Project Management MSc

APM‑accredited postgraduate degree

Develop your career as an effective project leader with our Association for Project Management (APM) accredited Master's degree. Study 100% online with the flexibility to fit learning around your other commitments.

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Key facts about your online degree

How you'll study

This course is studied 100% online

Application deadline

Our next deadline is 26th March 2026

Professional accreditation

Association for Project Management (APM)

Course length

Study this course over 3 years

Fees: £8,598

Payment plans available

Start dates

Start in January, May or September

Course overview

Our online MSc Project Management is designed to develop a deep understanding of the project manager’s role and the specialist skills required to lead complex projects effectively.

Through flexible online study, this online project management course enables you to explore management processes, systems and techniques while shaping your own individual approach to managing teams and projects. You’ll build confidence applying project management principles across a range of sectors, supported by expert teaching and opportunities to relate your learning directly to your professional context.

The course emphasises practical application, helping you make an immediate impact in the workplace as you progress through the course. Project management skills are highly transferable, and the project management masters is accredited by the Association for Project Management (APM), giving you access to free APM student membership and valuable resources. Graduates are well‑positioned for roles in organisations seeking strong project leadership at national and international levels.

Why choose this course?

Accredited by the Association for Project Management (APM)
100% online learning designed for flexible study
Learn from expert teaching staff in project management
Work‑based approach that supports real‑world impact as you study
Develop your own personal management style
Access free APM student membership and member benefits

What you’ll gain

A strong understanding of management processes and specialist project management skills
The ability to lead and manage projects and project teams effectively
Confidence in applying project management principles, systems and techniques
A personalised approach to managing teams and complex projects
Transferable skills valued across many industries and organisations
Knowledge and resources to support progression in project management roles

Next application deadline: 26th March 2026

Apply now

Course modules and assessments

Modules

Due to the structure of this course, there will be instances where you will study two modules simultaneously during a trimester. You will be supported by your tutors to help manage your workload and assessment deadlines.

Please contact one of our advisers to discuss the pacing of this course and the options available to match your circumstances.

Management Theory

You'll learn the key theories and principles of management to understanding how those theories and principles can be applied in practice to a range of project contexts. Management style is personal and unique; therefore, this module will build the foundation of your management knowledge and leadership to empower you develop your own unique approach to management.

You'll be able to integrate this knowledge with your own values, experiences, and goals, to provide the basis for a life-long development of your management skills. Among many other things, you'll learn the principles of governing project teams, including organisational structures and leadership. You'll also explore the functions, forms, operation, and behaviour of organisations in a variety of contexts and situations to enhance management and organisational success.

Management Practice

Project managers must appreciate the importance of people to the success of their project. Organisational and project performance is largely dependent on the performance of people, which in turn is determined by the quality and effectiveness of their management. Therefore, it is crucial that managers can effectively lead the people that are under them in the project organisation structure, and aid and inspire their teams to produce the best results within the constraints of available resources.

The module emphasises on the development of your personal skills and traits required to manage the knowledge and intellectual capital of the project team and take advantage of an ever increasing dependency on effective knowledge management. You will explore knowledge-based economy and its impact on the complex and changing organisational and project environment. You’ll learn about people management, HR policy and practices, and how to manage performance, empower motivation, and development commitment.

Project Management Systems

A project’s life cycle forms a solid foundation on which the manager builds the foundations for management strategies. This module walks you through the body of knowledge and recognised project management methodologies to discover the roles and functions of the manager, value adding activities and innovative tools and techniques to be used. You'll develop a thorough understanding of the process of project management, together with the diverse range of resources and activities that the project manager must plan, coordinate and control to achieve a successful project. The module will equip you with the specialist management skills and knowledge to successfully execute the project from inception through all its stages to completion and use. You'll be challenged to develop a personalised management approach and strategy to deliver a real-world project for a sponsoring organisation. The module will empower you to actively explore the practical tools and techniques that project managers use to support core project objectives.

Project Management Context

Projects are conceived to allow the organisation to achieve its strategic goals in most the most effective and efficient way. Projects must therefore be carefully managed to align with the concurrent projects, programmes, and portfolio to deliver the core business objectives of the sponsoring organisation. This module will give you a sound understanding of the context for project management and how projects relate to organisations and the larger organisational environment. You'll explore contemporary project management by looking at examples from a wide range of organisations and industries.

You'll develop an appreciation of the history and development of project management, together with a critical consideration of contemporary project management from examples of its application in a wide range of organisations and industries. It allows you to explore the duties and obligations of the project manager, along with the terms and conditions of their employment, the legal rights. You'll develop the skills and attributes required to be a successful project manager, including the selection of projects, the different processes involved, and procurement systems used to procure projects.

Project Management Techniques

Project management techniques is applicational in nature and is designed to help you develop a systematic understanding of a number of key tools and techniques used in the management of projects, enabling you to critically evaluate project needs and to select and apply appropriate techniques for your project. With the demand for continuous improvement, production systems such as lean and agile will be explored as well as other performance improvement tools and techniques, including analysis and evaluation of risks and determine their influence on the evolution, design, technology, management, and financial aspects throughout the project life cycle. You'll learn the quality management systems and methods used to manage the quality of projects, together with the skills to critically analyse quality situations in order to select and apply appropriate quality management solutions. A range of learning methods; including case studies, workshops and tutorials are used throughout the module to enhance your ability to discriminate, select and apply appropriate techniques to a wide variety of situations.

Cost and Financial Management

The primary objective of this module is to provide a framework for how the business case for projects is developed, established, and evaluated, together with the processes involved, supported by an understanding of financial and accounting protocols and practices. You'll gain an in-depth understanding of the financial, commercial, and cost aspects of projects and project management, together with the skills to apply value management and whole life costing techniques to maximise project value to the customer. You'll explore the business and commercial environment in which projects exist, and critically evaluate the factors that influence the strategic and financial rationale for projects. You'll learn how the funding mechanisms commonly applied to projects is undertaken to enable you to recognise and manage the implications of these on the project and portfolio of projects. The module also explores techniques for effective cost management of projects to develop your abilities to provide effective cost control, cash flow and financial forecasts at every stage of the project.

Project Planning and Control

You'll have probably heard that “plans are nothing; planning is everything”. While this claim can be contested, the complexity of project planning is a fact of life. Planning and scheduling for effective management of cost, time and quality requires a systematic understanding of the principles, practices and systems used to plan and control projects. A systems thinking approach adapted in this module will allow you to gain a critical insight into integrated planning and programming software and information systems and the potential of Project Management Information Systems [PMIS] to provide effective management of all aspects of a project, especially resources, risks, time, and cost. You'll develop a working understanding of a range of methodologies and techniques, including agile and waterfall approaches, Earned Value Management, and the theory of constraints (TOC) to support your planning and management of projects. You'll develop the ability to select, adapt and apply a variety of project planning and management tools and techniques to the management of projects.

Research Design and Methods

This module is designed to prepare you to undertake small-scale research for the major project or dissertation. You'll gain an in-depth understanding of the theories and methods of research and research design to develop a theoretical and practical foundation from which to embark on your master’s level dissertation. You'll learn a range of approaches to research, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods, together with an understanding of a number of specific research methods and their advanced application. It allows you to critically consider the design for your chosen research project and, in the end, you'll prepare an acceptable proposal for the dissertation, including the consideration of ethics and ethical issues.

Major Project/Dissertation

This module takes you through an independent research journey to equip you with the knowledge and expertise to tackle complex real-world situations and become a competent project manager. You'll choose a research topic and undertake the project with support and guidance from a dedicated subject matter expert (SME). You'll explore challenges and gain an understanding of how project management unfolds in practice. The research topic can be based on any discipline background, but could include aspects such as success factors, innovative technologies, management innovations, sustainability and specific issues affecting your day to day management functions. You'll conduct a significant research project in that area which may involve a systematic literature review, data collection, analysis, and a write-up. The final piece of work should be equivalent to a maximum of 15,000 words.

Modules are subject to change and availability.

How you’ll be assessed

You’ll be assessed in a number of different ways including research projects and reports, written coursework including essays and case studies, group work and presentations, examinations and a dissertation.

Accreditation

Professional recognition

Our MSc Project Management is accredited by the Association for Project Management. APM accreditation is a widely recognised mark of quality for organisations, training providers and academic institutions. It demonstrates alignment to the APM Body of Knowledge and offers assurance for those wanting to access the best project management professional development services available.

Accreditation also means you will be eligible for free APM Student Membership, offering access to APM events and a range of other benefits.

How you'll study

100% Online study

Dedicated support

Study online and graduate on campus

Our MSc Project Management is studied 100% online, making it ideal for UK and international students.

You’ll study through Canvas, our world-class online Learning Management System (LMS), which can be accessed from your phone, pc or tablet at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments.

On successful completion of your studies you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible then we’ll arrange to have your certificate sent to you.

Entry requirements

What you’ll need to start this course

To gain entry, you'll need a good honours degree from a recognised university. Alternatively, if you have a degree or degree equivalent qualification and/or appropriate work experience at a suitable level within an organisation, and for an appropriate length of time, you may be considered.

You may be interviewed prior to acceptance. Qualifications from an approved professional body will also be taken into account.

If English is not your first language, you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

As a distance learner, you'll also need a suitable computer with internet connection, together with sufficient IT competence to make effective use of our online learning management system (LMS) with high-speed internet and email.

Please note: Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please contact us for further information.

Fees and Funding

Fees

The full tuition fee for this online Project Management MSc is £8,598.

The tuition fees you pay each year will be £2,866. The course will take 3 years to complete for September starters and 2 years 8 months for students starting in January or May.

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) may reduce the tuition fees. This will be confirmed once your application has been submitted. Please note that APL may affect your eligibility for a postgraduate loan.

Funding

Your masters in project management may be eligible to be fully funded by the Postgraduate Student Loans now available (subject to start date and eligibility).

We offer payment by instalments, so you can spread the cost of studying with us.

For military students: You can use your ELCs towards this course. Anglia Ruskin University is a recognised ELCAS provider (number 1007). Please contact your Learning Centre for details of ELC, eligibility and how to apply.

For more information on how you fund your studies please see our funding page or contact us.

What our students say

The Project Management MSc has equipped me with practical tools and strategies that have directly contributed to my career advancement and the successful completion of complex projects.

Mario, Project Management Alumni

Read Mario's story

I'm gaining an in-depth knowledge of project management that will enable me to progress my career to a level I never thought possible a few years ago.

Mark, Project Management Alumni

Read Mark's story

The support I received was thorough and greatly appreciated, from top tips, online presentations and one-to-one sessions through skills study plus. The online facilities were excellent and easy to navigate and obtain valuable information.

Michael, MBA Alumni

Read Michael's story

As an international student I feel lucky to have chosen ARU. The lecturers have been very supportive and the content of the modules were extremely interesting.

Mari, Healthcare Alumni

Read Mari's story

Awards and recognition

Be part of the University of the Year

We're proud to be the Times Higher Education (THE) University of the Year 2023. The prestigious THE awards honour ’exceptional performance during the 2021-22 academic year, and reflect ARU’s success in delivering high-impact projects during this period, despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The award recognises the difference we make in the region and our communities – while also acknowledging the broader impact of our world-leading research, and the contributions our students and graduates make to society.

Supported distance learning

We understand that distance learning is different to traditional campus study and if you’re new to online study you may have concerns or apprehensions about studying your MSc Project Management online, and that’s natural.

To help put your mind at ease we have a dedicated Distance Learning Support Team to help and support you throughout your time at ARU, starting with your first online induction and staying with you right through to graduation. In addition, you’ll also be supported by specialist project management tutors, well experienced in supporting distance learning students. They'll be on hand to guide you through both the taught modules, and the different assessment methods.

Once you start your MSc Project Management, we encourage the creation of online communities and many of our learners find these connections with others invaluable, helping them to stay motivated, share concerns or make new friendships.

Visit our support page to learn more about our support services.

Visit support

Careers

Everything you need to know about building your career in project management

What could a Project Management MSc do for my career?

You don’t have to be a Project Manager to benefit from a Project Management MSc, although that’s the obvious one. Our Project Management MSc distance learning programme is designed for any professional, from any discipline or sector, who wants to develop or progress their career in project management or in a project-based environment.

We’ll help you build a strong foundation of management knowledge and skills, supplemented with specialist project management modules, and encourage you to develop your individual approach to management. Emphasis throughout the course will be on application and putting theory into practice across a broad range of project management activities.

Your current or future employer will benefit from an employee who has comprehensive knowledge of project management and the skills to facilitate an effective execution of projects.

What job roles can I consider with a Project Management MSc?

Project management is a dynamic and challenging field of management; it offers exciting opportunities in a wide range of organisations across a wide range of industries. Project management skills are sought after by many employers. It is estimated that 93% of organisations adapt project management practices while every 9 out of 10 organisations have a dedicated project management unit.

Successful graduates will join a wide range of project professionals in the field of project management, as well as other management roles in a wide range of industries, such as business and professional services, computing hardware and software development, defence, manufacturing, new product development, finance and insurance, information services and publishing, construction, aerospace; oil and gas, and enacting organisational change in any industry. There are a number of roles graduates from this course have successfully been appointed for, including:

Assistant project manager
Associate Project Director
Business or Systems Analyst
Change Manager
Consultant Project Administrator
Contracts Manager
Head of Projects/Programmes
PMO Director/manager/officer
Project Controls Manager
Project Coordinator
Project Engineer
Project Planner
Project/Programme/Portfolio Director
Project/Programme/Portfolio Manager
Project/Programme Office Support

If you are looking for more information about these job profiles and potential salary earnings visit the APM website or search for project management roles from Prospects.ac.uk. It’s important to note that salaries can vary widely depending on the job role, employer, industry sector and location.

What can I study after a Project Management MSc?

What skills will I get from a Project Management MSc to help my career?

There are various transferable skills to be gained from studying the Project Management MSc; here are just some of them:

You’ll gain the skills to manage teams and projects
Develop your ability to critically evaluate and solve complex problems
Be able to plan logically and systematically
Organise processes and motivate others to action
Communicate effectively and work as part of a team
Interpersonal skills to liaise with stakeholders
Financial management and cost control
Management of project information
Use of digital and visual methods for presentation
Analytical skills and prioritisation

Careers Advice Service

Once you become an ARU student you will be able to access our Employability service to help you whatever stage of your career, whether that’s landing your dream job or the next progression step.

We offer:

careers advice, including one-to-one online and telephone appointments with our experienced advisers
help with your CV, job searches, applications, and interview preparation
an online portal packed with useful careers resources
our Employability Programme, which helps you hone the skills employers say they want in graduates.

FAQs

A selection of popular questions

Why study a Project Management MSc online with ARU Distance Learning?

A Project Management MSc with ARU Distance Learning will equip you with the skills to thrive in any project management environment. You’ll learn about organisational structure as well as approaches to management, research, costing and planning amongst other essential skills.

Our course also makes you eligible for a free student membership of the APM (Association for Project Management), this project management institute offers you a range of benefits including access to useful resources and project journal archives, networking opportunities, involvement in APM branches and preferential rates on future APM qualifications.

In addition to these benefits, you’ll also study with an experienced distance learning provider and enjoy flexible study which allows you to learn at your own pace.

An MSc in project management can open doors in your career, boost your salary and unlock your potential – it all starts here.

What support will I receive?

By their nature, our distance learning degrees are designed to fit around your life. We understand that a rigid schedule doesn’t work for everyone, which is why our online Project Management MSc gives you the opportunity to study at a pace that’s right for you. Our non-traditional approach to education has been hugely successful with countless graduates who have gone on to achieve incredible things in their careers. Whether you’re juggling a full-time job, family commitments or any other responsibilities, distance learning with ARU gives you the opportunity to grow and learn at a time and place that suits you.

You’ll study your MSc Project Management through Canvas, a cutting-edge learning platform which gives you access to our outstanding educational resources and enables communication with your tutors and fellow learners, so you can receive study support whenever you need it. You will also have a Distance Learning Facilitator who will provide orientation to help you make the most of Canvas.

In addition to this, you’ll have one-to-one correspondence with your course tutor, who will provide feedback throughout the curriculum to help you track your progress at all times. At ARU you will have access to our employability service, and our team can assist you in your career goals, with everything from help crafting a personal statement and CV, to developing interview techniques. In short, our Project Management MSc online course offers you full flexibility so you can study independently whilst providing support whenever you need it.

What skills will I learn with an MSc in project management?

An online Project Management MSc will teach you the essentials of management theory, systems, practices and techniques to give you a firm foundation for your future career. You’ll master essential leadership skills to mobilise teams and make the most of the talent at your disposal and learn how to structure projects and navigate the challenges that come with your role.

As well as studying up-to-date project management theory, you’ll also learn how to form your own approaches and bring your unique experience and insight to any role. You’ll examine case studies which will provide problem-solving inspiration, develop your research methods, and teach you to devise innovative solutions in your career.

Thanks to the innate flexibility of remote learning, you’ll also learn how to work independently, manage your time and perfect your organisation, essential skills which are at the top of any employer’s priority list. You’ll master these soft skills and more, and learn how to apply them within the context of project management to maximise efficiency and bring projects to life.

Which industries value an MSc in project management?

Project Management is itself a valuable industry and skilled project managers are in high demand in a range of fields. It takes a high level of skill to successfully orchestrate projects of any size and scale, and with a project management degree from ARU, you’ll gain the necessary knowledge and experience required to manage teams and bring projects to fruition.

A Project Management MSc can open doors to project management careers across industries. Construction and engineering are amongst the most common fields for project managers, and in these industries, you may be managing projects such as residential building, industrial and commercial construction, and renovation.

However, industries such as healthcare, information technology and finance are also seeing a rising need for talented project managers to handle large-scale projects – from the creation of new services to the implementation of digital systems, project managers are driving transformative change that shapes the future.

With project managers in demand across industries, this degree will open doors to a variety of rich and varied opportunities.

Who can study Project Management?

This course is ideal for existing project managers who are looking to further their career. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build on your existing skills and take your progression to the next level.

It’s also ideal for graduates embarking on a new career journey – a Project Management MSc will help you stand out from the crowd and carve your path in an exciting industry. And with flexible learning, our MSc Project Management online is ideal for those with hectic lifestyles and packed schedules who otherwise wouldn’t be able to study – whether you’re a parent or carer, a mature learner with a full-time role, or military personnel preparing for civilian life, this course could be right for you.

We’ll consider applicants with a good honours degree from a recognised university, a degree equivalent qualification and/or appropriate work experience.

Take the next step, apply today

Next application deadline: 26th March 2026

Your future, on your terms. Apply now before the application deadline.

Apply now