MBA Vs MIM: What to Study in Canada as an International Student?

Let’s explore the difference between the course curriculums and structures of MBA and MIM degrees. 

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme is designed for ambitious, diligent, hands-on students and professionals who are prepared to invest in themselves. Generally, students with prerequisite knowledge or work experience related to the field enrol in this course with the aim of sharpening their skills and gaining a professional degree. All over the world, more focus is being put on equipping students with practical skills through case studies. Some of the top universities for MBA in Canada for international students are: 

• Schulich School of Business

• Smith School of Business at Queen's University

• Rotman School of Management

• University of Toronto    

• Alberta School of Business (BUS)

A Masters in Management (MIM) programme mainly includes business theory. While pursuing this course, students will be required to work with statistics, and conduct research and data analysis. It is the perfect course for recent graduates who are keen to expand their business knowledge and gain some managerial skills. It is more concerned with knowledge of a specialised field. Some of the best universities for studying MIM in Canada are: 

• Thompson Rivers University

• Lakehead University

• McMaster University

• University of Ottawa

• Western University

MBA and MIM courses have separate eligibility criteria for students, as shown below:

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognised institution. The minimum overall score required is 55%. However, top universities may require a minimum score of 65% in bachelor’s degrees.

• Field-relevant work experience of 2 to 3 years. 

• A good English proficiency test score (minimum 7 bands in IELTS for top universities or equivalent score in other proficiency tests).

• GMAT score is necessary to secure admission to a top Canadian university.

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55% to 60% is required to enrol in mid-level or top universities.

• While work experience is acceptable and advantageous, it is not compulsory

• An IELTS overall score 6.5 no band less than 6 bands is accepted by various universities for MIM.

• A GMAT score may be required for some universities.

An MBA degree from Canada allows you to apply for mid-level or top-level managerial positions in the corporate sector. Whereas the MIM degree allows you to apply for an entry-level or mid-level position. MBA is for professionals who are looking for a higher qualification that comes with more practical orientation. Meanwhile, MIM is more related to theoretical and comprehensive learning of the field of marketing and business. The average salary of an MBA graduate in Canada is 70,000 CAD to 90,000 CAD per year. Whereas the average salary of a MIM graduate in Canada is between 50,000 CAD – 65,000 CAD per year.

Q: What is the difference between MBA and MIM?

A: MBA programs are designed for professionals who already have some work experience and are looking to enhance their managerial skills and advance their careers. MIM programs, on the other hand, are designed for recent graduates or those with minimal work experience who want to jumpstart their careers in management.

Q: Which one is a better option for recent graduates?

A: Since MBA requires work experience and some prerequisite knowledge of the field, MIM is the better option for recent graduates.

Q: Is MIM better than MBA?

A: Whether MIM is better than MBA or vice versa depends on the individual's career goals, personal circumstances, and the program's specific offerings. Both MIM and MBA programs have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and what may be a better fit for one person may not necessarily be the same for another. For recent graduates with little to no work experience, a MIM program may be a better fit as it is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of business and management fundamentals. However, for professionals with work experience who are looking to advance their careers, an MBA program may be a better fit as it provides a more flexible curriculum and allows students to specialise in specific areas of business, such as finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.

We hope that we have provided you with sufficient information to make your decision about studying MBA vs MIM in Canada. If you are still unsure or would like to get deeper insight, we encourage you to have a word with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). If you are unable to travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide you with the best guidance regarding your application to study in Canada. Don’t hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.