What are the differences between an MBA VS. MSc Degree?

15 Sep 2020

master-msc-ba

Choosing a Masters course can be difficult as there are a variety of different Master’s degrees to choose from. Arguably the most well known business master degrees are an MBA and MSC. So, what are the differences between an MBA vs. an MSc degree?

What is the Master of Science (MSc)

The MSc or Master of Science is a bac + 5 level diploma and is very popular with international students. Typically this degree is taught in English and prepares students for an international career. This course can include a multitude of subject options, including:

  • McGill University, Montréal, Canada - 4 Diploma

An MSc is very different to an MBA. The MSc is open to the international market and offers possibilities different from a traditional French Business Masters course. As it is a more specialized degree, opening up different professional possibilities. It also has a major advantage: that of being particularly sought after in the world of work, even on an international level. It also takes longer to obtain than a traditional Masters, as it lasts at least 3 semesters, compared to only 2 for a typical French Master’s program. However, the course length is similar to an MBA.

Course Duration: 18 months
Work Experience: Optional 6-month internship

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The MBA

The MBA or Master in Business Administration is a master's degree in business administration. It is a high level international graduate degree. This specialization aims to teach an overview of business operations. A key difference between the MBA and the MSc course is that they are not aimed at the same target audience. The MBA primarily concerns professionals such as executives wishing to accelerate their careers by developing their managerial skills. Therefore the MBA is accessible from bac +3 and up to bac +5.

The course topics offered in an MBA typically include:

  • International Business Development
  • Finance & Investments
  • Project Management & Organisational Innovation
  • Digital Strategy Design & Transformation
  • Management of Sustainability Transformation
  • Entrepreneurship & Family Business

This diploma is often confused with the French master's degree in business administration. However, these are two different degrees, because the master's degree in business administration is simply a classic university degree. The MBA is accessible according to very precise admission conditions defined by the schools or universities providing the education. As the MBA is an unregulated label, each school is also free to set its program on a bespoke basis. Therefore, to choose where to follow your MBA course is important, so we advise you check that your desired schools are accredited by international institutions such as (Association of MBAs) or (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business).

Course Duration: 18 months
Work Experience: 6-month internship

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Bonus Course: The Master Grande Ecole Program (PGE) degree

If neither an MBA vs. MSc course appeals to you, why not consider a PGE course? The Grande École Master’s Program is a master's degree issued by Grande École universities. It is equivalent to a bac +5 level and provided by about 40 schools in France. All these schools have been evaluated by the . This commission guarantees that the establishments provide higher level courses and fully support their students. It also takes into consideration criteria for management research. To access the master at undergraduate level for a 5-year course, you must have a baccalaureate or equivalent qualification. Or for entry in the 4th year of the masters for a 2-year course, you must have at least a bac +3 level degree such as a bachelors.

Related Article: What is a Master Grande École Program?