MBA or PGDM for Management studies? You will get the answer to this question here.
MBA and PGDM provide knowledge based on the same subject, but both have different approaches to it. There is a lot of difference between the two courses.
Every student dreams of getting a good salary and a great career after graduation. For this, most students choose MBA or PGDM. Both are related to management and business, but the method of both is different. Due to the same subject, most people are unable to differentiate between the two or are confused about both. Let us tell you today what is the difference between MBA and PGDM and what are the advantages and disadvantages of both.
Course structure
MBA is a degree course offered by universities. This course is affiliated to UGC. On the other hand, PGDM is a diploma course offered by private business institutes. Similarly, MBA has a more theoretical approach towards the subject while PGDM provides a more practical approach.
There is a difference in the curriculum
The curriculum of MBA is mostly determined by the university, so the curriculum is the same in different colleges affiliated to a university. However, the curriculum in PGDM is decided by different institutes/colleges. In such a situation, it is different in every college.
There is a lot of difference in fees
The fees of MBA are less than PGDM. Universities get assistance from the government, so students have to bear less fees. Private colleges definitely charge more for MBA. On the other hand, the fees of PGDM course are quite high. In colleges where campus placements are done on good packages, the fees are up to double the normal.
Duration of the course
Both types of courses are of 2 years. However, MBA follows the semester pattern, while PGDM follows the quarterly pattern. Also, PGDM courses are more updated while MBA changes after a long time.
Career opportunities
Any person can work as HR manager, business analyst, marketing manager, finance advisor, investment banker etc. after doing MBA. At the same time, those who complete PGDM course get a chance to work as project manager, data scientist, auditor, tax specialist, consultant etc.
PGDM students get higher salary
Usually students with PGDM degree get higher salary than MBA students. The starting salary for an MBA can be Rs 7 to 10 lakh per annum. At the same time, the average starting salary for a PGDM student is Rs 12 to 15 lakh per annum. Sometimes it also depends on the institute.
Difference in admission methods
Both the programs accept the scores of CAT, MAT, ZAT etc. tests. Universities offering MBA also accept the scores of state level examinations. While there is no specific cut-off for any institute offering PGDM, factors such as past academic performance and achievements are taken into consideration apart from the selection test scores.