What is a Master of Science (MSc)?

A Master of Science (MSc) is a prestigious degree, delivered by prestigious business schools or engineering schools, integrates advanced scientific knowledge with real-world applications. Whether you're focused on engineering, data analysis, health services, or business management, an MSc program offers you the tools to master your chosen field. Typically completed in one year, this program combines classroom learning, practical projects, and a research thesis. The skills you’ll gain are in high demand across industries, preparing you for leadership roles in public policy, occupational health, environmental sustainability, and more. As admission to the Master of Science is selective, this article gives you all the essential information you need to know about this academic degree.

Like the Mastère Spécialisé (MS), the Master of Science is a postgraduate degree certified by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles (CGE).

With a strong international focus, MSc courses are predominantly taught in English. They include theoretical lessons and practical work, and earning the degree requires writing a research thesis.

An MSc, especially if awarded by a prestigious institution, is highly valued by recruiters from international corporations as a significant asset on a CV.

Created at the request of influential companies themselves, the MSc degree enables graduates to launch an international career under optimal conditions.

The Master of Science is aimed at students who hold a master’s degree or a bachelor's degree. It attracts both foreign students who want to master French and European business challenges and domestic students planning to work abroad or join a major corporation.

A Master of Science can only be offered by institutions accredited by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles. The list of accredited schools offering MSc programs can be found on the official CGE website.

In France, there are over 400 MSc programs available in more than 120 schools. Selection criteria for the Master of Science vary from one school to another.

The cost of a Master of Science can vary greatly depending on the institution, as each school sets its own tuition fees. At emlyon, for example, an MSc costs around 27,000€ per year. The school also offers various financing solutions.

Since this program is a real investment in yourself, price should not be the primary deciding factor when choosing your school. Make sure to consider its international reputation, recognition by professionals, and the influence of its alumni network.

Generally, a school offering a Master of Science runs the program over 12 to 18 months, including a minimum of 4 months in a company or research lab.

A Master of Science offers numerous advantages, making it a sought-after degree:

• International recognition of the diploma
• In-depth expertise
• A stepping stone for a professional career
• Practical, hands-on approach
• Flexible program structure
• Close ties with the industry
• Comprehensive preparation for a successful career

From admission to graduation, earning a Master of Science is a rigorous journey that challenges you to excel both in the classroom and during internships. Whether you're studying science, technologie, environmental health, or clinical care, the program demands time, dedication, and the completion of specific coursework. To enhance your chances of success, it’s essential to leverage your school’s network for personalized guidance, helping you navigate the program’s requirements and connect with key professional opportunities. By doing so, you can advance in your field of study and position yourself for a successful career upon graduation.

Careers after a Master of Science (MSc) are as varied as the specializations offered by the program. Whether you become a brand manager, energy manager, or marketing director, this degree opens up a wide range of opportunities to thrive and succeed on the international market.

emlyon business school offers a wide range of MSc programs:

• MSc in Supply Chain & Operations Management
• MSc in Health Management & Data Intelligence
• MSc in International Hospitality Management
• MSc in Luxury Management & Marketing
• MSc in Sports, Entertainment & Lifestyle
• MSc in International Marketing & Business Development
• MSc in Global Innovation & Entrepreneurship
• MSc in Global Sales Excellence
• MSc in Leading Sustainable Transformations
• MSc in Management of Energy Transitions
• MSc in Financial & Business Performance
  
  

Each Master of Science program is designed to meet the evolving needs of the business world, ensuring immediate recognition of the graduates’ achievements upon leaving school. The school also offers several Master's programs.

emlyon business school also offers several programs with the Master’s degree for those wishing to continue their studies after earning their bachelor's degree:

• Master in Finance
• Master in Digital Marketing & Data Analytics
• Master in Strategy & Consulting
• Master in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Strategy

In summary, the Master of Science allows you to:

• Have an international experience
• Qualify for a position in a large company
• Consolidate theoretical knowledge and apply it in practice
• Boost your resume effectively
• Achieve a remarkable level of excellence

The Specialized Master provides deep specialization in a particular field, while the Master of Science program prepares students for an international career.

The Master of Science is not a state diploma but is highly valued by recruiters from top international companies.

The MSc is a master's degree in terms of level since it is a postgraduate diploma, but it is not a national degree.

The average salary after a Master of Science ranges from 60,000 to 80,000€ per year, though some individuals may earn higher salaries depending on their responsibilities.

The Master of Science degree equips learners with both theoretical and practical skills. It is particularly valued by recruiters seeking international and immediately operational profiles.

While both the MSc and the MBA are internationally oriented degrees, the latter focuses primarily on management. Also, the MBA is not a protected label, meaning that each institution is free to define its programs.

Recognized as the fourth-best business school in France in major rankings, emlyon business school is firmly committed to preparing the leaders of tomorrow through its action-based learning system, which is its core philosophy. Anchored in the realities of the current market, the school trains its students to "do to learn and learn to do."