Plymouth Business School

MSc Project Management

Programme code 7922
Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
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Empowering future project leaders with a comprehensive skill set to navigate diverse challenges. Our curriculum blends theoretical insights with practical applications, fostering sustainable project management practices. Develop a versatile skillset, including analytical prowess, effective communication, and a deep understanding of project management theories and methodologies. Emerge equipped to drive successful project outcomes, innovate in diverse contexts and thrive in project management.

Project Management

Careers with this subject
It is estimated that approximately 88 million people in project management-orientated roles will be required by 2030. As a result, there are many different pathways and opportunities our graduates can explore.
Jobs in project management are available across all sectors, from business, marketing, finance, law to transport, manufacturing and engineering. 
Graduates typically go on to work in professions such as: 
  • project managers
  • portfolio managers
  • system engineers
  • supervisor
  • project coordinator
  • communication specialist
  • contracting officer.

Key features
  • Explore various project management tools and techniques to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively initiate, plan, execute, and monitor projects. 
  • Learn about leadership and team dynamics, strategic project management, and sustainability in projects.  
  • You will be introduced to project management methodologies, including PRINCE2, APM and Agile and have the opportunity to obtain professional certifications on successful completion of required exams.
  • Through case studies and real-world projects, we prioritise practical application to enable graduates to excel in a variety of industries and sectors.
  • Our links with large global employer Babcock mean that you can learn from industry-leaders with real-world experience. Where possible there will also be live client-brief exercises.
  • Modules are led by academics who are experienced professionals in the field with extensive knowledge and expertise in leading and delivering project management programmes.
  • We also provide flexible learning options such as part-time, allowing you to balance work, family and additional commitments alongside studying.

Course details

  • Overview

  • The flexibility of our programme lets you decide whether you want to graduate with a PgCert, a PgDip, or a Full-Masters.
    While you can study both qualifications full-time and part-time the PgCert and PgDip are significantly shorter than the Full-Masters.
    A PgCert is worth 60 credits and takes one term (15 weeks) to complete. This is the shortest postgraduate course you can complete. 
    A PgDip is worth 120 credits and takes two terms to complete.
    You can also complete a Full-Masters (180 credits). This runs for a full year and requires the completion of a research project.

    Core Modules

    Agile Project Management (STO7014)
    In today’s dynamic environments Agile project management offers advantages in being able to recognize patterns of changing information and trends, and then responding to those changes quickly and effectively through quick, iterative testing; incremental development; and experimentation.  This module will provide a working knowledge of agile project management methodologies, tools and techniques such as Scrum and Kanban. Students will be able to apply techniques such as estimating, planning and value chain mapping and will be able to apply theory to practice and develop the capability to manage agile projects in a wide range of digital related applications.
    Project Management Methodologies, Tools and Techniques (STO7013)
    This module will introduce the main tools and techniques and methodologies of project management. It will examine key topics such as the management of schedules, quality, stakeholder communications, cost estimation, resource scheduling and risk management, along with communication, organisation and leadership. The module will also evaluate a range of methodologies such as PMBoK, APMBoK, PRINCE2, Agile and DevOps. The module provides insights and practical knowledge through the acquisition and application of methodologies and tools to enable students to successfully lead projects of any scale and type such as Engineering and IT projects, through to marketing campaigns and events management projects.
    Sustainable Project Management (STO7015)
    Companies across the globe are being forced to consider their impact on people and the planet to achieve the outcomes of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Paris Climate Agreement. This module will provide an introduction to the complexities of managing projects which incorporate a sustainability focus. The module considers the importance of green marketing (how to promote products or services based on their environmental benefits) as well as the importance of wider stakeholder communities and the need for companies to encourage sustainable supply chains. Project management theory relevant to sustainability will be examined and there will be an emphasis on practice-based learning with links to industrial partners and real-life projects.
    Managing People and Finance (HRL7006)
    This module will provide an introduction to the complexities of leading, managing and developing people in the workplace. It is one of the core areas in the field of both Human Resource Management and Management, and through an exploration of both relevant theory and practice, it seeks to develop a critical understanding of the complexities and contested nature of leadership and management and the opportunities for leading and developing people, groups and organisations. Additionally, the module aims to provide knowledge and understanding of accounting and finance for managers.
    Capstone Project (PBS7000J)
    This module provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to undertake a significant project of their choosing. There is scope within this module for students to undertake a broad range of project types, including consultancy, business analysis, business development or academic study.
    Students have different options for completing the capstone project requirements:
    • Original Research: A research project within a management area that includes designing a study and engaging in the appropriate research process. The project should address a theory or knowledge gap, and results in clearly defined new knowledge that is original.
    • Company-based (consultancy) project: students identify a problem/issue in a real organisation which they choose to explore in depth and provide solutions/ recommendations.
    • New product/service/business development: a proposal for an original, new product or service/business, or a substantial modification of an existing product/service/business. Student should provide a convincing rational for the new product/service/business, a strategic plan for its development, and focus clearly on its targeted market. (Please note: This will not be an option for MA Human Resources Management students due to the need to meet the requirement for recommendations set by CIPD).
    Students will be expected to collect and analyse data, to derive supportable conclusions and to make practical and actionable recommendations for change, improvement or enhancement of current practice. It will also enable learners to understand the nature and processes involved in business and management projects in the context of their own research.

    Core modules

    • Managing People and Finance (HRL7006)

      This module will provide an introduction to the complexities of leading, managing and developing people in the workplace. It is one of the core areas in the field of both Human Resource Management and Management, and through an exploration of both relevant theory and practice, it seeks to develop a critical understanding of the complexities and contested nature of leadership and management and the opportunities for leading and developing people, groups and organisations. Additionally, the module aims to provide knowledge and understanding of accounting and finance for managers.

    • Capstone Project (PBS7000J)

      In this capstone project, you will synthesise and apply learning from the taught element of the programme to a project of your choosing. There is scope for you to undertake a broad range of project types, including consultancy, business analysis, business development or academic study.

    • Project Management Methodologies, Tools and Techniques (STO7013)

      Connecting the main tools and techniques of project management, the module examines critical topics such as the management of schedules, quality, stakeholder communications, cost estimation, resource scheduling and risk management, along with communication, organisation and leadership. Evaluating a range of methodologies such as PMIBoK, APMBoK, PRINCE2, and DevOps, the module provides insights and practical knowledge to enable students to successfully lead projects of any scale and type.

    • Agile Project Management (STO7014)

      Agile project management offers advantages by recognising patterns of changing information and trends, and responding swiftly and effectively through quick, iterative testing; incremental development; and experimentation. Providing in-depth knowledge of agile project management methodologies, tools and techniques such as Scrum and Kanban, this module enables students to apply relevant techniques to practice, contributing to their capability to manage agile projects.

    • Sustainable Project Management (STO7015)

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Project Management Programme Specification 7922

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Entry requirements
Normal minimum entry requirements are a 2:2 honours degree in any discipline, or an equivalent professional qualification. Candidates who do not possess a first degree or who have been awarded a third-class honours or pass degree may be considered for the programme on the basis of previous work experience or relevant training.
If English is not your first language, you will need to have achieved at least 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element in IELTS or equivalent exams.  International students – English language requirements .
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our UCAS tariff glossary.

Fees, costs and funding
Student 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home N/A £11,600
International N/A £18,400
Part time (Home) N/A £640
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

How to apply
When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance. 
Disability Inclusion Services
If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page). 
What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeksof us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail. 
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 (0)1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 
Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.

Meet our experts

 
This is a new course with start dates of January 2025 and September 2025.