Engineering Management vs MBA | NC State University

On the left is a woman taking a selfie after receiving her MEM degree from NC State University.. On the right is a man taking a selfie after receiving his MBA degree from NC State University.

Engineering Management vs MBA

Last Updated: 05/29/2024 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

While Engineering Management vs an MBA offers similar curricula, an Engineering Management degree emphasizes technical skills critical for leading in technology-driven industries. Thankfully, both will prepare you to be a proficient leader with a curriculum in:

  • Management and leadership
  • Decision-making
  • Communications
  • Economics
  • Marketing
  • Operations

Moreover, the technical focus of a MEM program equips you with specialized knowledge in engineering and technology. This expertise is increasingly sought after in industries driven by innovation and technological advancement. By combining management skills with a strong technical foundation, you become uniquely positioned to lead in dynamic and rapidly evolving sectors such as tech, manufacturing, and engineering services.

MEM Program

A woman taking a selfie after receiving her MEM degree from NC State University (engineering management vs MBA).
  • A MEM equips you with leadership skills relevant to technical fields like engineering. You’ll forge connections with peers, professors, and professionals sharing similar experiences and goals. While students may come from various engineering backgrounds, all possess a STEM foundation.
  • MEM programs prepare you for the engineering and technology sectors. Although some courses align with MBA programs, they focus on engineering. For instance, MEM explores how staffing, finances, and technical aspects impact an organization’s performance and final product.
  • Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to lead in engineering, technology, and scientific settings. You’ll be a versatile professional, merging technical expertise with management skills.
  • A full-time MEM can be completed in as little as 12 months.

MBA Program

A man taking a selfie after receiving his MBA degree from NC State University (engineering management vs MBA).
  • An MBA equips you with leadership skills adaptable to different industries. Typically, you’d opt for an MBA for traditional business roles like accounting or finance.
  • MBA programs ready you for diverse career paths. They cover marketing, accounting, project management, economics, and statistics.
  • Upon MBA completion, you’ll enhance company performance and ROI.
  • A full-time MBA takes as few as 21 months to complete.