MBA vs. MA — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 16, 2024
An MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a professional graduate degree focused on business management and leadership, whereas an MA (Master of Arts) is an academic graduate degree emphasizing humanities, social sciences, or fine arts.
Difference Between MBA and MA
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An MBA is a specialized degree designed for individuals seeking advanced knowledge and skills in business management, leadership, and operations. It covers areas such as finance, marketing, strategy, and human resources, preparing graduates for managerial roles in various industries. An MA, on the other hand, is a more general graduate degree focused on the humanities, social sciences, or fine arts. Fields of study for an MA can include subjects like English, history, sociology, or art.
While an MBA is career-oriented with a strong emphasis on practical business applications and leadership skills, an MA is more academically oriented, emphasizing deep theoretical understanding and scholarly research.
The choice between an MBA and an MA depends on an individual's career goals and interests. Those aiming for leadership roles in business or entrepreneurship might choose an MBA, whereas those interested in academic, research, or specialized professional fields might pursue an MA.
Comparison Chart
Focus
Business management and leadership
Humanities, social sciences, fine arts
Curriculum
Finance, marketing, strategy, human resources
English, history, sociology, art, etc.
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Orientation
Professional, practical
Academic, theoretical
Career Goals
Managerial roles, business leadership
Academia, research, teaching, specialized roles
Practical Experience
Internships, case studies, group projects
Research projects, thesis
Typical Duration
1-2 years
1-2 years
Common Industries
Business, finance, consulting, entrepreneurship
Education, research, non-profits, arts
Skill Development
Leadership, strategic thinking, business acumen
Critical thinking, research, analytical skills
Compare with Definitions
Mba
Professional degree focused on business management and leadership.
She pursued an MBA to advance her career in corporate finance.
Ma
Academic degree focused on humanities, social sciences, or fine arts.
She earned an MA in English literature and pursued a career in academia.
Mba
Covers areas like finance, marketing, and strategy.
The MBA program included courses on marketing strategy and financial analysis.
Ma
Prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, or specialized fields.
With an MA in sociology, she worked as a research analyst for a think tank.
Mba
Prepares graduates for leadership roles in various industries.
After completing her MBA, she became a manager at a top consulting firm.
Ma
Emphasizes research and theoretical knowledge.
The MA program required a thesis based on original research.
Mba
Emphasizes practical skills through internships and case studies.
His MBA internship provided hands-on experience in project management.
Ma
Typically takes 1-2 years to complete.
The MA program in fine arts was completed over two academic years.
Mba
Typically takes 1-2 years to complete.
The full-time MBA program was designed to be completed in 18 months.
Ma
Mother.
Mba
A master's degree in business
Ma
Mother, mama
Ma
(colloquial) The landlady of a theater.
Ma
May
Ma
Alternative spelling of my
Ma
A child's word for mother.
Ma
In Oriental countries, a respectful form of address given to a woman; mother.
Ma
But; - used in cautionary phrases; as, "Vivace, ma non troppo presto" (i. e., lively, but not too quick).
Ma
Informal terms for a mother
Ma
A master's degree in arts and sciences
Ma
One thousandth of an ampere
Ma
A state in New England; one of the original 13 colonies
Ma
Includes subjects like English, history, sociology, and art.
His MA in history involved extensive research on medieval Europe.
Common Curiosities
What career paths do MA graduates typically pursue?
MA graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research, teaching, or specialized professional roles in their field of study.
What career paths do MBA graduates typically pursue?
MBA graduates often pursue managerial roles, business leadership positions, or entrepreneurship.
How long does it take to complete an MBA?
An MBA typically takes 1-2 years to complete.
How long does it take to complete an MA?
An MA also typically takes 1-2 years to complete.
What is the main difference between an MBA and an MA?
An MBA is focused on business management and leadership, while an MA is centered on humanities, social sciences, or fine arts.
Can you pursue an MA if your undergraduate degree is not in the same field?
Yes, but some MA programs may require prerequisite coursework or background knowledge in the field.
Which degree is more practical, MBA or MA?
An MBA is generally more practical, emphasizing real-world business applications, while an MA focuses more on theoretical and academic knowledge.
Can you pursue an MBA if your undergraduate degree is not in business?
Yes, many MBA programs accept students from various academic backgrounds.
Which degree is better for a career in business leadership?
An MBA is better suited for a career in business leadership.
Do MBA programs require a thesis?
Typically, MBA programs do not require a thesis but may require a capstone project or similar practical assignment.
Do MBA programs include internships?
Yes, MBA programs often include internships to provide practical business experience.
Do MA programs include practical experiences?
MA programs may include research projects or a thesis but are generally less focused on practical business experiences compared to MBA programs.
Are both MBA and MA degrees internationally recognized?
Yes, both MBA and MA degrees are internationally recognized, but their acceptance and prestige can vary by institution and region.
Do MA programs require a thesis?
Many MA programs require a thesis or substantial research project as part of the degree requirements.
Which degree is better for a career in academia?
An MA is generally better suited for a career in academia.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
