Master of Science in Project Management
Preparation for Project Management Certification
Anderson's MS in Project Management (MSPM) is a 30-hour online or on-campus program. The master's in project management degree is designed for students interested in technical or managerial roles in project controls, project management and program management.
With opportunities for hands-on learning, including an internship option for on-campus students, the MSPM curriculum equips you to deliver successful projects across industries and to excel in roles that demand clear communication, strategic thinking, and effective execution.
Courses count as the education credit required to take the Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification offered through the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Master of Project Management Degree Snapshot
- 30 credit hours
- Online program offers ultimate flexibility with 8-week courses, complete in as little as 11 months
- On-campus program offers hybrid attendance with mix of on-campus daytime and evening 16-week courses and online 8-week courses
- Course-based projects included in multiple courses, developing skills needed by top New Mexico employers
- Mandatory internship in Spring semester for on-campus students, with placement supported by program
- Free access to Primavera P6 during the program, one of the most powerful project planning tools
- 2.2 million new project-oriented jobs projected by 2027
MSPM Degree Curriculum
Learn about the MSPM curriculum
MSPM Salaries*
$81,950Average salary of graduates employed in field
$85,125Average salary at graduation
*Data from 2023
Top Employers
- Sandia National Laboratories
- Los Alamos National Laboratories
- The University of New Mexico
- General Mills
- HP
“The asynchronous format for the Project Management degree was a crucial aspect in my graduate degree selection process, and it made pursuing this degree while working full time with a family easy. The ability to stream lectures and complete assignments after hours was a highlight of the MSPM program at Anderson.”
Jasper Kigar
MSPM 2022
Sr. Project Manager, Los Alamos National Laboratory
MSPM FAQs
What does the PMP certification require?
- Four-year degree
- 36 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years
- 35 hours of project management education/training or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification. The MSPM program provides this training.
- Pass a 180-question exam
or
- High school diploma or associate degree
- 60 months of experience leading projects within the past eight years
- 35 hours of project management education/training or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification. The MSPM program provides this training.
- Pass a 180-question exam
Do MSPM students graduate with the PMP certification?
No, MSPM students do not graduate with the PMP certification. You will graduate with a Master of Science in Project Management, which includes the 35 hours of project management education and training required to sit for the PMP exam. This gives you the best chance of passing your examination.
Where can I find more information about the PMP certification?
Learn more about the PMP Certification on the Project Management Institute website.
You may also contact the local Rio Grande Project Management Institute Chapter at P.O. Box 3273, Albuquerque, NM 87190.
Can I complete the on-campus program as a working professional?
The on-campus program includes daytime, evening, and online courses. This schedule can be difficult for a working professional to accomodate. Additionally, the internship is mandatory for all students in the on-campus program. We recommend most working professionals choose the online program for ease of work-school balance.
Is the MSPM a Masters in Program Management?
No, the MSPM is not a master's degree in program management. However, the course Technology Program Management focuses heavily on the best program management tactics to help you manage programs core to the profitability of your company.
4+1 Program
The 4+1 Program enables UNM undergraduate students to begin MSPM studies early, guaranteeing admission upon completion of the undergraduate degree and reducing the graduate degree’s cost.
Suggested Timeline
- For the first three years of university studies, you will pursue a normal program of undergraduate work. Every UNM degree qualifies for admission to the 4+1 Program.
- During the second semester of the third year of academic work, you will apply for graduation and for admission to the MSPM program in the Anderson School.
- In the fourth year of academic work, you will begin the first year of the MSPM program, completing 9 credits, and complete the remaining requirements for your bachelor’s degree.
- In the fifth year of study, you will complete the remaining 21 credit hours in the MSPM program.
Admission Requirements
The Anderson School of Management uses a holistic admissions process. We consider many factors, including GPA, work experience, program alignment and prerequisite coursework. All applicants are required to demonstrate proof of an earned bachelor's degree prior to applying. Join the UNM project management community today!
Download the application checklist (PDF)
Find out more and apply now!
Questions?
Contact andersongrad@unm.edu.
