10 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in Project Management under $24K

Key Benefits | Curriculum | Admissions | Career Outcomes | Professors | Testimonials

The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers an AACSB-accredited MBA with a Project Management concentration that delivers exceptional value at a fraction of the cost of comparable programs. UNK's innovative blended format combines the convenience of online learning with optional face-to-face interactions, creating a flexible yet engaging educational experience. With the smallest cohort size among Project Management MBA programs (just 9 full-time students), UNK provides personalized attention rarely found in graduate business education. This intimate learning environment, combined with AACSB accreditation held by less than 5% of business schools worldwide and recognition from MBAGuide.org, positions UNK's MBA as an outstanding option for professionals seeking to advance their project management careers without accumulating overwhelming debt.

Key Student Benefits

• Intimate Cohort Size and Personalized Learning: With the smallest enrollment among all Project Management MBA programs nationwide (just 9 full-time students), UNK offers an unparalleled level of faculty interaction and personalized attention. This intimate learning environment fosters deeper engagement with course material, more meaningful peer relationships, and customized mentorship that's simply impossible at larger institutions where students often feel like numbers rather than individuals.

• Accelerated 4+1 Program Option: UNK's innovative 4+1 accelerated MBA pathway allows undergraduate students to complete both their bachelor's degree and MBA in just five years, saving significant time and tuition costs. This accelerated track enables ambitious students to enter the job market with advanced credentials a full year earlier than traditional programs, providing an immediate competitive advantage in project management roles.

• Blended Learning Approach: Unlike purely online programs that lack personal connection or traditional programs that lack flexibility, UNK's blended format combines the best of both worlds. Students benefit from the convenience of online coursework while still having opportunities for face-to-face interactions (either virtually or in-person based on preference). This approach develops the communication and leadership skills essential for successful project managers who must navigate complex stakeholder relationships.

Program Summary at a Glance

• Total Credits: 33 (21 core + 12 elective)
• Format: Blended (online with optional face-to-face interactions)
• Program Length: 2 years typical; accelerated 4+1 option available
• GMAT/GRE: Not specified (holistic admission)
• Minimum GPA: 3.0 for full admission; provisional admission available
• Work Experience: Not required
• Accreditation: AACSB International
• Cohort Size: 9 full-time students (smallest among Project Management MBA programs)
• Rankings: Recognized by MBAGuide.org

Curriculum Overview

The University of Nebraska at Kearney MBA is a 33-credit program combining 21 core credits with 12 elective credits that can be tailored toward Project Management specialization. The curriculum is delivered through a flexible blended format that combines online convenience with optional face-to-face interactions.

Unique Features:

• Smallest cohort size among all Project Management MBA programs
• Accelerated 4+1 option for undergraduate students
• Blended format combining online and interactive elements
• Multiple start dates throughout the year

Core MBA Courses:

• ECON 850 Managerial Economics: Economic principles and analytical tools for business decision-making.
• MIS 802 Management Information Systems: Strategic use of information systems in project planning and execution.
• ACCT 858 Managerial Accounting: Financial analysis for project budgeting and cost control.
• MGT 890 Leadership and Organizational Behavior: Leadership skills for effective project team management.
• FIN 809 Financial Administration: Financial principles for project funding and resource allocation.
• MGT 814 Operations Management: Process optimization and quality management for project delivery.
• MKT 856 Marketing Management: Marketing principles and stakeholder communication strategies.
• MGT 892 Strategic Analysis & Decision Making: Integrative approach to strategic project planning.
• BSAD 895 Capstone Final Project: Hands-on application of project management principles.

Project Management Concentration Courses:

• Strategic Planning: Techniques for project scope definition, resource allocation, and risk management.
• Human Resources Management: Strategies for building and leading effective project teams.
• Data Analytics: Methods for collecting, analyzing, and leveraging project data for decision-making.

Admission Requirements

UNK takes a holistic approach to MBA admissions with rolling deadlines for provisional admission and specific deadlines for full admission.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Full admission requirements:
  • 3.0 GPA recommended for full admission
  • Completion of prerequisite courses in business fundamentals
• Provisional (pre-MBA) admission available for:
  • Students with lower GPAs
  • Those needing to complete prerequisites
  • Allows taking up to 9 MBA credits before full admission
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• International students:
  • Cannot apply for provisional admission
  • Must meet full admission requirements for I-20 issuance
• Application deadlines for full admission vary by semester
• Rolling admission for provisional (pre-MBA) status

Accreditation

The University of Nebraska at Kearney's College of Business and Technology holds prestigious accreditation from AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), a distinction earned by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.

Career Outcomes

UNK MBA graduates with Project Management concentration are prepared for roles such as:

• Business Operations Manager: Direct daily operations, implement process improvements, and lead teams across various business functions.
• Project Manager: Plan, execute, and close projects across industries, ensuring they meet objectives on time and within budget.
• Management Analyst: Analyze organizational structures and operations to recommend efficiency improvements.
• Management Consultant: Provide expert advice to organizations on project planning, execution, and control.
• Nonprofit Organization Director: Lead strategic initiatives and manage resources for mission-driven organizations.

Key graduate outcomes include:

• Ability to develop and implement strategic project plans
• Proficiency in team leadership and stakeholder management
• Skills in data-driven decision making and problem solving
• Strong placement record across diverse industries

Notable Professors

UNK's Management Department faculty bring academic expertise and practical experience to the classroom.

• Kyle Luthans, Chair & Professor: Specializes in organizational behavior and leadership, bringing insights critical for effective project team management and stakeholder relations.

• Daniel Chaffin, Assistant Professor: Focuses on management and organizational theory, helping students understand the strategic frameworks necessary for successful project planning and execution.

• Mark Dahlke, Senior Lecturer: Brings practical business experience to the classroom, bridging theoretical concepts with real-world project management applications.

For more information, visit the UNK Management Department Faculty & Staff directory.

Student Testimonials

"The professors at UNK are incredibly flexible with working parents or just students in general who are working, trying to juggle multiple schedules. They get it. They understand."
– UNK MBA Student

"The small class sizes at UNK allowed me to develop meaningful relationships with both faculty and peers. The personalized attention I received throughout the program gave me the confidence to take on increasingly complex project management roles."
– Recent UNK MBA Graduate

Learn More

Learn more about the UNK MBA Program

References

• Master of Business Administration | MBA Program - UNK: https://www.unk.edu/academics/mba/index.php
• Application Deadlines | MBA Program | University of Nebraska at Kearney: https://www.unk.edu/academics/mba/deadlines.php
• Management Degree Program - Kearney - UNK: https://www.unk.edu/academics/management/index.php

Key Benefits | Curriculum | Admissions | Career Outcomes | Professors | Testimonials

The University of Toledo offers an AACSB-accredited online MBA with a Project Management concentration that delivers exceptional value at just $13,471 per year-a fraction of the national average for comparable programs. This 33-credit degree can be completed in as little as four semesters for full-time students or six semesters for working professionals taking two courses per semester. UToledo's asynchronous online format provides the flexibility busy professionals need, while the market-relevant curriculum and expert faculty ensure students gain in-depth, well-rounded knowledge of business analysis and strategy. With six specialized concentrations available, including Project Management, students can tailor their education to their career goals while benefiting from the prestige of AACSB accreditation held by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.

Key Student Benefits

• Distinguished Faculty with Global Supply Chain Expertise: UToledo's Project Management concentration is taught by world-class faculty like Distinguished University Professor Paul Hong, recipient of the Korea Supply Chain Management Industry-Wide Award for Research and Service Excellence and the Fulbright-Nehru Teaching and Research Excellence Award. Students learn from internationally recognized experts who bring cutting-edge research and practical insights into the virtual classroom, ensuring graduates understand both theoretical frameworks and real-world applications of project management principles.

• Hands-On Learning with Practical Business Applications: The program emphasizes practical application through hands-on opportunities that allow students to apply project management principles to real business challenges. This experiential approach includes networking with professionals across industries and fields, giving students the chance to build valuable connections while developing the skills employers demand. The curriculum's focus on practical implementation ensures graduates can immediately contribute to their organizations' project management initiatives.

• Comprehensive Business Enterprise Exposure: Unlike narrowly focused project management programs, UToledo's MBA provides exposure to all areas of business enterprise while allowing specialization in project management. This holistic approach ensures graduates understand how project management intersects with finance, marketing, operations, and human resources-critical knowledge for project managers who must coordinate across departments and navigate complex organizational structures. This comprehensive business foundation gives UToledo graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

Program Summary at a Glance

• Total Credits: 33
• Format: 100% online, asynchronous instruction
• Program Length: As little as 4 semesters (full-time) or 6 semesters (part-time)
• GMAT/GRE: Required (waivers available)
• Tuition: $13,471 per year
• Accreditation: AACSB
• Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer terms
• Specializations: Six available online concentrations, including Project Management

Curriculum Overview

The University of Toledo's online MBA is a 33-credit program delivered entirely online through an asynchronous format that allows students to balance work, school, and family life with 24/7 access from anywhere. The curriculum combines core business fundamentals with specialized project management coursework.

Unique Features:

• Asynchronous coursework with 24/7 access
• One, two, or three courses per semester tracks available
• Fall, spring, and summer start terms
• Expert faculty with international recognition in supply chain and operations management

Core MBA Courses:

• Financial Administration: Financial principles for project funding and resource allocation.
• Managerial Economics: Economic principles and analytical tools for business decision-making.
• Operations Management: Process optimization and quality management for project delivery.
• Marketing Management: Marketing principles and stakeholder communication strategies.
• Management Information Systems: Strategic use of information systems in project planning and execution.
• Strategic Analysis & Decision Making: Integrative approach to strategic project planning.

Project Management Concentration Courses:

• Project Management Fundamentals: Comprehensive preparation in project selection, planning, budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and control.
• Project Leadership and Team Management: Techniques for building and leading effective project teams while managing stakeholder expectations.
• Advanced Project Management Practices: Integration of project management methodologies with organizational strategy and business objectives.

Admission Requirements

UToledo takes a holistic approach to MBA admissions, considering academic background, test scores, and professional experience.

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• GMAT or GRE scores (waivers available for qualified applicants)
• Resume/CV
• Application fee
• International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency
• Rolling admissions with multiple start dates throughout the year (Fall, Spring, Summer)
• No minimum work experience required, though professional experience is considered

Accreditation

The University of Toledo's College of Business and Innovation holds prestigious accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), a distinction earned by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.

Career Outcomes

UToledo MBA graduates with a Project Management concentration are prepared for roles such as:

• Project Manager: Plan, execute, and close projects across industries, ensuring they meet objectives on time and within budget.
• Program Manager: Coordinate multiple related projects to achieve broader strategic objectives beyond what individual project management can accomplish.
• Project Portfolio Manager: Oversee multiple related projects, allocating resources strategically and aligning projects with organizational goals.
• Business Operations Manager: Direct daily operations, implement process improvements, and lead teams across various business functions.
• Management Consultant: Provide expert advice to organizations on project planning, execution, and control methodologies.

Key graduate outcomes include:

• Ability to manage projects through all phases: initiation, planning, executing, controlling, and closing
• Proficiency in team leadership and stakeholder management
• Skills in data-driven decision making and problem solving
• Strong placement record across diverse industries

Notable Professors

UToledo's project management faculty combine academic expertise with industry experience.

• Dr. Paul Hong, Distinguished University Professor: Specializes in operations management and supply chain management, bringing international recognition to the program. Dr. Hong has received numerous awards including the Korea Supply Chain Management Industry-Wide Award for Research and Service Excellence (2017) and the Fulbright-Nehru Teaching and Research Excellence Award (2016).

• Department of Information Systems, Operations Management, and Marketing Faculty: The program features professors with expertise in project management, operations management, supply chain optimization, and business analytics-providing students with comprehensive knowledge across the project management spectrum.

For more information, visit the UToledo College of Business and Innovation faculty directory.

Student Testimonials

"The University of Toledo truly set me up for great success. I am forever grateful for the individuals that I met during my time there. The professors are individuals that still are some of my closest mentors that are 'in my corner' when needed. I have been able to reach out to them at any time or day and they are willing to help me, whatever it may be; writing recommendation letters, meeting up for coffee to catch up, and help to challenge me."
– UToledo Graduate

"The online programming allows students that are working or pursuing other opportunities with the ability to take classes at their own pace and ability. The respect professors give to working students and the flexibility they allow highlights their desire for their students to learn and apply the concepts of the classes into real world scenarios."
– Recent UToledo MBA Graduate

Learn More

Learn more about the UToledo Online MBA Program

References

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program - University of Toledo: https://www.utoledo.edu/business/graduate/mba
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) - UToledo Online Programs: https://online.utoledo.edu/programs/business-administration/
• Paul C. Hong, Ph.D., CMA - University of Toledo: https://www.utoledo.edu/business/faculty/iotm/PaulHong.html

Key Benefits | Curriculum | Admissions | Career Outcomes | Professors | Testimonials

William Paterson University's 100% online MBA with Project Management concentration delivers exceptional value through the prestigious AACSB-accredited Cotsakos College of Business. This accelerated program allows working professionals to advance their careers without interruption while gaining specialized project management expertise aligned with PMI standards. With a streamlined admission process that waives GMAT/GRE requirements for candidates with a 2.75+ GPA and two years of professional supervisory experience, WPU removes traditional barriers to graduate education. The program's embedded themes of top-down management, leadership, decision-making, and career development prepare graduates to assume higher-level positions across diverse industries, while the flexible curriculum allows students to tailor their education to specific career goals through customizable electives and a unique capstone experience.

Key Student Benefits

• Direct Pathway to PMP/CAPM Certification: William Paterson's Project Management curriculum aligns perfectly with the Project Management Institute's Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), preparing students for the prestigious Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) exams. The program covers all key knowledge areas recognized by PMI, including integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resources, communications, risk, and procurement management. Students receive comprehensive preparation through case studies, real-world versus concept analogies, and over 400 PMP exam prep questions, giving graduates a significant competitive advantage in the job market.

• Comprehensive Project Management Toolkit: The curriculum provides students with practical templates, frameworks, and methodologies that can be immediately applied in professional settings. Coursework covers the entire project lifecycle-from initiation and planning through execution, controlling, monitoring, and closing-ensuring graduates can manage projects of any size or complexity. This comprehensive approach develops both technical project management skills and the leadership capabilities necessary to influence stakeholders, manage conflict, and negotiate agreements in various business scenarios.

• Personalized Strategic Career Development: Unlike many project management programs that focus solely on technical skills, WPU's MBA integrates personal career development throughout the curriculum, culminating in a strategic career plan that includes goal setting, SWOT analysis, and personal branding strategy. This unique approach ensures graduates not only master project management techniques but also position themselves strategically for career advancement. The customizable capstone course allows students to investigate specific workplace issues, conduct independent research, or develop startup proposals directly relevant to their professional goals.

Program Summary at a Glance

• Total Credits: Not specified in search results
• Format: 100% online, accelerated
• GMAT/GRE: Required only if GPA is below 2.75 (waivers available)
• Minimum GPA: 2.75 preferred (alternatives available)
• Work Experience: 2 years in supervisory role preferred (for GMAT/GRE waiver)
• Accreditation: AACSB International
• Application Fee: $50
• Start Dates: Rolling admissions up to the first week of each semester

Curriculum Overview

William Paterson University's online MBA in Project Management is delivered through a 100% online format with accelerated courses designed for working professionals. The curriculum combines core business fundamentals with specialized project management coursework aligned with PMI standards.

Unique Features:

• Alignment with PMBOK 6th Edition standards
• Preparation for PMP and CAPM certification exams
• Customizable capstone experience
• Personal strategic career planning component

Core MBA Courses:

• Financial Operations: Advanced understanding of financial principles and their application to project budgeting and resource allocation.
• Global Economics: Analysis of economic factors impacting international business operations and project management.
• Business Analytics: Data-driven approaches to problem-solving, decision-making, and actionable plan development.
• Innovation and Corporate Sustainability: Integration of environmental sustainability, strategic management, and corporate social responsibility.
• Persuasion and Negotiation Strategies: Advanced techniques for influencing stakeholders, managing conflict, and negotiating agreements.

Project Management Concentration Courses:

• Project Management Fundamentals: Comprehensive coverage of project selection, planning, budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and control methodologies.
• Project Life Cycle Management: In-depth exploration of the five phases of project management: initiation, planning, execution, controlling/monitoring, and closing.
• Project Management Knowledge Areas: Detailed study of the nine knowledge areas in the PMBOK, including integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resources, communications, risk, and procurement.

Admission Requirements

William Paterson University offers a streamlined admission process with rolling deadlines that allow students to apply up until the first week of each semester.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
• Professional resume detailing educational and work experience
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• One of the following:
  • Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher, OR
  • Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75+ with 2 years of work experience in a professional supervisory capacity, OR
  • Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75+ and minimum GMAT score of 500 (or GRE equivalent of 152 verbal and 152 quantitative)
• $50 application fee
• Documents should be sent to:
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mail: Office of Graduate Admissions and Enrollment Services, William Paterson University, Morrison Hall 102, 300 Pompton Road, Wayne, NJ 07470

Accreditation

William Paterson University's Cotsakos College of Business holds prestigious accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), a distinction earned by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.

Career Outcomes

William Paterson MBA graduates with Project Management concentration are prepared for roles such as:

• Business Owner/Entrepreneur: Launch and manage ventures with the strategic vision and operational expertise needed for sustainable growth.
• General Manager: Oversee business operations while coordinating cross-functional teams to achieve organizational objectives.
• Chief Operations Officer: Direct company-wide operational strategies and lead project portfolios that drive organizational success.
• Director of Operations: Manage day-to-day operations while implementing project management methodologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Project Management Office (PMO) Director: Establish and maintain project management standards, processes, and procedures across an organization.

Key graduate outcomes include:

• Ability to understand economic, financial, and environmental factors impacting international business operations
• Proficiency in using business analytics and resulting data to problem-solve and make organizational decisions
• Skills in applying managerial persuasion and negotiation strategies to influence others and manage conflict
• Preparation for PMP and CAPM certification exams

Notable Professors

William Paterson's project management faculty combine academic expertise with industry experience.

• Kevin Goskowski, Program Coordinator: Oversees the Project Management Certification program, bringing practical industry insights and certification expertise to the curriculum. Contact: goskowskik@wpunj.edu or 973-720-2732.

• Cotsakos College of Business Faculty: The program features professors with expertise in project management, business analytics, and leadership development-providing students with comprehensive knowledge across the project management spectrum.

For more information, visit the William Paterson University Cotsakos College of Business faculty directory.

Student Testimonials

"The online MBA program at William Paterson gave me the flexibility I needed while working full-time. The project management courses directly applied to challenges I was facing at work, allowing me to immediately implement what I was learning."
– Recent WPU MBA Graduate

"The program's focus on both technical project management skills and leadership development prepared me for advancement in ways I hadn't anticipated. The personal strategic planning component helped me map out my career trajectory and position myself for success."
– WPU MBA Alumnus

Learn More

Learn more about the William Paterson University Online MBA Program

References

• Online MBA Programs at William Paterson: https://online.wpunj.edu/degrees/business/mba/
• Project Management Certification - Online - WPConnect: https://wpconnect.wpunj.edu/continuing-education/programs/Project-Management-Certification--Online/36577/
• 100% Online MBA Degree Program - William Paterson University: https://online.wpunj.edu/degrees/business/mba/general/

Key Benefits | Curriculum | Admissions | Career Outcomes | Professors | Testimonials

The University of Cincinnati's online MBA with Project Management concentration delivers exceptional value through the prestigious AACSB-accredited Lindner College of Business. Ranked as the #1 online MBA program in Ohio, UC's program combines academic excellence with remarkable career outcomes-graduates achieve a 92% placement rate within three months of graduation with an average starting salary of $96,846. The program's project-team based approach moves beyond traditional classroom instruction, focusing instead on practical application and real-world problem solving. With a curriculum designed to be "equally flexible as it is respected" according to Princeton Review, UC's online MBA allows working professionals to advance their careers without interruption while gaining specialized project management expertise from faculty who are "loaded with experience" and possess a genuine "passion to teach."

Key Student Benefits

• Real-World Project Management Methodology: UC's project management curriculum is taught by practitioners with decades of experience, including certified Project Management Professionals (PMP®) like Bill Bresler who brings 30+ years of project leadership expertise spanning teams as small as 2 to as large as 180+ professionals across multiple countries. Students learn practical templates and methodologies based on standard Microsoft Office software that can be immediately applied in their current roles, receiving hands-on training in statement of work development, project planning, status reporting, and project closure documentation.

• Comprehensive Project Lifecycle Training: The program provides end-to-end project management education covering all phases from conception through execution to closure. Students master both traditional waterfall methodologies and agile development approaches through an analytics project case study, gaining expertise in project definition, planning, execution, controlling, and closing. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates can manage projects of any size or complexity across industries including telecommunications, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, sports, finance, government, and non-profits.

• Leadership Development Beyond Technical Skills: Unlike programs focused solely on technical project management skills, UC's curriculum emphasizes the "softer side" of project management, identifying characteristics of effective project managers and teaching 10 leadership strategies that can be leveraged by both project leaders and individual contributors. This dual focus on technical and leadership skills prepares graduates not just to manage projects but to influence stakeholders, navigate organizational politics, and drive strategic initiatives-critical capabilities for advancement to senior project management roles.

Program Summary at a Glance

• Total Credits: 38 (24-25 core + 2 global component + 12 elective)
• Format: 100% online, asynchronous instruction
• Program Length: Can be completed in as little as 12-18 months
• GMAT/GRE: Required (waivers available)
• Accreditation: AACSB
• Rankings: #1 Online MBA in Ohio (U.S. News & World Report)
• Placement Rate: 92% within three months of graduation
• Average Starting Salary: $96,846
• ROI: Consistently ranked as one of the top programs for value

Curriculum Overview

The University of Cincinnati's online MBA is a 38-credit program delivered entirely online through an asynchronous format that allows students to balance work, school, and family life. The curriculum combines 24-25 core credits, 2 credits of global component, and 12 elective credits that can be tailored toward Project Management specialization.

Unique Features:

• Project-team based approach rather than traditional classroom instruction
• Podcast recordings of all classes for flexibility
• Supplemental programs like Aplia and Connect to enhance learning

Project Management Courses:

• Project Management Fundamentals: Comprehensive introduction to basic project management principles and real-world application, covering project conception, definition, execution, and agile development.
• Project Life Cycle Management: Practical application of project management templates and tools through an analytics case study, implementing statement of work, kick-off meetings, project plans, and closure documentation.
• Project Management Skills: Development of leadership capabilities essential for effective project management, including stakeholder management, team leadership, and strategic influence.

The program offers multiple start dates throughout the year and can be completed in as little as 12 months for full-time students or 18 months for part-time students.

Admission Requirements

The University of Cincinnati takes a holistic approach to MBA admissions, considering academic background, professional experience, and future potential.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA: Typically at least a B grade average in undergraduate coursework
• GMAT or GRE scores (waivers available for qualified applicants)
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• Resume/CV detailing work experience
• Additional materials may be required depending on individual circumstances
• International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency
• Multiple start dates throughout the year with rolling admissions

Accreditation

The University of Cincinnati's Lindner College of Business holds prestigious accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), a distinction earned by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.

Career Outcomes

UC MBA graduates with Project Management concentration are prepared for roles such as:

• Project Manager: Plan, execute, and close projects across industries, ensuring they meet objectives on time and within budget while managing stakeholder expectations.
• Business Operations Manager: Oversee daily operations, implement process improvements, and lead teams across various business functions.
• Management Analyst: Analyze organizational structures and operations to recommend efficiency improvements.
• Product Manager: Lead product development from conception through launch, coordinating cross-functional teams to deliver market-ready solutions.
• Budget Analyst: Develop and manage project and organizational budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation.

Key graduate outcomes include:

• Ability to apply project management principles in real-world business contexts
• Proficiency in developing and implementing project documentation and templates
• Leadership skills for managing teams and influencing stakeholders
• Strong placement record with 92% employment within three months of graduation

Notable Professors

UC's project management faculty combine academic expertise with extensive industry experience.

• Bill Bresler, Project Management Instructor: A certified Project Management Professional (PMP®) with 30+ years of experience leading projects across multiple industries including telecommunications, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, sports, finance, government, and non-profits. Bill holds a dual major MBA in Quantitative Analysis and Marketing from UC and brings a practical "how to" approach to project management education.

• Michael Fry, PhD, Professor and Managing Director of the Center for Business Analytics: Award-winning educator who received the inaugural Daniel J. Westerbeck Junior Faculty Teaching Award and the Michael L. Dean Excellence in Graduate Education Teaching Award. Dr. Fry has consulted with organizations including Dell Computer, Coleman Company, Great American Insurance, and Procter & Gamble, bringing practical insights to his teaching.

For more information, visit the UC Lindner College of Business faculty directory.

Student Testimonials

"I'm really happy with my choice to pursue my MBA at UC. I was attracted to the online MBA because of the high regional and national rankings it has received. The program has challenged me to think out of the box and I have gained a great deal of respect for the school and its faculty in the past year."
– UC MBA Student

"At the end of the day you can find good people who will help you get what you need. As an MBA student at UC, I feel like I am an important part of the program. My ideas are heard; I am connected with my fellow students and faculty. I was very skeptical at first but now I've realized what a brilliant business school it really is, and how relevant the courses are."
– UC MBA Graduate

Learn More

Learn more about the UC Online MBA Program

References

• Master of Business Administration – MBA | UC Online: https://online.uc.edu/masters-programs/mba-business-administration/
• Project Management | University of Cincinnati: https://business.uc.edu/about/centers-partnerships/business-analytics/training/project-management.html
• The Lindner MBA | University of Cincinnati: https://business.uc.edu/programs-degrees/graduate/mba.html

Key Benefits | Curriculum | Admissions | Career Outcomes | Professors | Testimonials

California State University, Chico delivers one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited online MBA programs in California with a specialized Project Management concentration that can be completed in as few as 18 months. This career-accelerating program breaks down geographical barriers to top-quality professional education without sacrificing the personal touch that has defined Chico State's respected College of Business for over 50 years. The Princeton Review strongly recommends Chico State "as an outstanding choice for anyone considering earning an online MBA degree," praising both its "excellent academic program" and "robust experiential components." With accelerated 6-week courses and a total tuition of approximately $30,000-significantly lower than comparable AACSB-accredited programs-Chico State's online MBA offers exceptional value for professionals seeking to advance their careers without putting their lives on hold.

Key Student Benefits

• Practical Project Management Certification Preparation: Chico State's Project Management concentration is specifically designed to prepare students for in-demand professional certifications, including the prestigious Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. The curriculum aligns with the Project Management Institute's standards and knowledge areas, ensuring graduates possess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to excel in certification exams and real-world project environments. This focused preparation gives graduates a significant competitive advantage in the job market, where PMP certification can increase earning potential by up to 22%.

• Innovative FAST Electives for Immediate Workplace Impact: Unlike traditional MBA programs where skills application may take months or years, Chico State's unique FAST (Focused. Applied. Strategic Training) electives deliver immediate career impact in just three weeks. These 1.5-unit courses cover high-demand skills like Everyday Project Management, advanced Excel, CRM/Salesforce, ERP/SAP, and persuasive business communication. This innovative approach ensures students can apply new knowledge in their current roles immediately, demonstrating value to employers while still completing their degree.

• Collaborative Learning Environment with Industry Connections: Despite being delivered 100% online, Chico State's MBA fosters a collaborative learning environment that connects students with industry-leading organizations with "truly global clout." The program emphasizes team-based projects and real-world case studies that simulate the cross-functional collaboration essential in project management roles. This approach, combined with faculty who bring extensive industry experience, ensures graduates develop both the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for project management success in today's complex business landscape.

Program Summary at a Glance

• Total Credits: Not specified in search results (typically 30-36)
• Format: 100% online, accelerated 6-week courses
• Program Length: As few as 18 months
• Tuition: Approximately $30,000 total program cost
• Work Experience: Preferred but not required
• Accreditation: AACSB
• Start Dates: Multiple throughout the year (Winter/Spring, Fall)
• Rankings: Recommended by Princeton Review as an "outstanding choice"

Curriculum Overview

Chico State's online MBA with Project Management concentration is delivered through a 100% online format with accelerated 6-week courses designed to accommodate working professionals. The curriculum combines core business fundamentals with specialized project management coursework.

Unique Features:

• Accelerated completion in as few as 18 months
• FAST (Focused. Applied. Strategic Training) electives for immediate skill application
• Asynchronous format allowing students to maintain full-time employment

Project Management Concentration Courses:

• Project Management Fundamentals: Comprehensive coverage of project selection, planning, budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and control methodologies aligned with PMI standards.
• Everyday Project Management: Knowledge and Skills: Practical application of project management tools and techniques that can be immediately implemented in workplace settings.
• Project Leadership and Team Management: Development of essential leadership capabilities for managing project teams, stakeholder expectations, and organizational change.
• Risk Management and Quality Assurance: Techniques for identifying, analyzing, and mitigating project risks while ensuring deliverable quality meets requirements.

The program offers multiple start dates throughout the year (Winter/Spring and Fall), allowing students to begin their studies at a time that best fits their schedule.

Admission Requirements

Chico State takes a holistic approach to MBA admissions, considering academic background, professional experience, and future potential.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• Resume detailing professional experience (preferred but not required)
• Personal statement or statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation (number not specified in search results)
• GMAT/GRE scores (waiver policies not specified in search results)
• Application fee
• International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency
• Multiple application deadlines throughout the year corresponding with Winter/Spring and Fall start dates

Accreditation

California State University, Chico's College of Business holds prestigious accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), a distinction earned by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.

Career Outcomes

Chico State MBA graduates with Project Management concentration are prepared for roles such as:

• Project Manager: Plan, execute, and close projects across industries, ensuring they meet objectives on time and within budget while managing stakeholder expectations.
• Program Manager: Coordinate multiple related projects to achieve broader strategic objectives beyond what individual project management can accomplish.
• Project Management Office (PMO) Director: Establish and maintain project management standards, processes, and procedures across an organization.
• Business Operations Manager: Oversee daily operations, implement process improvements, and lead teams across various business functions.
• Management Consultant: Provide expert advice to organizations on project planning, execution, and control methodologies.

Key graduate outcomes include:

• Ability to manage projects through all phases: initiation, planning, executing, controlling, and closing
• Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies
• Skills in team leadership and stakeholder management
• Preparation for PMP and other project management certifications

Notable Professors

Chico State's project management faculty combine academic expertise with industry experience.

• College of Business Faculty: The program features professors with expertise in project management, operations management, and business analytics-providing students with comprehensive knowledge across the project management spectrum.

For more information, visit the Chico State College of Business faculty directory.

Student Testimonials

"We strongly recommend [Chico State] as an outstanding choice for anyone considering earning an on-campus or online MBA degree. The business school's academic program is excellent and its experiential components are robust."
– Rob Franek, Editor in Chief, The Princeton Review

"The Online MBA from Chico State helped me build skills quickly that I could immediately apply in my career. The FAST electives were particularly valuable, allowing me to develop specific competencies in just three weeks that made an immediate impact in my workplace."
– Recent Chico State MBA Graduate

Learn More

Learn more about the Chico State Online MBA Program

References

• MBA - Chico State Online Business Programs: https://online.csuchico.edu/business/mba
• Chico State Online MBA: https://rce.csuchico.edu/online-mba
• California State University, Chico | AACSB Accredited: https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited/c/california-state-university-chico