Project Management Degree in Rhode Island - Best Programs for 2025

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What is Project Management?

Numerous colleges and universities in Rhode Island and across the United States provide project management degree programs. This major opens doors to diverse job prospects, with organizations in various industries seeking professionals well-versed in this field. The majority of opportunities, however, tend to be concentrated in construction, marketing, information technology, biotechnology, and sustainable energy.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for project management specialists is expected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032. This is faster than the average for all occupations and will account for an additional 68,100 job openings each year. Employment in other management occupations is also projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. This will account for another 1.1 million related positions becoming available each year.

Professional and business services is the third largest industry in Rhode Island. It accounts for $7.8 billion of the state’s revenue each year. Project managers are also likely to find employment in many of the state’s other sectors such as real estate, educational services, finance, manufacturing, wholesale, retail, entertainment, and information technology (IT).

As of May 2022, Rhode Island employed 3,060 project management specialists and 21,670 other management professionals. The annual mean wage for project management specialists was $101,620, while the annual mean wage for other management professionals was $142,210. Both of these wages are significantly higher than the state’s annual mean wage of $64,530 for all occupations.

Many higher education institutions provide project management degree programs, with some offering remote enrollment options. Although online programs offer greater flexibility, it’s crucial to consider physical location when choosing between colleges and universities. Academic facilities situated in Rhode Island will provide curricula aligned with the region's specific employment needs, ensuring graduates are equipped to meet the standards and demands of local businesses and organizations.

Project managers oversee and coordinate various aspects of projects to ensure they are completed efficiently and successfully. They are skilled at planning, executing, and closing these assignments across diverse industries ranging from construction and information technology to healthcare and manufacturing.

One of their primary responsibilities is defining the scope, objectives, and specific deliverables assigned projects. This generally involves coordinating directly with stakeholders to better understand their requirements and expectations, as well as creating detailed project plans, task outlines, timelines, and resource allocations to meet the various objectives.

In addition to collaborating with stakeholders, it’s also necessary to facilitate effective, clear, and open communication among any other team members involved in the project's lifecycle. As a lead manager, they are often responsible for ensuring that everyone involved understands their roles and works productively together.

Another common task for these professionals is resource management as they are often responsible for ensuring projects remain on schedule. This includes overseeing personnel, finances, and materials. Project managers also work to identify potential risks and develop various mitigation strategies to address them. As a result, they spend a significant amount of time monitoring the performance of projects and making adjustments as necessary to keep them on track.

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Project Management Education in Rhode Island

Project management professionals usually hold some type of higher education degree in Rhode Island, as well as throughout the rest of the United States. Relevant programs are available at all academic levels including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate.

Notably, those who possess advanced degrees in the field often enjoy the best career prospects. Companies and organizations do establish their own hiring standards, however, and education expectations can vary. In some instances, individuals may be able to secure entry-level positions without higher education. It’s important to realize that those with only high school diplomas or GEDs will encounter limited opportunities with lower pay potential. As a result, obtaining some level of higher education is generally recommended when pursuing employment in project management.

Associate Degree in Project Management (AS)

Associate degrees in project management generally consist of 60 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students two years to complete. Undergraduate programs typically include both general liberal arts and specialized programmatic courses. Curriculum structures differ, but students can expect to engage with a range of standard subjects such as English communication, mathematics, and social sciences, along with various major-related classes. Individuals studying project management are also likely to receive instruction on professional communication and business law. At this stage, those enrolled can expect to receive a wide-ranging introduction into the field and gain fundamental knowledge and skills essential for subsequent learning.

Although not all colleges and universities provide associate degree programs in project management, numerous related majors are available to prepare students for careers in this field. Among the most prevalent related areas of study are general business management and business administration. These degree options often provide instruction on similar subjects and can serve as good preparation for continuing education.

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Notably, individuals with associate degrees are generally ineligible for employment as project managers. Instead, these programs typically serve as preparation for entry-level roles in the field. Graduates are most likely to find work as project coordinators, administrative assistants, or event planners. Professional opportunities for these occupations can still be competitive, however. Prospective employers often prioritize hiring individuals who possess more advanced degrees.

Opting to pursue additional education can significantly enhance employment opportunities; and graduates with associate degrees are often closer to attaining traditional four-year degrees than they may think. Undergraduate credit hours are transferable, with most accredited colleges and universities accepting up to 60 or 90 credits from properly accredited academic institutions. Prospective students can submit their previous transcripts and have most relevant work applied towards current academic requirements.

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Bachelor's Degree in Project Management (BS)

Bachelor’s degrees in project management generally consist of 120 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately four years to complete. Previous credits obtained through Advanced Placement (AP) exams or from prior degrees can also expedite the time it takes to graduate.

Undergraduate programs typically include both general liberal arts and specialized programmatic courses. Curriculum structures differ, but students can expect to engage with a range of standard subjects such as communication, mathematics, and social science alongside various major-related classes. Individuals studying project management are likely to receive instruction on the principles of leadership, project scheduling and control, and risk assessment and management.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, bachelor’s degrees are the education standard for project management professionals in the United States. Graduates may also qualify for employment as operations managers, purchasing managers, product development managers, nonprofit managers, emergency management directors, and environmental project managers.

Notably, bachelor's degrees may not suffice to meet the requirements for professional roles with substantial supervisory responsibilities. To access such positions, which frequently offer higher salaries, further education through graduate school is often needed. Aspiring master's degree candidates must be ready to fulfill institutional admission criteria, including minimum grade point averages (GPAs) and satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores.

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Master's Degree in Project Management (MS)

Master’s degrees in project management generally consist of 30 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students one to two years to complete. Accelerated programs, in which course requirements are condensed into shorter timeframes, may also be available. These alternatives can be completed in as little as 12 months.

At the graduate level, coursework typically excludes undergraduate or general liberal arts classes. Nevertheless, students often need to demonstrate their proficiency in advanced subject matter within the field. To this end, many educational institutions mandate submission of previous transcripts to validate the completion of specific lower-level prerequisite courses.

Students can typically anticipate studying various concepts concerning cost and value management and procurement, as well as commercial laws and regulations. Moreover, students may also have opportunities to choose specializations. Selecting a concentration further customizes the curriculum, which is especially beneficial for those seeking roles in project management sub-fields. Specialization options differ, but some of the most prevalent options include engineering, healthcare, marketing, and construction.

Master’s degrees in project management are not considered a standard requirement for employment. Completing graduate school can, however, significantly enhance employment prospects and opportunities for advancement in the field. Graduates tend to be both more competitive when applying for jobs and more qualified for upper-management supervisory occupations. Jobs commonly available to individuals with master’s degrees include senior project manager, health services manager, construction project manager, information technology (IT) manager, and project management consultant.

An alternative to studying project management at the graduate level is enrolling in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. MBAs typically delve into similar subject matter, but the instruction is primarily business-oriented. Consequently, graduates often find themselves better equipped to work for large corporations.

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PhD Degree in Project Management (PhD)

Doctorates and PhD programs related to project management generally consist of between 90 and 120 credit hours that take full-time students four to seven years to complete. As terminal degrees, these programs represent the highest level of education available in the field and typically require students to meet high academic standards.

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PhD and doctorate degrees are similar, but distinct. Doctorate programs primarily prepare students for executive roles in major corporations, whereas PhD programs equip individuals for careers in research and/or higher education. Doctorate students also delve into advanced topics in leadership theory and applied action research, enabling them to assist companies and organizations in strategic long-term planning. In contrast, PhD students receive instruction in multivariate analysis, curriculum design, and organizational theory, setting the stage for research and educational roles.

In both instances, the initial years of enrollment typically entail traditional classroom instruction and coursework. However, this gradually transitions as students embark on more independent study, research, and scholarly writing. These programs culminate in the presentation and rigorous defense of dissertations before graduation.

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Become a Project Manager Professional in Rhode Island

When striving to become a project management professional in Rhode Island, the initial step typically involves defining your ultimate career objectives. Companies across various industries actively seek workers with expertise in this field. This results in a diverse array of possible positions, each with distinct prerequisites and standards for employment. Early identification of your desired role can significantly streamline your path to success. With thorough research, you can easily ascertain the levels of education, training, and experience required to establish yourself as a qualified candidate. Furthermore, this information can help you select of the most suitable major, minor, elective courses, concentrations, and potential internships.

Notably, professionals in this field may pursue various degree majors. You are not limited to studying only project management. There are many other related subjects available that, at times, can provide more advantages. As long as your chosen major aligns with your intended occupation, you generally have the flexibility to explore various areas of study. While many are acceptable, business management and information technology are among some of the most favored alternatives for project managers.

After acquiring the essential education, it can also prove advantageous to seek one or more certifications pertinent to the project management profession. Although not an obligation for most positions in the field, additional credentials can set you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs. They not only showcase your commitment to the field but also emphasize expertise and abilities.

It's important to realize that Rhode Island does not mandate any specific credentialing expectations for project management professionals. Hiring criteria is typically determined by individual companies and organizations or, in some cases, by the managers in charge of staffing. This means you often have the liberty to choose which certification(s) you wish to pursue based on personal inclination and/or career progression. Other aspects to consider include the expenses involved and the duration required to fulfill the various requirements. Additionally, you should always verify that the credentialing party is reputable. Many professional organizations and associations offer certification opportunities, but one of the most reliable options is the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Some popular certification options available to project management professionals include:

Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)
Program Management Professional (PgMP)
Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP)
PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)
PMI Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP)
PMI Project Management Ready
Construction Professional in Built Environment Projects (PMI-CP)

PMI is the leading professional association for project managers around the globe, offering a variety of opportunities to continue developing relevant skills and network with others in the field. Membership can be very beneficial for students, new professionals, and seasoned experts alike. The organization manages over 300 local chapters hosting events, topical sessions, and information meetups. Rhode Island residents can join the Ocean State Chapter after becoming PMI members. This chapter is dedicated to embracing and upholding the core values of the PMI while reacting to changes in the project management profession and member needs. It seeks to foster professionalism, contribute to the quality and scope of the field, and stimulate appreciation for the occupation.

Careers for Project Management Graduates

Administrative Services Manager
Administrative services managers oversee the efficient operation of administrative departments within companies and organizations. Their responsibilities include managing records, supervising support staff, and ensuring facilities are well-maintained. They also develop and implement procedures to enhance productivity and cost-effectiveness, often collaborating with other managers. These professionals play a vital role in maintaining a smooth work environment by managing various administrative tasks, supporting staff, and ensuring organizational resources are utilized effectively. According to PayScale, administrative managers make an average base salary of $67,605 per year.
Art Director
Art directors are creative professionals responsible for visual and artistic aspects of projects. They oversee the design and layout of advertisements, visual media, and other creative materials, ensuring they align with the vision and objectives provided by their clients. These professionals may also collaborate with teams of designers and artists, guiding them to achieve the desired aesthetic and message. Their role spans various industries including advertising, publishing, and film and involves conceptualizing and executing visual concepts to captivate audiences and convey information effectively. According to PayScale, art directors make an average base salary of $72,326 per year.
Construction Manager
Construction managers play a pivotal role in overseeing construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. They often collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors - coordinating various project aspects such as scheduling, budgeting, and safety compliance. These professionals are also responsible for making critical decisions, managing subcontractors, and addressing issues that may arise during construction. According to PayScale, construction managers make an average base salary of $80,035 per year.
Engineering Project Manager
Engineering project managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing various projects for their employers. From inception to completion, they work closely with engineering teams, clients, and stakeholders to define project goals, budgets, and timelines, as well as performing risk assessments, problem-solving, and resource allocation. These professionals also ensure that projects adhere to various specifications, quality standards, and safety regulations. According to PayScale, engineering project managers make an average base salary of $97,842 per year.
Facilities Manager
Facilities managers oversee the maintenance and operation of buildings and properties, ensuring they function efficiently and safely. Using strong organizational and leadership skills, as well as a deep understanding of facility management principles, they coordinate services like cleaning, security, and repairs. Other responsibilities include managing staff, budgets, and maintenance schedules. These professionals play a crucial role in providing a well-maintained and functional environment for organizations and their occupants, which often include offices, hospitals, schools, and other facilities. According to PayScale, facilities managers make an average base salary of $69,785 per year.

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Fundraising Manager
Fundraising managers lead efforts to secure financial support for their employers, often non-profit organizations and charities. They develop fundraising strategies, plan campaigns, and cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors, as well as organizing events, writing grant proposals, and overseeing marketing and communication initiatives. Their work requires strong communication, marketing, and strategic planning skills to achieve established fundraising goals. They play a pivotal role in sustaining the financial health of non-profit organizations, enabling them to carry out their missions and serve their communities effectively. According to PayScale, fundraising managers make an average base salary of $56,790 per year.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers are responsible for overseeing the movement of goods, materials, and information within supply chains for companies and organizations. They plan, coordinate, and optimize the various processes involved, from procurement and production to distribution and logistics. These professionals also work to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations while maintaining quality standards and meeting customer demands. Other common tasks include collaborating with different departments and external partners to streamline processes, reducing costs, and enhancing overall supply chain performance. Their role is crucial in maintaining a smooth and responsive supply chain network. According to PayScale, supply chain managers make an average base salary of $84,999 per year.
Training and Development Manager
Training and development managers play a vital role by planning, directing, and coordinating employee training programs for companies and organizations. Contributing to the professional growth and development of the workforce, they assess training needs, design effective programs, and oversee their implementation. In addition to ensuring that employees acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles, they also evaluate training outcomes and make adjustments to improve program effectiveness. According to PayScale, training and development managers make an average base salary of $80,407 per year.

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How to Become a Project Manager in Rhode Island