project management, a doctorate in management (DM) with a concentration in project management, a doctor of business administration (DBA) with a concentration in project management, or a similar non-Ph.D. doctorate in the subject. Students should carefully consider which degree serves their individual career goals and interests the best.

Ph.D. and DBA tracks share much of the same core curricula but emphasize different themes. The research-oriented Ph.D. typically culminates in a dissertation, while the DBA stresses pragmatic business and management skills; a DBA may require a capstone experience in lieu of a formal dissertation process. Alternatively, a DM combines distinct characteristics of both the theoretical Ph.D. and the applied DBA degrees.

Along with different graduation requirements, each degree has its own timeline for completion; program length also depends on whether a student enrolls on a full-time or part-time basis. For instance, a traditional Ph.D. can last 4-8 years, while some DMs or DBAs promote career advancement for graduates through accelerated programs. Not all schools offer online doctoral degrees in project management, but many that do let full-time students complete their doctorate in 3-5 years online.

In most cases, students aspiring to careers in postsecondary education, academia, or research in project management choose a Ph.D. Conversely, candidates looking to become self-employed consultants, corporate executive, or government leader may prefer the business and management skills earned during a DM or DBA track.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

While admission requirements vary from one school to another, applicants must meet the same general criteria to qualify for most project management doctoral programs. For instance, students must possess a master’s degree from an accredited institution — typically in any subject for a DBA and in project management or a closely related concentration for a Ph.D. program. Most programs require a minimum GPA, usually ranging from 3.0-3.5.

Experience requirements also vary. As a terminal degree, schools may expect applicants to be currently employed in the field or hold several years of experience at the time of application. Each program specifies the nature and length of its experience requirements for doctoral applicants; some Ph.D. programs accept a broader range of academic experience, while DBAs tend to prefer applicants with varied experiences in management and business.

While programs vary, many doctoral programs in project management follow the same structure and format. A doctorate in this subject splits coursework between core and specialization courses and usually culminates in a dissertation or capstone experience. In some cases, programs also require a practicum or field experience, as well as elective course options.

Doctoral programs often differ in the amount of credits required to graduate. A Ph.D. in project management is roughly 48-60 credits, while a DBA or DM may require around 100 credits. A school that offers a doctorate in project management online may also require brief on-campus residencies, such as an orientation/workshop or a dissertation seminar. However, most online programs give learners ample flexibility, such as multiple start dates and/or accelerated completion times.

Some programs require a multifaceted final project experience. A critical element of a doctoral degree, students should expect to conclude any Ph.D., DBA, or DM track with a dissertation or capstone; however, some programs also require a comprehensive doctoral exam or evaluation as a final requirement. The list below describes some of the courses students can expect to complete.

Program Outcomes

Earning a doctoral degree can help experienced project managers elevate their careers to new heights. While students with lower-level degrees in project management qualify for entry-level jobs in business and management, doctoral degree-holders qualify for executive-level positions that require strong leadership skills.

Graduates of a project management doctoral program pursue advanced positions that require strong writing, research, and strategic management skills. In addition to core business and leadership concepts, doctoral programs in project management build soft skills for the workforce. Doctoral programs emphasize decision-making, communication, problem-solving, and time management skills to produce successful and effective project managers.

Accreditation for Online Project Management Doctoral Programs

Students should ensure that any prospective schools hold regional or national accreditation through an agency approved by the  U.S. Department of Education  or the  Council for Higher Education Accreditation .

Additionally, many of the best programs feature programmatic accreditation, which is specific to a particular discipline or field of study. For project management, students should look for programs that hold accreditation from the  Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs  (ACBSP). This organization accredits project management programs and specializations that meet the council’s rigorous standards, which are related to factors such as quality, academic support, and faculty credentials. ACBSP was the first organization in the U.S. to award accreditation specifically for college business programs at all levels of study.

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Project managers plan, develop, and oversee the personnel, budgets, timetables, and scopes of a project. By creating goals, maintaining communication, and defining individuals' responsibilities, project managers help optimize an organization's performance and outcomes.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that over 900,000 new positions in management occupations will be added from 2020 to 2030. Project management roles like construction manager and computer and information systems manager are projected to see an 11% growth during the same timeframe, which is faster than the national average growth rate for all occupations at 7%.

Finding the right project management doctorate is important to meeting your personal and professional goals. The information on this page can help. 

Best online school for doctorate in project management: Quick facts

The best online doctorate in project management degrees.

ZDNet's ranking methodology integrates data from federal sources and insights from industry experts to provide an objective assessment of project management programs. ZDNet's proprietary formula assesses programmatic and professional outcomes to determine the best online degrees. 

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard .

Northcentral University

San diego, california.

About the program: NCU's doctorate of business administration project management specialization includes 48 credit hours, during which students benefit from extensive personalized mentorship. 

• Acceptance rate: Not publicly available
• Graduation rate: 25%
• Avg. annual net price: Not publicly available
• Years to completion: Three to four years
• GRE/GMAT: N/A
• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• Enrollment periods per year: Rolling
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous

What to expect in an online doctorate in project management degree program

Project management doctorates come in different formats. Engineering, information technology, and education doctoral programs may have specialization options in project management.

A doctor of business administration degree with a project management specialization emphasizes evaluating, strategizing, and executing projects in practical business settings, while a Ph.D. in project management focuses on research alongside the principles, tools, and theories of project performance and organizational efficacy.

Project management doctorates integrate both coursework and research to prepare students for comprehensive exams and a dissertation proposal. Graduate students will identify a specific problem or challenge in project management to focus on while writing their dissertation.

A project management doctorate requires dedication, hard work, and self-motivation. Active engagement with classmates and faculty will help students thrive in their doctoral program.

Doctorate in project management courses

Coursework in a project management doctorate varies by institution, but some core classes remain consistent across curricula. Common courses include project risk management, legal aspects of project management, cost accounting for project managers, and improving individual and team performance. 

Project risk management

Coursework in project risk management covers theories and application of decision-making in project management. Topics include risk identification, assessment, and monitoring; risk analysis; and project risk planning, preparation, and response. 

Cost accounting and finance in project management

This course trains students to plan and manage budgets. Topics include cost estimation, evaluating project performance, cost control, and contingency and management reserves. 

Legal aspects of project management 

By exploring ethical and legal challenges faced by project managers, students in this class learn about their responsibilities in different types of projects. Topics include: contracts and procurement; health, safety, and legal implications; labor law in project contexts; and data protection and privacy. 

Optimizing individual and team performance

Individual and team performance optimization classes focus on theories and techniques used to work with people and processes. Topics include optimization models for decision making, planning and scheduling, prioritization and delegation, and objective evaluation. 

Project management degree levels

Undergraduate degrees in project management introduce you to the fundamentals of the field to prepare you for entry- and mid-level project management roles. Graduate programs include advanced coursework to increase your overall knowledge and skills while building expertise in specific aspects of project management. 

Bachelor's in project management

• Length: Four years
• Cost: $12,000-$12,000
• Post-grad careers: Construction manager, project coordinator, project manager

A bachelor's degree in project management includes four years of general education, major, and elective coursework. Accounting and finance classes accompany courses in project performance and quality assurance, risk and change management, and business analytics. 

Project management degrees integrate projects into coursework to give students practical experience and hone their strategic, communication, and time management skills. A culminating capstone requirement often includes a portfolio and a project during which students integrate everything learned throughout the degree program. 

Graduate certificate in project management

• Length: One year or less
• Cost: $2,000-$5,000
• Post-grad careers: Project management consultant, senior project manager, project coordinator

Graduate certificates in project management build upon existing knowledge to prepare students for leadership roles. This is true for entry-level project managers and individuals with no previous project management experience. 

Many project management graduate certificates focus on specific industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology. Coursework in a graduate certificate in project management includes risk management, project performance measurement, and project planning and control. 

Master's in project management

• Length: Two years
• Cost: $8,000-$45,000
• Post-grad careers: Senior project manager, program manager, project management consultant

A project management master's degree spans two years. Students complete coursework in topics such as financial management and risk assessment while developing strategic and leadership skills. Project-based learning accompanies lecture and research courses in anticipation of a capstone requirement. 

Within a master's degree in project management, learners may have opportunities to complete a specialization in an area such as information technology, healthcare, or supply-chain management. 

Doctorate in project management

• Length: Three to five years
• Cost: $18,000-$90,000
• Post-grad careers: Senior project manager, management professor, project management consultant

Doctoral programs in project management emphasize research, strategy, and theory to prepare students for advanced project management roles. A doctorate in project management may be a specialty within a doctorate in business administration, another field, or a Ph.D. program. 

Coursework in organizational leadership, business strategy and innovation, and contemporary challenges in project management accompany qualitative and quantitative research classes. After successful completion of their doctoral exams, students defend and write a dissertation. 

In conclusion

Project managers lead projects and people alike. A project management degree emphasizes teamwork, communication, and leadership through coursework in risk analysis, accounting and finance, and management theory and practice. 

If you enjoy seeing projects through from beginning to end, a project management degree might be right for you.

Business and Management

Online Ph.D. in Project Management

Ph.D. in Project Management Online: An Overview

Jobs for project management ph.d. holders, degree requirements, prerequisites for a project management ph.d., online coursework, how long does a project management doctorate take to complete, example courses.

• Project procurement management. 
• Project risk management. 
• Multiple-project management.
• Managerial budgets and project management.
• Advanced concepts of project management methodologies. 
• Projects as complex adaptive systems.
• Operations management. 
• Global project management.
• Human resource development.
• Quality management and productivity.

Cost and Return on Investment (ROI)

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• PhD in Business Management
• Project Management

Project Management Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management

Capella's online PhD in Business Management, Project Management prepares you to strategize and lead projects in a wide range of global and complex business environments. Learn current and emerging project management methodologies, contemporary leadership theories and practices, and communications approaches to help you grow as an effective leader. Become a driving force in the field as you develop high-level research skills, culminating in a dissertation that advances project management as a whole.

The mission of Capella University’s PhD in Business Management specialization in Project Management is to promote the development of business-focused knowledge and research skills necessary to effectively lead projects in one’s professional career.

Virtual Residencies

Network with faculty and peers, and gain access to valuable resources to use during your program and beyond, through three doctoral virtual residencies.

Research mentor

Maintain progress through your dissertation; we’ll pair you with an academic mentor who can help you keep your momentum.

Stay on track with your academic goals and dissertation; we’ll help you organize your work into manageable segments.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• 11 Core courses
• 12 max transfer credits
• 4 Specialization courses
• 1 Elective course
• 3 Virtual Residencies

Comprehensive exam

Dissertation

• ACBSP-accredited

Reduce your tuition by $20,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Courses and skills

Explore project management courses.

• This program requires a total of 90 quarter credits
• You’ll need to complete 11 core courses, four specialization courses, one elective course, three virtual residencies, one comprehensive exam and one dissertation

View all courses

What you'll learn

This program solidifies your ability to initiate, plan, execute, monitor, control, and close projects in a range of global business settings. You’ll learn how to evaluate different approaches to project management, develop your own research, and add critical knowledge to the field.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

• Synthesize multi-disciplinary theories that inform and shape the theory and practice of project management
• Fuse research and practice to contribute new knowledge to the field
• Apply ethical leadership strategies in diverse project management settings
• Exhibit proficiency in communication, research, writing, and critical thinking skills for successful project management
• Evaluate functional and cross-functional management approaches for projects, programs and portfolios ranging from operational to strategic, small to complex, and local to global

Review the Capella career exploration guide  to learn more about this program and professional paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the phd in business management cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1-2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$985 per credit,  $5,000  quarterly tuition max,  75  coursework credits, 12 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$985 Per quarter credit

75 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

$2955 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework
• Transfer credits
• Employer and/or military benefits
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your capstone
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

*Eligibility rules apply. Connect with us for details.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that's within reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

$5,000 quarterly tuition maximum

Maximize your courseload – take 6 or more credits per quarter and pay just $5,000.* *Cost of each residency is included in the $5,000 quarterly tuition maximum; books, resource kit, travel, lodging, meals, and other expenses are not included.

$20K toward your doctorate Apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward , a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

10% military discount 

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members, guard and reserve members, veterans, their spouses** and dependents. **Starting in July, spouses of veterans can now benefit from a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.

The PhD in Business Management with a specialization in project management is accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC).*

See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

To meet a PMI-GAC accreditation requirement, student achievement data can be found here.

The GAC Accredited Program seal is a mark of Project Management Institute, Inc.

*The FlexPath option for the project management specializations are not accredited by PMI-GAC.

How to apply

Phd in business management admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
•  Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed counseling sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

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What’s it like to be a doctoral student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Career exploration

What can you do with a phd in project management degree.

Your education can help you reach your goals, professionally and personally. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Project Management.

Related job titles to explore*

• Adjunct or part-time project business faculty
• Full-time business faculty
• Dean or associate dean of business program
• Business researcher
• Program manager
• Program director
• Vice president of project management
• Senior project manager
• Director of project management
• Director of program office

Employment settings to explore

• Land-based or online college or university
• Community college
• Corporation
• Manufacturing
• Health care organization
• Defense contractor
• Government—local, state, federal
• Nonprofit organization
• Consulting firm

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

Take the first step toward earning your degree and achieving your goals. {page-tel}

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