MSM vs MBA: A Master’s Degree in Marketing or Business Administration

Advanced education has become essential for those aiming to stay competitive and achieve career success. According to Indeed, graduates of master’s degree programs earn about 20% more than those with just a bachelor’s degree.

Marketing professionals seeking to elevate their expertise may find themselves facing a pivotal decision: Which degree should they pursue, a Master of Science in Marketing (MSM or MS in Marketing) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA)? While both degrees provide valuable skills and knowledge, each has a different focus, and caters to distinct career paths and professional aspirations. Explore the differences between an MBA and an MS in Marketing to help you make an informed decision about your academic choice and career trajectory.

MSM vs. MBA: Similarities and Differences

MSM and MBA programs share commonalities in helping professionals develop strategic thinking skills, financial literacy, and leadership skills. However, they differ significantly in their areas of focus and career orientations.

An MS in Marketing is tailored for professionals working in marketing or looking to break into the field. The program explores marketing management, digital and social media marketing, consumer behavior, marketing research and marketing analytics, advertising, and global marketing. MS in Marketing graduates are well-equipped for roles in marketing departments, advertising agencies, market research firms, and digital marketing companies. MS in Marketing programs are usually shorter than MBA programs and require less work experience to enroll. For instance, University of Illinois Chicago’s online Master of Science in Marketing program is an 8-course program and full-time students can get their degree in as few as 12 months.

An MBA is a versatile degree that caters to individuals seeking leadership roles in the business world. An MBA curriculum covers a wider range of business disciplines, including finance, marketing, operations, and entrepreneurship. Graduates are prepared for leadership positions in corporations, consulting firms, and entrepreneurial ventures. Typically, MBA applicants have an average of 4 years of work experience. The UIC MBA program consists of 10.5 courses and takes full-time students 1.5 years to complete.

Skills Earned in a Master of Science in Marketing Program

A specialized MS in Marketing provides deeper training in marketing which equips professionals with essential skills for excelling in this dynamic field. All eight courses in the MSM program focus on marketing. Graduates gain expertise in understanding consumer behavior, developing effective marketing campaigns, and utilizing digital tools to enhance brand visibility. Skills earned include:

Market Analysis: The ability to conduct thorough market research, analyze consumer trends, and derive insights for strategic decision-making.

Digital Marketing: Proficiency in using digital platforms and tools for online marketing, social media campaigns, and search engine optimization.

Brand Management: Skills in developing and managing brand identity, ensuring consistent messaging, and enhancing brand equity.

Consumer Behavior: Understanding the psychological and sociological factors that influence consumer decisions and tailoring marketing strategies accordingly.

Skills Earned in a Master of Business Administration Program

An MBA equips professionals with a diverse skill set highly valued across various business domains. This degree helps individuals shape the future of businesses by developing a wider range of business skills in strategic thinking, financial expertise, and effective communication. MBA students can also take a 3-course concentration in one functional area, including marketing, but a specialized MS degree will cover the subject in much greater depth. Skills earned in the MBA program include:

Strategic Thinking: Professionals develop the ability to think critically and strategically, considering long-term goals and competitive advantages.

Financial Management: Understanding financial principles, budgeting, and financial decision-making to ensure the financial health of an organization.

Marketing and Brand Management: Developing skills in market analysis, branding, and effective marketing strategies to promote products or services.

Operations Management: Efficiently managing processes, supply chains, and resources to optimize organizational operations.

MS in Marketing Careers

An MS in Marketing degree offers specialized skills needed for various careers in marketing. MS in Marketing graduates are equipped with a targeted skill set highly valued in the marketing industry, enabling them to excel in creative and analytical environments. According to US News Money, professionals with a specialized masters degree in marketing can find jobs in a variety of roles, including the following:

• Social Media Manager: $57,700 
• Product Marketing Specialist: $69,428 
• Marketing Research Analyst: $78,880 
• Digital Strategist: $89,000 
• Marketing Manager: $158,280 

MBA Careers 

The MBA equips graduates with a versatile skill set highly valued in the business world. It enables business professionals to thrive in dynamic and competitive environments. According to Indeed.com, professionals with an MBA degree can explore the following roles: 

• Financial Analyst: $77,053 
• Human Resources Manager: $81,280 
• Director of Operations: $106,904 
• Executive Director: $116,116 
• Chief Operating Officer: $149,015 

Enroll in an Online MS in Marketing Program

Individuals interested in advancing their careers in marketing and making a significant impact on brand strategy and consumer engagement should consider an MS in Marketing degree. UIC’s online Master of Science in Marketing program covers the same material as the on-campus MSM program, but provides students with greater flexibility to learn at their own pace while balancing professional and personal commitments.

The curriculum prides itself on being student-centered and highly interactive. All courses are 100% asynchronous and offered in convenient, accelerated 8-week terms. The online courses focus on quantitative and qualitative aspects of marketing and include courses in marketing analytics and digital marketing which are critical to success in today’s market. The online graduate program has three possible start dates (August, January, June) and can be completed in as few as 12 months.

Take the next step in your career today! Contact an enrollment specialist to learn more about the online MS in Marketing program and how it can help you achieve your career goals.