Not Ready for an MBA? Here Are 10 Alternative Options
Not ready for an MBA degree after completing BBA? Finding difficult in choosing between further education and career? Here are 10 alternative options apart from MBA that candidates can opt for.
10 Alternative Options (apart from MBA) After BBA
Candidates not willing to pursue MBA after BBA can explore the other 10 options apart from MBA to pursue:
1. Professional Certification
Professional certifications offer specialised knowledge and are often affordable and less time-consuming compared to MBA programme. Some popular certifications include:
| Course Name |
Institute |
Duration |
Eligibility & Selection process |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRISIL Certified Analyst Programme (CCAP) |
Two years |
|
|
| Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) |
CFA Institute |
Minimum three years |
|
2. Industry Specific Training Programs
Many industries offer specialised training programs tailored to their unique needs. Check some of the other courses in the table below:
| Course Name |
Institute |
Duration |
Eligibility & Selection process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executive Program in Applied Finance |
1 Year |
Graduation/Post Graduation with minimum of 50% aggregate with at least 2 year work experience Candidates are selected through Program Aptitude Test (PAT) conducted by NIIT and IIM Calcutta
|
|
| Master in Financial Management (MFM) |
Institute of Management & Computer Sciences, Allana Institute of Management Sciences, Amity Colleges of Commerce & Finance, Banaras Hindu University, etc. |
2 years |
Minimum 50% aggregate in graduation + 2 years of work experience (exceptional) Selection is done through Test/Personal Interview |
| SIES College of Management Studies, Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Vivekanand Education Society's Institute of Management Studies and Research, etc. |
2 Years |
Graduates in any discipline with atleast 50% aggregate Test/Group Discussions/ Personal Interview |
|
| IILM Institute for Higher Education, ACE Business School Pune, Amity Centre for e - Learning, Noida, etc. |
2 Years |
Graduation completed in any discipline with minimum of 50% aggregate Test/ Personal Interview/ Merit list |
|
| Master Of Marketing Management (MMM) |
Pune University, Mumbai University, Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship Education (SIMSREE), to name a few. |
3 Years/ 2 years |
Graduation with practical knowledge/ work experience/ Project Work Selection is done through Written test/ Personal Interview |
| MA Economics |
Rajiv Gandhi University, Goa University, University of Kashmir, Barkatullah University, jadavpur University |
2 years |
Graduates with 45% - 50% aggregate. However, a few top colleges demand students to have studied economics as one of the main subject in graduation Candidates are selected on the basis of their marks in graduation and entrance test
|
| Post-Graduation Diploma in Risk Management/ Life Insurance/ General Insurance/ Actuarial Science |
1 Year, correspondence |
Graduation with minimum of 50% aggregate Test/ Personal Interview |
|
| Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application (PGDCA) |
Gauhati University, Institute of Distance and Open Learning (IDOL), University of Pune, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, etc. |
1 year |
Graduate in any discipline with Maths, Physics or Computer Science as compulsory subject in Class 12 or in graduation Candidates are selected for the programme based on their merit |
| Post Graduate Program in International Management |
Management Development Institute, Gurgaon, SP Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai, International Management Institute, Delhi, etc. |
2 Years |
Graduates in any discipline and for some institutes specialisation in International Management is required Test/ Personal Interview/ Group Discussion |
3. Online Courses
After BBA, there is wide range of online courses that candidates can pursue. There are many online websites that offer courses from top universities and companies. Subjects range from data science to leadership and entrepreneurship. Many of these courses come with certificates that can build candidate's resume.
Also Read: Difference between BBA followed by MBA vs Integrated (BBA+MBA) degree
4. Professional Networking and Conferences
Building a strong professional network is important for career growth. Candidates must attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops to stay updated on industry trends. Candidates must also meet mentors, and open doors to new opportunities. Many events also offer certification credits and hands-on training sessions.
5. Entrepreneurship and Startups
If a candidate has a idea or a passion for innovation, starting their business can be one of the great options after BBA. Entrepreneurship offers hands-on experience in managing a business, from product development and marketing to finance and operations. Even if the business doesn’t succeed, the skills and knowledge gained can be invaluable.
6. Advanced Degrees in Specialised Fields
Pursuing a master's degree in a specialised field can be an alternative to an MBA. Degrees such as a Master of Science in Finance, Marketing, or Data Analytics provide deep knowledge and can lead to high-level positions within specific industries. These programs are often more targeted and can be completed in a shorter time.
7. Freelancing
Freelancing allows candidates to work independently and gain experience across various projects and industries. This path can improve skills, expand professional network, and offer the flexibility to work. In freelancing, the candidate gets to choose the work, rate and working hours.
8. Volunteer Work and Nonprofits
Volunteering for nonprofit organisations can develop leadership skills, provide project management experience. Working with nonprofits can also expand network and lead to paid opportunities. Additionally, it offers a way to give back to the community while gaining valuable experience.
9. On Job Experience
Candidates can join part-time jobs or internships to gain experience in a related field in which they have specialised. On job, experience will help candidates gain insights and develop skills and career opportunities without pursuing a formal degree.
10. Learn a Foreign language
If a candidate is interested in travelling around the world, he/she can learn a foreign language. The classes for language a conducted for two to four hours in a day. Learning a foreign language can give an advantage to candidates over competitors.
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