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51����’s Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program has seen its enrollment nearly double each year since 2022, reflecting the and the growing interest in this dynamic career path. But what exactly does it take to become a successful project manager in today’s competitive landscape?  

The growing importance of project management

Project management has become a vital skill in almost every industry. From healthcare to public administration, IT to construction, companies across the globe rely on skilled project managers to lead teams, meet deadlines, and maintain project scope and budget. Neil Littell, Associate Professor and Kraft Family Scholar and the Director of Graduate Project Management Programs explains why project managers are so important to a company's long-term financial goals.

"The operational side of a company is what drives revenue. For example, a car manufacturer generates income by producing cars. But when you think about projects, projects are what companies execute to earn future money and generate future opportunities and future capabilities,” says Littell.

Demand for skilled project managers is rising

According to the , employment of project management specialists is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the average growth rate for all occupations. The median annual pay for project managers is $98,580, reflecting the growing demand for skilled professionals in this field.

On a global scale, the Project Management Institute (PMI), a leading professional association for project managers, , creating approximately 2.3 million job openings each year.

As this demand continues to grow, so does the need for advanced education that equips professionals with the necessary skills and certifications for success in this fast-evolving field.

The origins of the MSPM program

51����’s Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program was created to meet the growing demand for practical and accessible project management education. Traditional courses often emphasized certification exam preparation but fell short in providing the skills professionals need to lead projects, manage teams, and stay organized effectively.

An assessment of academic offerings highlighted an opportunity to expand programs that cater to both seasoned professionals and those starting their project management careers. Many traditional project management courses were tied to advanced capstone experiences, which are often final-stage projects, making it challenging for individuals to access the training needed to build their skills from the ground up.

The MSPM program addresses these gaps by offering a curriculum tailored to the needs of today’s project management professionals. With its focus on practical skills and strategic knowledge, the program prepares graduates to excel in a wide range of industries and roles.

What makes OHIO’s MSPM program unique

51����’s Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program, accredited by the , is the only one of its kind in the state.

What sets the program apart is its strong cross-college collaborations. While housed in the Russ College of Engineering and Technology, the program works closely with the College of Business, the College of Health Sciences and Professions, and the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs. This collaborative approach enhances the program’s value by integrating expertise from multiple disciplines, including business, healthcare, and public administration, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.

The program’s partnerships enable the development of a diverse range of electives, including data analytics, strategic leadership, and executive accounting. These offerings are designed to support students from varied backgrounds, such as those transitioning from fields like music.

With more than 30 electives available, the MSPM program provides students with the flexibility to tailor their education to meet their specific career needs, equipping them with essential skills for success in project management.

Paths that lead to pursuing a project management degree

As companies expand and take on more complex projects, some may assign project management responsibilities to existing staff. In such cases, employees may pursue a master's in project management to build the skills needed to effectively manage these responsibilities—though this is not always the case.

Take, for example, Sarah Honeycutt, a current student of the program who works for an engineering firm in Akron, Ohio.  

"At the time, I was a leading planning specialist for our permit coordination team. In this role, I found myself stepping into project management roles, overseeing not just the planning but the execution and monitoring of projects,” says Honeycutt.

Honeycutt’s experience earning her degree while working has been illuminating.

"It's helped me identify the project management components within my existing role and approach them with a systematic mindset, such as risk management, communication, and outcomes. This was empowering as it not only validated my work but also equipped me with new tools and knowledge to improve my effectiveness,” says Honeycutt.

Another current student, Jami Walker, a dedicated healthcare professional, found her passion in project management. After years in medical science and clinical research, she enrolled in 51����'s online Master of Science in Project Management program. Walker believes the program has not only enhanced her technical skills but also boosted her confidence.

"The program has given me the confidence to walk into a room full of other project management professionals or leadership and know that I possess the skill sets and the framework to have those deep conversations with them and to challenge them back on some of the thought processes,” says Walker.

Walker’s role places her in collaboration with doctors across a wide spectrum of healthcare settings, from small clinics to major institutions, and involves engaging with professionals worldwide. She now leverages her expertise to lead complex international projects, upholding ethical standards and delivering meaningful outcomes.

OHIO listens to students’ needs

The Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program at 51���� is designed to be flexible and responsive to student needs. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, the program actively listens to student feedback and adjusts its offerings to align with their professional backgrounds and goals.

“We are not dictating to students what their degree should look like. We are listening to what they are saying they need. We analyze those requests, understand those needs and then we react to build those capabilities to meet those needs. We want every class to add value,” says Littell.

If students feel certain courses may not add value due to prior knowledge or certifications, the program evaluates those requests to ensure that every class is relevant and beneficial. This approach allows the program to maintain a high level of flexibility, ensuring that students receive the most applicable education without paying for unnecessary coursework.

The value of PMP® certification

Professionals looking to earn the most recognized credential in project management today should aim for the Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification. Awarded by the Project Management Institute, the PMP® certification demonstrates a high level of expertise in managing projects and a strong understanding of project management principles.

To obtain the PMP® designation, professionals must meet specific education and experience requirements. Many project managers pursue advanced degrees, such as the Master of Science in Project Management, to prepare for the PMP® exam and expand their knowledge.

While 51����’s MSPM program does not award the PMP® certification, it aligns closely with the PMP® framework, helping students develop the skills needed to successfully pursue certification and excel in the field of project management.

OHIO’s Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program offers a key advantage for those seeking PMI certification. The program’s accreditation reduces the experience requirement, allowing students to advance more quickly. Typically, , equivalent to three years. Completing the MSPM program helps students meet educational requirements, shortening the time to certification.

Flexibility that supports student goals

The MSPM program at 51���� prioritizes flexibility and accessibility for working professionals. With six start dates per year, students can begin their studies without waiting long.

"The longest a student would ever have to wait if they wanted to start classes would be eight weeks. Speed to degree is important," said Dr. Littell.

The program’s seven-week terms allow students to progress efficiently while balancing work and personal responsibilities. This responsive structure ensures students can pursue their education without putting their careers on hold.

Certificate options to enhance your MSPM education

51����’s MSPM program also offers specialized certificate options. Students can select five courses from over 30 electives to tailor their education to their career goals.

Certificate options include: 

• Business Analytics
• Finance
• Human Resource Management
• Business Venturing
• Management and Leadership
• Strategic Sales

Your next project: Explore OHIO’s MSPM program

Looking to take your career to the next level and master the art of leading successful projects? Discover how 51����’s online Master of Science in Project Management program’s flexible structure, experienced faculty, and industry-focused curriculum can support your ambitions.