PGDM Full Form: Courses List, Subjects, Colleges [2024]

Shivam Sharma
July 15, 2024
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What is the full form of PGDM?

The full form of PGDM is Post Graduate Diploma in Management. It is a 2-year diploma course that involves an in-depth study of management. As the world rapidly changes, everything has become more adaptive to these changes.

With the fast-paced events and transformations, there has been significant growth in organizations and corporate institutions. As management evolves, it’s crucial that the study of these areas becomes deeper and more significant.

What is PGDM?

PGDM, also known as Post Graduate Diploma in Management, is a business management program that focuses on industry needs. It helps management aspirants develop essential hard and soft skills to become industry-ready managers.

PGDM is highly valued in the market and has excellent career prospects. This course provides students with a practical approach to industrial knowledge and managerial roles. It is similar to an MBA and prepares students for various management roles within companies across different specializations.

The course meets the demand for managers and functional heads in the management field. Like the MBA, PGDM is in high demand and holds significant value in the corporate world. It also helps students build careers in various fields, making their skills and personality adaptable to many relevant industries.

UG & PG Programs Details Guide 2024

Quick Overview Of PGDM – Important Facts

Full Form	Postgraduate Diploa in Management
Course level	Postgraduate diploma
Duration	2 Years
Eligibility	Graduation from a recognized university
Online PGDM Colleges	NMIMS, Amity Online, Jaipur National University, Assam Don Bosco University, etc.
Average Fees	INR 50,000 – INR 2,00,000
Job Profiles	Project Manager, HR Specialist, Financial Research Analyst, etc.
Average Salary	INR 7 LPA

What are the Eligibility Criteria for PGDM Programs?

Postgraduate diploma courses have simpler eligibility criteria compared to other advanced degrees. Both regular and distance diploma courses share the same requirements.

To be eligible for a PGDM, you need a graduation degree in any relevant field with a minimum aggregate score from a recognized university. This criterion applies to both regular and online modes of study.

However, the regular mode of PGDM has an eligibility criterion that demands:

At least 50% aggregate marks in the bachelor’s degree.
The candidates have to sit for an entrance examination and then only they will be eligible according to the marks they obtain in the entrance test.

Furthermore, the online and distance learning modes for PGDM do not require a specific number of aggregate marks. However, some universities require an entrance examination for the distance mode of PGDM. Therefore, students need to take an entrance exam regardless of the mode they apply for.

This is the only requirement for PGDM in any specialization, and all universities will consider this the minimum basic requirement to be eligible for the PGDM course.

Why should I even pursue PGDM?

PGDM, or Post Graduate Diploma in Management, is a course similar to an MBA degree. It focuses on shaping the personalities of students and working professionals to excel in professional environments. Unlike being limited to one field, PGDM offers exposure to various disciplines such as accounting, management, finance, economics, and more.

Due to its diverse curriculum and high demand, PGDM is highly sought after. Its value in the job market is comparable to that of an MBA, leading to increased demand for managers in companies. The course is designed to develop future leaders and often leads to lucrative salary packages. Therefore, choosing to pursue PGDM is often considered a wise and promising decision.

Does one require work experience to be eligible for PGDM?

PGDM typically does not require work experience to be eligible for the course. However, having 1-3 years of experience in the management field or relevant specialization can be beneficial. While it’s not mandatory, such experience enhances understanding of the course material and practical application.

In some cases, universities offering PGDM in regular mode may still prefer or require candidates to have work experience. Distance learning programs generally do not impose such requirements. It’s advisable for candidates to thoroughly research and understand the specific requirements of each university before applying for a regular learning program in PGDM.

What is the average salary after the completion of PGDM?

PGDM, being similar to MBA, offers competitive salary packages to graduates. Typically, fresh PGDM graduates can expect average salary packages ranging from 6 to 15 lakhs per annum or higher. These packages indicate strong career prospects right after graduation, and with accumulated skills and experience, salaries can increase significantly.

Overall, PGDM is known for providing excellent career paths and lucrative salary packages. The packages tend to rise as candidates gain more experience and enhance their skills, ensuring a promising and stable career ahead for students pursuing this course.

Do I need to give any entrance exams for PGDM?

For PGDM eligibility, candidates need to clear certain entrance exams, both in India and internationally. Some of the well-known entrance tests include:

CAT (Common Admission Test)
MAT (Management Aptitude Test)
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

Most institutions require a passing score on one of these exams as part of their eligibility criteria for the PGDM course.

What are the different types of PGDM specializations?

There are many specializations when it comes to PGDM. Just like MBA, PGDM also offers similar specializations and has exposure in the management field. The different types of PGDM specializations are:

PGDM in Marketing
PGDM in Finance
PGDM in Operations Management-
PGDM in International Business
PGDM in Human Resources
PGDM in Business Analytics

What are the best-known specializations of PGDM?

The course is mainly into the management field and hence, it offers different specializations in different fields. Some of the specializations of PGDM are:

Operations Management: This is the specialization which goes under the advanced study of operating the companies’ systems. The course teaches the students how to have a smooth working atmosphere in the organization. It is best suited for the individuals who have interest in studying minimal and optimum use of resources at the lowest cost possible. The candidates with the study of managing the working environment of the company along with constant productivity, such candidates are much needed.
Finance: PGDM in finance is a course that goes into the deeper study of financial management. This specialization talks about numbers and finance and is strictly in the area of accounting. It also covers the areas of analysing and strategizing financial structures of the company. PGDM finance is somehow linked with operations management as it also focuses on the aspect of cost minimisation in the company.
Marketing: Like MBA, PGDM in marketing is also a course that has a high scope and covers the same components as MBA in marketing. This course shapes the students with the skills of marketing management, marketing research, and marketing strategies. And therefore, it guides the students in the sector of increasing the market value of the company’s product and also in sales and business development.
International Business: This two-year program is an advanced study in international relations. This field is related to the aspects of international trade and Asian business and therefore, it is much into the area of creating links with the international levels and expanding the business there.

What is the course curriculum of PGDM?

The course curriculum of PGDM is divided into 4 different semesters and you can check the subjects in the table below:

Semester 1
Management Functions & Behaviour	Human Resource Management
Economic and Social Environment	Introduction to Information Technology
Semester 2
Operations Management	Marketing Management
Quantitative Techniques for Managers	Managerial Economics
Strategic Management	–
Semester 3
Marketing Management (MM)	Financial Management (FM)
International Business (IB)	Human Resource Management (HR)
Operations Management (OM)	Information Systems (IS)
Insurance Management (IN)	–
Semester 4
Business Law & Corporate Governance	International Business
Management Information Systems	Research Methodology
Project Work	–

How to get into top Universities for PGDM?

To get into top universities for PGDM, candidates should follow these steps:

1. Research Universities: Conduct thorough research about the universities offering PGDM programs. Understand their rankings, reputation, faculty, placements, and overall curriculum.

2. Choose Specialization: Decide on the specialization they want to pursue in PGDM. Different universities may offer various specializations like marketing, finance, operations, etc.

3. Check Eligibility Criteria: Ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria of the universities. Typically, candidates need a minimum aggregate of 50% in their bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a relevant domain.

4. Prepare for Entrance Exams: Many universities require candidates to clear entrance exams like CAT, MAT, CMAT, etc. Prepare well and aim for a good score in these exams as it can enhance their chances of admission into top universities.

By fulfilling these steps, candidates can position themselves well to secure admission into reputable universities offering PGDM programs.

What are the famous universities for PGDM?

There are certain universities which are known to offer the best PGDM faculties in India. Some of the famous universities for PGDM are:

Management Development Institute, Sukhrali
XLRI- Xaviers School of Management, Jamshedpur
Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bangalore
Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad
Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Dwarka, Delhi
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, Delhi
Chandigarh University

Can I pursue PGDM after 30?

Yes, anyone above the age of 30 can pursue a PGDM. Age is not a barrier, especially when opting for distance learning programs. PGDM is a viable option for individuals at various stages of their careers. There are advanced PGDM programs tailored for working professionals seeking higher education opportunities.

In summary, age does not limit eligibility for PGDM. Anyone can pursue PGDM at any age, provided they have a clear purpose and motivation for advancing their education and career.

What is the cost of a PGDM course?

The cost of a PGDM program can vary based on the specialization and the university. In Indian rupees, fees for PGDM degrees abroad range from 1 to 15 lakh rupees. Different specializations may have different fee structures, giving candidates flexibility in their choices.

Distance learning PGDM programs, on the other hand, tend to be more affordable compared to traditional on-campus programs. These remote learning options are designed to be accessible and cost-effective, catering to individuals who may find traditional or on-campus classes financially challenging.

How can I get scholarships for PGDM?

In India, scholarships for management courses are often available through institutes where students apply. Prestigious institutions like the IIMs offer scholarships based on specific criteria that students must meet to qualify. These criteria can vary depending on the type of scholarship.

Additionally, for management courses abroad, there are scholarships offered by foreign colleges specifically for international students. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing management education overseas, providing financial assistance based on merit, need, or specific eligibility criteria set by the respective institutions.

Students interested in scholarships should thoroughly research and understand the eligibility requirements for each scholarship opportunity available to them, whether in India or abroad.

What are the different types of learning modes?

There are three types of learning methods:

Full-time learning programs: Regular PGDM programmes that need face-to-face classes are known as full-time learning programmes. All studying procedures must be handled through the school administration. This is the most common learning approach, and it necessitates the use of time during working hours.
Part-time learning/Distance learning programs: Students who have other responsibilities, such as a job or another course, should consider part-time learning. Part-time programmes are designed for people who have a full-time job and a personal life, but still want to learn more. There is also a mail-in option for some programmes.
Online learning programs: The online learning approach is a completely technology driven strategy. The classes are conducted entirely online, as is the entire procedure. Those who cannot afford face-to-face sessions and struggle with regular learning would benefit from online programmes.

What is Distance and Online PGDM?

Distance PGDM has become a reliable option for studying, especially given the current global circumstances and beyond. It caters to students who face challenges in affording or attending on-campus regular learning methods. This mode of learning is particularly beneficial for working professionals who juggle job responsibilities and other commitments, as it offers flexibility and requires less time commitment compared to traditional on-campus programs.

The flexibility and reduced time commitment of distance PGDM make it highly suitable for working individuals. Despite being less time-consuming and hectic, the value and authenticity of a distance PGDM degree are equivalent to that of a regular degree. Students can pursue this mode of learning with confidence in its credibility.

Moreover, distance PGDM tends to be more affordable than its on-campus counterpart, making it a cost-effective option for students seeking quality education without the financial burden of full-time, on-campus programs.

Is online PGDM easily affordable or not?

Absolutely, online and distance learning modes for PGDM have been designed to make this prestigious course more accessible and affordable for students who face financial constraints. While PGDM is indeed an expensive course similar to MBA, opting for the online or distance mode can significantly reduce costs compared to the regular on-campus format.

Many universities recognize the financial challenges students may encounter and therefore offer PGDM programs in online or distance learning formats at more reasonable prices. This makes it possible for students to pursue their educational goals without the burden of high tuition fees associated with traditional on-campus programs.

By choosing online or distance learning for PGDM, students can benefit from the flexibility of studying from anywhere, at their own pace, and at a cost that is often more manageable. This approach ensures that quality education remains accessible to a broader range of aspiring professionals, regardless of their financial situation.

How is Distance and Online PGDM beneficial?

The authenticity of a distance or online PGDM degree is a common concern among candidates considering this mode of study. However, it’s important to note that distance and online PGDM programs are increasingly gaining credibility and recognition.

These programs are particularly advantageous for working professionals and students with busy schedules. They offer flexibility, allowing individuals to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. For working professionals especially, a distance PGDM allows them to pursue higher education without disrupting their careers, offering a less time-consuming study pattern that fits around their hectic schedules.

Moreover, a PGDM degree earned through distance or online learning equips students with management skills that can be applied not only in their careers but also in their personal lives. It promotes effective time management and organizational skills, enabling students to efficiently manage their study and work-life balance.

In summary, while concerns about authenticity exist, distance and online PGDM programs provide substantial benefits, particularly for working individuals seeking to advance their careers and skills without compromising their current responsibilities.

Job Opportunities After PGDM

After completing Postgraduate Diploma in Management students can get jobs in different fields based on the specialization they chose.

Business Consultant	INR 11 LPA
Project Manager	INR 18 LPA
Marketing Manager	INR 10 LPA
Finance Analyst	INR 5.11 LPA
Brand Manager	INR 13 LPA
International Sales Manager	INR 10 LPA

PGDM full form, Remember?

So, now you know what is the full form and full structure of PGDM and how the course holds a great career opportunity. PGDM is very much like an MBA and has a bright future, therefore, it makes the course high in demand on its own. Moreover, the course offers a deep and advanced study in the field of management which guides the students to get excellent placements with high salary packages.