Which Degree Is Better: Master’s in Management or MBA?

Key takeaways:

• MBA: Advanced business leadership, requires more experience, usually two years, higher salary potential

• MSM: Focus on management, suitable for less-experienced individuals, typically one year, lower salary but good for entry level

• Choice: Depends on career goals and current professional experience

Both a master’s in management and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) are advanced business degrees that some professionals seek in an effort to propel their careers forward.

An MBA degree program will focus on broad-level business leadership and managerial skills. Typically, these programs are designed for individuals with a few years of professional experience who are looking to advance their careers. Programs will likely cover a wide range of business topics through a core curriculum, such as management, strategy, and finance, and will give students the opportunity to specialize in areas such as business analytics or accounting.

A master’s in management, or a Master of Science in Management (MSM), focuses on the particular area of business management. It is one type of master’s degree in business, alongside options such as accounting, finance, business analytics, or marketing. MSM programs may offer some general business courses; however, the majority of the coursework will concentrate on management.

What is the difference between a business management master’s degree and an MBA?

The key differences between a master’s in management and an MBA stem from the expected business experience of an incoming student. The program structure and post-graduation career path align with that level of experience.

Here is a quick comparison:

MBA vs. MS in management student profile

The biggest difference between the average MSM student and MBA candidate is their professional experience.:

MSM: Designed for students with little to no professional experience.

• 86% of MSM applicants have less than 2 years of experience [1].

MBA: Targets professionals with several years of experience.

• 80% of full-time MBA applicants have more than 2 years of experience [1].

Master of business in management vs. MBA program comparison

MSM and MBA programs are designed with varying levels of experience in mind.

MSM programs are designed for individuals who are preparing for entry-level positions on a management track. Generally, that includes people who have recently earned their undergraduate degree or are working toward a career change. These programs typically take one year of full-time commitment, with an intensive focus on management skills.

MBA programs assume a certain level of established business acumen. Candidates may already hold leadership positions or are looking to advance into management or executive-level positions. Full-time MBA programs are generally a two-year commitment and will explore how various business departments interact within a company.

In addition to classes on management, MBA programs may also include core courses in areas such as: 

• Strategy

• Finance

• Marketing

• Ethics

• Communications

Many MBA programs also offer further opportunities to specialize in a variety of areas, including:

• Accounting

• Business analytics

• Entrepreneurship

• Health care management

Because MSM programs are shorter, the total cost will likely be less than the total cost of an MBA program.

Online MSM and MBA degrees

Online MSM and MBA programs can offer some flexibility should you prefer a part-time schedule. These programs can also be less expensive, as there are fewer campus and housing fees associated with attendance.

MBA vs. MS in management salary and career opportunities

Because MSM graduates tend to be closer to the beginning of their careers while MBA graduates tend to be moving toward mid- or upper-level positions, it’s hard to do a direct comparison of salary outcomes.

In 2024, one survey estimated that the median salary for MBA graduates was $120,000. For MSM graduates, the median salary was $80,000 [2]. This salary disparity is likely more a reflection of experience level than value of the degree, as MBA candidates typically have more than a few years of work experience, while MSM graduates are closer to entry-level.

Whether you choose to pursue an MSM or MBA, you may find yourself in demand. The same survey reported that 92 percent of companies surveyed globally anticipated hiring MBA graduates, and 81 percent anticipated hiring MSM graduates [2]. Hiring projections for MSM graduates were particularly high in the technology sector, while hiring projections for MBA graduates were high in both the manufacturing and technology sectors.

Is a master’s in management worth it?

A master’s in management is worth earning when you want a bridge between your undergraduate degree and professional leadership roles. In an MSM program, you can prepare for leadership, managerial, and human resources positions across industries by developing your skills in strategic planning, economic analysis, and systems planning. Plus, holding a master’s degree can increase your earnings. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that master’s degree holders earn a median pay of $1,840 weekly, compared to $1,543 weekly for bachelor’s degree holders [3].

Is an MBA better than a master’s in management?

When it comes to comparing MSM degrees to MBA degrees, neither is necessarily better than the other—but one may be better aligned with your immediate career goals. If you are looking to further develop your leadership skills, depending on where you are in your career, either an MSM or MBA can help you do that.

Both degrees are designed to develop the business skills necessary to ultimately move toward management positions. Generally, a recent graduate or someone looking to make a career shift into business may find an MSM more helpful, while a professional a few years into their career may find an MBA more relevant.

For a more specific comparison, take a look at the iMBA and iMSM programs at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Gies College of Business, both available on Coursera.

Explore a master’s in management vs. MBA on Coursera

If you’re thinking about pursuing your MSM or MBA, research the various business degree programs that interest you to determine the next steps toward your career goals.

Want to get started today? Through the University of Illinois Gies College of Business, learners can earn either their Master of Science in Management or MBA completely online. Enroll in an open course anytime to help decide if an advanced business degree is right for you.

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