The George Washington University

Project Management

Graduate Programs > Project Management > Academic Program

Academic Program

The Project Management program brings realistic examples from the workplace to the classroom and integrates those examples into the overall curriculum. Professors conscientiously approach and discuss the solutions and analyses at the practical level. The program is not discipline-specific, and focuses on no single technical domain.

The curriculum encompasses personal and qualitative issues, as well as the technical, quantitative aspects of managing projects. Several courses cover teamwork and team dynamics, helping students develop the skills necessary for tackling complex projects involving diverse perspectives. In many classes, students form teams to complete a substantial portion of the coursework, an invaluable experience for future project managers.

Core Courses

(6 Courses, 18 Credits)

  • DNSC 261
  • DNSC 266
  • DNSC 267
  • DNSC 268
  • DNSC 262
  • DNSC 269
  • Introduction to Project and Program Management
  • Risk Management
  • Planning and Scheduling
  • Project Estimation and Cost Management
  • Directed Computational Project Management
  • Project Management Applications

Additional Required Courses

(3 Courses, 9 Credits)

  • MGT 201
  • DNSC 202
  • DNSC 290
  • Organization, Management, and Leadership
  • Statistics for Management
  • Project Management Finance

PM Elective Courses

(2 Courses, 6 Credits)

  • DNSC 224
  • DNSC 263
  • DNSC 290
  • DNSC 290
  • Executive Decision Making
  • Managing External Projects
  • Project Portfolio Management
  • Special Topics in Project Management (Quality, Project Excellence, and Ethics)

General Elective Courses

(1 Course, 3 Credits)

  • DNSC 222
  • DNSC 226
  • DNSC 227
  • DNSC 234
  • DNSC 279
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Decision Support Systems
  • Advanced Supply Chain Management
  • Procurement & Contracting
  • Data Mining

Other Graduate Business Electives approved by academic advisor

By taking courses on a part-time basis, including in the summer semester, most students finish the program within two years.

Orientation Session in Washington, DC

All students attend a two-day orientation session on the main campus of The George Washington University near the beginning of the first semester. The Orientation provides an opportunity for students to meet with one another and faculty and the administrative staff of the program.

Residency Week in Washington, DC

Distance students complete a one-week residency in Washington, DC prior to completion of the degree. This session is held the final week of the Project Management Applications Capstone course.

Advanced Academic Standing

Students who have received an ESI Master's certificate; PMP, CCE, or CCC certification; or an MBA or graduate credits from another accredited business or management-related master's program within the last five years are eligible for advanced academic standing. All certificates or courses must be completed and a copy of dated certificates or official transcripts must be submitted before the beginning of the first semester. Only "non-core" or "additional required" classes from MSPM curriculum will be considered for advanced academic standing. Advanced academic standing is awarded at the academic advisor's discretion. Once students accept admission to the program, they initiate the process by submitting the appropriate forms and supporting documents. A maximum of 9 credit hours can be waived.