What is an MBA: meaning, purpose, and differences from a master's degree

Quick summary for impatient readers

A MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a postgraduate program focused on business management and administration. It serves to develop leadership, strategy, and business skills, and is especially valued for management and leadership positions.

What is an MBA and what does it mean?

The acronyms MBA stands for Master of Business Administration, which in Spanish translates as Master in Business Administration.

When someone asks what an MBA is, they are referring to a type of master's degree aimed at:

• Business management
• Leadership
• Strategic decision-making
• Executive career development

Unlike other more technical master's degrees, the MBA has a generalist approach generalist, designed to cover all key areas of a company.

What do you study in an MBA?

During an MBA, you will study subjects such as:

• Finance
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Business strategy
• Operations
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership and soft skills

The objective is for students to understand how a company operates globally.

What is an MBA for?

An MBA is useful for:

• Access management positions
• Change professional sector
• Speed up the race
• Starting a business
• Improve wages and employability

Many MBA students choose to live in residences that provide a quiet environment, with study spaces and an international community, such as those offered by StepHouse, which are also designed for postgraduates and young professionals.

Types of MBAs

Full-time MBA

Complete dedication.

Part-time MBA

Compatible with work.

Online MBA

Flexible format.

Executive MBA (EMBA)

Aimed at candidates with extensive professional experience.

Comparison table: MBA vs. EMBA vs. Master's Degree

Feature	Master of Business Administration	Executive MBA	Master's degree
Focus	General practitioner	Senior management	Specialized
Required experience	Low-medium	High	Low
Objective	Business management	Senior management	Specific area
Typical profile	Graduate/young professional	Executive	Specialist

Where to live while studying for an MBA?

Choosing the right accommodation is key to performing well academically. If you are studying an MBA in Madrid, you can opt for residences such as StepHouse Madrid Plaza España with furnished rooms, study areas, a gym, and all expenses included.

For those who prefer a quieter, more residential setting, StepHouse Pozuelo Europa is an excellent alternative, well connected to business centers and universities.

Who should pursue an MBA?

• Recent graduates
• Young professionals
• Entrepreneurs
• People seeking leadership

Difference between MBA and master's degree

The main difference is the approach:

• MBA: global view of the business
• Master's degree: specialization (marketing, finance, data, HR, etc.)

If your goal is to manage companies, an MBA is the best option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an MBA?

An MBA is a Master's degree in Business Administration and Management.

What does MBA stand for?

Master of Business Administration.

What is an MBA for?

To develop management skills and gain access to leadership positions.

What is the difference between an MBA and a master's degree?

The MBA is generalist; the master's degree is specialized.

How long does an MBA take?

Between 9 and 24 months depending on the type.

Can I study an MBA without experience?

Yes, although some programs recommend it.

Does an MBA improve your salary?

Usually, yes, by opening up access to better-paid positions.

Now that you know what an MBA is, its meaning, and what it is used for, you can assess whether it fits in with your professional goals. And remember: having comfortable, well-located accommodation, such as that offered by StepHouse, can make all the difference during this stage.