In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, professional management education is extremely crucial. Among the several options available, the Post Graduate Diploma in Management or commonly known as the PGDM, stands out as a preferred choice for candidates aiming to build a passionate career in business and management. As India emerges as a global hub, choosing the right PDGM course helps candidates to get equipped with strategic thinking and leadership capabilities. In this blog, we will walk through the reasons to pursue PGDM and, most importantly, which colleges will be the right choice based on the preferences.
What is PGDM and Why Should You Pursue It?
PGDM is a two-year course offered by top management B schools in India. It is considered an alternative to MBA. To be eligible for PGDM, candidates need to be graduates with a BBA or any other related stream with 50% marks in aggregate and from a recognised board.
Reasons For Choosing PGDM Course
The following are the reasons for choosing PGDM courses in India:
- Industry Appropriate Curriculum: PGDM courses often include case studies, the most relevant market movements, and real-world business challenges.
- Skill-Based Education: Highlights practical skills like analytics, business communication, decision-making, and administration.
- Corporate Exposure: Universities often collaborate with industry specialists for guest lectures, apprenticeships, and placements.
- Flexibility and Innovation: Being autonomous, PGDM colleges can innovate quickly and integrate trending subjects like Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, etc.
Importance of PGDM Programs
PGDM equips candidates with industry relevant skills, practical knowledge and leadership abilities to excel in the dynamic business environments. The importance of choosing PGDM over other programs has been
- Higher Employability: PGDM holders are viewed as job-ready candidates due to their openness to internships and industry case analyses.
- Strong Networking Opportunities: Interactions with colleagues, alumni, faculty, and corporate executives.
- Specialization Options: PGDM is offered in various specializations that include Finance, Marketing, Operations, Human Resources, Business Analytics, and more.
- Placement Packages: Top PGDM Colleges in India, like IIMs, Shree LR Tiwari School of Business Management, offer average salary packages ranging from INR 10,00,000 to INR 25,00,000 per annum.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Best PGDM College in India
When selecting the best PGDM colleges in India, candidates should always focus on factors that directly impact the learning experiences and also career opportunities. The list of factors to consider while choosing the best PGDM colleges in India has been provided below.
- Accreditation and Approval: Candidates need to ensure that the college they are choosing is approved by AICTE and, preferably, accredited by the NBA or AACSB.
- Curriculum and Faculty: It is important to know the faculty facilities along with the curriculum. Therefore, candidates should look for a dynamic curriculum and experienced faculty with industry experience.
- Placement Records: Another important aspect lies that is the placement records. Candidates should examine placement statistics, average CTC, top recruiters, and internship opportunities provided by the particular college they are looking for, and make sure that these parameters have been satisfied in the previous years.
- Industry Tie-Ups and Exposure: Colleges with strong industry partnerships deliver more promising networking and learning possibilities.
- Infrastructure and Campus Facilities: Another important aspect required to check while choosing the right college is that modern classrooms, tech labs, libraries, hostels, and campus life play a crucial role.
- Alumni Network: A strong alumni base is a great support system for mentorship and job referrals. Check it before choosing the college.
Top PGDM Colleges in India
Check the list of the best PGDM colleges in India.
Shree LR Tiwari School of Business Management
Shree LR Tiwari School of Business Management offers PGDM in Marketing, Finance, Business Analytics, HR. The college is known for its industry-focused curriculum and practical learning approach, the college charges an average fee of around INR 9,50,000 for the entire course, making it a strong choice for candidates seeking quality education with balanced affordability.
XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
XLRI – Xavier School of Management is among the best PGDM colleges in India, known for its academic excellence and strong placements. The PGDM course fees range between INR 4,03,000 and INR 30,06,000, depending on the programme. Though the fees are higher, XLRI offers top faculty, global exposure, and excellent career opportunities, making it a preferred choice for management aspirants.
S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai
S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) is a highly reputed B-school in India, offering quality management education with strong industry connections. The PGDM course fees are INR 22,50,000, which includes both tuition and accommodation. With excellent placements, experienced faculty, and practical learning opportunities, SPJIMR remains a top choice for PGDM aspirants across the country.
Read: PGDM Course Details – Eligibility, Fees, Syllabus, Colleges, Specialisations, Career & Salary
PGDM Eligibility Criteria
Check the eligibility criteria of the PGDM course here:
- Graduation with 50% marks, which is 45% for reserved categories.
- Valid score in entrance exams like CAT, GMAT, MAT, XAT, and CMAT.
- Some colleges may require work experience, or candidates have to appear for GD/PI rounds.
- Final year candidates can also apply so that they can submit the required proofs within the deadline.
PGDM Admission Process
- Entrance Exam: The first step requires appearing for an entrance exam that is conducted nationally or at the college level. Some of them include – CAT, XAT, MAT, or other approved exams.
- Application Form: After the entrance exam results are released, it is required to fill out the application forms for individual colleges or universities in online or offline modes.
- Shortlisting: Based on exam score, academic background, and work experience.
- Group Discussion / Personal Interview (GD/PI): Essential for assessing the communication and analytical skills of the candidates.
- Final Selection: On the basis of the overall performance of the candidates, including academics, entrance exam marks, GD/PI, and extra-curricular activities, candidates are selected based on these parameters.
- Admission Confirmation: The last step requires paying the admission fee and confirming your seat.
Conclusion
PGDM is an excellent pathway for anyone interested in entering the corporate world with a competitive edge. With top institutes like Shree LR Tiwari School of Business Management offering Marketing, Finance, Business Analytics, HR offer a great deal in the return on investment. Candidates need to make sure that they are checking the parameters based on their career goals, financial plans, and personal preferences. Choosing the right PGDM is not only about prestige but about finding a place that aligns with the aspirations of the candidates and equips them with the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving business environment.
Also, read: PGDM vs MBA – Understand the Key Differences Before You Decide
FAQs
1. What is the eligibility for PGDM admission?
To be eligible for PGDM courses, candidates need a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% aggregate marks and a valid entrance exam score such as CAT, XAT, or CMAT.
2. What is the average cost of a PGDM program in India?
The average PGDM fees in India lies somewhere between INR 5,00,000 to INR 20,00,000.
3. Which PGDM colleges offer the best placements in India?
Apart from the IIMs, Shree LR Tiwari School of Business Management and Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University offer attractive placements in India.
4. How is a PGDM different from an MBA?
Although an MBA is provided by universities, a PGDM is a diploma granted by autonomous institutions. PGDMs are more aligned with industry needs and can adapt their curriculum more easily.