What Are the Differences Between a Master’s in Management and an MBA?

For some business students, the decision to go to graduate school comes down to a choice between earning a Master of Science in Management (MSM) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA).  

The pursuit of expertise in modern management practices is a smart, strategic move for ambitious professionals who want to ascend the corporate ladder. For those who aspire to upper management positions and the increased salary potential that typically comes with them, earning a master’s degree in management or an MBA is a strong consideration.  

There’s no “better” choice between an MSM or MBA. Both programs offer a high-quality education for business professionals. If you’re a graduate student looking to make a choice, it likely will come down to your career goals, work experience and personal preferences.  

This article unpacks some of the differences between a master’s in management and an MBA to help prospective students make a more informed decision. 

Why Earn a Master’s Degree?

Before deciding on a master’s degree, it is important to understand why graduate school is important for those who want to achieve their ambitions in business. While MBA and MSM programs have their differences, these programs focus on certain skills that can help improve your business acumen. 

A more global perspective: Graduates may have a better understanding of how cross-functional teams can work together to achieve overall company goals. They could also develop expertise in global markets and how the worldwide economy works together.  

Communication: Of all the soft skills, arguably none are as important as the ability to communicate well. Graduate students work on perfecting verbal and oral communication skills, including the ability to explain business strategy and concepts in a way that allows everyone to understand their importance in achieving overall goals. 

Increased salary potential, lower unemployment rate: Data from the federal government suggests that those who earn a master’s degree can expect lower unemployment rates and a higher salary potential. The 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Education Pays report says that full-time wage and salaried workers with a master’s degree earn an average salary of $1,737 a week, as compared to those with a bachelor’s degree ($1,493). Master’s degree holders also have an unemployment rate of 2%. 

What Is a Master’s in Management?

An M.S. in Management offers a proven path to developing comprehensive knowledge and skills in problem-solving, personal effectiveness, communications, management, and leadership, in addition to sharpening business acumen.   

Earning a master’s in management can also help pave the way to leadership roles with non-profit organizations, government agencies or private enterprises. This advanced degree equips graduates with the latest management theories, proficiency in cutting-edge technology and the ability to apply best practices in real-world scenarios. 

Differences Between an M.S. in Management and MBA

An M.S. in Management offers an alternative to the traditional MBA route for business professionals who aspire to leadership positions.  

The degrees differ is several ways:  

Target Audience: 

• MSM: Typically designed for recent graduates or early-career professionals with less work experience. 

• MBA: Geared toward mid-level professionals with several years of work experience, often seeking career advancement or leadership roles. 

Curriculum Focus: 

• MSM: Emphasizes core business skills such as leadership, marketing, and management theory, often with a more theoretical and less specialized approach. 

• MBA: Focuses on more advanced, strategic business concepts, such as finance, entrepreneurship, and global markets, often allowing for specialization in specific fields. 

Program Duration: 

• MSM: Generally shorter, with program duration between 18-24 months on average, though quicker turnarounds as quick as 1 year may be available for full-time students. This can make an MSM more preferred for professionals looking to enter the workforce quickly or pivot careers. 

• MBA: Often takes 2 years to complete, although there are accelerated options. 

Cost: 

• MSM: Typically, an MSM is less expensive than an MBA due to the shorter duration and less advanced coursework. 

• MBA: Usually more costly, reflecting the in-depth curriculum and potential for higher returns 

Career Outcomes: 

• MSM: Ideal for those seeking entry-level management roles or looking to build a foundation for a future career in business. 

• MBA: Suited for those aiming for higher-level leadership, executive roles, or career changes, with a focus on strategic thinking and decision-making. 

Flexibility: 

• MSM: Programs are often more structured with fewer elective courses. 

• MBA: Offers more flexibility in course selection and the ability to specialize in fields like finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. 

Eastern’s MSM Program

Eastern’s M.S. in Management program is ideal for working professionals who want to move into management, current managers who want to hone their leadership skills, and entrepreneurs developing the knowledge and skills to run a business. Graduates are prepared with the knowledge to evaluate complex ideas and use design thinking to support their decisions. They also are taught to identify and address ethical issues, including the impact of business decisions on individuals, society, and the environment. 

Potential careers for graduates from the program include Project Manager, Management Consultant, Hospital Administrator, Human Resources Manager and Director of Operations. 

“I truly believe that in order to be successful, you should constantly be in a state of learning. The needs of business and employees are constantly changing and enrolling in the Master’s in Management program will support students in developing that learning and critical thinking mindset that will lead to career success.” – Dana Dowdell, Lecturer, Business Administration for Eastern’s M.S. in Management