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MBA vs PGDM – Key Differences & Short Analysis

Saurav Anand | April 11, 2022

MBA vs PGDM_ Key Differences & Short Analysis

Those hoping to pursue postgraduate management studies have always faced the dilemma of whether to pursue an MBA or PGDM. MBA and PGDM candidates often struggle with learning the differences and similarities between them.

A large number of people pursue an MBA or PGDM program after they have gained some experience in the management field in order to polish their credentials and improve their job prospects. Despite many believing that both MBA or PGDM programs are different, most also see them as the same degree with slightly different names. Neither of these concepts can be overemphasized as far as the need to understand how they differ and interact.

It is possible to grow your career by pursuing both MBA or PGDM program courses, thus obtaining a better position and a larger salary.

How Can an MBA Help You?

Students who wish to pursue a career in management will benefit from an  (MBA) Master's degree in business administration. In addition, it offers early-career professionals the chance to become senior managers with greater responsibilities.

The primary purpose of pursuing an MBA- Master's degree in business administration program is to become an entrepreneur or business leader by strengthening their skills. An MBA doesn't have a specific field of study, which is the best feature of the course. MBA- Master's degree in business administration always welcomes you with open arms, whether you have a degree in engineering, commerce, or the arts. In the end, it is important that you have an interest in a particular functional area that you wish to make a career out of and want to pursue a career in management.

How Can PGDM Help You?

Postgraduate Diploma in Management also known as PGDM  is designed for students directly out of college who want to further their education, or for professionals who have around two years of work experience but are seeking to advance their career. PGDM students are in high demand because they are business-centric and highly innovative. Students acquire extensive and in-depth knowledge of all management concepts through Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM). 

 Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programs are known for their innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge curriculum. Furthermore, students are required to complete internships as a part of their program in order to gain meaningful industry exposure and experience that will enable them to pursue their professional goals in the future

MBA:

An MBA is a Master of Business Administration. The course lasts two years for a postgraduate degree. It will prepare you to take on leadership roles and delve into the realm of management.

PGDM:

PGDM is an acronym for Post Graduate Diploma in Management. An autonomous institute offers this diploma course.

MBA:

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is offered through colleges affiliated with universities. MBAs can only be obtained through universities.

PGDM:

 Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programs are offered by schools that are accredited by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and that are autonomous and aren't associated with any university. 

  • PGDM courses accredited by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) are equivalent to MBA courses.

High/Low Fees

PGDM fees are higher than MBA fees. Generally, MBA institutes charge less because they are similar to university standards.

Are MBA and PGDM Equal?

A PGDM is not always equivalent to an MBA, since the college offering the PGDM must be accredited by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Difference Between MBA and PGDM Curriculum:

While the curriculum of both MBA and PGDM, institutions shares some similarities, they also differ in some ways. MBA students are more likely to study theories of management. There will be a fixed curriculum in an MBA institute since the university will dictate the course content.

As part of the PGDM program, students will be taught how to build soft skills, which are more related to the industry. A self-governing institute is not bound by university standards, so its curriculum may be adapted to industry standards and the changing business environment. It will prepare you for advancement to a senior management position within an organization.