Which is best an online MBA or an online PGDM

Jaro Education
3, February 2025
4:00 pm

Most individuals often find it difficult to choose a desired job as there are ample options available in the current world. Obtaining a postgraduate degree can enable a person to learn new things which can help them set themselves apart from others, as well as elevate their worth in the organization they work for. However, the primary challenge that students face is which one to choose, a PGDM or an MBA.

This blog will focus on the differences between PGDM and MBA and answer the queries if both are similar and which one is superior.

Let’s get started on this informative adventure together!

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This blog will focus on the differences between PGDM and MBA and answer the queries if both are similar and which one is superior.

Let’s get started on this informative adventure together!

Is PGDM and MBA Same?

No, PGDM and MBA are not in the same boat regardless of postgraduate management programs. The PGDM and MBA are diploma and degree programs respectively. Therefore, the debate on this has been continued for many years but we cannot hide the truth that one is a short-term program and another one is a full-time degree program. But if PGDM and MBA are the same for corporate life to get a job, then the answer is yes. Here three main factors have been mentioned to present the perfect picture of the differences between PGDM and MBA:

1. Core Differences

The core difference between PGDM and MBA is that one is a diploma and the other is a degree program but they both are equivalently valued by the companies when it comes to the job sector. They consider both programs the same. PGDM is the diploma course that is recognised by the AICTE schools or B schools. Whereas, the MBA is recognized by the government bodies.

2. Curriculum And Teaching Methods

The difference between PGDM and MBA is that the PGDM curriculum is regularly updated with the modern business industry needs and standards like business analytics, AI, blockchain, etc. in the management curriculum.

On the contrary, an MBA degree curriculum is rigid within the confined syllabus according to the government policies. Hence, it is arduous to change the syllabus according to the latest technology of the industry and their demands which is the main difference between PGDM and MBA.

If we will leap to the teaching method then it has a huge analogy. The PGDM diploma programs are run based on application method study, on the other hand, MBA degree programs are based on theoretical study methods which include deep and rooted knowledge of the basics of the management industry.

3. Industry Recognition Of PGDM and MBA

Earlier we talked about the recognition, so if we recall them it stated that there is a difference between PGDM and MBA programs because PGDM is recognized by the autonomous bodies, whereas the MBA is recognized by the government bodies like UGC.

We hope till now you have gotten the baseline difference between PGDM and MBA programs so that they are not on the same page. Are you still confused about whether PGDM and MBA are the same?

Key Differences Between PGDM and MBA

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Like you, many candidates are eager to dive into the key differences between a PGDM and an MBA.

So, without any further due we will look into the major differences between PGDM and MBA.

Here they are illustrated in table form to clarify if PGDM and MBA are the same.

Factors	PGDM	MBA
Eligibility	Get a bachelor’s degree from any recognized university. You should score 50% marks or CGPA in your bachelor’s degree. You have to clear the exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, GMAT, OR CMAT. Professional experience is not mandatory.	Get a bachelor’s degree from any recognized university. You should score 50% marks or CGPA in your bachelor’s degree. You have to clear the exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, GMAT, OR CMAT. Working experience is compulsory for at least 2-5 years.
Duration	2 Years	2 Years (1-year EMBA)
Cost	From public institutes, the fee ranges from INR 15,00,000 lakhs to INR 25,00,000 for the full course. Online PGDM fee is INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000.	From public institutes, the fee ranges from INR 1 lakh to INR 10 lakhs full course. Online MBA fee varies from INR 80,000 to INR 5,50,000.
Course structure	4 semesters nearly 6 months each	4 semester for conventional MBA and 2 semester for EMBA
Accreditation	It is offered by the All India Council Of Technical Education (AICTE) and the Ministry of Human Resource Development ( MHR) in India.	Affiliated by UGC or duly accredited by college or universities.
Practical learning opportunities	More because they focus on practical learning.	Less because they focus on theoretical learning.

Let us take a recap, that you have been acknowledged with the key differences between PGDM and MBA.

Career Prospects With Salary

As the business industry is revolutionizing and ruling the world hence, every individual just like you wants to excel in their career and is curious to know about the career opportunities after completing the PGDM and MBA programs. So, here we have broken down this for you by explaining the major factors on which you can assess yourself and go ahead without any doubt in your brain regarding the difference between PGDM and MBA.

PGDM and MBA	Average Salary (in INR)
Marketing Manager	10 LPA
Digital marketing manager	4.5 LPA
Supply chain manager	8 LPA
Sales manager	10 LPA
Accounts manager	6.86 LPA
Finance manager	9.6 LPA
Project manger	13 LPA
Retail manager	5 LPA
Healthcare manager	4 LPA

Key Concerns: The difference between PGDM and MBA is the course structure where PGDM focuses on practical skills and MBA focuses on book knowledge.

PGDM vs MBA: Discover the Best Institutions for Your Career Aspirations

When it comes to choosing the university to pursue the PGDM and MBA then the two top universities’ name strike are Jain University which specializes in online MBA and Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA) which is well-known for its online PGDM.

Let us dive into the overview of both of the universities to get a better understanding of the difference between PGDM and MBA.

The best online PGDM courses in India like the Online PGDM by Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA). Designed specifically for working professionals, LIBA’s program blends academic excellence with real-world relevance.

Key Features of LIBA’s Online PGDM

- AICTE-approved and internationally accredited
- Considered equivalent to a full-time MBA
- Specializations in Marketing, Finance, HRM, Business Analytics, Healthcare Management, and Supply Chain
- Capstone Projects: Practical projects focusing on real-world problem-solving
- Flexibility: Fully online with live, interactive sessions
- Affordability: Total fee: ₹3,50,000, making it accessible to a wide range of learners

The most famous Jain University offers a 2-year MBA course through the Center of Management Studies. Candidates who are aiming for a PG-level program can choose for single or dual specialization from Jain University. The online MBA course includes various fields like finance, business analytics, HRM, and marketing and finance.

Key Features of Jain University’s Online MBA

- Candidates can apply through the Jain Entrance Test or any of the exams like CAT, GMAT, etc.
- It is ranked 95th according to NIRF.
- The fee varies from INR 80,000 to INR 12.1 lakhs ( tuition fee)
- It is also a member of several national and international organizations including the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP), the Network of International Business and Economics Schools (NIBES), and the Association of Commonwealth Universities. Jain University Bangalore Jayanagar is also approved by the UGC

How Jaro Education Can Help You Excel in Your Career

In today’s fast-changing tech world, the PGDM and MBA are vital for a successful career. The difference between PGDM and MBA support business skills which can open many career doors. This is true for both beginners and pros. Beginners want to enter the tech world. Pros want to boost their skills. Jaro Education is a trusted platform for upskilling. It can help you gain the skills to stay competitive in the fast-changing, especially for the difference between a PGDM and an MBA.

Jaro Education provides guidance to help you master the difference between a PGDM and an MBA. It will give you the knowledge and experience to thrive in tech roles. Let’s explore how Jaro Education can help you on your journey to becoming an entrepreneur.

Wrapping Up

To reiterate, you have understood the main key differences between PGDM and MBA. However, both are crucial for getting a place in the corporate world of business management. The business world treats the PGDM and MBA programs as equivalent. But what is most important?

The crucial factor is to get the standardized skills with the trend of new technology and you should be able to tackle all the long-term goals. Now we can analyze which MBA and PGDM are better. Hence, both are on the same page in terms of career opportunities. So, upskill yourself by gaining expert guidance from Jaro Education’s admission counselors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PGDM and MBA?

The difference between PGDM and MBA is mentioned here. PGDM is typically offered by autonomous institutes, while MBA (Master of Business Administration) is usually offered by universities. PGDM programs focus more on practical, industry-relevant skills, while MBA programs emphasize theoretical knowledge and research.

MBA and PGDM, Which Is Better?

This widespread query arises from the differences between PGDM and MBA. if you are looking for practical industry exposure within the flexible curriculum, PGDM might be a better option, on the contrary, an MBA could be the best option for you if you are intrigued in a comprehensive academic approach.

Can I get a job after completing a PGDM or MBA?

Yes, both PGDM and MBA are the same programs that offer solid career prospects. PGDM graduates tend to have strong industry-ready skills, while MBA graduates are often seen as well-rounded leaders. Both programs open doors to leadership roles, consulting, entrepreneurship, and more.

What is the duration of PGDM and MBA programs?

Both PGDM and MBA programs usually span 2 years. However, some PGDM programs may offer accelerated formats, and there are also part-time or executive options for working professionals.

What is the eligibility for PGDM and MBA programs?

For both PGDM and MBA, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. Most institutes also require a valid score from competitive exams like CAT, GMAT, or XAT.