There is no specific degree required to become a product manager, but many professionals in this field have degrees in business, engineering, or computer science. Most MSPM programs feature coursework covering all of these areas. Learners can hold a bachelor's degree in any area.
Master of Product Management (MSPM)
An in-depth overview of the benefits, curriculum, specializations, and career opportunities of MSPM programs
Getting your MSPM: What you need to know
Product management has become critical for organizations across industries as businesses continue to innovate and evolve in the digital age. Product Management has been on Glassdoor's "Top 10 Jobs in America" list since 2019. A Master of Science in Product Management (MSPM) degree equips you with the skills needed to lead successful product development and launch strategies in today's tech-driven business landscape.
The top benefits of earning your MSPM
Earning an MSPM offers numerous benefits for professionals seeking to advance their careers in product management. Key benefits include:
- Developing expertise in product strategy, development, and launch
- Enhancing leadership and collaboration abilities for cross-functional teams
- Benefitting from the guidance of experienced product managers to develop and improve your skills. Expect to learn from faculty and professionals in class and on the job
- Acquiring skills in areas like market research, user experience, and analytics
- Preparing for advanced roles in product management and innovation
Online MSPM curriculum: What to expect
The core curriculum of an MSPM program typically covers a range of topics, including, but not limited to:
- Product strategy and road mapping
- Agile methodologies and project management
- Product development and innovation
- Leadership and team management
- User research and market analysis
- Data-driven decision-making and product analytics
- Financial management
- Product marketing and sales
In addition to these core product management courses, many MSPM programs offer real-world projects or industry partnerships that provide learners with hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
MSPM specialization opportunities
Some online product management programs offer specializations that allow students to focus on specific areas of interest or industries.
- IT: Focuses on the technology sector, covering topics like software development, cloud computing, and cyber security
- Finance: Ideal for professionals interested in the financial services industry, covering topics like risk management, investment products, and financial technology
- Pharmaceutical & healthcare technology: Designed for professionals interested in the healthcare industry, covering topics like drug development, regulatory affairs, and clinical trials
MSPM career opportunities
Graduates of MSPM programs are well-positioned to pursue a variety of career opportunities in product management. Common outcomes include:
- Roles: Product manager or product owner
- Settings: Opportunities in startups, technology companies, or innovation-driven organizations
- Fields: Product development, product marketing, or product strategy
While location, experience, and performance are always factors, ZipRecruiter reports that product managers earn an average salary of $159,405. Growth in the field is driven by digital transformation across industries.
Find the right online MSPM program for you
We offer a personalized enrollment experience designed to match you with online business programs that align with your needs. Here's how it works:
Answer a few quick questions about your background and career goals — this should only take about 5 minutes.
We'll match you with courses, certificates and/or degrees that can help you achieve your goals.
Our enrollment expertise
Our enrollment advisors are trained to help you select the right online product management degree or certificate program from one of our accredited academic partners. Their services are offered at no cost to you.
- Get tailored program recommendations
- Explore no GRE/GMAT options
- Complete 100% online coursework
FAQs
Courses for a product management degree may include marketing, project management, data analysis, product development, and leadership. Learners also will likely take concentration-related courses and/or electives that can help them branch out and tailor their education to their goals and interests.
The length of a product management degree program can vary, but it typically takes 1-2 years to complete.
The value of a product management degree depends on individual career goals and circumstances. Employers look for people who show initiative and can bring enhanced skill sets to the workplace, so having your Master of Product Management sets you up for success and helps you stand out in any pool of applicants. ZipRecruiter reports that product managers earn an average salary of $159,405.
The cost of a product management degree varies depending on the school you choose to attend. You can anticipate the price range to start around $29,000. Our enrollment advisors can help you determine your best options and determine whether assistance funds are available.
Yes, there are scholarships and grants available for product management degree programs. Prospective students should research available options and eligibility requirements. You also may qualify for corporate discounts, military and veteran considerations, or federal assistance.
A product management degree can prepare graduates for careers as product managers, project managers, marketing managers, and other related roles. Thinking outside the box, an MSPM graduate can also work as a brand manager, innovation manager and even as an entrepreneur or startup founder.
Admission requirements for product management degree programs can vary, but many programs require a bachelor's degree and relevant work experience. Other components that aren't universally required but are common include letters of recommendation, essays, minimum GPA requirements, and entrance exams
Some programs may accept applicants without a business background or degree, but additional coursework may be required.
Professional tests like the GRE may also be required for admission. Talk to one of our enrollment advisors to learn about each program and its requirements.
MSPM stands for Master of Science in Product Management, which is a different degree than an MBA (Master of Business Administration). Both of them are graduate-level programs where you earn your master's, but they are not interchangeable. Each degree's curriculum contains significant crossover in areas like project management, leadership, communication, and marketing, but they both have degree-specific coursework that sets them apart.