DECEMBER 6, 2024
By Nandini Tyagi
Dec 06, 2024
Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a degree programme offered by UGC approved universities or institutes affiliated with them. For example, FMS Delhi and IIMs offer MBA programmes
Photo - Freepik
PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management) is a diploma course offered by autonomous institutes recognised by AICTE such as XLRI, SPJIMR and MDI Gurgaon
Photo - Freepik
The curriculum for MBA is prescribed as per the university regulations and is therefore less flexible. For PGDM, the curriculum is more industry-oriented and updated frequently
Photo - Freepik
MBA and PGDM programmes have common core subjects with a broader managerial perspective. However, while MBA focuses on theoretical aspects, PGDM programmes lean towards practical and skill-based learning
Photo - Freepik
Both MBA and PGDM are two-year programmes, but some PGDMs, such as Executive PGDMs, may have a shorter duration (1 year)
Photo - Freepik
For admissions to both programmes, scores from competitive exams like CAT, XAT or GMAT are required. PGDM institutes may give more weightage to work experience in the admission criteria
Photo - Freepik
Both programmes lead to similar managerial roles, but PGDM graduates may have an edge in roles requiring practical expertise
Photo - Freepik