PGDM Vs MBA: Know the difference between PGDM and MBA

PGDM vs MBA - Every aspirant compares the two before choosing a PG management programme. So, what is the difference between PGDM and MBA? Which is better? Read this article to know the similarities and difference between PGDM and MBA.

PGDM and MBAboth are management courses at Master’s level and the course curriculum is the same.  So, 'what is the difference between PGDM and MBA?' The answer is - PGDM is a diploma course, and MBA is a degree course. While, there is not much difference between the two in the job market, a degree is always preferred over a diploma, because a degree is always UGC approved. Also, private universities cannot offer degree without having relevant recognition or accreditation. 

MBA and PGDM are both business-orientated courses. The main purpose of both these courses is to train and equip an individual with the latest techniques and skills of business administration and management. In the debate between MBA vs PGDM, it is the former that wins as it has more market value. 

2.MBA vs PGDM: Syllabus

In most cases, the MBA course curriculum is designed by the university. The core MBA syllabus (and sometimes even elective subjects) will be pretty much the same in two MBA colleges under the same university. Even though the PGDM syllabus is no different from the MBA syllabus, since PGPM or PGDM courses are determined by the individual institute, it gives them certain flexibility to design the course curriculum. The MBA syllabus undergoes change according to industrial requirements periodically. Universities tend to lag behind in updating the course curriculum.

3. PGDM vs MBA: Susceptible to Fraudulence

Since PGP or PGDM courses are offered by autonomous bodies, students need to be careful while taking admission. Many smaller colleges and institutes make claims but do not have proper accreditation status. MBA degrees are conferred by varsities, and hence there’s a lower chance of fraudulent claims. Management aspirants should look for genuine accreditations. Apart from UGC recognition, management institutes are accredited by NAAC, AACSB, AMBA and Equis. 

Also Read: Understanding MBA Accreditation

4. PGDM vs MBA: Focus Subjects

Both MBA and PGDM courses have common core subjects. However, some experts claim most MBA courses focus more on theoretical and technical aspects of management rather than adopting a practical approach. PGP or PGDM courses on the other hand, have an industrial orientation and focus on skills-based on market requirements.            

5. MBA vs PGDM: Cost

It has been observed that most MBA courses have lower tuition fees as compared to PGP or PGDM courses. This is so because MBA degree is offered mostly by government institutions. These universities receive financial aid and grants from the government, making the degree cheaper for the student. In case of a PGP or PGDM degree, students have to bear the cost of the entire programme as private universities that offer these degrees have no government backing. However, this is not an ironclad rule. There are institutes which charge high tuition fees like the IIMs. The IIMs have high MBA fees despite not-being a private institution. This is because, it is an autonomous institution not funded by the government. However, the MHRD has some role to play in running the IIMs. 

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