Earning a Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Management equips professionals to think critically about business operations while leading teams and shaping organizational direction. This degree blends business acumen with leadership skills, making it especially valuable for those aiming to drive growth, foster a positive workplace culture or guide long-term goals.
Graduates of Arkansas State University’s online MBA with a Concentration in Management program are prepared to lead with confidence, whether it’s by guiding talent initiatives, managing complex operations or directing operational decision-making. Through immersive coursework and real‑world scenarios, A‑State prepares students to become leaders in a range of industries, from corporate enterprises to community nonprofits.
What Is an MBA With a Concentration in Management?
An MBA with a Concentration in Management is a graduate‑level degree that prepares students to oversee business functions through leadership, human resource expertise and strategic planning. It bridges traditional business disciplines such as finance and marketing with human resource management and organizational theory and development.
In A‑State’s online MBA with a Concentration in Management program, students master financial analysis, operational planning, team leadership and change management. They also sharpen soft skills such as communication, negotiation and emotional intelligence, which are imperative in today’s business environment. This blend of technical and interpersonal skills ensures graduates are ready for leadership in any setting.
For students comparing career options, salary data shows that both leadership and HR roles offer strong earning potential. Whether aiming for a master’s in human resource management salary benchmark or broader business leadership opportunities, graduates are positioned for competitive pay across sectors.
MBA With a Concentration in Management Job Outlook
Graduates of the MBA – Management program can choose from a wide range of career options, including roles in human resources, operations or business development. Some popular pathways include operations manager, project manager or business development manager. Among HR‑focused careers, three roles consistently stand out for their demand and compensation:
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers plan, direct and coordinate HR activities within organizations, doing everything from recruitment and benefits administration to workforce planning and performance management. By obtaining an MBA with a Concentration in Management, graduates are well-positioned to lead HR teams and shape policies that align with corporate goals.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for human resource managers was $140,030 in 2024. The role is in demand, with employment projected to grow by around 17,400 openings annually, a 6% growth by 2033. That’s faster than the average growth for all occupations.Â
A-State’s MBA with a Concentration in Management offers courses in organizational leadership, HR strategy and change management that prepare students to succeed in these competitive roles. At A‑State, students can also pursue specialized concentrations in areas such as Human Resource Management or Business Analytics, depending on their career goals.Â
Training and Development Manager
Training and development managers, also known as talent development managers, design and oversee programs to enhance employee skills, leadership capacity and organizational effectiveness. This role is essential for companies investing in internal talent growth.
The BLS reports that the mean annual wage for training and development managers was $127,090 in May 2024, with top earners making over $219,990. As one of the leading human resource management specialties, the salary outlook is strong for graduates with advanced credentials.
The A-State online MBA – Management program emphasizes instructional design, organizational development and leadership coaching, ideal preparation for a career in training and development.
Management Analyst
Management analysts or consultants study an organization’s operations and recommend ways to improve efficiency, cut costs and strengthen performance. Their work directly impacts an organization’s competitiveness and ability to adapt to market changes.
The BLS reports that management analysts earned a median annual wage of $101,190 in 2024, with top industries like professional services and finance offering higher compensation. Employment is expected to grow by 11% by 2033, faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. With a background in business operations and people leadership, graduates of A-State’s MBA with a Concentration in Management are well-prepared to succeed in these roles, offering organizations fresh insights and actionable improvements.
Why Should You Choose A-State’s Online MBA With a Concentration in Management?
A-State’s online MBA – Management program stands out with its flexible delivery, designed for working professionals who want to balance education with career and life. The curriculum blends rigorous coursework with interactive learning and faculty who bring real-world business and HR experience to every module.
Beyond academics, the program connects students with a strong alumni network and provides tailored career services focused on human resources and management roles, including resume support and career advising. The degree positions graduates for advancement across HR, leadership and strategic operations. Whether you aim for roles like HR director, training manager or operations lead, A-State’s MBA – Management degree program offers the credentials and skills to get there.
Lead With Purpose
Graduating with an MBA – Management degree from A-State opens doors to careers in HR, personnel training and organizational leadership. You’ll be prepared to step into roles that matter, like helping organizations grow, developing talent and staying competitive.Â
This advanced degree opens up many opportunities for graduates. Explore A-State’s MBA with a Concentration in Management today and discover how it can strengthen your role in organizational leadership.