TOPIC: Is a Master’s in Project Management actually worth it?

I’ve been seeing “Master’s in Project Management” pop up more and more in job listings lately, even for roles that don’t seem super senior.

I’m already working in PM and prepping for the PMP, but now I’m wondering if the degree is becoming a must-have or just a nice-to-have. Anyone here gone that route or decided against it?

Did it help with career growth, job offers, or salary? Just trying to figure out if it’s worth the time and money.

Thanks!

Hi Donald,

I’d say it really depends on the geographical job market and the type of organizations you’re targeting. For example, in the US I rarely see a Master’s in Project Management listed as a strict requirement. Employers here usually put more weight on demonstrated experience and practical results.

Getting your PMP is a solid step - it’s widely recognized, respected globally, and directly shows your ability to manage projects effectively. A Master’s degree can certainly add value, especially if you’re aiming for roles in academia, government, or very large corporations, but for many PM career paths it’s more of a “nice-to-have” than a “must-have.”

Good luck on your PMP journey! It’s a great investment in your career.
-Elena

Hi Donald,
I have not come across any job requirement requiring a Masters in PM (this is either in EMEA or North America) - but it could depend on your specific industry / geography.
I am not sure what the benefit of a Masters in PM would be when there are already globally recognized certifications in Project Management which do the job of signaling competence in a competitive job market.
A Masters would (in my opinion) require even more time, effort, money and other resources and commitment than getting a PMP certification (or equivalent, like Prince2, etc.). And I am not convinced that the Masters would add more value.

I’ve noticed the same trend. A Master’s in Project Management definitely has its place, especially in academia, certain large corporations, or consulting environments.

But the reality is: most graduates coming straight out of a Master’s program don’t yet bring the hands-on experience. They usually start in junior roles, because employers know theory alone isn’t enough to deliver in complex projects.

The PMP, on the other hand, proves that you already have that experience. You don’t just know the frameworks – you’ve applied them. That’s why, in practice, PMP, combined with real project experience, will almost always outweigh a Master’s degree without experience.

And if you look closely at job listings, most of them actually say: completed degree in XY or equivalent qualification. In those cases, a PMP ticks the box – and often in a stronger way, because it signals both knowledge and proven practice.

So my view: PMP is a must-have if you want to move up in PM, while a Master’s is optional unless you have a particular academic or corporate career track in mind.

Donald,

If you're seeing the Master's degree keep popping up in jobs you're interested in, then it may be worthwhile to get it. It seems to me that a PMP may be more worthwhile, but takes less time commitment.

If getting the Master's degree is worthwhile is up to you to decide. I personally would heavily consider it, if I kept seeing it pop up for jobs I was looking at. I have never seen a Master's degree ever pop up as a requirement for a job.

I plan to get my MBA though, which I'm hoping is general enough to be valuable in any situation. For PM, I'm thinking my Bachelor's and PMP should be more than enough.