Deciding on which course to pursue in higher education is one of the trickiest phases a student goes through after completing graduation. However, if the student wants to join the campaign of next generation managers, then an MBA is the best option to go ahead but at the same time there is PGDM too. Next question that arises is that what is the difference between MBA and PGDM.
Although both are postgraduate level management courses yet there is a hairline difference between the two. PGDM stands for Post Graduate Diploma in Management whereas MBA stands for Masters in Business Administration.
The Find below table show basic difference between the difference between MBA and PGDM
| Parameters Names | MBA | PGDM |
| Course Curriculum | Syllabus is prepared by Universities & gets updated less frequently. | Dynamic Syllabus and Gets updated as per needs of industry & requirment. Syllabus is approved under AICTE. |
| Approving Body | AICTE, Ministry of HRD (Govt. of India), UGC Approval is needed at the university level. | AICTE, Ministry of HRD (Govt. of India) |
| Equivalence | MBA a post graduate degree. | Equivalent to MBA from any Indian University. For PhD, Teaching (UGC NET) and all other purposes. |
| Examinations | Examinations are conducted by affiliated University only. | PGDM institutions are authorised by AICTE, to conduct the Examinations |
| Entrance Process | Thorough State level Entrance Examinations. | Thorough CAT/ MAT/XAT/ATMA and some colleges preffer state lavel exam also |
| Placements | Depends upon the institution. | Depends upon the institution. Most of the PGDM institutions have better placement records than MBA institutions. |
| Degree Validity | Valid Post Graduate Degree. | Valid and equivalent to Post Graduate Degree. |
In India or overseas, both MBA and PGDM holds an equal value in terms of career prospects. Pursuing a post graduate diploma is certainly not a drawback. However, it is the reputation of your university or college that matters along with your efficiency and competency. Since you are now clear between the two, you can choose to pursue the one which you feel is more beneficial to you in all aspects.
