Difference Between PGDM and MBA: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right postgraduate programme is an important decision by anyone who wants to take their careers to the next level. For those who are aiming to make their mark in the business world, the two popular degree courses that always stand out are: the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA).
But what is the difference between PGDM and MBA? Here’s a question that arises in every aspirant’s mind. To clear out all your doubts, we are here with a comprehensive guide it will guide you to the right path.
What is an MBA?
An MBA or Master of Business Administration, is a 2 year postgraduate, globally recognised degree programme offered by universities and colleges. The MBA programme is designed to provide an understanding of business and management principles. MBA programmes are more theory-oriented and often include a research component.
What is PGDM?
PGDM or Post Graduate Diploma in Management, is a 2 year postgraduate diploma programme that is offered by universities and is equivalent to an MBA. PGDM courses are usually offered by business schools that are approved by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). These programmes are designed to provide practical and industry-oriented knowledge, with a focus on the latest trends and skills required in the business world.
PGDM Vs MBA: Highlights
| Criteria | PGDM | MBA |
| Full Form | Post Graduate Diploma in Management | Master of Business Administration |
| Course Level | Post Graduate Diploma | Post Graduate Degree |
| Approved By | All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) | University Grants Commission (UGC) |
| Duration | 1-2 Years | 2 Years |
| Focus | Industry-oriented, practical skills | Theory-oriented, research focus |
| Flexibility | More flexible | Less flexible |
| Affordability | More affordable | Expensive |
| Entrance Exam | CAT, XAT, GMAT, MAT, etc. | CAT, XAT, GMAT, MAT, etc. |
Difference Between PGDM and MBA
Now that you have understood the meaning and basic differences, let’s dig a little deeper and understand more about the two courses:
1. Objective
MBA: The main objective is to provide strong theoretical knowledge about the business world.
PGDM: Focuses on providing practical management skills and industry development knowledge.
2. Eligibility
The eligibility of PGDM and MBA is quite the same.
Completed bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks in any discipline.
Candidates need to qualify for entrance exams in order to enroll in top business schools.
Some business schools offering these courses also ask for prior work experience.
3. Academic Value
MBA: Considered a degree that is globally recognised.
PGDM: Considered a diploma, but often recognised as equivalent to an MBA in India.
4. Internships and Industry Exposure
MBA: Most MBA programmes include internships to familiarise students with the industry culture and how they work.
PGDM: Often includes multiple industry interactions, live projects, and internships.
5. Alumni Network
MBA: Usually has a larger and more established alumni network.
PGDM: Alumni networks are strong but niche.
6. Syllabus
MBA
|
Finance Management |
Project Management |
|
Marketing Management |
Principles of Accounting |
|
Business Statistics |
Human Resource Management |
|
Organisational Behaviour |
Business Communication and Skills |
PGDM
|
Marketing and Consumer Behaviour |
Introduction to Information Technology |
|
Financial Reporting and Analysis |
Finance Accounting |
|
Operations Management |
Business Law & Corporate Governance |
|
Strategic Management |
Management Information Systems |
7. Global Recognition
MBA: More universally recognised, especially when awarded by a reputed university.
PGDM: Recognition may vary globally, though top Indian institutes are well-regarded.
Top Universities/Institutes Offering an MBA
Given below are some of the top business schools for full-time MBA:
Top MBA B-Schools | Fee Structure in INR |
IIM Ahmedabad | 33,00,000 |
IIM Bangalore | 24,50,000 |
IIM Indore | 20,11,800 |
NMIMS Mumbai | 24,00,000 |
XLRI Mumbai | 55,00,000 |
Great Lakes of Management | 14,77,800 |
IIFT Delhi | 21,77,314 |
Jamia Millia Islamia | 3,00,000 |
Given below are some of the top business schools for online MBA:
Top Online Universities with Courses | Fee Structure in INR |
Amity Online MBA | 1,95,000 |
Manipal Jaipur Online MBA | 1,75,000 |
LPU Online MBA | 1,62,800 |
Jain Online MBA | 1,20,000 |
MAHE Online MBA | 2,80,000 |
OP Jindal Online MBA | 1,60,000 |
DY Patil Online MBA | 1,69,200 |
Uttranchal Online MBA | 80,000 |
GLA Online MBA | 98,000 |
Symbiosis Online MBA | 3,00,000 |
Please Note: The fee mentioned above may change with time. However, to have more clarity, students can visit Hike Education and get expert counselling.
Top Institutes/Universities Offering PGDM
| Top Institutes/Universities | Course Name | Fee Structure in INR |
| Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning | Symbiosis PGDM | 65,000 |
| XLRI Xavier School of Management | XLRI PGDM | 14,00,000 |
| SP Jain Institute of Management and Research | SPJIMR PGDM | 10,00,000 |
| Management Development Institute | MDI PGDM | 8,95,000 |
| Indira Gandhi National Open University | IGNOU PGDM | 20,000 |
Difference Between PGDM and MBA: Jobs and Salary
Following are the top job profiles and salaries offered to students with an MBA degree:
|
Job Profile |
Annual Salary in INR |
|
Accounting Manager |
8,00,000 |
|
Human Resource Manager |
7,00,000 |
|
Marketing Manager |
7,00,000 |
|
Business Development Manager |
5,50,000 |
|
Senior Business Analyst |
11,50,000 |
Following are the top job profiles and salaries offered to students with a PGDM Diploma:
|
Job Profile |
Annual Salary in INR |
|
Business Consultant |
9,40,000 |
|
PR Officer |
3,00,000 |
|
Strategic Manager |
15,00,000 |
|
Brand Manager |
10,00,000 |
|
International Sales Manager |
9,50,000 |
Please Note: The salary may change depending on experience, location, and time.
Conclusion
The choice between MBA and PGDM, largely depends upon the aspirant’s career goals, learning styles and type of recognition they seek. Both PGDM and MBA are excellent programs that can prepare you for a successful career in business. Understanding the difference between PGDM and MBA will help you select the programme that best aligns with your aspirations and educational preferences.
Still confused? Get expert counselling from Hike Education expert counsellors and get enrolled in your desired course.
Difference Between PGDM and MBA: FAQs
Q1. Is PGDM better than MBA?
It depends on the career goals of an aspirant. PGDM courses are industry-oriented, and an MBA is more in theoretical knowledge. In India, PGDM is considered equivalent to an MBA.
Q2. What is the difference between PGDM and MBA?
The main difference is that PGDM is a diploma offered by autonomous institutes, while MBA is a university degree. PGDM focuses more on practical skills, whereas MBA is more theory-oriented. If a student is looking for an affordable course, they can opt for PGDM.
Q3. Does IIM give an MBA or PGDM?
While we all know that IIMs are known for their MBA degree courses, only some know that they offer a Postgraduate Program in Management (PGP) that is equivalent to an MBA degree.
Q4. Is 1 year PGDM equivalent to MBA?
PGDM, if it is a 2-year course, is equivalent to an MBA degree.
Q5. Is PGDM also known as an MBA?
In India, PGDM is often considered equivalent to an MBA, especially when the PGDM program is accredited by the AIU (Association of Indian Universities).
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