Do MiM graduates earn as much as MBA graduates in the long run?

Question

Ruchika C · Accepted Answer

In the long run, MBA graduates generally earn more than MiM graduates, but the gap narrows as MiM professionals gain experience. The key differences come from starting salaries, career growth, and long-term earning potential.
Salary Comparison: MiM vs. MBA
Starting Salary

MiM graduates earn around $50,000 &ndash; $80,000 at top schools like HEC Paris, LBS, and INSEAD.
MBA graduates from top programs start at $150,000+, especially in consulting, finance, and tech.

Mid-Career Salary (5-10 years post-graduation)

MiM professionals typically reach $90,000 &ndash; $120,000, depending on industry and promotions.
MBA graduates often earn $180,000 &ndash; $250,000+, especially in leadership and executive roles.

Long-Term Earnings (15+ years post-graduation)

MiM graduates who progress to senior roles can earn $150,000+, but career growth depends on industry.
MBA graduates often hold C-suite positions (CEO, CFO, etc.) with salaries exceeding $300,000+.

Key Factors Affecting Earnings

Work Experience &ndash; MBAs typically have 4-5 years of experience before the program, giving them a salary advantage.
Industry & Job Role &ndash; Consulting and finance roles pay higher than general management or marketing.
Location &ndash; Salaries are higher in the U.S. and UK compared to Europe and Asia.
Career Growth Opportunities &ndash; MBAs often have access to executive leadership roles faster than MiM graduates.

MBA graduates typically earn higher salaries long-term due to greater work experience, networking, and leadership opportunities. Many MiM graduates eventually pursue an MBA to boost their earning potential. So you can go for MIM now and can consider an MBA later in your career.

Divakshi Arora · Answer

MBA graduates earn more initially, with salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000, while MIM grads start at $50,000 to $80,000. Over time, MIM salaries can rise to $90,000&ndash;$130,000 within 5&ndash;10 years, but MBAs typically reach $150,000&ndash;$220,000. At senior levels, MBAs often earn $200,000&ndash;$300,000+, while MIM grads need strategic career moves to reach similar pay. MIM graduates can close the gap by entering high-growth industries like consulting, finance, and tech, switching jobs every 2-3 years, or pursuing an Executive MBA for leadership roles. Internal promotions also help, but require proactive career planning. While MBAs generally maintain an earnings advantage, ambitious MIM grads who network well and gain leadership experience can achieve comparable salaries.