Putting it simply, MBA is a degree course and PGDM is a diploma course, but when it comes to explaining PGDM vs MBA, there is a lot more to deal with.
It’s a common question that students willing to take the management domain struggle with, but the fact is, it depends. Management aspirants often find themselves to be at the crossroads where they are supposed to decide among PGDM and MBA. The answer is, it depends upon their future goals, investment of time and money they could make, their willingness to study, distance, etc.
Both being post-graduate courses are meant to serve a special purpose, educating and preparing young aspirants. But as we are driven by the herd mentality, we prefer MBA over any other management degree or diploma course without considering its pros and cons. Probing some of the alumni from both courses, we found some of the renowned and well-established names coming from both fields showcasing their exemplary performance in India and overseas. This validates the worth of the course every now and then.
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PGDM vs MBA- The Difference
With the rise in corporate culture, more and more youngsters are looking for a professional degree that can get them managerial and leadership positions. Considering the fact that both are management courses it’s difficult to conclude which one has better scope. MBA is a Postgraduate degree course approved by AICTE, All India Council for Technical Education, New Delhi and affiliated to a recognized university or college. On contrary, Postgraduate Diploma in Management is a diploma course that can be awarded by any college (autonomous) upon the approval of AICTE.
Apart from this, the difference is giant in terms of course curriculum, placement opportunities, fee structure and lots more. Understanding all the differences and parameters before getting admission would make it easy for you to estimate your future scope, fee and time investment and the same. The top colleges offer either of the two courses to attract management students and provide specialization to open up the gateway to an abundance of opportunities.
Parameter Based Difference
| PARAMETERS | MBA | PGDM |
| Course Type | 2-Year Degree Course | 2-Year Diploma Course |
| Curriculum | University governed rigid syllabus | Designed by the College |
| Eligibility | 50% aggregate in Graduation from a recognized University | 50% aggregate in Graduation from a recognized University |
| Specialization | Endless specialization opportunities are available | Different Institutes offer different specialization |
| Fee Structure | The average fee for an MBA college is around INR 15 Lacs | The average fee for a PGDM course is around INR 12-13 Lacs |
| Job Roles | Business Analyst (IT), Marketing Manager, Management Consultant, Investment Banker | Account Manager, Business Operations, Corporate Treasury, Card Payments Operations Head, Credit Analysis |
| Avg. Salary | The average salary of an MBA graduate is INR 20 LPA. | Average salary after PGDM diploma INR 10-14 LPA |
| Future Scope | Aspirants can pursue Ph.D. and other higher education courses | Industry-oriented job opportunities with no scope for further studies like Ph.D. |
How can I get Admission in an MBA?
The prominent course is attracting students from all backgrounds having a knack for management. To get admission in top MBA colleges, you can apply directly to the college you want to study at or can go through the state or center-governed entrance exams. Students need to be prepared for registrations one or two months earlier than destined with all necessary documents and fill the registration form. These colleges follow industry-oriented training modules to endow students with the essential skills necessary to be a part of the industry.
How can I get Admission in PGDM?
Students aspiring to get admission into PGDM courses can follow a straightforward procedure. Thinking about what is the fee of PGDM and how much will it vary from the above-stated one? The fee structure for PGDM courses ranges from 6 to 14 LPA depending upon the college and specialization. Colleges with inviting infrastructure and facilities are mint money, while colleges with moderate facilities charge moderately.
Which is a better option: an MBA course or a PGDM program?
Considering the relevance of management courses, both the courses hold potential to transform the lives of aspiring students and make them worthy of entering the corporate world. Both courses follow a rigid course structure to award students with a degree or diploma upon completion. The course curriculum, fee structure, exposure, placement opportunities, etc. vary considerably. Opting for either an MBA course or a PGDM program in renowned management colleges can help you secure your place in top managerial roles. These courses polish and groom your overall personality to make you industry-ready. Check out on your circumstances and interests and then decide.
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