In its broadest sense, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate degree that teaches students the skills and knowledge needed to lead successfully. Often, MBA programs have a specialization, but they don’t have to.
But an MBA is so much more than that.
It’s a degree that can literally transform your career and your life.
How does an MBA differ from other master’s programs?
An MBA is inherently different than other master’s programs. Master’s programs such as an MS in Digital Marketing or a Master’s in Accounting focus specifically on the topic matter. You’ll get a comprehensive education in either accounting or digital marketing, depending on your chosen program. The majority of the time, you won’t receive actual education on leadership and management skills.
That is the primary difference between a master’s and an MBA. A specialized MBA teaches you both the topic matter you choose but also provides you with the education to succeed as a leader in your field.
How does an MBA help my career?
Earning your MBA can help you become a leader in your field and boost your career trajectory! There are a few ways that an MBA can help you with this. This isn’t an exhaustive list in any way, but it gives you some examples.
Advance Your knowledge and skills
An MBA teaches you communication, leadership, and analytical skills. You’ll take courses on a wide variety of topics including, but not limited to, accounting, economics, business statistics, and organizational behavior.
Networking Opportunities
Throughout a Master of Business Administration program like the one here at Montclair State University, you’ll work alongside a cohort of individuals who are going through the same experience as you. These aren’t the only people you’ll network with, however. You’ll have access to a huge database of alumni and professors for you to connect with.
Increase Your Earning Potential
According to the Graduate Management Admission Council’s June 2021 corporate recruiters survey, MBA recipients who accepted job offers had a median base salary of $115,000. This survey also projects that due to the median salary gap between a bachelor’s degree and MBA, an MBA holder could make more than $3 million more than a bachelor’s degree over 35 years.
Understanding an MBA
An MBA can completely change your career. Montclair State University offers 8 different specializations that blend management education with the specific specialization. The specializations Montclair State University offers are:
- GENERAL MBA
- MBA, BUSINESS ANALYTICS
- MBA, DIGITAL MARKETING
- MBA, FINANCE
- MBA, HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
- MBA, MARKETING
- MBA, PROJECT MANAGEMENT
- MBA, REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
If you have any questions about an MBA degree or the MBA program at Montclair State University, fill out a form on our website or call/text us at 973-435-8070. You can also email us at onlinebusiness@montclair.edu if you’d rather. We hope to hear from you soon!

Contact Information
Michele Kieff
Montclair State University
Student Recruitment Manager
(973) 435-8070
onlinebusiness@montclair.edu
Do you have questions about the online MBA? Set up a time to speak with Student Recruitment Manager, Michele.