FAQs and fictions about the Masters in Management

With its blend of business fundamentals, international exposure, and flexibility, the Masters in Management (MiM) is a popular degree for students seeking a fast track into management roles. But how do potential students know if it is the right path for them, which programme suits their goals, and what makes for a strong application? The FT asked MiM directors, admissions officers, current students and recent graduates from leading business schools to answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

Is a MiM right for me?

The MiM — usually studied soon after a first degree — is aimed at graduates looking to build foundational business skills, and sometimes early-career professionals hoping to accelerate their progress. “It’s designed as a launchpad, similar to a mini-MBA, for opening doors to high-demand, cross-functional roles,” says Xenia Arderius director of admissions at UPF Barcelona School of Management.

Massimo Spagnuolo, associate director of student recruitment at HEC Paris, adds: “The students who thrive are usually curious, open-minded and ready to get involved in associations, projects, exchanges and so on.”

Zainab Kawter Chouiref, a student at HEC Paris, suggests: “Write down three things you want to do in five years. Now cross out the job titles and look at the verbs,” she says. “If most involve leading, building, negotiating or designing new ideas in a global context, a MiM will give you the right tools and environment.” But if you want deeper specialisation or have managerial experience, an MBA — usually studied when you are a few years older — may be a better fit.

HEC Paris student Jorge García-Muret suggests seeking views from people who know you. “Ask your parents, friends and partner whether they think this path suits you.” 

What are the career outcomes?

MiM graduates often go into consulting, strategy, marketing and business development. “We likely won’t be the most knowledgeable on a topic when surrounded by experts, however our degree allows us to know which questions to ask in order to get the necessary information,” says Lars Schöningh, a MiM graduate from Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), now at consulting firm McKinsey.

The pay-off is not only financial but also about accelerated progress and global opportunity. Fernando Mora, senior vice-president of enrolment at Hult International Business School, notes that MiM graduates often reach their first managerial title two years before peers without a MiM.

Which MiM should I choose?

Do not just chase rankings. Think about programmes’ structure, specialisations, international study options and alignment with your principles. “Consider the learning environment,” urges Franck Gavoille, director of the MiM at Essca, in France. “Look at the school’s values, international orientation and opportunities.” Essca student Sai Subramanian emphasises first-hand recommendations. “Hearing directly from current students and alumni helped me look beyond brochures and into real experiences,” says Subramanian, for whom the ability to study across multiple European campuses and earn a double degree was decisive.

Denis Boissin, director of programmes at Audencia, reminds applicants that student experience varies widely, from campus life and global immersion to alumni networks. “A thoughtful evaluation should reflect your own criteria, including values, ambitions, learning preferences and desired lifestyle,” he says.

Even if you cannot visit every campus, choose a business school whose culture suggests it is somewhere you feel you could belong, based on its website and conversations with faculty, students and alumni. Audencia student Carla Radovici stresses: “Choose a school where you feel at home. That sense of belonging allows you to fully realise your potential.”

How do I choose my specialisations?

Specialisation helps align your studies with career goals. Whether you are interested in finance, sustainability, supply chains, digital innovation or AI, different programmes offer tailored paths. At Spain’s Esade, for example, you can specialise in finance or digital transformation and AI, while Essca and Edhec offer double degree options that allow students to blend management with engineering or agrifood innovation. “It’s really important to understand which topics within management interest you most, and optimise your school selection accordingly,” says Schöningh at RSM.

Is international exposure important?

Yes — for many students, it is one of the programme’s top draws. “Some MiMs are more international than others,” warns Essca’s Gavoille. “Consider dual degrees and multi-campus experiences.” Mora at Hult says: “International exposure comes not just from travel, but from classroom diversity.” Check how many nationalities are represented.  Péter Móricz, programme director at Corvinus in Hungary says programme length also affects international opportunities: “Shorter programmes allow quicker entry into the workforce, while two-year ones offer more time for international exchanges and immersion in another culture.”

What makes a strong application?

Motivation and coherence matter as much as test scores. “There’s often a lack of detail, which makes it difficult for us to qualify the candidate’s experience and motivation,” says Aude Theobald, Edhec’s director of admissions. “I encourage candidates to take the time to craft letters of motivation that tell a story, connecting their past and their future.” 

Be specific about why this programme fits into your story, says HEC’s Spagnuolo. “We look for authenticity, a clear sense of personality and the potential to grow.”

Timelines for applications can vary, so Subramanian at Essca suggests starting early, especially with logistics such as visas. “Giving yourself enough time is key,” he says.

However, Daniela Noethen, MiM academic director at Esade warns against professing perfectionism. “MiM students have to be able to deal with stress and prioritise, so you have to know when to aim for 80 per cent,” she advises.

And Radovici at Audencia encourages applicants to embrace their individuality. “Don’t be afraid to have an atypical profile,” she says. “It’s often what makes your journey so rich.”