Understanding how smaller pieces fit together to make a whole is a valuable skill. If you know how to properly manage people, as well as parts of projects, you could have a career in project management. Project managers are likely to be in high demand going forward, since it is valuable to know how to organize different functions, materials and people to create something that works well.

In order to learn how to manage projects effectively, it can help to get a degree in the subject. You can enroll at various programs around the country, or even get an online degree in project management. There are various levels of certification, but if you want to show that you have a good grasp of the knowledge and experience that goes into successful project management, it can help to have a Master’s degree. This type of degree can help you provide the credentials showing that you have done coursework specific to managing various aspects of projects. This can include knowing about how to manage:

• People
• Budgets
• Materials
• Time
• Regulations
• Required paperwork

Being able to organize others, and create a system to contribute to the completion of the project are important traits. A Master’s degree can help you establish your command of project management, and even put you in the running for a higher salary.

Master’s Degrees Available in Project Management

While there are certainly Master’s degrees in general project management, it is important to note that there are specialty areas and other degree options as well. Look for a program that you think will most benefit your learning style and help you reach your career goals. Some of the available Master’s degrees in project management include:

• MBA – Project Management: As you might imagine, this is a business degree. A Master’s in Business Administration, with an emphasis on project management, can show that you are well qualified to manage projects in business settings.
• MS Management – Project Management: A Master of Science degree focuses on a scientific approach to learning concepts. This means that you look at the social, empirical and other scientific aspects of a subject, rather than a business aspect or an art aspect. While there is often overlap between business, arts and science, the degree you get indicates your focus — and sometimes the rigor of the program. A MS in management indicates that you have looked at scientific bases for management, including project management.
• MS in IT-Project Management: Information technology is a big deal these days. Understanding how to manage IT projects requires special training. You can get this training — and get the credentials you need — when you enroll in a program that will award you a Master of Science degree in IT-Project Management. Such a degree shows that you have had the specific training and experience needed to manage IT projects, and lead others in finding information solutions.
• MS in Leadership – Project Management: A degree in leadership fits you to use members of your group in order to accomplish a goal. A Master of Science degree indicates that you have learned concepts of leadership. When you specifically add in project management, it means that you have mastered concepts related to leading project teams.
• MS – Management of Information Systems: Understanding information systems is very important in today’s world. We live in a world that relies on the flow of information, and learning how to manage it can be important. This degree shows that you have project management skills that can be used to effectively manage the flow of information.
• MBA – Project and Quality Management: If you are interested in being a quality manager for projects, this degree can be quite helpful. It focuses on how you can be a quality project manager, ensuring that projects are up to snuff. It’s a way to be involved in the quality of different products and services.
• MABC in Project Management: This degree is a Master’s of Arts in Business Communication. You will learn about appropriate business communication in a project management setting. This is a great degree for learning how to communicate effectively with your team, and with others in a business setting.
• Master of Project Management: As you might imagine, this is a simple Master’s degree that focuses on project management. It doesn’t always have a focus, such as information technology or business or construction to specialize. It can be a good all-purpose degree for those who want to keep their options open.
• Master of Construction Management: Project managers interested in construction can get this degree to help them learn more about managing construction projects and keeping them on track.
• MS – Project Management/Oil & Gas: The oil and gas industries need project managers who understand the specifics of what happens in the fields of oi and gas. This project management Master’s degree can be a great addition to the resume of someone interested in leading the way in oil and gas.

Looking for an Online Project Management Degree

One of the best ways to get an education now is online. Many accredited “traditional” universities and legitimate online universities offer project management degrees online. You can choose your own study schedule, and receive a degree that can be used to help you improve your career prospects. Look for schools that are accepted in their areas. You should also consider cost when getting a project management degree. A Master’s degree in project management can be a good way to boost your earning power, but you need to make sure you are getting a quality education at a competitive price.

In the end, the degree program you choose will depend on what you are looking for. If you have the time, you can get a Master’s degree in a more traditional setting, and even do an internship to help you along. However, if you are pressed for time, or if you want to get your Master’s degree in project management while you continue working, you can look at online class options that provide you an alternative to taking classes on a more traditional campus.