Everything You Need To Know About PGDM

What is a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)?

A Post Graduate Diploma in Management, simply known as a PGDM course is equivalent to a postgraduate degree in management. These courses have been approved by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education), and are taught in some of the most affluent non- autonomous colleges in India. Therefore, PGDM courses are a great alternative to postgraduate degrees, especially if done from an institute of repute. When an institute’s PGDM course is accredited by AIU (Association of Indian Universities) it is equal to an MBA. These courses are designed by some of the best minds in the industry, and prepare students to become thorough professionals. These courses are for a duration of 2 years.

Also Read: The Value of PGDM in Todays Job Market in India

PGDM Course Key Highlights

The Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) is a highly sought-after program designed to develop managerial skills and business acumen. Recognized for its industry-oriented curriculum, the PGDM program equips students with the knowledge and competencies needed to excel in the dynamic business environment.

Feature	Details
Course Duration	2 years (full-time)
Eligibility	Graduation in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks
Admission Process	Entrance exams (CAT, XAT, GMAT, etc.), Group Discussion, Personal Interview
Specializations Offered	Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Operations, IT, etc.
Average Fees	INR 5 to 20 lakhs for the entire course
Mode of Study	Full-time, Part-time, Online
Accreditation	AICTE, NBA, AMBA, AACSB (varies by institution)

PGDM Course Average Fees

The average fees for a PGDM course vary significantly depending on the institution, location, and the specialization chosen. Prestigious institutions with high accreditation typically charge higher fees. On average, students can expect to pay between INR 5 to 20 lakhs for the entire program. This investment reflects the comprehensive nature of the course and the potential return on investment through lucrative career opportunities post-completion.

PGDM Course Duration

The PGDM program typically spans two years, structured across four semesters. Each semester encompasses a blend of core courses and electives, allowing students to tailor their education to their career aspirations. Some institutions may offer accelerated or executive programs designed for working professionals, which can be completed in a shorter duration.

PGDM Course Mode of Study

PGDM courses offer flexibility in terms of study modes, catering to different needs and preferences of students. These modes include:

Full-time: Traditional classroom-based learning over two years.
Part-time: Extended duration with evening or weekend classes, suitable for working professionals.
Online: Virtual classes provide flexibility to study from anywhere.

PGDM Specializations: Types of Specializations for PGDM Course

There are different specializations in PGDM courses for you to choose from. You have to choose your specialization in the final year of your PGDM course, as the first year is dedicated to learning the fundamentals of management and developing a strong base.

The following is the list of PGDM specializations you can choose from:

1. PGDM in Marketing

One of the most popular PGDM specializations, marketing concerns the marketing, advertising and sales of products or services of the company you work in. This is a specialization for aspirants who are outgoing and ambitious.

2. PGDM in Finance

Finance has everything to do with accounts and finance. Aspirants with a flair for numbers can consider finance specialization for their PGDM as they can find jobs in a variety of high-paying industries.

3. PGDM in Human Resources

Human resources (HR) specialization is all about managing resources in an organizational structure. HR is an integral and important part of most organizations and a widely developing field.

4. PGDM in Operations

The operations specialization is concerned with the operations of a company. Planning, strategizing, and executing are some of the main tasks involved in operations, but mostly you learn how to run an organization.

5. PGDM in Information & Technology

IT is arguably the fastest growing industry, not just in India, but the world. The industry needs people to keep growing at the current pace. This is a good industry to make a satisfying career in.

6. PGDM in Research & Business Analytics

Research & business analytics deals with quantitative analysis of businesses. This course is a blend of business, science, research, statistics, and technology.

7. PGDM in Enterprise Management

Enterprise management deals with the daily management of an organization through the use of ERP, which is specialized business management software that’s comprehensive in its delivery.

8. PGDM in International Finance

Think of economics and finance on a macro-level. International finance is a little different from your traditional finance, and when combined with US-CPA, makes students eligible to enter finance professions overseas.

9. PGDM in International Business

In this specialization, you learn about the operations of a business on a global level. From adhering to international laws and practices to managing multinational companies, this specialization teaches you everything.

10. PGDM in Supply Chain & Logistics

These specializations are a part of business management. Supply chain deals with managing all aspects of the supply chain in manufacturing-related businesses, while logistics is about managing complex logistics of the whole operation.

PGDM Eligibility & Criteria for Admission

Admission criteria and eligibility may differ from institute to institute. However, in the case of most PGDM education institutes, to be eligible for admission for the PGDM course, there are a few general criteria you need to fulfill.

Here are the general eligibility criteria for PGDM degree:

You need to be a graduate
You need to have become a graduate with an aggregate score 50% or more.
Some institutes require passing entrance tests like CAT, CMAT, GMAT, or XAT.
Some institutes also need you to clear their interview process which may involve essay writing, group discussion, personal interview, etc.

PGDM Course Curriculum

The PGDM curriculum is designed to impart both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It covers a wide range of subjects essential for management roles and often includes industry projects, internships, and case studies.

Core Subjects:

Principles of Management
Marketing Management
Financial Management
Human Resource Management
Operations Management
Business Law and Ethics
Organizational Behavior

Elective Subjects:

Digital Marketing
Investment Banking
Strategic Management
Entrepreneurship
International Business
Supply Chain Management

PGDM Course Entrance Exams

Admission to a PGDM program typically requires clearing an entrance exam, which assesses the candidate’s aptitude and readiness for management studies. Common entrance exams include:

CAT (Common Admission Test)
XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
MAT (Management Aptitude Test)

PGDM Course Admission Process

The admission process for a PGDM course is competitive and involves multiple stages to ensure the selection of capable candidates.

Steps in the Admission Process:

Entrance Exam: Clear the required management entrance exam (e.g., CAT, XAT).
Application: Submit an application form to the desired institutions.
Group Discussion (GD): Participate in group discussions to demonstrate communication and analytical skills.
Personal Interview (PI): Attend personal interviews to assess fit and motivation.
Final Selection: Based on the overall performance in the entrance exam, GD, PI, and academic records.

PGDM Course Teaching Methodology

PGDM programs employ a variety of teaching methodologies to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. These include lectures, case studies, group projects, internships, industry visits, and guest lectures from industry experts. The use of simulation games and real-life business scenarios helps students develop practical skills and strategic thinking.

PGDM Course Placement Assistance

Placement assistance is a critical component of PGDM programs, with institutions typically having dedicated placement cells. These cells organize campus recruitment drives, career counselling sessions, and workshops to prepare students for interviews and professional life. Top companies from various sectors often visit campuses to recruit talented graduates, providing a wide range of job opportunities.

PGDM Course Career Opportunities

A PGDM degree opens doors to diverse career paths across multiple industries. Graduates can pursue roles such as:

Marketing Manager
Financial Analyst
Human Resource Manager
Operations Manager
Business Consultant
Project Manager
Entrepreneur
Supply Chain Manager

PGDM Course Average Package

The average salary package for PGDM graduates varies based on the institute, specialization, and individual performance. Typically, fresh graduates can expect starting salaries ranging from INR 6 to 12 lakhs per annum, with top-tier institutions and exceptional candidates often securing higher packages.

Scope of PGDM in India

There are many career opportunities after your PGDM. Since this course is equivalent to an MBA degree, you get similar career opportunities. You can get selected for management-level positions across a variety of industries, but this mainly matters on your specialization.

You are also eligible to get technical jobs that have a good salary scale and benefits package. The importance and popularity of PGDM courses is growing at a substantial rate, making it an excellent course to do after graduation.

To know more, you can read Career Opportunities after PGDM

Benefits of Doing PGDM Course

PGDM puts you at an advantage over other postgraduate degrees. PGDM courses are some of the most advanced courses designed to let students gain as much theoretical, practical, and technical knowledge.

Here are some benefits of having PGDM Degree:

Cheaper than an MBA –

Despite being equivalent to an MBA, PGDM courses do not cost as much as an MBA, whilst offering the same benefits.

Entrepreneurial Scope –

If you are looking to become an entrepreneur, this course will equip you with all the knowledge and training you need.

Great Faculty –

You get an opportunity to learn from some of the best faculty in the industry who will also mentor you.

Internship Opportunities –

Internship is an integral part of PGDM courses, and youll get to work with reputed organizations during your internship programs.

Exciting Classes –

The courses are full of exciting classroom learning. There are presentations, debates, discussions, and games, designed for students to learn interactively.

Further Reading: 5 Benefits of Doing PGDM Course

Who Can Pursue PGDM?

The PGDM course is suitable for individuals from diverse academic backgrounds who aspire to build a career in management. It is ideal for:

Recent graduates seeking advanced management education.
Working professionals aiming to enhance their managerial skills.
Entrepreneurs looking to acquire formal business training.
Career switchers interested in transitioning to management roles.

Skills Required for PGDM Degree

Success in a PGDM program requires a blend of personal and professional skills, including:

Analytical thinking
Communication skills
Leadership abilities
Problem-solving skills
Teamwork
Time management
Adaptability
Decision-making skills

PGDM Salary Trends

Salary trends for PGDM graduates show a positive trajectory, with salaries increasing significantly with experience and expertise. Entry-level salaries start around INR 6 to 12 lakhs per annum and can escalate to INR 20 lakhs or more with mid-level experience. Senior management roles and specialized positions can command even higher salaries.

Is PGDM Equivalent to an MBA?

The PGDM and MBA are both prestigious management qualifications, but there are key differences between them. Here’s a comparison:

Aspect	PGDM	MBA
Degree Awarded	Diploma	Degree (Master’s level)
Type of Program	Generally offered by autonomous institutes or private colleges.	Offered by universities and colleges.
Curriculum	Curriculum can be updated more frequently to align with industry needs.	Generally follows a fixed syllabus.
Duration	Usually 1 to 2 years	Usually 2 years (full-time)
Focus	More focus on practical skills and industry-oriented knowledge.	Balanced focus on theory and practice.
Autonomy	Greater autonomy in curriculum design and delivery.	Curriculum often regulated by university guidelines.
Specializations	Offers a wide range of specialized courses.	Specializations available but limited compared to PGDM.
Industry Exposure	Emphasizes internships, live projects, and industry interactions.	Offers internships but may vary in intensity.
Recognition	Recognized by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) and industry.	Recognized by UGC (University Grants Commission) and industry.
Cost	Can be more expensive due to autonomy and flexibility.	Cost can vary depending on the institution but may be relatively lower.
Flexibility	More flexibility in course structure and content.	Generally follows a standardized structure.
Admission	Admissions based on entrance exams and interviews conducted by the institute.	Admissions are often based on entrance exams like CAT, MAT, etc., and centralized counseling.

Both PGDM and MBA are highly respected and can lead to successful careers in management, with the choice largely depending on the individual’s career goals and preferences.

Also Read, MBA Vs PGDM: What Should You Choose?

How to Find Top PGDM Programs & Colleges in India?

Many colleges and universities offer PGDM courses, and it can be easy to make the wrong choice. However, there are a few things you should look in a PGDM college and their program to make sure its legitimate.

Look for AICTE and AIU approval. This means you can trust the college and its course. Also, look for reviews online, and talk to the alumni of the college you are interested in. You will get a much clearer picture. However, to know more, you must read How to find Top PGDM Programs & Colleges in India.

To know more read further 8 Steps: How to Choose PGDM College in India?

PGDM courses are a great way to ensure you land your dream job and have a successful career. Just make sure you know which college to select and which specialization to do, which is half the battle won.

Need More Information About PGDM Programs?

For comprehensive guidance on PGDM courses and related aspects, get in touch with our counsellors. They offer expertise in PGDM programs, assisting with specialization selection, admission processes, course insights, career counseling, placement support, and continuous updates. Gain personalized assistance aligned with your academic and career goals by reaching out to our counselors today.