Differences between a Master of Science in Management and a Master of Business Administration
The Master of Science in Management (MScM) program at Ted Rogers School of Management is a research-based graduate degree program in management. As an output of this program, students develop and defend a thesis with a specific academic area of focus related to management.
This program differs from an MBA (Master of Business Administration), which tends to be more course-work and project-based with a professional focus. Instead, students considering the MScM program should have a strong research interest. These students will develop their quantitative, qualitative, and analytical skills and specialized knowledge in a specific area of management theory. Alternatively, MBA programs tend to focus on general management knowledge and application.
Key differences between the Master of Science in Management and Ted Rogers Master of Business Administration:
| Program | Master of Science in Management (MScM) | Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
| GMAT requirement: | No GMAT score required. | GMAT score required to apply. |
| Work experience: | No work experience requirement. | Minimum two (2) years full-time work experience requirement. |
| Prerequisite education: | Open to all undergraduate academic disciplines. | Open to all undergraduate academic disciplines. |
| Program length: | 16 months (full-time) |
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| Program structure: | 3 core courses + 4 elective courses + Thesis Milestone and Defence | 7 core courses + 6 half-credit elective courses and a Capstone project |
| Curriculum focus: | Advanced research methods courses and seminars focused on areas such as: systematic literature review, experimental design, or machine learning. Develop qualitative and quantitative research skills. Participate in special topics courses and other areas in management aligned with research interests. Thesis focused on one of 12 academic areas of research specialization including:
Work directly with a faculty supervisor from the Ted Rogers School of Management. |
Courses in general management topics and projects such as strategy, business analytics, financial management, innovation & technology, leading for performance & well-being, and more. A blend of course methods are employed to achieve program learning outcomes, including:
Students conclude their studies with one of three capstones, Entrepreneurial Experience, Management Consulting or a Canadian or International Business Experience. |
| Professional goals: | Gain specialized subject-matter expertise. Prepare for industry jobs such as analysts, consultants, or research managers or entry into a PhD program and further pursue an academic career. | Advance one’s career within their profession, transition into a different industry or functional area, start or further develop an entrepreneurial venture. |