The study abroad space is filled with an array of business degrees, each serving as a segue for students aspiring to break into global markets or elevate their professional standing to new pinnacles of success. Among these, the MBA (Master of Business Administration) and MSc (Master of Science) with a business specialization take centerstage, often leaving prospective students wondering which is the superior choice. Rather than approaching this dilemma from the lens of the degree’s popularity, study abroad aspirants should consider the experience required to study the program, the personal and professional outcomes desired, the cost of pursuing the program, and the job opportunities available in the field.

MASTERS IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA): A GENERAL OVERVIEW.

The main idea of this program is to impart students a macro-level erudition of the nuances of running a business. From finance to marketing and human resources to operations, this program provides a holistic comprehension of how each department functions and interacts to smoothly run a business as a coherent entity. With managers becoming increasingly vital to keep pace with digitization and automation, the MBA program encourages students to develop critical thinking, an analytical mindset, leadership, and decision-making skills to navigate the evolving business environment. The curriculum of MBA programs has also evolved as organizations today are required to fulfill social obligations. This has led to the inclusion of topics such as Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainability, and Business Ethics in most MBA programs worldwide.

MASTERS OF SCIENCE (MSc): A GENERAL OVERVIEW

Curated for those who desire a micro-level perspective, the MSc degree provides specialized knowledge within fields typically associated with science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), as well as areas like economics, psychology, and other social sciences. Most MSc curricula include a mix of coursework, laboratory work, seminars, and research projects helmed by professors who are leading experts in that discipline. While this program nurtures critical thinking among its learners, students are also endowed with technical proficiency and problem-solving ability. This enables them to fast-track their career of choice and assimilate with the advanced methodologies prevailing in the field.

Have a look at this list below that covers some of the most widely recognized business degrees:

MASTERS IN BUSINESS ANALYTICS (MSBA)

If making data-driven decisions is your forte, then you may benefit from studying the MSBA program that focuses on teaching students how to analyze and interpret complex data sets to make informed business decisions. It also enables students to become conversant with contemporary tools such as data mining, predictive modeling, machine learning, and visualization methods. As a MSBA graduate, you can opt for career opportunities as a business analyst, data analyst, or data scientist across various sectors including finance, healthcare, marketing, and consulting.

MASTERS IN FINANCE (MFin)

Are you a numbers enthusiast with a knack for dissecting complex financial data and uncovering strategic insights? Pursuing a Master’s in Finance could be your pathway to becoming a skilled financial analyst, investment manager/banker, asset manager or corporate strategist. This specialized program explores concepts such as financial theory, financial markets, financial modeling, risk management, financial strategy as well as quantitative methods and tools used in financial analysis.

MASTERS IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT (MSSCM)

A Master’s in Supply Chain Management is a specialized graduate program that emphasizes strategic planning, logistics management, procurement, operations, and global supply chain optimization. You will also be introduced to advanced techniques and tools such as supply chain analytics, inventory management, lean manufacturing, and sustainable supply chain practices. Ultimately, you can embark on a career as a supply chain analyst, logistics manager, operations director, or procurement specialist

MASTERS IN MARKETING

Aspirants of this program can venture into the dynamic world of consumer behavior, digital marketing strategies, market research, social media marketing, and brand management. Masters in Marketing grads can find abundant career opportunities in advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments, digital marketing firms, and marketing consulting firms.

MASTERS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS (MIS)

Driven by the principle of integrating technology to optimize business operations, the MIS program equips students to become experts in database management, cybersecurity, data analytics, and IT project management. You can visualize a career as a IT consultant, systems analyst, or cybersecurity specialist.

MASTERS IN MANAGEMENT (MiM)

Interchangeably used with the MBA program, MiM degrees provide a theoretical insight instead of a real-world simulation like the latter. The curriculum imparts adequate business knowledge that can then be infused with a specialization of choice such as finance, marketing or consulting.

MASTERS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE (MS CS)

If pursuing advanced education in computing theory, software development, and cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering piques your interest, then you should consider pursuing the MS CS program.

MASTERS IN AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING

This course delves into the design, development, and manufacturing of vehicles and automotive systems. Typical topics covered under the program include vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, safety engineering, and advanced materials. You will be prepared for a career in automotive design, research and development, manufacturing, and sustainability

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MBA & MSc

ASPECT	MBA	MSc
Program Focus	Business management and administration	STEM or social sciences
Curriculum	Broad-based, covering various aspects of business (management, finance, marketing, operations, etc.)	Course-specific often involving research
Career Path	Leadership roles in business, management, consulting, entrepreneurship	Industry-oriented specialized role
Program Length	12 – 24 months	12 – 24 months
Program Cost	Differs based on institution and program duration (1 year in Europe)	Differs based on institution.
Admission Requirements	Usually requires 4-5 years of work experience	Focus on academic qualifications, research background, and sometimes work experience from 0-2 years

Whether you decide to pursue an MBA or MSc, both offer excellent career growth opportunities. It’s important to ask yourself what your end goal is and how your profile matches the program requirements. If you need professional insight into your profile or are still unsure about which program to pursue, consider connecting with our expert counselors at contact@mavenconsultingservices.com.