PGDM: Course, Eligibility, Admission, Fees, Colleges, Placement 2025

What is PGDM?

Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) is a two-year, full-time postgraduate program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various managerial roles. It is similar to an MBA, but there are some key differences.

1. Industry focus: PGDM programs are typically more industry-focused than traditional MBA programs.
2. Flexibility: PGDM programs often offer more flexibility than MBA programs through their curriculum and course options.
3. Autonomy and Governance: PGDM programs are offered by autonomous institutions. This autonomy allows these institutes to design their own curriculum as per the industry demand.

PGDM Course Key Highlights

Particulars	Details
Full Form	Post Graduate Diploma in Management
Course Level	Postgraduate level
Average PGDM fee	INR 8 - 20 Lakhs
Duration	2 Years
Mode of Study	Full-time and Part-time
Career Tracks (Specializations)	Financial Management & Fintech Marketing Management Supply Chain and Logistics Management Hospital and Healthcare Management Digital Transformation and Digital Business Management Entrepreneurship and Innovation Data Science and Business Intelligence Human Resource Management and Organisational Behaviour Tourism and Hospitality Management Agri-Business Management Sports Administration and Management
Eligibility	Graduation in any stream
Curriculum	Specialization options may vary
Entrance Exams	CAT, MAT, XAT, SNAP, NMAT, CMAT, GMAT Institution-based Exams
Admission process	Entrance exam, GD, PI
Teaching Methodology	Experiential Learning, Case Studies, Group Discussions, Simulation Games, etc.
Placement Assistance	Career counselling, Mock interviews, Job search assistance, Networking opportunities, On-campus recruitment, Internships
Career Opportunities	HR Recruiters, Sales Managers, Public Relations Managers, Research Analysts etc.
Average Package	INR 10,00,000 LPA
Type	Full Time, Part Time, Distance, Executive, Online, Dual Specialization
Top Recruiters	Microsoft, EY, KPMG, PWC, HCL, CRISIL, Wipro, UKG, Berkadia, JP Morgan, UKG, Atos,  Deloitte Consulting, Accenture, KPIT, TCS & many more

PGDM Course Average Fees

The average PGDM course fee in India ranges from INR 8,00,000 Lakh to INR 20,00,000 Lakh. However, program fees vary based on factors such as:

1. Location
2. Facilities
3. Specialization
4. The brand value of the institute
5. Placement Assistance offered by the institution

PGDM Course Duration

PGDM course is a 2-year program. However, it may slightly differ in a few institutes.

PGDM Course Mode of Study

How much time can you dedicate to studying? Do you have obligations to your family or a job?

Do you like to learn in a traditional classroom setting or independently?

These are some questions you need to ask yourself before you decide.

While part-time students can attend classes on the weekends or evenings, full-time students must attend full-time.

•  Full-Time PGDM: Full-time PGDM programs are typically designed for students who want to focus on their studies and have a more rigorous experience. Further, it includes internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

• Part-Time PGDM: Part-time PGDM programs are intended for students who desire to work towards their education at their own pace while maintaining a full-time job.

• Distance PGDM: Distance PGDM programs are typically two years long and allow students to complete their coursework at their own pace. Distance PGDM programs are a good option for students who want to study but are unable to attend classes regularly.

• Executive PGDM: Executive PGDM programs are typically one year long and are designed for experienced professionals. Executive PGDM programs typically cover more advanced topics than general PGDM programs.

• Online PGDM: Online PGDM programs are typically two years long and allow students to complete their coursework entirely online. Online PGDM programs are a good option for students who want the flexibility to study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world.

• Dual Specialization PGDM: Dual specialization PGDM programs allow students to specialize in two different areas, such as marketing and finance or human resources and operations. Dual specialization PGDM programs are a good option for students who want to develop a broad range of skills and knowledge.

Therefore, select a study style that matches your schedule, lifestyle, and financial needs while catering to your preferences for learning.

PGDM Specializations

As you already know, a PGDM Program offers numerous specialization options.

Choose a specialization that aligns with your career goals.

Here are some of the most popular PGDM specializations:

1. PGDM in Data Science & Business Intelligence

2. PGDM in  Entrepreneurship and Innovation

3. PGDM in Financial Management & FINTECH

4. PGDM in Marketing Management

5. PGDM in Human Resource Management

6. PGDM in Supply Chain & Logistics Management

7. PGDM in Tourism & Hospitality Management

8. PGDM in Hospital & Healthcare Management

9. PGDM in Agri-Business Management

10. PGDM in Sports Administration & Management

11. PGDM in Digital Transformation & Digital Business Management

 

PGDM Course Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for PGDM courses vary depending on the institution. The general eligibility criteria are-

1. Bachelor's degree: Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university.

2. Percentage: Applicants must have a minimum of 50% marks in their bachelor's degree.

3. Entrance exams: Many institutions require applicants to take an entrance exam, such as the CAT, MAT, or XAT. The entrance exam scores are used to shortlist candidates for the PGDM program.

PGDM Course Curriculum

A PGDM curriculum varies based on the institution and the specializations it offers. However, most PGDM programs will cover the following subjects:

• Marketing

• HRM

• Finance

• Accounting

• Operations Management

• Business Management

• Business Statistics

• Research Methodology

PGDM Course Entrance Exams

There are several entrance exams available for students who want to pursue PGDM.

Some of the most popular PGDM entrance exams are:

1. Common Admission Test (CAT)

2. Management Aptitude Test (MAT)

3. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

4. Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)

5. All India Management Association - Common Admission Test (AIMA-CAT)

PGDM Course Admission process

Here's a preview of the admission process and the most common steps involved in securing your spot:

1. Check the eligibility criteria

2. Submit an application form

3. Take an entrance exam

4. Appear for the GD and PI rounds

*Note- The admission process for PGDM courses varies depending on the institution.

PGDM Course Teaching Methodology

PGDM programs use several teaching methodologies to provide students with a well-rounded education. The teaching methodology might vary depending on the institution and the specialization. 

Some of the most common teaching methodologies used in PGDM programs such as-

1. Traditional classroom lectures

2. Experiential learning

3. Case studies

4. Group discussions

5. Role-playing exercises

6. Live projects/ Capstone projects

7. Simulation games

8. Online learning/Live expert sessions

9. Problem-based learning

PGDM Course Placement Assistance

Most PGDM programs offer placement assistance to their students. This placement assistance might vary depending on the institution. The placement assistance process typically includes

1. Career Counseling

2. Resume and Cover Letter Writing Assistance

3. Mock Interviews

4. Job Search Assistance

5. Networking Opportunities with Alumni and Industry Experts

6. On-campus Recruitment

7. Internships

PGDM Course Career Opportunities

PGDM programs offer numerous opportunities in a variety of industries, including Finance, Human Resources, Operations, Consulting, Entrepreneurship, etc.

Some of the most common career opportunities for PGDM graduates include-

1. Management Consultant

2. Marketing Manager

3. Human Resource Manager

4. Financial Analyst

5. Business Analyst

6. Retail Manager

7. Supply Chain Manager

8. Healthcare Manager

9. Banking and Financial Services Manager

10. Information Technology Manager

11. Operations Manager

12. Investment Banker

13. Entrepreneur

14. Rural Manager, etc.

PGDM Course Average Package

According to PayScale, here are the salary statistics for PGDM graduates:

1. Average Salary: INR 10,00,000

2. Median Salary: INR 7,00,000

However, the average salary for PGDM graduates can vary depending on factors like the institution, specialization, years of experience and the job market scenario.

Why Choose PGDM for Personal Growth?

A PGDM program helps you grow personally and professionally. Here are a few ways how-

1. Makes you confident

2. Introduces you to new ideas and perspectives.

3. Enhances your skills and knowledge

4. Teaches you critical and problem-solving skills

5. Networking opportunities

Who Can Pursue PGDM?

PGDM courses are open to-

1. Fresh Graduates

2. Working Professionals

3. Entrepreneurs

4. Anyone who wants to advance their career or learn more about business

Skills Required for PGDM Degree

A PGDM course requires students to have a wide range of skills, including

1. Analytical skills

2. Communication skills

3. Problem-solving skills

4. Teamwork skills

5. Leadership skills

6. Business knowledge

7. Research skills

8. Computer skills

9. Foreign language skills

PGDM Salary Trends

The current job market for PGDM graduates is very demanding. As the economy grows, the need for skilled professionals also increases.

PGDM students have strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills and are highly sought after by the Finance, IT, and Marketing sectors!

The salary for PGDM graduates varies depending on several factors. However, the average salary for PGDM graduates is typically around INR 600,000 per year.

Here is a breakdown of the average salary for PGDM graduates in India by industry:

1. Consulting: INR 750,000 P.A.

2. Finance: INR 700,000 P.A.

3. Marketing: INR 650,000 P.A.

4. Human Resources: INR 600,000 P.A.

5. Operations: INR 550,000 P.A.

Is PGDM Equivalent To an MBA

While looking for the best management program for you, you must have thought about this question- Should I get an MBA or PGDM? 

Well, both the PGDM and MBA are management degree programs. The duration for both programs is two years and they offer a variety of the same specializations. Let's examine this in more detail.

Aspect	PGDM	MBA
Type of Degree	Post Graduate Diploma	Master's Degree
Degree Awarding Body	Independent Business Schools/Colleges	Universities
Curriculum Autonomy	Greater adaptability and flexibility	More uniform curriculum
Accreditation	AICTE	UGC
Duration	2 years	2 years
Specializations	A variety of specializations	A range of specializations
Affiliation	Universities may be associated	Normally associated with universities
Emphasis	Practical skills and industrial exposure are prioritized	Theory and practice are balanced
Entrance Exams	Entrance tests Institute-specific entrance tests may exist	Common entrance exams are frequently required
Job Opportunities	Placement assistance is provided by the college	Placement assistance is provided by the University
Cost	Cost may be less expensive	Tuition prices may vary significantly

 

PGDM FAQ

1] What is the full form of PGDM?

The full form of PGDM is "Post Graduate Diploma in Management."

2] How to apply for PGDM admissions?

To apply for PGDM admissions, visit the official website of the institution offering the PGDM program. Fill up the application form and follow the instructions provided for submission. Some institutions may also accept common entrance exam scores like CAT, MAT, or XAT.

3] What are the key factors to consider when choosing a PGDM college?

The key factors for choosing a PGDM college include accreditation, faculty, infrastructure, placement, specialization options, and cost.

4] How to prepare for PGDM entrance exams like CAT, MAT, or XAT?

Prepare for PGDM entrance exams by starting early, using official materials, taking mock tests, and managing your time effectively.

5] Are scholarships available for PGDM students?

Scholarships for PGDM students are often available, but they vary from one institution to another. Hence, check with the specific PGDM institution and obtain information on scholarships, grants, or financial aid options.

Conclusion

A PGDM is more than just a degree; it is a transformative educational experience that prepares individuals for success in the competitive and dynamic world of business and management. It equips students with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability required to thrive in their chosen careers and make a meaningful impact in the corporate world.

Your Path to Success Begins with Sparsh Global Business School's PGDM!

SGBS’s PGDM is designed with a curriculum based on empowering you with knowledge, skills and practical experience hence, preparing you for personal and career growth. Stellar academicians and professionals have created a space that is conducive to experimentation, learning, and making of your dreams.

Seize the moment and start your journey to success with SGBS's PGDM program today.