PGDM or MBA? The solution to your dilemma

A lot of people have a dilemma in their mind about the key differences between an MBA degree and a PGDM course. This question is also followed by other questions, such as which course is better, a PGDM or an MBA degree. After this article, these questions will surely not cloud your mind or judgement regarding both the courses. Here is an attempt to make things simple and help you to understand what PGDM and MBA have to offer. 

Firstly, let’s understand the difference in the core nature of the two degrees. Both mean a Masters in Management. MBA, i.e. Master of Business Administration, is a Post Graduate Degree in Management. PGDM is a Post Graduate Diploma in Management. The differences in both of these courses will make you understand which course suits your needs and preferences the best. 

The curriculum involved in a PGDM course is extremely trendy. It is designed by corporate doyens. Hence, the course is designed in such a way that it meets the needs of the industry and is liked by the recruiters. On the other hand, an MBA curriculum is generally designed by the universities under which the institute is affiliated. Hence, the nature of a PGDM is very flexible and the curriculum is frequently updated. PGDM programme emphasizes honing skills for employability as well as entrepreneurship. On the other hand, the MBA curriculum revision takes place generally once every 3-5 years. 

Another key difference is that MBA interviews are under universities (both Government and Private), whereas the PGDM programme can be run by autonomous institutes that are recognized by the Government of India’s nodal body for technical education – All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). 

One should also note that there is a lot of autonomy given to the PGDM institutes to produce graduates to meet industry requirements. Hence, autonomous colleges have a very open and student-friendly environment that a lot of students can benefit from. This is quite obvious and natural, as autonomy and complete freedom allow the institute to go outside stereotypes and indulge. in some ‘beyond the syllabus’ activities. It also helps in equipping students with global exposure. On the other hand, if you’re looking for some higher education after your management programme, or perhaps you’re interested in a Ph. D in management, then you should go for something more traditional, such as an MBA degree. 

As far as time is concerned, both the degrees are for a total duration of two years. Some institutes also offer a PGDM for a year. In a PGDM degree, students get a lot of opportunities to be a part of live-projects and learn hands-on. All of these activities lead to the all-round development of an individual. 

Asia Pacific Institute Of Management offers the most comprehensive and upgraded post-graduate diploma in management. Asia Pacific Institute Of Management knows how to strike the right balance between academic and non-academic skills. Ever since the inception, the institute has been providing high impact learning and empowering students with corporate skills and professional knowledge which is extremely beneficial in the long haul. Owing to the wonderful faculty, resources and infrastructure, the Asia Pacific Institute Of Management is rightly considered as one of the best PGDM colleges in Delhi.