Hello there. Hope you are doing good. I would like to tell you that MBA is a management based degree which can be offered only by the recognized universities whereas PGDM or PGPM can be offered by autonomous institutes also which have their own  course curriculum structured by the authorities of their institute.

In MBA, the course curriculum is designed by the university and it remains similar in all the colleges coming under that university. However, many top business schools such as all the IIMs,XLRI etc. have PGDM or PGPM course which is fully controlled by the institutes themselves. They can change or update the syllabus according to the changes prevailing in the market and hence their programme is more flexible as compared to MBA provided by universities.

I hope this resolved your query. Good luck for your future.

Dear Aspirant,

The main difference between these two courses is that – PGDM is a diploma course, while MBA is a degree course. Many people have the misconception that the market value of a diploma program (PGDM) does not suit the degree level (MBA). In fact, the main difference is that the MBA is a degree program administered by universities and colleges that are affiliated with those universities. The diploma program, i.e. the PGDM, is the course of the autonomous institutions recognised by the AICTE approved by the Ministry of Human Rights and the Government of India.

From the perspective of education itself, there is a major difference. The acquisition of an MBA degree helps the individual to get a little more value compared to a diploma.

The MBA is marked against the master's degree by the individual; while the PGDM is marked against the diploma by the individual. But that is no way to relate the industrial success record of students or the difference in knowledge that is taught in the institutes.

With the prospect of getting a job, there's no major difference at all. Securing a placement with a top company in the industry is expected to be a cakewalk if the person comes from a well-known business school in India and your professional capabilities.

The infrastructure of the institute that comprises the faculty, as well as the teaching methodology, is the factor that makes all the difference. In addition, the institute's track record and reputation is also what makes it different from the rest. Therefore, it goes without saying that a degree or diploma from a well-known institution would always be more respected for obvious reasons.

So, if you're looking to build a successful career path in management, it's barely important what course you choose. All that matters is the school that you are heading for, so think realistically for your management course at the time of the completion of the institute.

Hope this helps. All the best!