MBA Vs. MS in Leadership
Explore some of the differences and similarities between MBA and MS in Leadership programs, including coursework and admission requirements. Then, learn about possible career options with these types of business master's degrees.
Comparing MBA and MS in Leadership Degree Programs
MBA
Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree programs are generally designed for students who wish to study all aspects of the business field. In an MBA program, you could take classes that center on such subjects as decision-making, financial reporting, operations management, and strategy. Some MBA programs also allow you to choose a concentration or specialization in the area of leadership, where you may study topics related to leadership strategies, talent development, organizational management, negotiations, and more. Other MBA concentrations that are available include:
- Human resources
- Marketing
- Finance
- Business analytics
- Economics
- Real estate
- Supply chain management
MBA programs come in a variety of formats, including part-time, full-time, on-campus, online, and hybrid programs. Although a majority take about 2 years to complete, there are also accelerated programs that can be completed in only about 1 year or even less.
MS in Leadership
Master of Science (MS) in Leadership degree programs are somewhat similar to MBA programs as they also center on various business topics; however, these degree programs have a larger focus on developing a student's management and leadership skills. As such, in an MS in Leadership program, you take classes that could include the study of:
- Dynamic leadership
- Managing people
- Organizational communication
- Conflict resolution
- Business partner management
- Mentoring
Also, like MBA programs, some MS in Leadership programs allow you to choose a specialization area, such as executive leadership, communication skills, organizational behavior, or human resource management. These programs can take about 1.5 to 2 years to complete, depending on the specific program and if you are attending part- or full-time. MS in Leadership programs come as on-campus and online programs as well.
| Degree Program | Program Length | Program Requirement | Related Careers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 1 to 2 years | Bachelor's degree | Human resource manager or management analyst |
| Master of Science (MS) in Leadership | 1.5 to 2 years | Bachelor's degree | Human resource manager or chief executive officer (CEO) |
Admissions Requirements for MBA and MS in Leadership Programs
The admission requirements for MBA and MS in Leadership programs are very similar. To apply to either, you must already hold a bachelor's degree, and there is generally no requirement as to the type of degree. GMAT test scores vary by individual MBA and MS in Leadership programs, with some requiring them and others not. Further, although not strictly required, some MS in Leadership programs prefer that you have some work or professional experience. Other application materials for both types of programs include a resume/CV, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and transcripts.
Business Leadership Career Options
Human Resource Manager
Human resource managers oversee the administrative side of an organization, focusing on all things employee-related. In this type of position, you might be in charge of:
- Interviewing, hiring, and training employees
- Administering benefits and compensation programs
- Managing payroll
- Handling employee issues, such as discipline or conflicts
Most human resource manager positions require at least a bachelor's degree; however, some jobs may require you to have an MBA or a master's degree in human resources.
Management Analyst
A management analyst, also known as a management consultant, is an expert at improving the way that an organization operates. Often, as a management analyst, you may work on a contractual basis where you could:
- Analyze data about employees, revenue, and inventory
- Come up with solutions to a range of business problems
- Work with business owners and managers
- Present your findings and recommendations
A bachelor's degree is required for most management analyst jobs, yet many employers look for job candidates who have an MBA.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
A CEO, or top executive, is someone who is in charge of an entire organization. Your responsibilities as a CEO are usually dependent on the size of your organization, yet you may be responsible for:
- Managing budgets and financials
- Making strategy and policy decisions
- Hiring and training employees
- Collaborating with department heads or board of directors
Most CEOs have a bachelor's degree in business administration or in a field related to their industry as well as an MBA or another type of master's degree.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (2019) | Estimated Job Growth (2019-2029) |
|---|---|---|
| Human Resource Manager | $116,720 | 6% |
| Management Analyst | $85,260 | 11% |
| Top Executive (CEO) | $ 104,690 | 4% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
MBA and MS in Leadership degree programs have a somewhat similar focus on preparing students for business careers and can be completed in a similar time frame. However, MS in Leadership programs feature coursework that centers more on all aspects of leadership, while MBA programs include a course of study that covers a broad range of business topics.