Master in Management vs. Full-time MBA: All You Need to Know

Before we dive in, it would be good to know that MSM has hosted a webinar on this topic: The Similarities and Differences between the Master in Management and Full-time MBA. You can click on the image below to watch the webinar.

Short Programme Descriptions

Master in Management (MiM)
The Master in Management is a one-year, full-time programme for those just starting out in their careers. Perfect for recent graduates with less than three years of experience, this programme helps you build the skills you need to tackle the real-world challenges of managing people and processes. It’s packed with courses like Managing Cultural Diversity, Data Analytics, and Digital Transformation of Business. Plus, you’ll dive into group projects, supply chain challenges, and personal development activities—all capped off with an Academic Research Paper.

Full-time MBA
The Full-time MBA is a one-year intensive programme designed for professionals with at least three years of work experience. It’s all about honing leadership skills and preparing for high-level management roles. With courses like Global Corporate Strategy and Leadership & Organisational Behaviour, you’ll build a strong foundation in business while choosing from specialisations like Entrepreneurship or Supply Chain Management. Your learning wraps up with a final project, whether it’s academic research, a consultancy project, or a business plan.

Similarities between the two programmes
Both programmes have a lot in common. They’re designed to give you the tools to succeed in a global business world and connect what you learn in class to real-life challenges. At MSM, you’ll be part of a super diverse group of classmates and faculty from all over the world. This mix of cultures and experiences is one of the most valuable parts of your time here—it’s not just about learning; it’s about building an international mindset that’ll serve you wherever your career takes you. Aside from its international character, the Master in Management and Full-time MBA share a few other key similarities:

• Curriculum: the Master in Management is based on the MBA, so you will find some similar courses across both programmes. Of course, the content of the course is catered to the target audience and experience level of each programme.
• ​MSM’s Career and Personal Development Track (CPDT): aside from the core courses, MSM offers its students soft skill workshops in its CPDT. These workshops range from Presentation Skills to CV Writing, a Simulation Game to the SDG challenge, or networking events such as the yearly Corporate Week. The CPDT is offered to both Master in Management and Full-time MBA students.
• MSM’s teaching approach: regardless of the programme you choose, you will experience MSM’s practical way of teaching. Students explore different sides of business through company visits, presentations, guest lectures and real-life case studies.
• Personalised experience: making sure students are seen and heard is at MSM’s core. Whether it’s with MSM staff, faculty, or your fellow peers, MSM has created an environment where personal interaction and transparency is at the forefront.
• Scholarship opportunities: both the Master in Management and the Full-time MBA have similar scholarship opportunities of 35%. Would you like more information on scholarships? Reach out to one of MSM’s recruiters for personalised advice.

Differences between the two programmes
Here’s where things get interesting. The Master in Management and the Full-time MBA may share some goals, but they’re aimed at very different audiences.

• Who It’s For: The Master in Management is great if you have recently finished your Bachelor’s degree, or if you’re just starting your career and want to build up your knowledge and skills quickly. On the other hand, the MBA is for experienced professionals with a minimum of 3 years of work experience, who are ready to move into leadership roles or pivot to a new industry.
• MM – Supply Chain Management Project: since most Master in Management students will not have experienced business in its practical form, the Master in Management offers project opportunities related to different business fields, in an effort to explore various business areas.
• MBA – expertise tracks: next to the core courses offered, the Full-time MBA also gives students the option to choose one of the 10 Expertise Tracks (Specialisations).
• MBA – Mentorship Programme: one of the main goals of an MBA is growing your global network of different business professionals. The Full-time MBA students at MSM can benefit from the Mentorship Programme – a unique opportunity to connect with an industry expert, and learn from their real-life experiences.
• MBA – Final paper: while the Master in Management focuses on an Academic Research Paper, the Full-time MBA offers two other choices: a Business Consultancy Project, or a Business Plan.
• Tuition fees: the Master in Management has a full tuition fee of 18.500EUR, compared to the 34.000EUR for the Full-time MBA. The difference is tuition fees is caused by the additional offerings in the Full-time MBA such as the Expertise Tracks and Mentorship Programme.
• Career Goals: Master in Management graduates typically land entry-level management positions, setting the stage for future growth. MBA grads, with their advanced skills and experience, step into senior roles or make significant career shifts.

Final Thoughts
Now, which programme is right for you? If you’re a recent graduate eager to get your career off the ground, the Master in Management is a solid choice. If you’re already working and ready to take things to the next level, the MBA could be your ticket to bigger opportunities. Either way, MSM offers high-quality programmes that’ll give you the skills, network, and confidence to succeed in today’s business world.

Still have doubts? Reach out to MSM’s recruiters for a personal chat. They would be more than happy to help you make the decision that is right for you.

• Master in Management: Wessel Meisters
• Full-time MBA: Inka Diddens