MBA Vs PGDM: Which is Better for Indian Students?

With the rise in corporate culture and entrepreneurship, more and more students are opting for Management courses. However, students often need clarification on MBA and PGDM. So, to clear out this dilemma, in this blog, we are helping you choose between MBA and PGDM and which is better for Indian students. 

The answers to these questions are present in this blog, and you can read it completely to know more.

MBA vs PGDM: Course Highlights

It will be helpful if you get a glimpse of the highlights of MBA and PGDM. The same is provided in the table below for your reference.

What is the difference Between PGDM and MBA?

PGDM and MBA are both Management courses at the Master's level. Both of these are business-oriented courses that aim to make a candidate business ready, move up in the hierarchy or enter the management field. While both courses target the same outcome, there are some subtle differences. Here are some distinctions between a PGDM and an MBA.

MBA vs PGDM: Course Curriculum

The MBA follows a theoretical curriculum. In terms of upgrades, there is rigidity, so the syllabus remains the same for 3-7 years and does not change with changes in industry demands. On the other hand, the curriculum for PGDM is very flexible and keeps on changing every year with changes in industry standards. Also, the PGDM focuses more on practical knowledge and is comparatively more industry-relevant, as per the current market trends. Also, with customisations in syllabus and upgrades, PGDM prepares students for facing real-life field challenges by offering practical experiences, unlike MBA.

What Are the Different Types/Specialisations of MBA and PGDM?

There are different types of MBA and PGDM, and it is essential to know about them to make a wise course selection. They are given below.

1. Full-time program: This is a full-time, 1-2 years program offered by many renowned institutions. This type of program is most popular among candidates.
2. Accelerated One-year program: This is similar to a 2-year full-time program, except that the course content in this program is offered in an intensive form, and you often have less time dedicated to electives.
3. Part-time Program: Part-time courses are best suited for candidates who want to pursue higher education but can't leave their careers.
4. Executive MBA/PGDM: This program is designed especially for career professionals aiming for leadership roles.

Irrespective of the program type, various specialisations are offered in each category. Some of the in-demand MBA specialisations are given below.

• MBA in Business Management
• MBA in Marketing
• MBA in Business Analytics
• MBA in Consulting
• MBA in Entrepreneurship

Some of the in-demand PGDM specialisations are given below.

• PGDM in General Management
• PGDM in International Management
• PGDM in Strategy
• PGDM in Consulting
• PGDM in Entrepreneurship

MBA Vs PGDM: Top Universities

There are several top universities in the world that offer MBA and PGDM. It will be helpful for you to get a list of some top universities.

Some of the top MBA universities are given below.

• Stanford Graduate School of Business
• Harvard Business School
• Penn (Wharton)
• HEC Paris
• MIT (Sloan)
• London Business School
• IE Business School

Some of the top PGDM institutions are given below.

• Columbia Business School
• University of Toronto
• Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
• London School of Business
• Trinity College Dublin
• Monash University
• IESE Business School

MBA vs PGDM: Tuition Fees Structure

Secondly, MBAs include subjects such as Business, Economics, Accounting, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing, and Management. At the same time, PGDM focuses only on management. The average fee for PGDM in a foreign university is INR 7 to INR 15 lakhs. In contrast, for MBA, it is INR 15 to INR 20 lakh.

MBA vs PGDM: Entrance Exams

Getting admission to an MBA program is comparatively more difficult than in a PGDM. The table below shows the entrance tests needed for admission to MBA and PGDM programs.

MBA vs PGDM: Eligibility

The eligibility criteria to pursue MBA and PGDM varies depending on the university you choose. As such, giving a set of standard eligibility criteria is not easy. However, there are some requirements that stay the same for all universities. They are as follows.

MBA vs PGDM: Admission Process

The admission process for MBA and PGDM are given below. You can take note of it for future reference.

• The admission process for MBA and PGDM is quite similar. The only difference is the stringent requirements for MBA.
• The first step of the admission process is doing thorough research on the university, course and specialisation you want to apply.
• Secondly, check the eligibility criteria and admission requirements and apply for the required exams, such as IELTS/TOEFL and GRE/GMAT, depending upon the course and university.
• If you fulfil the cut-off and all the eligibility criteria, the next step is to complete the application form.
• Submit all the required documents like SOP, LOR, academic transcripts, etc.
• Finally, submit the form by paying the application fee.
• Most importantly, keep checking the university website for deadlines and apply before the deadline.

MBA vs PGDM: Jobs & Salary

It will be helpful for you to know the job roles and the average salaries you can get after your MBA and PGDM.

The top job roles for MBA graduates and their average salaries are given in the table below.

Top job roles for PGDM graduates and their average salary are given below.

We hope to have covered all details regarding the differences between MBA and PGDM. You can make use of the information to make a wise decision. If you wish to learn more about studying abroad, you can refer to our blogs on the same.

If you have any more questions or doubts regarding studying abroad, you can contact AECC. Our expert counsellor will help you with everything throughout the application process. From researching the best universities and courses to visa guidance, we will assist you free of cost. Don't hesitate to contact us!