25 July 2023
Do you think that a degree can impact your entire career?
Yes, enrolling for the right degree is extremely crucial to advance your career to the next level. The importance becomes amplified when seeking admission to a PGDM course. The ideal PGDM programme should closely match your interests, goals, and skills. It should be designed to expand your knowledge and furnish you with the necessary expertise to excel in demanding positions within any industry.
Let us see some of the important factors that you must consider before choosing the right PGDM programme for your career success:
Recognising your Driving Force for Higher Education
Before embarking on higher education, it is crucial to identify your motivations for pursuing it, especially when considering a PGDM programme. Each educational path has its specific objectives, and you likely have compelling reasons for wanting to pursue this course. Whether it's to secure your dream job, work in a specific field or company, ensure a stable career with lucrative earnings, or develop unique leadership skills, understanding your "why" is essential. If you have already chosen a specialisation, like marketing, knowing your goals will help you select the right college that can best support your aspirations.
Accreditation and Recognition
Accreditation is an important factor in determining the quality and credibility of a PGDM programme. You must apply for those PGDM programmes that are offered by universities or business schools accredited by well-known educational bodies like the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). If you go for accredited schools for your PGDM, it ensures that they meet the required academic standards, and are well-recognised by employers and other institutions. Therefore, a PGDM degree from an accredited institution can enhance your chances of employability and academic credibility.
Presence of Good Faculty
The calibre of faculty significantly impacts your learning journey. Professors with strong qualifications and industry experience bring a wealth of knowledge to the classroom, delivering exceptional lectures and fostering interactive discussions. Opting for PGDM programmes led by such expert faculty ensures a valuable educational experience. To evaluate their expertise, examine faculty profiles and previous work experience, considering their academic qualifications and industry background.
Industry Connect
Assessing a PGDM college's industry connection before enrolling is crucial for enhanced internships, placements, and practical experience. Robust industry ties offer valuable guest lectures, workshops, and seminars, keeping students updated on trends. A strong connection increases job prospects, as companies favour candidates from reputable colleges. Thorough evaluation empowers students to make informed decisions for a successful professional journey.
Placement and Internship Opportunities
Your ultimate goal of pursuing a PGDM programme is to secure rewarding job opportunities. Hence, it is advisable to check the PGDM institute's placement record and the support provided by the placement cell. A strong placement cell facilitates interactions with recruiters, conducts placement drives, and prepares students for interviews and group discussions. On the other hand, internships play a significant role in gaining practical experience and industry exposure. Therefore, it is recommended to apply for PGDM programmes that offer internships as part of the curriculum.
Location
The location of your college or institute plays an important role in choosing the right PGDM course. If you study your PGDM course from institutes located in or near prominent business cities, it offers better exposure to industries, networking events, and potential job opportunities. Being in a vibrant business ecosystem can give you access to industry seminars, workshops, and conferences, allowing you to stay updated on the latest developments in your field. In addition, favourable climatic conditions, efficient transportation facilities, and excellent road connectivity also play a pivotal role in fostering a positive mindset and facilitating a fruitful educational journey.
Way forward
In conclusion, the choice of a PGDM degree holds immense significance for your entire career. It is essential to opt for a programme that aligns with your interests and career goals. By staying motivated, you get a clarity of purpose and drive yourself towards academic excellence and personal growth. You must also give importance to programmes that are offered by accredited institutions backed by a strong faculty. Moreover, you must give importance to Industry connections and networking opportunities provided by the programme. Besides this, you must also consider placement and internship opportunities, and the location of the institute where you would be pursuing your PGDM from. Therefore, choosing the right PGDM programme lays the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career journey in the dynamic world of business and management.
