MS in Project Management
Fairfax University of America
Key Information
Campus location
Fairfax, USA
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
2 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
USD 6,534 / per semester *
Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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* tuition fee for 9 credit hours per semester. Additional fees apply
Scholarships
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Introduction
The Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) degree is designed to provide mastery of both technical and operational competencies for professionals with diverse backgrounds seeking leadership positions as project managers.
Program Outcome
- Explain the elements of project initiation, project implementation, and termination.
- Apply cost accounting concepts to project management according to its contractual parameters.
- Function as a leader in the formulation of the project management plan, implementation, and validation of outcomes.
- Strategize on problem-solving reflective of the triple constraints of scope, time, and schedule.
- Distinguish between projects and the ongoing nature of operations.
- Recognize and understand cultural diversity and acceptance of others.
- Apply technological skills, tools, and techniques to guide overall project execution.
- Apply effective oral and written communication skills.
- Demonstrate a high level of ethics and professional behavior in all matters of project contract negotiation.
The MSPM degree program is earned by completing the program course requirements of 30 semester credit hours and 6 semester credit hours of thesis, beyond the program prerequisite courses.
Career Opportunities
Students graduating from the MSPM program should be prepared to provide leadership in a variety of business settings. The MSPM program develops the foundation for continuing education and leadership in all fields of business and administration. Graduates of the MSPM Program can anticipate jobs in the following types of careers at the management, director, and executive levels:
- Construction Manager
- Cost Estimator
- General and Operations Manager
- Industrial Production Manager
- Management Consultant
- Organizational Change Manager
- Procurement Manager
- Project Developer
- Project Quality Manager
- Project Specialist
- Project Team Lead
- Project Manager
Curriculum
MS in Project Management requires 36 academic credit hours and consists of three areas of study that develop the necessary knowledge and skills to become a Project Manager. If desired, an MS in Project Management graduate can take an additional course aimed at successful preparation for obtaining the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Program Prerequisites
If applicants do not have a previous business background and project management experience, and their bachelor’s degrees are not related to business and management, they are required to take the following MSPM program prerequisite courses:
- ECON 101 Principles of Microeconomics
- STAT 200 Introduction to Statistics
- ACCT 201 Principles of Financial Accounting
- BUSS 303 Principles of Finance
- ENGL 120 Academic Writing and Research
These program prerequisites can be taken at the same time. In rare circumstances, students also have the option to test out of these courses or provide other evidence of content knowledge through certifications, successful completion of similar courses, or training certificates.
Core Courses (4 core course- 12 Credits)
The required courses provide students with the skills and knowledge that all project managers need including accounting, finance, organizational behavior, marketing, and leadership. Every student must complete the following four (4) courses:
- MBA 511 Managerial Accounting and Finance
- MBA 512 Project & Cost Management
- MBA 513 Organizational Behavior
- MBA 514 Marketing Management
Specialization Courses (6 Courses – 18 Credits)
These courses offer students the familiarity and skills in managing projects, evaluating risks, handling contractual and procurement activities, and analyzing advanced projects management practices. Every student must complete the following six (6) courses:
- PMP 605 Project Management Systems
- PMP 610 Quality Project Management Practices
- PMP 615 Risk Project Management
- PMP 620 Contract and Procurement Management
- PMP 623 Leading Projects Across Cultural, Corporate, and Global Boundaries
- PMP 625 Advanced Project Management Practices
Thesis Courses (Any 2 Courses – 6 Credits)
The project management concept is commonly integrated across many disciplines. As a project manager, it is important to have a working understanding of various industries. Through the thesis process, students will have an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to integrate people, processes, and technology for the purpose of understanding an organization’s mission and vision as well as actualizing their understanding through imperial research.
- PMP 698 Master Thesis I 5 Core Courses& Dean’s Approval 3
- PMP 699 Master Thesis II PMP 698 3
Optional: PMP Exam Preparation (3 credits)
- PMP 650 PMP Exam Preparation