PGDM Vs MBA: Know the difference between PGDM and MBA

PGDM vs MBA - Every aspirant has this comparison in mind before signing up for a management course. So, what is the difference between PGDM and MBA? Which one is better? Read this article to know the difference and similarities between MBA and PGDM.

"What is the difference between MBA and PGDM?” is a very important question that every Management aspirant asks before choosing a course. PGDM and MBA both are management courses at Master’s level and the course curriculum is the same. However, there is a big difference between the two. PGDM is a diploma course, where as 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 by an institute has to be UGC approved. Also that private universities cannot offer degree without having relevant recognition or accreditation.

MBA and PGDM are both business-orientated courses. The main aim of both these courses is train and equip an individual with the latest techniques and skills in business administration and management. However, one must analyse the pros and cons of both courses before choosing one. 

5 key differences between PGP(M)/PGDM and MBA

While both the courses have the same outcomes in terms of employment perspective, there are some subtle differences such as recognition, fees, etc. Since the MBA admissions have started for 2024 batch, aspirants must know the difference between MBA and PGDM to make a better choice of course and colleges. Below, we have listed five differences between PGP(M)/PGDM and MBA:

1. PGDM vs MBA (Degree vs Diploma)

At the end of a PGP and PGDM course, the candidate is offered a Diploma whereas at the end of an MBA programme, the candidate receives a Degree.

Many students think that a Diploma course does not hold the same value as a Degree course but that is not true. Many Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-Schools such as XLRI, Jamshedpur and SP Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai offer PGP or PGDM courses. Most of these institutes are autonomous bodies (not affiliated to any University). Between a PGDM and an MBA, the difference is of nomenclature but not of professional value.

Both MBA and PGDM are highly valued in the job market as they are same in terms of course accreditation, curriculum and pedagogy. Another key factor is the institute. For example, a PGDM course from XLRI Jamshedpur will have more professional value than a degree course from a state university.

Also Read: Top PGDM Colleges in India: NIRF Ranks, Placements, Fees

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 and change their syllabus after a few years.

3.MBA vs PGDM: 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. MBA vs PGDM: 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. 

Difference between MBA and PGDM

There are several other factors which make MBA and PGDM different entities. The below table indicates the basic differences between MBA and PGDM:

Colleges Offering MBA or PGDM

Here is the list of IIMs and other Top Management Colleges Offering MBA and PGDM/PGP courses:

Read More:

• MBA Admission 2024: Check Application Deadline of Current Session
• MBA fees in India: Check college wise MBA fees
• Top MBA colleges in NIRF-MHRD ranking
• Top 20 MBA colleges apart from IIMs