Why I Chose to Pursue a Master's in Project Management: A Personal Journey

In January 2020, I found myself wrestling with a decision: should I pursue a Master’s degree? At the time, I was 2.5 years into my IT career and had been dreaming of becoming a project manager since high school. But was this dream worth the investment in time and money that a graduate program would demand?

High School Dreams of Project Management: A Surprising Beginning

Why project management? It’s not the most typical career goal for a high school student. I didn’t fully grasp what being an IT project manager entailed at that age. However, through internships, I gained exposure to the role. While interning at Fidelity Investments, I worked with stakeholders on IT projects, and something clicked. I discovered that I enjoyed the intersection of IT and business—where technical expertise meets strategic decision-making. This early exposure inspired me to pursue a degree in Computer Information Systems, charting a career path that always kept project management in the back of my mind.

To Pursue or Not to Pursue a Master’s: The Big Question

The decision to pursue a Master’s degree isn’t easy. There’s a constant debate: is it worth it? Some argue that experience alone is enough to build a successful career as a project manager, and there’s truth to that. Experience is invaluable. However, I craved deeper knowledge. I wanted to understand how project management principles could help organizations thrive—how effectively execution could save time, money, and resources.

Beyond the practical benefits, I saw the degree as a way to shine a spotlight on my resume. While experience often wins out, formal education complements on-the-job learning. Through my Master’s program, I’ve been able to apply textbook principles to real-world scenarios, exploring how theoretical models can improve organizational outcomes. Every organization treats project management differently, but understanding the "textbook" way provides a solid foundation for innovation and adaptation.

Master’s in Project Management vs. MBA: A Tough Choice

At one point, I considered pursuing an MBA instead. An MBA offers versatility and often a higher ROI, especially from prestigious business schools. Programs like the University of Illinois iMBA and Boston University’s Questrom Online MBA provide affordable options, but elite B-schools have hefty price tags. Ultimately, I chose a Master’s in Project Management for its focus and affordability. Plus, I figured I could pursue an Executive MBA later in my career if needed.

The Value of Lifelong Learning

My life motto is simple: learn something new every day. This mindset drives me to challenge myself continually through formal education or hands-on experience. Project management is such a versatile discipline, touching nearly every industry, and I aim to become an all-around specialist who can adapt to any environment.

Final Thoughts: Is a Master’s in Project Management Right for You?

Whether to pursue a Master’s in Project Management is deeply personal. It was about enhancing my understanding of the field, improving my employability, and setting myself up for long-term success. Considering this path, carefully weigh your goals, interests, and financial situation. Experience is critical, but education can provide tools to amplify your impact.

If you’d like to follow my journey or are curious about project management, consider subscribing to my blog. I’ll continue documenting my experiences, sharing insights, and exploring how project management principles apply across industries.

Ultimately, more schools are offering graduate degrees in project management—a testament to the growing recognition of its value. Whether or not it’s the right path depends on where you see yourself in the ever-evolving landscape of business and technology.