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School of Business

 

MS in Project Management

 

 

 

 

MS in Project Management

Lead projects that matter—and the teams behind them. The Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) from the GW School of Business is built for professionals ready to move beyond managing tasks to leading complex, high-stakes initiatives. 

Whether you study online or on campus in Washington, D.C., you’ll gain the technical expertise and leadership skills to solve real-world challenges, align cross-functional teams, and deliver results that move organizations forward. 

Backed by more than 25 years of excellence, GW’s systems-oriented approach blends analytics, project strategy, and hands-on learning—equipping you to make data-driven decisions, manage risk, and lead effectively across both technical and non-technical teams.

STEM-designated

STEM-Designated
Develop advanced knowledge at the intersection of business, technology, and analytics, strengthening your quantitative, technical, and interpersonal skill set.

PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management badge

PMI®-Accredited
Earn a globally recognized, in-demand credential that sets you apart in the job market. The accreditation aligns with standards from the Project Management Institute (PMI®), the leading global organization for project management professionals.

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Flexible Format, Capital Advantage
Designed to fit your busy schedule, learn online or on campus while accessing Washington, D.C.’s network of global institutions, industry leaders, and immersive learning opportunities. Online students participate in two required on-campus residencies.

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Real-World, Applied Learning
Gain hands-on experience through simulations, team-based projects, analytics-driven coursework, and a capstone that mirrors real client engagements—with optional study abroad opportunities.

 

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Anuraag Srinivas (MSPM ’25) attained technical skills at GW Business that shaped him into a global business leader in project management. By leveraging GW’s location in Washington, D.C., he had valuable opportunities to connect with senior project management leaders at conferences, earn in-demand certifications, and learn from industry expert faculty, deepening his knowledge of the field he was already working in.

 

Program at a Glance


Total Credits: 30  |  Commitment: Part-Time or Full-Time  |  Delivery: In-Person or Online  |  Entry Semester: Fall, Spring

Average Completion: 1.5 years (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)

In this STEM-designated graduate program in project management, students gain the tools and techniques to monitor, report on, and control projects using a systems-oriented approach. The curriculum begins with core business concepts and the quantitative foundations of project economics, including analysis, evaluation, estimation, and planning. Students then explore agile methodologies and strategies for leading diverse teams, with a focus on navigating cultural differences and bias. Graduates are prepared to apply both quantitative and qualitative insights to executive-level, data-driven decision-making—leading effectively across technical and non-technical environments.

Sample Courses Below (* indicates an elective course)

Management Foundations

  • Project Management Principles
  • Integrated Project Analytics
  • Planning and Scheduling
  • Agile Project Management
  • Cost Estimation and Control
  • Project Economics and Finance

Analytics & Risk Management

  • Collaborative Decision Making and Portfolio Optimization
  • Decision Making and Data Analysis*
  • Programming for Analytics*
  • Decision and Risk Analytics*
  • Time Series Forecasting for Analytics*

Leadership & Team Dynamics

  • Leading Teams*
  • Conflict Management and Negotiations*
  • Leadership and Executive Development*
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Program Outcomes

Our mission is simple: transform you into a project management leader who can tackle any challenge with confidence. Here’s what you’ll learn in our master in project management:

  • Lead Projects & People: Boost your team leadership skills and master the principles that drive success across organizations.
  • Think Strategically: Develop a systems-oriented mindset that helps you solve complex problems and make smart decisions under pressure.
  • Build Universal Skills: Gain expertise that travels with you — whether you’re managing tech rollouts, construction projects or organizational change.
  • Make Real Impact: Understand how to combine theory and practice to deliver results in any industry.
Experiential Coursework
  • Collaborative learning: Sharpen your skills in communication and leadership through team-based, case-driven assignments that reflect real organizational challenges.
  • Decision-making tools: Learn proprietary and industry-standard software, such as Expert Choice, to support data-driven portfolio optimization and risk management.
  • Capstone experience: Collaborate with a team of five to eight peers in planning, executing and presenting a full-scale project that replicates a real client engagement.
  • Systems and analytics perspective: Benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum that emphasizes a systems-oriented perspective and analytical rigor.
  • Global Perspective: Short-term study abroad program options are available.
 Online Learning: Flexible + Interactive
  • GW Business' online courses combine live engagement with asynchronous flexibility to create a dynamic learning experience.
  • Courses include a weekly one-hour live classroom session, offered evenings or weekends, that feature lectures, case discussions and group activities.
    • Real-time interaction allows students to collaborate with faculty and classmates.
    • Sessions are recorded and available on demand, allowing you to learn on your schedule.
  • Faculty host online office hours to provide personalized guidance, answer questions and discuss assignment feedback.

View Curriculum + Degree Requirements  

 

 

Maximize Your ROI: Customize Your Degree Path

The 4+1 Program: Earn Your Bachelor’s and Master’s in Five Years

Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in an eligible GW school have the opportunity to accelerate the path to earning a Master's in Project Management.

Learn More About the 4+1 Program  

Dual Degree Opportunity: MBA + MSPM

Double your impact with GW’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) dual degree. This forward-thinking program combines business strategy and project leadership through a dynamic mix of coursework and hands-on experiences, preparing you to lead with purpose in today’s complex, project-driven world. 

By allowing select credits to count toward both degrees, students complete 18 fewer credit hours—saving time and cost compared to pursuing each degree separately. 

The Online MBA and the Healthcare MBA degree programs are available options to those pursuing the MSPM degree online.

Learn More About the Dual Degrees  

Graduate Certificates: Deepen Your Knowledge at No Additional Cost

Tailor your MSPM to your professional goals by adding a graduate certificate that builds specialized expertise alongside your core business education. These stackable certificates allow you to deepen your knowledge in a focused area—at no additional credit cost.

Choose from the following 12-credit graduate certificates or explore all certificate options:

 

 

 

Admissions

Admission to GW's MS in Project Management program is competitive, with limited enrollment to support a collaborative, cohort-based learning experience.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. 

Our admissions team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way. Learn more about application requirements and next steps on our How to Apply page.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach, considering academic performance, professional experience and achievements, and letters of recommendation. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
  • Current résumé
  • Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.
  • One letter of recommendation from a professional and/or academic reference
  • Application fee (non-refundable)
  • Completed online application form

No GRE or GMAT is required. However, applicants who feel their test scores strengthen their candidacy are welcome to submit them.

Applicants who require a visa to study in the United States must also fulfill additional requirements in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program at the School of Business.

Application Deadlines

Candidates seeking financial assistance and international students requiring visas are encouraged to apply early. Only completed applications, with all required materials, will be considered for admission.

  • Spring 2026 - Closed
  • Summer 2026 - April 15, 2026
  • Fall 2026 - April 15, 2026

Please note: Admission to the Global MBA, Accelerated MBA, Master of Accountancy in Accounting Analytics, M.S. in Applied Finance, and M.S. in Business Analytics programs is only offered for the fall semester. Summer admissions deadlines apply only to our online MBA and Specialized Master's degree programs. Admission to all other programs is only offered for the fall and spring semesters. Additionally, our doctoral and executive education programs may have different admissions deadlines.

 

Tuition, Fees & Funding

Funding your graduate education is an important step in your journey, and there are a number of resources that can help you navigate tuition information, costs and fees and financial aid opportunities.

  

A Scholarship Built Into Your Degree

If you’re accepted to our ONLINE MS in Project Management for the Summer or Fall 2026 semesters, you’ll automatically receive a scholarship to save up to 30% off tuition.

No additional applications. No special requirements. Just a world-class education that’s more affordable.

 

 

  

Career Outlook

Graduates of the Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program are prepared to lead complex initiatives across industries such as technology, health care, construction, and more. With strong skills in project leadership, strategy, and risk management, they are well-positioned for roles including:

  • Project Manager
  • Program Manager
  • Risk Manager
  • Agile Project Manager

Explore Other Project Management Career Paths  

The return on investment is equally compelling. Graduates of MSPM programs report average earnings of $125,000 just one year after graduation and $165,000 after ten years, with an estimated lifetime ROI of $885,000 (Source: FREOPP, a trusted non-profit think tank).

See Where Our Graduates Have Landed

With more than 25 years of innovation and a strategic Washington, D.C. location, GW has shaped leaders trusted by NASA, the World Bank, and the Department of Defense. Here are just some of the organizations where GW Business alumni are advancing their exciting careers:

  • AT&T
  • Booz Allen Hamilton
  • Chevron
  • Delta
  • Intel
  • Lockheed Martin
  • Pfizer
  • P&G
  • Samsung
  • Dept of State
  • World Bank Group

 

 

Career Support

  

Personalized Career Coaching
Experienced career coaches—who have a proven track record of supporting student placement and career advancement—help refine your goals and build an effective job search strategy.

  

Dedicated Career Center
Gain exclusive access to employer connections, recruiting opportunities and career resources through the GW Business F. David Fowler Career Center.

  

Mentorship Opportunities
Participate in the Careers360 program to connect with industry mentors in consulting, finance or marketing.

  

Global Alumni Network
With more than 60,000 alumni spanning 260+ organizations, Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits around the world, you’ll gain access to mentorship, connections, and career opportunities that open doors and accelerate your impact.

 

 

Virali Shah

"My advice to incoming students in the program is to recognize the value in every minute, every event and every person. Maximize your networking efforts, attend numerous events, and seize every opportunity available. Embracing these aspects will undoubtedly make your experience at GW truly amazing."

Virali Shah
MS in Project Management '24

 

 

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Master in Project Management (MSPM) versus PMP® certification: What’s the difference?

A master’s in project management degree and PMP (Project Management Professional) certification serve different purposes, but can complement each other depending on your career goals.

An MSPM is a graduate degree that covers project management theory, strategy, leadership skills and advanced project management practices. It’s a good choice if you want an advanced understanding of project management and the opportunity to develop specialized skills like risk management, financial planning and leadership.

The PMP® certification is a professional certification focused on the practical application of foundational project management methodologies. This credential is highly respected in the industry and demonstrates hands-on project management experience to employers.

Many professionals pursue both, using an MSPM to broaden their strategic skills and the PMP to validate their experience. However, an MS in Project Management offers deeper academic insight and is often preferred by those aiming for leadership roles or seeking a career shift into project management.

Is GW's MSPM program accredited?

Yes, the MSPM program is accredited by the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center (PMI-GAC). This prestigious accreditation indicates that the program meets the highest industry standards in project management education.

What are the key benefits of the MSPM program?

Key benefits include:

  • STEM-designated degree, enhancing career opportunities in project management
  • PMI accreditation for prestigious industry recognition
  • Access to faculty-developed project management tools
  • Flexible, fully online format designed for working professionals
  • Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers across diverse fields

Learn more about the Project Management degree and benefits  

Are online students required to participate in any on-campus residency events?

Online students are required to travel to Washington, D.C., twice during the program. Students attend a mandatory two-day orientation prior to the start of the program. The students will then return to campus for a five-day residency at the conclusion of the DNSC 6269 Project Management Application (Capstone) course. Students are responsible for the financial commitments of traveling to Washington, D.C. for both events.

When do classes meet?

The number of times a student must attend class is directly proportionate to the number of classes a student takes (e.g., if a student takes two classes, then they will need to attend class two nights per week).

On-campus classes are scheduled in the evenings from 7:10 pm to 9:40 pm Monday-Thursday on the Foggy Bottom campus. The on-campus lectures, which are 2.5 hours in length, are recorded and made available to those enrolled in the online program following completion of the lecture.

Online students also participate in a weekly hour-long synchronous session. These virtual classroom sessions, which are recorded, are scheduled in the evenings, usually between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. ET.

Can on-campus students take online courses and vice versa?

Yes, students enrolled in the on-campus MS in Project Management may be eligible to take online courses if space is available. Similarly, online students may take on-campus courses, subject to availability.

Are applicants required to have project management experience to qualify for admission to the MSPM program?

Applicants are not required to currently work in a project management position, however those who have exposure to the project management profession are more likely to succeed in the program. We should also note that our program is industry independent. As such, the knowledge gained from the program may be applied to projects in any industry or sector.

What is Advanced Academic Standing and how do students qualify for it?

Advanced Academic Standing (AAS) refers to waivers of required credit hours. Applicants who qualify will be eligible to complete the MSPM degree program by taking less than 36 credit hours.

Qualifications for AAS include the following:

  1. Students with a current PMP® certification from PMI® are eligible to waive up to 3 credit hours.
  2. Up to 6 credit hours may be waived for students with previous graduate coursework completed at a regionally accredited college or university within the past 5 years that earned a grade of B or higher and is equivalent to core, non-elective courses in the MSPM program.
  3. Up to 9 credit hours may be waived for students who have completed a Master’s Certificate program offered by TwentyEighty Strategy Execution, formerly ESI International (ESI), in conjunction with The George Washington University, within the past 5 years. Students must submit copies of certificates earned or a recent transcript obtained directly from ESI for validation purposes.

The maximum total number of credit hours that may be waived is 9 and is reserved for those who have completed the Master’s Certificate in Project Management through ESI. The maximum total number of credit hours that may be waived for those who have not completed the certificate program is 6. To receive AAS, students must submit the application and all supporting documentation prior to the first day of their first semester in the MSPM program. The appropriate documentation (transcripts, certificates, syllabi, etc.) must accompany the completed application.

 

 

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