What Is a Master's in Management (MSM)?

If you're asking yourself, what is an MSM, you're not alone. The Master of Science in Management (MSM)—also known as a Master's in Management or management master’s—is a graduate-level business program designed for those looking to gain foundational leadership and business skills, even if they don’t already hold a business degree.

A Master of Science in Management (MSM) is designed for aspiring leaders who want to hone their managerial skills and make a significant impact across sectors. Whether you're aiming to lead teams, manage projects, or spearhead change initiatives, an MSM degree offers the insights and tools needed to thrive in today's competitive business environment. Discover how this program can expand your professional horizons and accelerate your career growth.

Understanding the Master’s in Management (MSM) Degree

The Master’s in Management is a versatile program that equips students with the core competencies required to lead teams, solve complex problems, and manage resources effectively in a global business environment.

The Bellevue University Master's in Management degree focuses on leadership, strategic analysis, and decision-making, blending theory with practical application to prepare graduates for the complexities of modern management. Using a mentoring approach, the online Master’s in Management program promotes the awareness of oneself and others as leaders, managers, and innovators. You will also have the opportunity to align your degree to your goals by choosing a concentration in one of the following areas:

• Entrepreneurship
• Human Resource Management
• Marketing
• Project Management

The MSM degree program is built for business professionals and students who want to develop people management skills which can be mastered with practice via hands-on, diagnostics-rich learning activities focused on real workplace issues. Applied learning is enhanced by reflection tools such as journaling and storytelling and promotes the awareness of self and others as leaders, managers, and innovators.

Bellevue University's master’s programs' ongoing dedication to student success is built on a proactive approach that emphasizes an educational atmosphere that extends beyond traditional classroom settings to help prepare them for leadership roles in a constantly changing business environment.

– Dr. Randa Zalman, Associate Professor, College of Business, Bellevue University

What You’ll Learn in an MSM Program: Core Curriculum

An MSM degree program provides a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of organizational leadership. While curriculum specifics may vary by institution, most master's programs in management offer coursework in areas such as:

• Leadership and Learning Management
  Develop the ability to guide, motivate, and inspire teams by mastering leadership theories, learning methodologies, and change management practices.
• Human Resources Management
  Learn how to recruit, develop, and retain talent through effective HR strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Financial and Resource Management
  Gain insights into budgeting, financial planning, and the allocation of both tangible and intangible resources to maximize organizational efficiency.
• Organizational Behavior
  Understand how individuals and groups behave within organizations and how to influence positive cultural and performance outcomes.
• Management Processes and Strategy
  Study decision-making frameworks, operational planning, and strategic execution critical to business success.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
  Build your analytical toolkit with statistical analysis, data interpretation, and qualitative research techniques essential for evidence-based decision-making.

Skills You’ll Gain in an MSM Degree Program

Graduates of a Master’s in Management (MSM) degree emerge with highly sought-after skills that employers across industries value. Among the most important:

• Effective Communication
  Learn to convey ideas clearly and persuasively across different organizational levels and cultural contexts.
• Critical Thinking
  Evaluate complex situations, identify patterns, and devise innovative solutions to business challenges.
• Advanced Problem Solving
  Apply analytical frameworks and creative thinking to solve operational and strategic problems with confidence.

Why Is This Degree Important? Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Management

Whether you're entering the workforce or seeking to pivot careers, a Master’s in Management opens the door to new opportunities and career growth. A Master’s in Management (MSM) degree is a valuable credential for individuals seeking to launch their careers in business and leadership—especially those who may not have a traditional business background.

The MSM degree equips students with essential skills in strategic thinking, resource management, communication, and problem-solving, all within a business context. Unlike an MBA, which may require prior work experience, the MSM degree is designed to build foundational managerial skills early in a professional’s journey, making it ideal for recent graduates or career switchers.

Whenever possible, we incorporate problem solving, case studies, group projects, and collaboration activities into our business and marketing courses. By the time students graduate, they have learned what it takes to make independent decisions, and they understand the value of working with people to accomplish goals.

– Merrill Johnson, Associate Professor, College of Business

Career Paths with a Master’s in Management

The benefits of earning a master's degree in management go beyond just academic knowledge. Graduates gain practical experience in leadership, team collaboration, and decision-making through real-world case studies and collaborative projects. This makes them highly competitive in the job market, opening doors to these roles and more:

• Consulting
• Operations
• Project management
• Marketing management
• Human Resources
• Business Start-up owner or manager

Whether you're pursuing a Master of Science in Management to gain a foothold in the corporate world or to prepare for entrepreneurial ventures, the degree offers both credibility and versatility for today’s fast-paced, global economy.

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn an MSM degree?
A: Most students complete a management master’s degree (MSM) in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students will take longer). Bellevue’s management master’s program requires 36 graduate credits. At a pace of 2 courses per term, it is possible to finish in 6 terms (3 terms per academic year), or about 2 years if you are continuously enrolled and progress according to the degree plan.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in a master’s in management program?
A: Depending on the school, you may need to submit scores from the GRE or GMAT exam. (Bellevue University does not require test scores.) You will typically be required to 1) Apply, 2) submit all official transcripts from previous accredited colleges, and 3) submit grades from your most recent 60 credit hours from a conferred bachelor’s degree or from a completed master’s degree. 4) Some programs may require a resume, letter of recommendation, or other documentation.
See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a master’s in management (MSM)?
A: Yes. Students may consider pursuing one of several Project Management certifications from PMI, or a human resources SHRM CP/SCP® credential from the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). Prerequisites, preparation materials and fees may apply.

Q: Can I earn an MSM degree online?
A: Yes, you can earn a Master of Science in Management (MSM degree) online. Bellevue University’s MSM degree is offered 100% online. Find out how online learning works here.

Are there scholarships available for master’s in management students?
A: Yes. Graduate students in the Master’s in Management program are eligible for various scholarships and may be eligible for federal student aid. Apply for scholarships here.

Explore an MSM Degree at Bellevue University

A Master’s in Management (MSM) degree from Bellevue University empowers you to become the kind of leader today’s organizations need—adaptable, strategic, and forward-thinking. Through a curriculum grounded in real-world application, you'll develop core competencies in leadership, communication, and resource management.

Discover how Bellevue University’s MSM degree can help you shape your career and drive meaningful impact while gaining the analytical tools to make smart, data-driven decisions. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to advance into a leadership role, an MSM degree equips you with the skills and confidence to lead in times of growth, uncertainty, or change.

Explore the Master’s in Management program today!

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