Why a Master’s Degree in Management is Key to Career Growth
- Email ckiz@andrew.cmu.edu
- Phone 412-554-0074
Like many young professionals, Karan Patel, MSM 2025, reached a turning point a few years into his career. His undergraduate degree in computer science from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and his work experience as a Software Engineer at Crest Data Systems had given him strong technical and coding skills, but had not prepared him for the next step in his career: taking on a leadership role in his family business.
To make the transition, Patel enrolled in the Master of Science in Management program at Carnegie Mellon’s Tepper School of Business.
“To effectively lead my family business and expand further, I realized I needed a deeper understanding of all parts of a business: strategy, finance, accounting, team management, and operations,” Patel said. “This is exactly what Carnegie Mellon’s MSM course offered. It was the right time for me to transition into a leadership role, and MSM equips me with the education and network to make that shift successfully.”
For others, like Rongdong Chen, MSM 2025, the program is an opportunity to build technical skills. Chen graduated with an undergraduate degree in economics from Brandeis University, and used the MSM program to pursue a career in strategic consulting. “I chose Carnegie Mellon because its curriculum is quant-based and gives me the tools to analyze and understand a business from multiple angles, like operations management, corporate strategy, and marketing. This practical, data-driven approach felt like the perfect way to build a strong foundation for my career.”
What Are the Benefits of a Master’s in Management for Professionals Early in Their Careers?
If you’re a recent college graduate or have a few years of professional work experience, a Master of Science in Management program can help you gain the skills you need to stand out in an increasingly competitive hiring environment. You’ll master business fundamentals, boost your confidence, and prepare yourself for management-track roles across a range of industries.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that managerial roles will grow at a faster rate than the average for all jobs between 2023 and 2033. In addition, the median annual salary for these roles is more than twice that of the median for all occupations nationwide. While graduates of the MSM program may not step directly into managerial positions, the degree equips them with the knowledge, skills, and professional foundation to excel early in their careers and be well-positioned for leadership opportunities in the future.
A management degree introduces you to a broad range of necessary business skills that are essential for leadership development. You’ll gain exposure to core business areas - from data analytics and operations to marketing, HR, and accounting - while learning how to apply these skills in real-world settings. The program emphasizes making data-informed decisions that drive success in industries such as tech, healthcare, consulting, and finance. Along the way, you’ll also sharpen essential soft skills through group projects, class discussions, and mock interviews, preparing you to lead with confidence.
Not all programs offer the same level of customization. At Carnegie Mellon University, a MS in Management degree lets you customize your educational journey to align with your career goals. That’s because Carnegie Mellon offers specializations across a range of professional tracks, including entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, operations, and strategy.
Through our Masters Career Center and Accelerate Leadership Program, you’ll have the support you need to succeed regardless of your desired educational outcome.
Elevate Your Career With a Master’s in Management From Carnegie Mellon
Whether you’re looking to transition careers, pivot to business from an unrelated major, or advance in your industry, Carnegie Mellon’s master’s in management has something for you. A master’s in management is best suited for new graduates and early-career professionals looking to accelerate their careers or pivot into the world of business.