What is the difference between PGDM and MBA?
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The basic difference between MBA & PGDM is MBA (Masters in Business Management) is a degree programme affiliated to the university (Mumbai University, Delhi University, Pune University, Calcutta University), here the course is designed by the university. To get into MBA programme one has to clear the national entrance exams like CAT MAT MH-CET, XAT etc. PGDM is a Diploma in post graduation programme Management affiliated to AICTE where the course is designed by the college as per the industry standards. Here students has to clear the college entrance test to get admission in that particular college.
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MBA is a two-year management course and the course tends to be more theoretical. The curriculum is designed by the university. PGDM is a two-year course that is far more industry-relevant and practical as far as the job market is concerned.
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MBA vs. PGDM Differences
MBA :-
Degree course
University approved curriculum, hence, mostly theoretical based and uniform across institutes affiliated to a university. Mostly semester-based system. Accredited by University Grants Commission (UGC)
Both MBA and PGDM are viewed as equivalent during recruitment. The influencing factor is mostly the institute offering it. Also, while PGDM courses might be industry-oriented and preferred by the corporates, they might have to face roadblocks while applying to pursue higher education or jobs overseas. PGDM :-
Diploma course
Industry oriented programme focused more on building soft skills. Mostly tri...more -
MBA is a Management degree course is usually affiliated with a University and PGDM is a Diploma in Management offered by University/Private Colleges, approved by AICTE. While both the courses are of 2 years and hold the same value. There are many good B-school in India. As far as I know, PIBM is a well-known B-school that provides full-time MBA/PGDM courses in diverse domains like finance, HR, marketing, operations, and much more. Its curriculum is designed as per the latest industry trends and is updated regularly. Moreover, students are given profile-oriented training for the profiles of their choice and they are also indulged in Liv...more
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The difference between PGDM and MBA is PGDM is approved by AICTE and the curriculum is designed as per corporate demand an MBA is affiliated with Pune University and the curriculum is designed by the university. This is the basic difference. Others, like placement, are quite the same but training has a bit different like in PGDM students more practical exposure like internships, live projects, and many more.
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Hello,
https://www.shiksha.com/mba/resources/faq-1#8
Kindly visit the given link to know the difference between MBA and PGDM courses.
I hope it helps.
Similar Questions for you
From my experience as an ex-student, the mock GDs and mock interviews at PIBM are quite effective.
They help students understand the format, develop confidence, and improve communication skills before facing actual placement rounds. The feedback provided after each session is practical and points out areas of improvement, whether it's body language, content, or answering strategy.
Overall, these mock sessions make students more comfortable, polished, and better prepared for real interviews and group discussions.
Yes, PIBM does provide support for off‑campus placement opportunities. The placement team shares relevant job openings, helps with interview preparation, and guides students on how to approach off‑campus drives and external company applications, so you're not limited only to on‑campus recruitment.
Yes, PIBM does provide specialization‑wise placement support. The placement team and faculty guide students based on their chosen fields—whether it's Finance, Marketing, HR, Analytics, or others—by sharing relevant opportunities, prepping for role‑specific interviews, and aligning skill development with industry expectations for each specialization.
This helps students focus on the kinds of companies and job profiles that match their area of interest.
From my experience as an ex-student, the placement process at PIBM is quite transparent.
Students are regularly updated about company profiles, role details, eligibility criteria, and selection schedules. The placement team shares information on shortlisting, interview rounds, and final results, so there are no surprises. Additionally, pre-placement talks, mock sessions, and guidance on expectations ensure that students clearly understand the process at every stage.
Overall, it's structured in a way that helps students make informed decisions and stay prepared throughout the placement season.
Yes, international opportunities are available through PIBM programs, especially via the PGDM Global (Joint Degree Program) and various global tie-ups, which provide exposure to international business practices, projects, and collaborations.
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