Project Managers, by trade, wear many hats and as business experts, they must take all the moving parts and ensure each work in sync with the next…it is no simple task. However, earning an online Doctoral Degree in Project Management can help successful professionals gain the skills necessary to manage and lead in large fortune 500 companies, innovative start-ups, and worldwide corporations. The research-oriented degree will help professionals hone their skills and prepare them as leaders in competitive markets while offering flexibility in learning so students can maintain their careers while earning their degrees. Today, because companies more and more work in a global market, the need for project management specialists is rising. In fact, according to the 2013 Talent Gap Project Management Report, more than $15.7 million new project management jobs are projected over the coming decade.
Doctoral Degree Options
Doctoral degrees in Project Management are in demand more now than ever before, but the programs are still few and far between. Historically students wishing to pursue a degree at the doctoral level have had two options. One, they can earn a PhD or Doctoral degree in a program that offers a concentration in Project Management, such as a Doctor of Management Degree. Or they can obtain a DBA in Project Management. Both are equally desirable by employers and companies seeking candidates with doctoral level education. Today students will also find a PhD program in Project Management, as offered by Drexel University. These programs have blossomed out of the need for educators at the doctoral level in the project management field.
1. Liberty University
Doctorate of Business Administration in Project Management at Liberty University is one of the most affordable in the nation and can be completed fully online. The program focuses on providing advanced training in areas like professional or quality management, and human resource development. The course offered challenge students to evaluate, strategize, and execute successful projects while in school that will translate to their professional careers. Students can complete the program while still maintaining their current careers, and can enroll full or part time.
Cost: $$$$$
2. Walden University
DBA in Project Management offered through Walden University teaches the necessary skills for students to deliver strategic objectives in the professional arena by using dynamic project portfolio management. The program is focused on project-based strategic leadership and graduates go on to succeed as leaders and innovators in their companies. Additionally, the online DBA in Project Management at Walden puts a special emphasis on writing and critical-thinking skills at the doctoral level. The program takes 60-semester credits to complete and knowing many students attend part-time while keeping their careers full time, Walden University gives students up to eight years to obtain their degree. In addition to all coursework, online students are required to attend two 4-day residencies, plus complete a capstone project and dissertation or doctoral study with advisor approval.
Cost: $$$$$
3. Webster University
ACBSP. Students from around the world attend Webster University, and the Walker Business School annually.
Cost: $$$$$
4. Drexel University
Drexel University now offers a PhD in Project Management, a unique and one of a kind opportunity. The program was developed and designed to support the increasing need for project management experts and educators with doctoral level degrees. Graduates can expect to pursue careers in academia, research, teaching and training, or consulting. The 90 credit hours, or 45 post-MS hours, can be completed in part online, although some residency is required. In addition, students complete an advisor-approved dissertation and defense before earning their degree.
Cost: $$$$$
5. Colorado Technical University
online calculator.
Cost: $$$$$
6. City University of Seattle
DBA in Project Management or a DBA with an online Graduate Certificate in Project Management. Both options can be completed fully or partially online and require 91 credit hours of work, including the dissertation.
Cost: $$$$$
7. Capella University
PhD in Project Management prepares students as leaders in the world of academia and research and Capella University graduates go on to teach others at accredited universities and institutions across the world. Attendees have the chance to expand their project management and business expertise through online coursework and challenging and innovative research. In addition to coursework, no residencies are required though students must complete an advisor-approved dissertation before graduating. The degree can be earned fully online.
Cost: $$$$$
8. LIGS University
PhD degrees with a Project Management specialization. The program is flexible and can be adjusted to allow students to keep their careers full time while attending school part-time, and students may enroll at any time a year. The program consists of ten courses, six of which reflect the Scientific research module. Then two courses reflect the student’s specialization and two courses are taken as electives. Research and publication activity is an integral part of the program, and therefore coursework is writing intensive. It takes at minimum, if attending full time, two years to complete the PhD program. LIGS University is a unique and accredited fully online university that follows the Oxford tutorial model which is built on one-to-one education, meaning each online student receives a specific lecturer for each subject and for advisement. Flat rate competitive tuition prices makes it easy for students to pay for college regardless of their location.
Cost: $$$$$
9. Atlantic International University
Doctor of Project Management (PhD) program, offered through the School of Business and Economics at Atlantic International University, combines theory and practice to create leaders in academia and research in the field of Project Management. Students fill leadership roles and serve as innovators in educational settings across the nation after obtaining their PhD from Atlantic International. The program is designed to advance the professional development of management graduates and professionals. As a unique feature, students at the doctoral level also participate in computer science study and research in order to develop a foundation of computer science theory doubled with practical field knowledge. Students also benefit from flexible scheduling, full or part-time attendance, and advisement and career services.
Cost: $$$$$
10. Northcentral University
DBA with a Project Management specialization. Northcentral University was founded in 1996 as a fully online institution that seeks to provide quality education via accessible pathways for working professionals around the world.
Cost: $$$$$