• Degree Conferred:
• PGDM: The PGDM program is approved by AICTE, Ministry of Education Govt. of India. This is a diploma program offered by autonomous institutions and private business schools approved by AICTE. Maharaja Agrasen Business School is one of the best B-School’s in Delhi NCR providing this program. Institutions offering PGDM are not affiliated with any university. The autonomy allows them to design and update their curriculum based on industry requirements. In India we have many Industry anchored Business Schools offering this program to give the best industry practices to young professionals.
• MBA: This is a degree program offered by universities under UGC and colleges affiliated with them. MBA programs often follow a standardized curriculum set by the university.
• Curriculum and Flexibility:
• PGDM: Institutes offering PGDM have the flexibility to update their curriculum more frequently to align with industry trends and demands. They can respond quickly to changes in the business environment. PGDM students study more number of courses as compared to MBA students. Learn More about the curiculum.
• MBA: The curriculum for MBA programs is generally more standardized and might not be updated as frequently as in PGDM program.
• Recognition:
• PGDM: The recognition and acceptance of PGDM may vary depending on the reputation of the institution. Some companies may specifically prefer candidates with an MBA degree or candidates with PGDM from reputed  institutes approved by AIU. NAAC ranking and NIRF rankings institutes are also preferred by companies.
• MBA: MBA degrees are widely recognized, and graduates from reputable universities often enjoy a high level of credibility in the job market. NAAC ranked institutes students get preference by companies.
• Curriculum & Affiliation:
• PGDM: Institutes offering PGDM are autonomous and not affiliated with any university. They have the freedom to set their own curriculum, grading system, and other academic policies. Students get an opportunity to study more credit courses which are relevant to industry practices.
• MBA: MBA programs are affiliated with universities, and their curriculum and policies are generally set by the university. They may have less flexibility in adapting to changing industry needs. Students study lesser number of courses.
• Duration:
• PGDM: The duration of PGDM programs can vary, but they are typically two years long. Two year program is offered under trimester system.
• MBA: MBA programs are generally two years in duration, but some universities may offer one-year programs as well. It is generally offered under annual system or semester system.
• Entrance Exams:
• PGDM: Admissions to PGDM programs are based on entrance exams conducted by national level Common exams which  include CAT (Common Admission Test), MAT (Management Aptitude Test), ATMA, CMAT, GMAT, XAT and others by respective institutions.
• MBA: Admissions to MBA programs are often based on national or state-level entrance exams like CAT, XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test), GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), and others.
• Fee Structure:
• PGDM: PGDM programmes cost can vary between 5 and 20 lakhs. Fee Structure at MABS.
• MBA: MBA is a more affordable program.
• Average Salary:
• PGDM: Avg Salary ranges between 4 lacs – 20 lacs
• MBA: Avg Salary ranges between 2 lacs – 8 lacs

PGDM vs MBA is one of the crucial questions which students get confused with at the time of admission. Top institutes of India offer PGDM program and have a better placement record including innovative startups by their students. Learn more about Delhi’s premier PGDM program in partnership with Industry at Maharaja Agrasen Business School (MABS). 

Author:

Prof. (Dr.) Vandana Sharma
Maharaja Agrasen Business School (MABS)
Head, Click Catalysts (Digital Marketing Club)