Which course is better – MBA or PGDM?

Your children have completed their bachelor’s and are now thinking of pursuing a management course. MBA or PGDM?

Is that the question they’ve been looking for an answer to? Then let us help you figure out the best option for your child.

Difference between MBA and PGDM

Every student has certain preferences with respect to the duration they want to invest in that particular course, location, future prospects, etc.

Here are some characteristics of both MBA and PGDM which will help you understand how they’re both different. By going through these differences, you can help your child choose the option that works best for them.

Categories	PGDM	MBA
Duration	1 year	2 years
Qualification	Diploma Course	Degree Course
Required Entrance Exams	ATMA, SNAP, CAT, XAT, NMAT	MAT, CAT, XAT, MAT, GMAT
Course Fees (Range)	INR 5 – INR 24 Lakhs	INR 2 – 35 Lakhs
Syllabus	Your child will get exposure to a more hands-on approach to workplace situations. The curricula at autonomous institutes frequently get updated to keep up with the changing business environment.	Compared to PGDM, MBA is more theoretical. It also depends on the university your child is applying to.
Top Job Roles	Project Manager, Consultant, Data Scientist, Auditor, Tax Specialist, etc.	HR Manager, Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Finance Advisor, Investment Banker, etc
Initial Salary Offered	Up to INR 30 LPA or more	Up to INR 60 LPA or more

MBA vs PGDM – Reasons to Consider

Reasons to choose MBA

• MBA is a prestigious degree that propels students toward management careers.
• It offers early professionals opportunities for senior roles with more responsibilities.
• The typical duration for a full-time MBA program is around 2 years.
• Candidates pursue an MBA to enhance their skills and become business leaders.
• The degree is not limited by one’s prior field of study.
• What matters is the desire for a management career in a specific area.
• Careful consideration of key factors is essential before choosing an MBA program.

Reasons to choose PGDM

• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) suits recent college graduates and professionals with around two years of experience seeking career advancement.
• It’s highly beneficial for business-focused, innovative, and sustainability-oriented individuals.
• PGDM offers extensive exposure to management concepts across functional areas.
• The program aims to integrate learning and boost awareness.
• Innovative curricula aligned with industry trends are a key feature.
• Mandatory internships provide valuable industry exposure.
• The PGDM program’s ultimate goal is to prepare well-rounded professionals for the demanding business world.

MBA vs PGDM – Which is More Expensive?

Although it varies from university to university, if we talk about the affordability of both courses, an MBA is usually more economical than a PGDM. 

While your child can get an MBA for about 2 lakhs or a little over, a PGDM usually begins at 5 lakhs. 

In either case, you can find out the exact cost of your child’s education through our College Cost Calculator. Once you find out the cost, you can plan your savings for their education accordingly.

MBA vs PGDM – Impact on Career

In both India and abroad, both MBA and PGDM programs hold equal weight in terms of career opportunities. Possessing a postgraduate diploma rather than a degree is not viewed as a limitation.

What truly counts is the standing of your university or institution and, more significantly, your professional competencies.

With a clearer grasp of the distinctions between MBA and PGDM courses, take the time to assess both options and make your choice based on your academic and professional inclinations.

Your educational journey should align with your personal aspirations and career objectives, considering the flexibility and equivalency of these programs in shaping a successful future.

Studying MBA in the USA or PGDM in Canada?

Thinking of a study abroad plan for your child? Maybe an MBA from the US or a PGDM course from Canada?

Well then here’s what you need to know to help them decide.

Pros of getting an MBA in the USA

1. Increased possibility for lifelong income. 

2. Increased likelihood of employment and employability. 

3. Professionally connect with the top talent in the field. 

4. Become more knowledgeable and broaden your horizons. 

5. Develop strategic leadership abilities for large corporations. 

Expenses: For premier colleges, Indian students’ MBA tuition in the USA can range from 50,000 to 1,000,000 INR. 

Cons of getting an MBA in the USA

• Studying for an MBA abroad has various drawbacks, such as the expense of being unable to apply for employment.

• Students may find it more difficult than they anticipated to get visas or work permits for their studies abroad, which might force them to leave the nation quickly after graduation with little time for adjustment.

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Pros of Getting a PGDM in Canada 

In Canada, PGDM programs are less focused on research and more job-oriented. Many MNCs are headquartered in Canada, which also has a low unemployment rate of 6.5 percent.

While doing the course, students might complete an internship to get experience in the real world. Canada promotes the option of staying behind after graduation.

To add to this, getting a student VISA for Indian students is much easier in Canada compared to the USA. 

Cons of Getting a PGDM in Canada

Comparatively speaking, Canadian PGDM courses are less costly than those offered in the US and other nations. PGDM programs typically cost between 15,000 and 17,000 CAD (INR 8,00,000 – INR 9,05,000 approx.) 

Conclusion 

Be it an MBA or PGDM; be it in India, the USA, or Canada, what’s important for you as a parent is to be prepared for the educational expenses.

Download the EduFund App today and take the first step to fuel your child’s dreams.