The primary difference between an MBA degree and a BBA is the level of study. The MBA is completed in a post-graduate program, while the BBA is completed at the undergraduate level. The BBA is often, but not always, a precursor to the MBA. However, most MBA programs generally admit students with other related baccalaureate degrees, such as bachelor degrees in business management, economics, finance or accounting.
The BBA degree is a general degree that qualifies a graduate for a range of career opportunities in the business world. Students pursue the BBA in order to pursue business careers. While an MBA degree may also qualify a graduate for professional work in the business world, it is often pursued for career advancement in business. The MBA degree qualifies employees for senior positions and higher salaries.
Since the BBA is an undergraduate degree, it requires approximately 120 credits to complete, although this figure may vary depending on the institution. MBA programs typically require 30 post-baccalaureate credits, excluding prerequisite business course requirements. Normally, students with a bachelor's degree in a business-related field have satisfied the prerequisites. However, students admitted to an MBA program with a non-business related degree must complete general undergraduate coursework, which is not counted towards the MBA degree credit requirement.
MBA degree holders earn higher salaries than BBA holders. According to a report by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, students who earn an MBA degree see marked salary increases, no matter where the business school ranks. Students who attend a top ten business school see their salaries rise, on average, $34,485 after completing the MBA. Students that attend a top fifty school earn, on average, $30,718 more, and students that attend a non-top fifty school earn around $22,768 more.