'Integrated MBA Programmes will give students a competitive edge'

Prof. Parimal Mandke, Vice-President, NIIT University shares her thoughts on Integrated MBA Programmes which many higher education institutions are starting now. Prof Mandke discusses various advantages integrated MBA has over traditional MBA. 

A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) has always been sought after by those seeking a successful career in a managerial role, more so in today’s dynamic business environment. An MBA Programme can help one become a better leader, understand the market better, manage difficult situations and navigate the crisis. And now it is possible for students who are interested in pursuing a career in management to opt for an Integrated MBA (iMBA) programme after their Class XII. 

4-year Integrated MBA (iMBA) is an innovative programme for students with managerial and leadership goals. The programme offers comprehensive management education combined with in-depth specialisation in specific domains - Business Analytics, Digital & Social Media Marketing and Banking, Finance & FinTech to name a few. Instead of spending three years in College to acquire a Bachelor’s degree in some discipline and then pursuing a 2-year MBA Programme, iMBA gives students an opportunity to focus on various aspects of management soon after school and at the same time releases them in the profession one year early The integrated programme focuses on preparing students to be managers and leaders in a competitive world. 

In an iMBA Programme, there is no repetition of subjects as it happens in a 2-year MBA Programme because of the heterogenous input there. This inherent advantage in the iMBA curriculum ensures that a student gets to the advanced management level right after their second year thus staying ahead of the learning curve. Students who opt for traditional MBAs after they graduate often have to run against the clock to choose their specialisation only in the second year of the programme. But an integrated programme affords one the luxury of time to understand each of the domains thoroughly before picking the specialisation, thus giving students a competitive advantage.

In the 4-year iMBA programme, students gain greater exposure to industry and the real world of work through several internships and projects. They earn experience that makes them desirable candidates for top industry roles. Students are also given opportunities to attend conferences, seminars, and workshops, where they are exposed to professionals from across the industry. Since the integrated programme is for 4 years, students get enough time to build significant connections and understand the latest trends in the industry. 

The curriculum of iMBA emphasises equipping students with skills that are in demand. Students are trained to stand out in leadership and managerial roles by providing them with in-depth knowledge in different domains. The skills and exposure they receive during the Programme prepare them for various leadership and managerial roles later in life. 

Those eager to make a mark in the world of business should opt for an iMBA programme in the domain of their choice. The Programme enhances the skills of students in specific areas they are interested in. By focusing on improving the skill sets of students the programme boosts employability. This results in a higher salary package as the students are industry-ready once they graduate.

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