What’s in a Degree:
A Comparison of the MBA versus the
M.S. in Organization Leadership
Regis University’s School of Management offers two top-notch business degree programs that prepare you across the full spectrum of the business industry: our MBA and our M.S. in Organization Leadership (MSOL). When reviewing these options, students often find themselves questioning which degree will better suit their career goals and interests, especially when there are individual specializations to choose from within each degree path. How do you choose?
We encourage you to thoroughly research each degree path and to consider your own personal goals and interests as part of the process. Start by reading the brief comparative descriptions we’ve provided below, followed by the comparison of degree traits. Zero in on the degree that seems to be the best fit from this macro-perspective then review the appropriate degree page on our site. If you prefer to speak with someone to sort out and clarify the details, feel free to connect with a Regis enrollment counselor who can talk you through the degrees and help you make an informed decision.
The Breakdown, MBA Compared to MSOL Degree
MBA
The MBA is a professional management degree with a broad foundation of organizational behavior, strategy, leadership, finance, marketing and operations applied to domestic and international organizations. Building upon that foundation, students may continue with courses across the general framework or specialize in the high-demand business discipline of their choice. MBA graduates typically find themselves leading their business unit to set and achieve its goals and objectives with consideration for the integration and interdependence of all business functions. Learn more about the MBA and its specializations.
M.S. in Organization Leadership (MSOL)
An MSOL focuses on organization leadership, and within that framework, offers students the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and applied skills in particular business disciplines, including human resources, project management, computer information technology, administration and leadership itself. Students gain a background in organizational development, strategic planning, process improvement, international business, project management, human relations and economics. The managerial decision-making approach used in this program is holistic and collaborative in nature and supports individuals who come from a substantially broad-based educational background. Learn more about the MSOL and its specializations.
A Comparison of Degree Traits: MBA vs. MSOL
| MBA |
MSOL |
| Traditional |
Contemporary |
| Quantitative |
Qualitative |
| Acquisition of Discrete Knowledge |
Systematic Integration of Knowledge |
| Management |
Leadership |
| Content-Specific Knowledge |
Assimilation of Knowledge |
| Mechanistic |
Holistic |
| Narrow Focus |
Broad Focus |
| Vertical |
Horizontal |
| Financial/Capital Management |
Team/Project Management |