Business Administration and Management Master's Degree Program Overview

A Master's Degree in Business Administration and Management equips you with advanced knowledge and skills essential for leadership roles within various industries. The program typically covers a wide range of topics, including strategic management, organizational behavior, marketing, and finance. It aims to enhance your analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities while preparing you to handle complex business challenges.

Prerequisites and Requirements

Before enrolling in a Business Administration and Management Master's Degree Program, you may encounter the following requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is mandatory. It does not need to be in business but having a background in related fields can be advantageous.

  • Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum cumulative GPA, usually ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

  • Standardized Test Scores: Some institutions may require scores from standardized tests such as the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination). However, many programs have started to waive this requirement based on your professional experience or academic performance.

  • Professional Experience: While not always a formal requirement, practical experience in a business environment can enhance your application. Some programs may prefer candidates with at least two years of relevant work experience.

  • Letters of Recommendation: Most programs will ask for two or three letters of recommendation. These should ideally come from academic mentors or professional supervisors who can vouch for your abilities and character.

  • Personal Statement: You may be required to submit a personal statement or essay outlining your career goals, motivation for pursuing the degree, and how it aligns with your professional aspirations.

  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Many programs will request an up-to-date resume detailing your educational and professional history.

  • Interview: Some institutions may conduct an interview as part of the admissions process to assess fit and motivation further.

Completing a Master's Degree in Business Administration and Management positions you for advanced roles in management and organizational leadership while providing a solid foundation for lifelong learning in the business sector.

Best Schools Offering Business Administration and Management Master's Degree Programs In U.S. 2024

View our ranking methodology here

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

Louisiana State University-Shreveport

Shreveport, LA

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, MD

Typical Courses for a Business Administration and Management Master' Degree Program (2024)

In a Master's degree program in Business Administration and Management, you can expect to encounter a variety of courses that equip you with essential skills and knowledge for leadership roles. Here are some of the typical courses you may take:

  • Managerial Accounting
    Focuses on the analysis and interpretation of financial data for internal decision-making. You will learn how to utilize accounting information for planning, controlling, and decision-making purposes.

  • Organizational Behavior
    Examines the behavior of individuals and groups within organizational settings. The course typically covers topics such as motivation, group dynamics, and organizational culture.

  • Strategic Management
    Involves studying the formulation and implementation of strategies to achieve long-term goals. You will analyze case studies to understand the strategic decision-making process in various business environments.

  • Marketing Management
    Covers principles and practices of marketing within organizations. Topics may include market research, consumer behavior, branding strategies, and the development of marketing plans.

  • Financial Management
    Provides an understanding of financial principles and practices necessary for making sound financial decisions. Key areas include capital budgeting, financial analysis, and investment strategies.

  • Operations Management
    Focuses on the efficient production of goods and services. You will explore concepts such as supply chain management, quality control, and process optimization.

  • Human Resource Management
    Addresses the strategies and practices involved in managing an organization's workforce. Key topics often include recruitment, performance management, and employee development.

  • Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
    Explores the ethical dilemmas and responsibilities of businesses in society. This course emphasizes the importance of ethical decision-making and sustainable business practices.

  • Entrepreneurship
    Examines the process of starting and managing new ventures. You will learn about business planning, funding, and market analysis tailored to entrepreneurial contexts.

  • Global Business Environment
    Analyzes the impact of globalization on business operations. Topics may include international trade, cross-cultural management, and global economic trends.

  • Quantitative Methods for Business
    Introduces statistical and quantitative techniques applicable to business decision-making. You will work with data analysis, forecasting, and operational research methods.

These courses provide a solid foundation in the various aspects of business administration and management, preparing you for advanced roles in the business world.

How To Choose The Right Business Administration and Management Master' Degree Program (2024)

Selecting the right school and business administration and management master’s degree program involves several considerations that shape your educational and professional future. Keep the following factors in mind as you evaluate your options:

  • Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by a recognized body, such as AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE. Accreditation guarantees that the institution meets specific educational standards, enhancing the value of your degree.

  • Program Specializations: Consider if the program offers specializations that align with your career goals. Fields such as international business, entrepreneurship, or supply chain management can tailor your education to your interests.

  • Curriculum Design: Review the curriculum to understand the required courses and electives. Look for programs that incorporate current business practices, case studies, and real-world applications to provide practical knowledge.

  • Faculty Expertise: Research the qualifications, experience, and research interests of the faculty members. Faculty with real-world experience and academic credentials can offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.

  • Class Size and Format: Determine your preferred learning environment. Smaller class sizes often provide more personalized attention, while larger classes may offer diverse perspectives. Additionally, consider whether you want an on-campus program, online options, or a hybrid format that combines both.

  • Reputation and Rankings: Investigate the school’s overall reputation and the specific business program rankings. While rankings should not be the sole factor in your decision, they can provide an indication of the program’s quality and outcomes.

  • Networking Opportunities: Look for schools that provide strong industry connections, internships, and networking events. Alumni networks are also valuable for mentorship and job placement.

  • Location: Consider the geographical location of the school. Being near major business hubs can offer greater internship and job opportunities, as well as access to industry events.

  • Cost and Financial Aid: Assess the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Explore financial aid options, scholarships, or assistantships that may help reduce your financial burden.

  • Facilities and Resources: Investigate the school’s facilities, such as libraries, technology, research centers, and career services. Access to updated resources can enhance your learning experience.

  • Student Support Services: Evaluate the availability of academic advising, career counseling, and mentorship programs. Strong support services can significantly contribute to your success while enrolled.

  • Flexibility: Determine whether the program offers flexible scheduling options, such as evening or weekend classes, which can be essential if you are working or have other commitments.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a business administration and management master’s degree program that aligns with your aspirations and needs.

Top Careers in Business Administration and Management 2024

Financial Planning Manager
Site Operations Manager
Project Cost Specialist
Design Cost Analyst
Policy Sales Advisor
Editorial Director
Insurance Solutions Representative
Procurement Manager
Entertainment Manager
Celebrity Agent
Performance Talent Manager
Sports Agent
Sports Programming Director
Stage Talent Manager
Publishing Coordinator
Financial Records Specialist
Payroll Processing Clerk
Customer Service Correspondence Specialist
Administrative Correspondence Coordinator
Customer Relations Correspondent
Client Services Coordinator
Customer Relations Associate
Commercial Lines Underwriter
Administrative Data Clerk
Senior Office Coordinator
Administrative Coordinator
Chief Administrative Officer
Administrative Operations Manager
Personal Assistant to Executives
Corporate Administrative Manager
Office Operations Manager
Administrative Services Manager
Employee Records Coordinator
HR Documentation Clerk
Application Processor
Mail Distribution Coordinator
Mailroom Services Manager
Utility Billing Coordinator
Customer Account Specialist
Banking Services Advisor
Account Opening Coordinator
Client Onboarding Consultant
Deposit Account Representative
Executive Administrative Assistant
Payroll and Benefits Clerk
Order Processing Specialist
Customer Service Coordinator
Inventory Control Clerk
Purchase Order Administrator
Payroll Administrator
Compensation Clerk
Employee Time Coordinator
Postal Operations Assistant
Postal Operations Coordinator
Client Services Associate
Supply Chain Coordinator
Purchasing Assistant
Vendor Relations Clerk
Scheduling Coordinator
Inventory Control Specialist
Systems Development Manager
Executive Director
General Manager
Vice President of Operations
Director of Strategic Planning
Senior Executive Officer
Regulatory Compliance Officer
Corporate Compliance Coordinator
Regional Operations Director
Corporate Operations Manager
Division General Manager
Business Unit Director
Hedge Fund Manager
Mutual Fund Manager
Asset Management Director
Wealth Management Advisor
Compliance Operations Director
Compliance and Quality Assurance Manager
Production Compliance Director
Regulatory Strategy Manager
Logistics Operations Manager
Procurement and Supply Chain Director
Warehouse and Distribution Manager
Demand Planning and Forecasting Manager
Benefits Director
Compensation Analyst
Employee Benefits Coordinator
HR Compensation Specialist
Total Rewards Manager
Compensation Manager
Job Evaluation Specialist
Recruitment Director
Talent Acquisition Manager
Compensation and Benefits Manager
Talent Acquisition Specialist
Recruitment Coordinator
Benefits Administrator
Staffing Consultant
Talent Development Consultant
Workforce Training Manager
Organizational Development Advisor
Employee Training Coordinator
Office Services Supervisor
Office Support Services Manager
Process Improvement Consultant
Import Compliance Specialist
Facility Operations Manager
Campaign Strategy Manager
Donor Relations Specialist
Fund Development Coordinator
Sponsorship Relations Manager
Operations Supervisor
Manufacturing Operations Director
Production Operations Coordinator
Organizational Efficiency Specialist
Process Improvement Consultant
Workflow Optimization Analyst
Event Operations Coordinator
Corporate Event Planner
Group Event Director
E-Commerce Operations Manager
Online Retail Coordinator
Digital Storefront Manager
Virtual Inventory Supervisor
Online Sales Director
Decision Support Consultant
Supply Chain Director
Strategic Sourcing Manager
Procurement Operations Manager
Commodity Manager
Vendor Relations Manager
Quality Improvement Coordinator
School Operations Manager
Chief Student Affairs Officer
University Registrar
Corporate Wellness Manager
Corporate Training Instructor
Financial Management Lecturer
Human Resources Management Educator
Marketing Strategy Teacher
Business Education Instructor
Business Education Teacher
Equity Transactions Clerk
Business Tax Analyst
Tax Consultant
Budget Analyst
Customer Accounts Manager
Repossession Coordinator
Loan Evaluation Officer
Credit Risk Analyst
Financial Eligibility Reviewer
Credit Operations Coordinator
Loan Verification Officer
Finance Director
Mortgage Documentation Specialist
Credit Assessment Clerk
Customer Service Banker
Bank Cashier
Deposit Processing Clerk
Cost Estimator
Expenditure Analyst
Budget Compliance Officer
Portfolio Manager
Investment Director
Litigation Claims Consultant
Policy Compliance Auditor
Risk Management Advisor
Claims and Policy Coordinator
Claims Operations Associate
Insurance Documentation Clerk
Equity Research Analyst
Securities Fraud Analyst
Wealth Manager
Retirement Planning Specialist
Financial Consultant
Asset Management Advisor
Investment Banker
Regulatory Compliance Officer
Compliance Coordinator
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Benefit Eligibility Coordinator
Business Asset Appraiser
Mail Operations Director
Postal Services Manager
Postal Facility Supervisor
Mail Distribution Coordinator
Postal Operations Administrator
Property Tax Assessor
Real Property Valuation Analyst
Municipal Real Estate Appraiser
Government Property Valuator
Revenue and Taxation Appraisal Specialist
Tax Assessment Specialist
Pharmacy Supply Coordinator
Food Service Manager
Reservation Coordinator
Front Office Supervisor
Operations Director
Poker Room Manager
Miniature Golf Manager
Gaming Area Manager
Player Transaction Specialist
Race and Sports Book Cashier
Casino Credit Coordinator
Gaming Currency Handler
Casino Operations Manager
Event Admission Coordinator
School Cafeteria Manager
Restaurant Shift Supervisor
Debt Management Advisor
Financial Aid Consultant
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Employee Development Analyst
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Funeral Parlour Director
Bereavement Services Manager
Housing Services Manager
Business Data Consultant
Enterprise Solutions Architect
User Support Coordinator
BI (Business Intelligence) Architect
Content Compliance Manager
Enterprise Software Project Manager
Search Engine Marketing Specialist
Game Production Coordinator
Service Operations Manager
Import Compliance Specialist
Retail Security Consultant
Title Documentation Specialist
Security Shift Manager
Banking Technology Repair Specialist
Key Systems Manager
Warehouse Operations Manager
Workflow Optimization Analyst
Manufacturing Supplies Buyer
Factory Equipment Procurement Officer
Industrial Purchasing Manager
Sales Representative
Donor Relations Manager
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Production Control Analyst
Supply Chain Coordinator
Production Materials Auditor
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Media Planning Manager
Development Manager
Fundraising Coordinator
Campaign Director
Nonprofit Marketing Manager
Product Marketing Manager
Market Research Director
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Customer Insights Manager
Competitive Analysis Manager
Real Estate Portfolio Manager
Leasing Manager
Condominium Association Director
Rental Property Supervisor
Corporate Communications Manager
External Affairs Director
Brand Communications Director
Regional Sales Manager
National Sales Manager
Sales Operations Manager
Corporate Sales Manager
E-commerce Sales Manager
Sales Territory Representative
Direct Marketing Consultant
Retail Merchandise Planner
Wholesale Acquisition Specialist
Product Sourcing Analyst
Rental Coordinator
Purchasing Negotiation Manager
Media Sales Consultant
Outdoor Advertising Sales Manager
Transaction Specialist
Sales Service Representative
Leasing Consultant
Service Desk Associate
Equipment Rental Specialist
Traveling Product Sales Specialist
Field Sales Coordinator
Mobile Sales Executive
Territory Sales Driver
Goods Distribution Salesperson
Sales Team Manager
Non-Retail Sales Coordinator
Inside Sales Supervisor
Client Relations Supervisor
B2B Sales Supervisor
Operations Supervisor
Customer Service Manager
Sales Floor Manager
Retail Team Leader
Property Sales Manager
Commercial Real Estate Agent
Residential Leasing Consultant
Real Estate Sales Executive
Corporate Property Broker
Residential Property Sales Consultant
Commercial Property Agent
Real Estate Buyer’s Specialist
Property Marketing Coordinator
Real Estate Transaction Manager
Retail Account Manager
Retail Merchandising Consultant
Technical Sales Specialist
Engineering Account Manager
Client Services Representative
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Account Manager
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Chief Financial Officer
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Project Coordinator
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Wealth Management Advisor
Risk Assessment Analyst
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Delivery Invoice Clerk
Export Documentation Specialist
Freight Booking Agent
Export Logistics Coordinator
Distribution Operations Supervisor
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Warehouse Team Leader
Shipping and Receiving Manager
Distribution Center Supervisor
Supply Chain Worker

Business Administration and Management Master' Degree Program Resources (2024)

  • Accreditation Bodies: Ensure you enroll in a Master’s program that is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). You can check the accreditation status of programs on their websites:

  • Professional Associations: Joining professional organizations can provide networking opportunities, resources, and industry insights. Consider associations such as:

  • Graduate School Search Tools: Utilize online platforms to find and compare Master’s programs in Business Administration and Management. Resources include:

  • Financial Aid Resources: Explore funding options such as scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans. Helpful sites include:

  • Online Course Platforms: Enhance your skills through online courses related to Business Administration. Providers include:

  • Library and Research Tools: Access scholarly articles, journals, and industry reports through resources like:

  • Internship and Job Placement Services: Many universities offer career services to help students find internships and job opportunities. Consider visiting:

  • Networking Events and Alumni Associations: Connect with alumni and professionals in the field by attending events organized by your university or professional organizations. Platforms to explore include:

  • Mentorship Programs: Seek out mentorship opportunities through your university or professional networks. Websites such as MentorCity can help match you with a mentor in your field.

  • Webinars and Workshops: Participate in educational webinars and workshops to gain knowledge from industry experts. Look for resources on platforms like:

These resources are essential for navigating your path to a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Management and can greatly enhance your educational experience.

Business Administration and Management Master' Degree Program FAQs (2024)

  • What is a Master's Degree in Business Administration and Management?
    A Master's Degree in Business Administration and Management (MBA) is a graduate-level program that equips you with advanced business skills and management principles. The program typically includes coursework in finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and leadership.

  • What are the typical admission requirements for an MBA program?
    Admission requirements can vary by institution, but they commonly include:

    • A completed application form
    • A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
    • GMAT or GRE scores (some schools may waive this requirement)
    • Letters of recommendation
    • A personal statement or essay
    • A résumé detailing relevant work experience
  • How long does it take to complete a Master's in Business Administration?
    The duration of an MBA program can range from one to three years, depending on whether you choose to attend full-time or part-time. Full-time students often complete the program in two years, while part-time students may extend their studies over three years or more.

  • What career opportunities can I pursue with an MBA?
    An MBA opens doors to a variety of roles in sectors such as finance, healthcare, marketing, and consulting. Potential career paths include:

    • Business Analyst
    • Marketing Manager
    • Financial Manager
    • Operations Manager
    • Human Resources Manager
    • Entrepreneur/Business Owner
  • Is it worth pursuing an MBA?
    The value of an MBA can depend on your career goals and aspirations. Many graduates experience career advancement, higher salaries, and expanded professional networks, making it a beneficial investment for those aiming for leadership roles.

  • Can I complete my MBA online?
    Yes, many institutions offer online MBA programs which provide the flexibility to balance your studies with work or other responsibilities. These programs often include interactive learning platforms and allow for a similar range of electives and specializations as in-person programs.

  • What is the cost of obtaining an MBA?
    The cost of an MBA program can vary widely based on factors such as the institution, location, and format (full-time vs. part-time or online). Average tuition fees can range from $30,000 to over $100,000 for the entire program, excluding additional costs for books and materials.

  • What skills will I gain from an MBA program?
    An MBA program enhances both hard and soft skills, including:

    • Leadership and management
    • Analytical and critical thinking
    • Financial analysis and budgeting
    • Marketing strategies
    • Decision-making and problem-solving
    • Teamwork and interpersonal skills
  • Are there specializations available within MBA programs?
    Yes, many MBA programs offer specializations or concentrations that allow you to focus on specific areas, such as:

    • Finance
    • Marketing
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Health Care Management
    • Entrepreneurship
    • International Business
  • What tests are required for admission to an MBA program?
    Many programs require standardized tests like the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination). However, some schools offer alternatives or may waive testing requirements for candidates with significant professional experience or outstanding academic records.

  • How can I finance my MBA education?
    Several options are available to help finance your MBA, including:

    • Federal and private student loans
    • Scholarships and grants offered by universities or external organizations
    • Employer tuition assistance programs
    • Work-study opportunities
  • What is the job outlook for MBA graduates?
    The job outlook for MBA graduates is generally positive, as organizations often seek individuals with advanced business knowledge and management skills. However, specific job growth can vary by industry and career path. Always researching your chosen field is advised to identify potential opportunities and market trends.