Business leaders are expected to adapt to complex workplace and industry challenges, navigate evolving technologies and inspire organizational growth. Graduate business degrees equip professionals with the skills and perspectives needed to excel in these demanding environments. As the market for qualified leaders expands, earning an advanced degree can open doors to higher-level roles and competitive salaries.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers online business degrees that prepare graduates for leadership in a range of industries. Among the most popular graduate options are the online Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs and the online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Organizational Management and Leadership program, with each presenting a distinct path toward professional growth. This guide compares and contrasts the degree programs to help you choose the best fit for your career ambitions.
What Is an MBA?
A Master of Business Administration is a versatile graduate degree designed to develop comprehensive business acumen. MBA students explore core areas such as finance, marketing and organizational behavior. The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making in competitive business environments.
Typical coursework includes managerial accounting, business analytics, corporate finance, global economics and strategic leadership. Many programs integrate case studies and projects that reflect real-world challenges, preparing graduates to lead across industries.
An MBA degree is a valuable choice for professionals seeking broad business expertise and the flexibility to work in multiple sectors. It can benefit early and mid-career professionals who want to advance into management roles or transition into new industries.
Southeastern offers a wide range of online MBA concentrations, including the following:
- General Business: Offers a broad curriculum for students seeking leadership skills applicable across sectors
- Accounting: Prepares graduates for leadership in financial reporting and compliance
- Finance: Focuses on corporate finance, investments and risk management
- Management: Develops strategies for leading teams and improving organizational performance
- Marketing: Equips graduates to lead branding, market research and digital campaigns
- Data Analytics: Develops skills in data interpretation, statistical analysis and business intelligence for data-driven decision making
- Healthcare Information Systems: Prepares graduates to manage technology solutions and data systems in healthcare organizations
- Aerospace Logistics: Focuses on supply chain management and operations specific to the aerospace and aviation industries
- Safety: Equips leaders with occupational health and safety management expertise for regulatory compliance and risk reduction
- Human Resources: Develops strategic HR leadership skills in talent management, employee relations and organizational development
- Leadership: Builds executive-level leadership competencies for senior management and organizational transformation
- Native American Leadership: Addresses tribal sovereignty, culturally specific leadership approaches and Indigenous business practices
- Entrepreneurship: Prepares graduates to launch new ventures, manage innovation and lead startup organizations
- Project Management: Develops structured approaches to managing complex business initiatives and cross-functional teams
- Strategic Communication: Focuses on brand reputation management, crisis communication and corporate messaging strategies
What Is an M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership?
Southeastern’s online M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership program focuses on building effective leaders for mission-driven organizations, corporations and community-based enterprises. Students gain insights into organizational behavior, team dynamics and strategic planning with an emphasis on ethical leadership and change management.
Core coursework typically covers leadership theory, human resources management, organizational development and communication strategies. Classes emphasize people-focused leadership, helping graduates develop the ability to inspire, motivate and manage diverse teams.
This program is ideal for professionals interested in guiding organizational culture, managing transitions and aligning people with strategic goals. It suits individuals who want to strengthen leadership skills in a practical way, relevant to a particular area of career interest and experience.
Key Differences Between an MBA and an M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership
While both the MBA and M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership online programs at Southeastern are designed to develop strong leaders, they take distinctly different approaches to achieving this goal. Understanding these key differences can help you determine which program best aligns with your career aspirations and professional development needs.
Program Focus
MBAs offer a comprehensive business education that balances quantitative analysis, strategic thinking and leadership. The M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership is more specialized, focusing on human behavior, organizational culture and leadership strategies.
Concentrations
Southeastern offers multiple MBA concentration options, including accounting, finance, marketing, safety and strategic communication. The M.A. program maintains a singular concentration in organizational management and leadership, enabling a deeper dive into management practices and people development.
Career Goals
MBA graduates often pursue executive, consulting or entrepreneurial roles across industries. M.A. graduates frequently become leaders in human resources, nonprofit organizations, community development and team management.
Work Experience Requirements
MBA applicants often bring professional experience to enhance case studies and collaborative projects. The M.A. program is open to individuals with varying backgrounds, but is especially suited for those focused on developing their leadership potential and refining their skills.
Program Duration
Both degrees at Southeastern can typically be completed in as few as 12-16 months for full-time students. Flexible scheduling allows part-time students to progress at their own pace, and rolling admissions allow for start dates throughout the year.
Market Demand for Graduate Business Degrees
Employer demand for advanced business credentials remains strong, particularly for roles requiring strategic thinking and cross-functional leadership. In every industry, management recruitment remains a top priority.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects consistent employment growth for management occupations, with more than 1.2 million job openings expected annually through 2033. Employment growth and worker replacement are the primary drivers for these expected openings. These trends underscore the long-term benefits of pursuing an advanced degree in business or organizational management and leadership.
Career Outcomes and Salary Potential
Graduate business degrees consistently lead to significant career advancement and enhanced earning potential across multiple industries and leadership roles. Whether pursuing an MBA or specialized M.A., graduates typically see substantial salary increases and access to executive-level positions that were previously out of reach. The following salary data and career outcomes demonstrate the tangible return on investment that these advanced degrees provide.
MBA Graduates
According to BLS reports, top executives earn an annual salary of $105,350 as of 2024, with higher salaries for those in finance, marketing and operations leadership roles. MBA holders may work as chief executive officers, operations managers, financial managers or marketing directors, often earning salaries well above the national median.
In addition to executive roles, many graduates advance into specialized leadership positions that command high salaries and strong growth potential. For example, BLS notes that financial managers earn a median annual wage of $161,700 as of 2024, with employment projected to grow 17% by 2033. Marketing managers also benefit from strong earnings, with a median annual salary of $159,660 and an expected 8% job growth by 2033. These figures highlight the value of an MBA for professionals seeking upward mobility in competitive business sectors.
M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership Graduates
Organizational management and leadership programs prepare graduates for a range of industries. Graduates often pursue roles such as human resources managers, training and development managers and nonprofit directors.
In 2024, human resources managers earned a median annual wage of $140,030, and training and development managers made an average of $127,090 annually. Both roles are projected to experience steady growth through 2033, reflecting ongoing demand for professionals who can lead teams, implement development strategies and shape organizational culture.
These outcomes demonstrate how the M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership can provide a clear path to well-compensated leadership opportunities. In each case, salaries vary widely based on industry, location and experience, but graduate business degrees online can substantially increase earning potential.
Which Degree Is Right for You?
Choosing between an MBA degree and the M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership degree comes down to career aspirations and preferred areas of expertise. Professionals aiming for broad business leadership roles across multiple sectors may prefer the MBA, while those seeking to influence organizational culture and lead teams with a people-first approach may find the M.A. to be a better fit.
The following questions can help applicants identify the program that best aligns with their personal strengths and professional goals:
- Do you prefer managing financial, marketing and operational strategies or guiding people and teams?
- Are you seeking a wide range of business skills or specialized leadership knowledge?
- Which degree fits best with your long-term career vision?
Inside Southeastern’s Online MBA Programs
Southeastern’s online master’s degree programs in business are designed for working professionals. Affordable tuition, multiple start dates and asynchronous learning make it possible to earn a graduate degree without pausing your career. Other highlights include the following:
- The GMAT is not required for qualified applicants.
- The John Massey School of Business, which houses Southeastern’s MBA programs, is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
- Faculty with professional and academic expertise across industries help guide students toward their academic and professional goals.
Graduates gain practical skills, relevant soft skills, critical thinking abilities and the confidence to lead in a variety of industries. With this combination, MBA graduates are well-positioned to make a significant impact within their organizations and are primed for long-term success.
Advance Your Career With the Right Graduate Degree
Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online MBA degrees and online M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership degree provide pathways to rewarding career opportunities in business. The best choice depends on students’ career aspirations and whether they seek business expertise or a more focused leadership approach.
Earning either degree can help professionals meet the growing demand for skilled leaders in the modern job market. Take the first step toward achieving long-term career goals. Explore Southeastern’s online MBA programs and online M.A. in Organizational Management and Leadership program to find the right online business degree for you.