Master of Science in Management (MSM)
Boost your career potential with business and management skills
No business background required. Just ambition.
Whether your background is in psychology, communications, biology, engineering, or something else entirely, the Master’s in Management at Gies Business prepares you to build real business experience, stand out to employers, and accelerate your career.
In one intensive, career-focused year, you’ll gain the skills, confidence, and connections to move forward faster.
Are you a current student or alumni at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign? Check out the benefits of a Gies Business Fast Track Application.
Why students choose the Gies MSM
- Complete your degree in 9 months
- No prior business coursework required
- Learn through hands-on, applied experiences
- STEM-designated program
- Flexible pathway to continue into the Gies iMBA
- Designed for students from any academic background
Build the business skills employers expect
You’ll develop a strong foundation across core business disciplines while applying your learning to real-world challenges. By graduation, you’ll be able to:
- Analyze business problems and recommend data-driven solutions
- Collaborate across functions – finance, marketing, operations, and strategy
- Communicate with impact to clients, managers, and stakeholders
- Lead projects and teams with clarity and professionalism
- Translate ideas into action in fast-moving business environments
Your coursework is designed to help you perform on day one.
Prepared for what’s ahead
The MSM equips you with the skills, experience, and confidence to compete for roles you may not have considered possible before. You’ll receive:
- Dedicated career coaching and advising
- Resume, LinkedIn, and interview preparation
- Employer connections and recruiting insights
- Professional development workshops starting early in the program
Graduates pursue roles such as: Business Analyst, Consultant, Project Manager, Operations or Strategy Analyst, Marketing or Product Coordinator.
The ROI on the program isn’t just in landing a job – it’s in the skills, network, and mindset I carry forward every day.”
Mallika Acharya, MSM '24
Business Systems Analyst at Verdesian Life SciencesA supportive environment for any background
Students come to the MSM from a wide range of academic disciplines and experiences – and that variety is a strength. Throughout the program, you’ll find:
- A collaborative, inclusive classroom culture
- Faculty and advisors who are invested in your progress
- Resources designed to help you build confidence in new areas
- A community that encourages questions, exploration, and growth
You’re not expected to have everything figured out on day one. This is a place to learn, try, and develop.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Master of Science in Management?
The Master of Science in Management (MSM) at Gies Business is a graduate degree program offering insight into fundamental business skills that build on undergraduate education outside of business. Whatever your major – psychology, biology, engineering, or something else – the MSM will help you become the purposeful problem solver today’s employers demand.
What is the difference between a Master of Science in Management and a Master of Business Administration?
The Master of Science in Management (MSM) at Gies Business is an on-campus, nine-month program that requires 36 credit hours. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Gies is a 72 credit hour program that can be completed in 24-60 months, delivered through a fully online format. While the on-campus MSM is designed for learners with minimal work experience, the MBA program requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience. The average ages differ too – for the MSM program it is 22, whereas the average age of an MBA student is 36.
Is the GRE/GMAT really optional?
Correct, this test is not required. It can help your application, particularly if you have a low GPA, but it will not hurt you if you don’t include it.
If I didn’t study business, am I going to be lost in the program?
No, this program is designed for candidates with or without a business background to teach you the fundamentals of business management.
What can a Master of Science in Management be used for in a career?
The Master of Science in Management (MSM) at Gies Business prepares you to begin a purposeful career as a business analyst, marketing coordinator, project manager, strategy or tech consultant, and many other titles across several established and emerging fields.
Ready to accelerate your career?
The Master’s in Management is a competitive program designed for students ready to take the next step.