Both programs give you access to engaging curriculum, world-class instructors, and credit hours you can put toward our online MBA program. But there are some key differences to help you decide which path is right for you
Gies Business offers two paths to earning a Master of Science in Management: a residential Master's in Management (MSM) and an online Master's in Management (iMSM).
Both programs give you access to engaging curriculum, world-class instructors, and credit hours you can put toward our online MBA program. And both can set you apart in the workforce. But there are some key differences to help you decide which path is right for you.
Where you are in your career
The residential MSM program is most useful for students who:
- Just finished their undergraduate degree
- Haven’t yet joined the workforce
- Didn’t major in business as an undergrad but want to earn a business degree
- Have flexibility to extend their time at a university with another nine-month academic year
The iMSM program is most useful for students who:
- Have been working for a few years
- Want to level up or make a career move
- Plan to continue working while earning their master’s degree over a period of one to five years
- Don’t plan to live close to campus
Key differences in guiding your career
The residential MSM program gives you access to career advising and client-based projects to help prepare you for a successful career from the start.
The iMSM program is for people already in the workforce, so it doesn’t include the career advising and client-based project focus of the residential program. Instead, it gives you access to a large network of online learners who already have valuable work experience.
Tuition differences and scholarship availability
We strive to make our programs affordable for as many people as possible. While tuition for our residential program is higher than for our iMSM program, there are more scholarships available for the residential program. See the cost comparison below.
Compare your options
Fast Stats | MSM* | iMSM** |
|---|
Enrollment | 75-85 | 663 |
Length of Program | 9 months | 12-60 months |
Credit Hours | 36 | 36 |
Electives Available | 25+ | 9 |
Practicum Project | 2 | N/A |
Career Advisor | Yes | No |
Stacks into iMBA | Yes | Yes |
Tuition (In-State/Out-of-State) | $33,772 / $44,432 | $11,520 |
Scholarships | Available | Limited availability |
F-1 Visa Eligible | Yes (36 months OPT) | No |
Classes Start | August | January, March, May, August, and October |
Demographics | | |
Average Work Experience | 10.5 months | 9 years |
Average Age | 24 | 35 |
Placement Rates | 98% | N/A |
*Data Source: MSM Students, Incoming Fall 2023 Cohort
**Data Source: iMSM Students, Calendar Year 2022
Application Materials
Both programs require similar application materials, such as:
- Online application
- Unofficial transcripts
- Resume
- Essay
- Letters of reference
- Application fee
- GMAT/GRE optional
To learn more, talk to an advisor or fill out this form for more information.
