Project management majors: what you need to know

Key takeaways about a project management major

• A project management major teaches you how to lead teams, manage timelines, and deliver results.
• It’s different from business administration—more focused on execution than strategy.
• You’ll take courses in leadership, budgeting, risk management, and communication.
• Common pairings include minors in business, IT, or communications.
• Career paths range from tech to healthcare, with strong earning potential.

So, what is a project management major?

Think of it like being the team captain—but for real-world projects. A project management major teaches you how to plan, organize, and lead projects from start to finish. You’ll learn how to manage people, budgets, timelines, and risks—all while keeping things on track and on budget.

If you’re someone who likes organizing group projects, solving problems, and making sure things get done, this major might be your vibe.

Project management vs. business administration

Business administration is broad—it covers everything from marketing to finance. Project management is more specialized. It’s all about execution: taking a goal and turning it into a finished product.

While business majors might focus on strategy and big-picture thinking, project management majors dive into the details—like how to build a timeline, manage a team, and hit deadlines.

Core courses I’ll take as a project management major

Here’s a peek at what your schedule might look like:

• Project Planning and Scheduling
• Risk Management
• Organizational Leadership
• Budgeting and Cost Control
• Communication for Managers
• Agile and Scrum Methodologies
• Operations Management

These classes are designed to build your leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Smart pairings for project management: double majors and minors 

Want to level up your degree? Here are some popular combos:

• Minor in Business Administration – adds strategic depth.
• Minor in Information Technology – great for tech project managers.
• Minor in Communications - boosts your leadership and team skills.
• Double major in Supply Chain Management – ideal for logistics-focused careers.

Certifications that boost your resume

Even before you graduate, you can earn certifications that make you stand out:

• CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) – perfect for students and entry-level roles.
• Scrum Master Certification – great for tech and agile teams.
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt – focuses on efficiency and quality.

These can help you land internships and jobs faster.

Skills I’ll build as a project management major

This major is all about practical, real-world skills:

• Leadership and team management
• Time and resource planning
• Budgeting and financial tracking
• Risk analysis and problem-solving
• Clear communication and reporting
• Adaptability and decision-making

Basically, you’ll become the person who gets things done.

Career paths for project management majors

Project managers are needed everywhere. Here are some top industries:

• Technology – software development, IT rollouts
• Healthcare – hospital operations, medical research
• Construction – building projects, infrastructure
• Marketing – campaign launches, event planning
• Finance – compliance projects, product rollouts

Entry-level roles might include:

• Project Coordinator
• Junior Project Manager
• Operations Assistant
• Program Analyst

How much can I earn with a project management degree?

Project management specialists earn a solid income right out of college. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary is $100,750, with top earners making over $165,000 per year. Entry-level roles typically start around $59,830, and salaries grow quickly with experience and certifications.

Notable schools for project management majors

If you're looking for a school that takes project management seriously, here are five top picks:

• Georgetown University – Offers a highly respected master’s program in project management with strong industry ties.
• University of Southern California (USC) – Known for its rigorous curriculum and high graduate placement rates. 
• George Washington University – Located in DC, this school has deep connections to government and nonprofit sectors. 
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide – Offers flexible online and campus options, ideal for students interested in tech or aviation.
• Towson University – A public university with affordable tuition and a strong undergraduate program in project management.

Use Scout College Search to explore these schools and find the one that fits your goals.

Final thoughts about a project management major

If you’re someone who likes organizing chaos, leading teams, and making things happen, project management could be your perfect fit. It’s practical, in-demand, and opens doors in tons of industries.

Want help finding the right school or scholarship? I got you—start with Scout College Search and explore your options. Sort through scholarships with Scholly Scholarships or find scholarships specifically for project management. You can also explore a range of scholarships by major and easily apply for Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.