Difference Between MSc and MBA

Main Difference – MSc vs MBA

Both MSc and MBA are master’s degrees. MSc stands for Master of Science and MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. MSc is typically a Master’s degree in scientific and mathematical subjects whereas MBA is a master’s degree in business. However, in contemporary academia, business subjects such as marketing and finance are offered in MSc format as well. The main difference between MSc and MBA is the work experience; Work experience is not essential to enroll in an MSc, but it is a prerequisite in an MBA.

What is an MSc

The abbreviation MSc stands for the title Master of Science. It is a master’s degree in scientific and mathematical subjects. Natural sciences such as Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Geology and exact sciences such as engineering, mathematics, information technology, etc. can be studied under this master’s degree.

MSc is also offered in subjects like Finance, Management and Economics. However, MSc in such subjects is offered for candidates who are at the beginning of their career or for graduates who want higher level qualifications before entering the job market. The successful completion of the Bachelor’s degree is typically a prerequisite for enrolling in an MSc. An MSc builds on the skills gained at the undergraduate level. The course is more theoretical and less vocational than an MBA; in MSc, the theories of the subject will be studied. In addition, an MSc in business is offered only in a specific discipline. So it is ideal for those who wish to pursue a career in a specialized field such as marketing or finance.

What is an MBA

MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. It is a professional degree that covers different areas of business such as finance, marketing, accounting, human resources, and operations. MBA is an executive level business degree designed for those with executive or management level experience. It can be said that MBA is the most popular professional degree in the world.

Work experience is a prerequisite for enrolling in an MBA. In some universities, it is possible to enroll in an MBA program even without a bachelor’s degree. However, the candidate must have sufficient skills and experience. It is important for candidates to have practical experience since MBA programs require thinking strategically and using workplace evidence within assessments.

Difference Between MSc and MBA

Title

MSc stands for the title Master of Science.

MBA stands for Master of Business Administration.

Subjects

MSc is offered in mathematical, scientific as well as business studies.

MBA is a master’s degree in business.

Experience

Experience is not a prerequisite to enroll in an MSc.

Experience is a prerequisite to enroll in an MBA.

Bachelor’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree is generally a prerequisite to enroll in an MSc.

Bachelor’s Degree is sometimes not a prerequisite to enroll in an MBA.

Specialization

MSc is offered only in a specific discipline such as Marketing or Finance.

MBA covers different areas of business such as Marketing, Finance, Accounting, etc.

Candidates

MSc is more suitable for those at the beginning of their career or fresh graduates.

MBA is more suitable for those with executive or management level experience.

Image Courtesy:

“Ian Oliver Martin’s Troy University, Troy, Alabama, Master of Science in Management Degree Diploma, given the 12th of August 1988” by Ianolivermartin – Own work. (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons 

“MBA graduates HEC Paris” by Jebulon – Own work.  (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons