A Basic Overview about a Post Graduate Diploma in Management

When students today are looking for post graduate courses of study to add value to their career prospects, one of the most popular options has to be an MBA or a Master's in Business Administration. Management colleges abound and they offer students a whole host of courses ranging from finance to mass communication and marketing. Another such option that people often think about in lieu of an MBA is a Post Graduate Diploma in Management or a PGDM.

PGDM which is also known as a professional management program or course, is often given the short end of the stick since people assume that the word 'diploma' in the name won't carry as much weight as a degree. However contrary to popular belief, this course is also one that lasts for 2 years and carries immense weight when it comes to your career, when they are recognised by the AICTE or the All India Council for Technical Education. Institutes that are recognised by this body will offer comprehensive post graduate diploma in management programs. 

Post graduate diplomas in management are an alternative to an MBA, since they are usually offered by institutes or schools that are aren't affiliated with a particular university. This does not mean they are less than stellar; in fact you will find premier management colleges all across the country that have PGDM course offerings. Usually colleges that offer MBA courses are part of a university and have to follow a set curriculum, rules and guidelines as prescribed by that university. Whereas those that aren't have the autonomy to set their own curriculum and design a course that is more flexible, as long as it comes within the boundaries drawn by the AICTE. 

A post graduate diploma in management is often times also more career specific and is often targetted more toward a specified sphere of interest, as opposed an MBA which gives students a more broad approach toward the field. A PGDM can also be a more industry oriented course of study since the colleges offering this diploma have the freedom and flexibility to set their own curriculum and update and refresh it as and when the industry norms change. One good thing about this course is that if you complete one from a reputable and recognised school you will be able to pursue a doctorate if you wish to study further, since it is recognised in most places as a certificate equal to a Master's. 

You will find a variety of post graduate diploma in management courses today. However if you want the most bang for your buck and to compete on a sure footing when it comes to a job hunt or furthering your career prospects, it is essential to find a reputable B school that is well known in the industry. Make sure you research both the institute and the curriculum thoroughly when it comes to deciding between a Post Graduate Diploma in Management and an MBA, and find out what works best for your goals and aspirations.