Choosing the right master's can play a big part in influencing your career path and success if you’re looking to develop management skills. Two popular choices are the Master in Management (MiM) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA). Both degrees have their own strengths and are suited to learners at different stages of their careers.
In this post, we'll compare MiM and MBA courses. We’ll focus on their costs, content, and potential career outcomes. This will help you understand which master’s course better suits your career goals, particularly if you're moving into management from a non-business background.
What is a MiM?
Master in Management (MiM) courses are designed for early-career professionals and recent graduates who have little or no prior management experience. They’re an excellent choice for those looking to build a strong foundation in business and management, especially if their undergraduate degree was in a non-business field such as engineering, science, or the humanities.
What is an MBA?
MBA programmes typically require at least three to five years of professional business experience. The content builds on this foundation, helping students develop advanced management expertise and leadership capabilities.
Cost comparison
MiM
The cost of MiM courses can vary a lot depending on the region and institution. For example, across Europe, they can range from around £10,000 to £42,000, which is generally lower than the cost of an MBA. This lower cost is partly because MiM courses are typically shorter in duration (one to two years). They are also designed for professionals without existing management experience.
MBA
MBA course fees also vary significantly, because they can take anywhere between one and three years to complete. Generally, the shorter the course duration, the lower the total course fees are. But the total fees depend largely on which university you pick and can range from £11,000 to £120,000. This higher cost reflects the advanced curriculum and higher level of experience required to complete the degree.
Content comparison
MiM content
MiM content focuses on introducing fundamental management theories and practices. Topics might include basics of marketing, operations management, finance, and organisational behaviour. Some MiM programmes also offer opportunities to specialise in particular areas of business. For example, Southampton Online’s MiM includes pathway options in Business Sustainability and Logistics, allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific career interests.
MBA content
MBA content offer a more in-depth exploration of business management and leadership. The content often includes advanced courses in strategic management, financial analysis, and operational strategies.
Career trajectories
MiM graduate career options
Graduates of Master in Management programmes typically move into early management or specialist roles rather than senior leadership positions straight away. The degree is particularly valuable for those transitioning from non-business backgrounds, as it equips them with the core management skills needed to make a smooth and successful career shift.
MBA graduate career options
Given their prior work experience and the advanced nature of the content, MBA graduates will have different career prospects. On graduation, they’ll generally move into higher-level management, executive, or senior leadership roles.
How to decide between a MiM and an MBA
The decision between pursuing a MiM or an MBA should largely depend on where you are in your career and your professional aspirations. If you're a recent graduate or someone with limited work experience, particularly from a non-business background, and you're looking to break into management, the MiM offers a comprehensive, cost-effective, and more accessible pathway to achieve your goals.
Conversely, if you have a solid foundation of existing business and management experience, an MBA might be better for you. It'll help you move into higher managerial roles or land director-level positions within your organisation. An MBA is a big investment both financially and timewise, but it also yields great long-term rewards in terms of career advancement.
Ultimately, both degrees can open exciting doors and help you take your career to the next level. Think about where you are now, where you want to go, and which course best supports that journey. The right choice is the one that feels aligned with your ambitions and gives you the confidence and skills to build the future you want.
MiM courses at the University of Southampton
Are you hoping to step into a management role from a non-management background? Our MiM conversion courses are designed to help you make that transition with confidence. Each course is built to meet the growing demand for adaptable leaders who can navigate complex challenges across a wide range of industries.
From marketing and organisational behaviour to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ethics, you’ll cover every aspect of effective business and people management. Whether you’re aiming to lead teams, drive change, or succeed in global business environments, you’ll be positioned to succeed. And with three specialist pathways to choose from, you can tailor your studies to suit your goals.
Our courses are also 100% online and part-time, giving you the flexibility to fit your studies around a full-time job. This means you don’t have to put your career or any other commitments on pause while you advance your knowledge.
Master in Management courses
