Which One is Better- MBA Finance vs Master of Finance?

Both MS in Finance and MBA in Finance can be regarded as the two most popular degrees in the world. However, an individual must consider a lot of aspects before determining if he/she wants to opt for an MBA Finance or a Master of Finance. The most important aspects include earning potential, the skill set required, and career opportunities. Deciding if an MS in Finance or an MBA in Finance is better, depends on an individual’s goals, financial situation, and experience. An MBA Finance programme focuses on more comprehensive knowledge, while a Master of Science in Finance program involves more specialized knowledge. Read the article to gain an insight into what both the programs have to offer in order to draw a comparison between MBA in  Finance and Master of Finance. 

MBA Finance vs Master of Finance

(1) MS in Finance Curriculum vs. MBA Finance Curriculum

The fundamental difference between MS in finance and MBA in Finance is their curriculum. MS in Finance offers a subject-focused course with an in-depth understanding of financial theory, quantitative finance, management, financial accounting, financial modeling, control, investments, markets, assessment of collection, financial reporting and analysis, and strategic corporate valuation. 

On the other hand, MBA Finance offers a broad curriculum in diverse fields like Business Research Methods, Marketing Management, Human Resource Management, Business Communication, Entrepreneurship Development, and International Financial Management, among others. 

An MBA in Finance program has a broader management focus with an emphasis on leadership, while an MS in Finance degree enhances students’ knowledge and skills in the field of finance which in turn enhances their career and job potential in that specific area.

(2) MS in Finance vs. MBA Finance: Background and Experience Level

Most MS in Finance programs are designed for students two years or less out of the undergraduate program, with minimal finance experience. Professional experience is not mandatory to pursue an MS in Finance.

On the other hand, most MBA students have an average of 4-5 years of experience. Students enrolling in the MBA Finance program benefit from opportunities to network with other seasoned professionals among their peers and faculty. A minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience is mandatory to pursue an MBA Finance.

(3) MS in Finance vs. MBA Finance: Duration

An MBA Finance programme typically takes about two years to complete, while an MS in Finance usually takes approximately 12-18 months to complete. The one-year program is fairly fast-paced and intense and is intended for those who can study full-time. Those who opt for this option can acquire the necessary skills needed to enter the workforce quickly but may have to miss out on certain opportunities like international study and internships.

On the other hand, internships may be sometimes mandatory in some MBA top B-Schools as a part of the curriculum. This is the position given to an intern in an organisation related to a particular area, for a given period of time, in order to gain practical experience before the completion of one's degree.

(4) MS in Finance vs. MBA Finance: Target Candidates

Individuals who already work in the business world and want to move up to leadership positions may be better suited for an MBA in Finance. Candidates willing to indulge in teamwork, public interaction, and collaborative association with others must opt for an MBA Finance. An MBA Finance is also well-suited for aspiring entrepreneurs because, by virtue of this degree, one learns how to manage funds constructively, which leads to the optimum utilization of financial resources.

On the other hand, students aspiring to study everything related to finance from financial reporting and analysis to quantitative finance, corporate finance, the foundations of banking, risk governance, and asset allocation, and identifying potential challenges for investment options and finding solutions, must opt for an MS in Finance.

(5) Skills Required for MS in Finance and MBA Finance

One needs to be good with mathematics, and balance sheets, have quantitative skills, and an interest in financial analysis, and financial crisis management to pursue an MS in Finance. He/she must also possess a detailed-oriented mindset to track financial trends. 

If you are good at number-crunching, have analytical skills, an inquisitive mind and problem-solving ability then an MBA in finance may be a good option for you. Candidates aspiring to pursue an MBA Finance must also have the ability to communicate, knowledge of digital tools, management experience, and expertise in financial reporting.

(6) Scope of MBA Finance vs Scope of MS in Finance

The scope after MBA Finance and scope after MS in Finance are rewarding in their own ways. If you are looking at pursuing a career in the financial domain then you can choose to work in the insurance and banking sector, mutual funds, in the stock market, as an investment banker, or work as a consultant. For those who are inclined towards collecting financial data, interpreting it and creating reports using statistical analysis, and looking for market trends and investment opportunities while accounting for risk management, an MS in Finance is an ideal option. 

(7) MBA Finance Job Profiles vs. MS in Finance Job Profiles

An M.S. in finance prepares students for roles with a focus on quantitative finance, enabling them to become Financial Analysts, Accountants, etc. This highly specialized degree prepares graduates for roles in risk management, equity, investment research, and equity trading. 

Graduates with MBA in Finance can work in various fields such as investment banking, taxation, tax planning, financial statement reporting and analysis, hedge fund management, international finance, asset finance, and insurance management. MBA Finance is all about creativity, innovation, and market image. You are expected to have a positive outlook, be enthusiastic, outgoing and have a zeal to interact with the public and undergo a collaborative association with others. After an MBA Finance, you’ll be juggling with numbers and involved in forecasting, analyzing market trends, and focusing on optimum utilization of resources.

(8) MBA Finance Salary vs. MS in Finance Salary

Since MBA students usually have prior work experience in a relevant field and they acquire a broader set of skills, MBA graduates earn higher salaries than someone with a degree in Masters in Finance. The average salary for MBA Finance in India is Rs. 7,12,361 per annum. With a professional experience of 5-9 years, individuals become eligible to earn an average annual compensation of INR 15,00,000 to INR 20,00,000.

The starting salary of an MS in Finance in India lies somewhere between Rs. 5 lakhs to 7 lakhs per year. Finance Managers with an experience of 5-9 years usually earn over Rs. 10 lakhs annually.

Also Read:Which One is Better - MBA in Finance or MBA in Marketing?

MBA Finance and MS in Finance: Overall Comparison

To sum it up, we have mentioned important points of comparison between MBA Finance and MS in Finance in the table below.

Which is Better between an MBA in Finance and an MS in Finance?

An individual must follow these steps to decide which degree is better:

1. When choosing a degree, it is important to consider what career an individual wants to pursue while considering his/her goals and priorities. If he wants a job that involves leadership or entrepreneurship, he may want to choose an MBA in Finance program. But, if he is an enthusiast of corporate finance and investing, and doesn’t want to be in graduate school for too long, he would likely benefit from seeking an MS in Finance degree.

2. If he cannot attend a full-time program, he may want to consider pursuing an MBA, since many MBA programs are better suited for part-time students. If he decides he wants to finish his degree in one year, then he might choose a Master of Finance.

3. If he is interested in a job position that is more focused on finance, then he may get an MS in Finance degree, or if the job description asks for marketing and management skills, then an MBA in Finance may be the right choice for him. 

Also Read:General vs Specialised MBA: Which is better for You? Scope & Career Options

Though the points listed above are helpful in drawing a comparison between MBA Finance and Master of Science in Finance, you need to consider what your interests are and which one of the two matches closely with your skill set and goals. That will help you weigh your options and help you in making an informed decision.

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