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Specialized MBA Courses

While deciding to pursue an MBA, there are various factors that need to be considered such as your aspirations, interests, objectives, etc. Once you have reached a decision, the next sensible thing to do is to set your targets; which B – School do you desire to pursue your MBA from? Do you wish to pursue a general MBA or a specialized MBA?

It is needless to say that the first choice of majority of the students is a general MBA from the popular IIMs, XLRI, or IIFT. The primary reason for the same remains the brand name that you get to add to your resume after the completion of your degree. But in this article, we have uncovered 5 lesser-known B-Schools and their respective specialized programs, which offer a tempting ROI and can unlock numerous doors for your career.

1. TISS – M.A. in Human Resource Management & Labour Relations

M.A. in Human Resource Management & Labour Relations, offered by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai Campus, is one of the premier courses offered in the field of Human Resource Management. The program aims to instil a global perspective in its students and sensitise them towards social, political, economic, and ecological environments of the society.

Admission to this program requires a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized university in any discipline. Candidates in the final year can also apply, subject to no prior backlogs.

The candidates are shortlisted on the basis of merit determined through TISSNET. The exam is conducted once every year in the month of January.

Did you know that TISS offers better ROI than XLRI? The median package offered in both the institutes has been neck to neck over the past few years. The recent average placement reported by TISS stands at 18.2 LPA. The fee for the HR program at XLRI is roughly 20 Lakhs while the fees for the HR program at TISS is around 2-3 Lakhs. While the prevailing belief is that XLRI rules when it comes to HR, the prior data proves otherwise.

2. MDI –PGP (HRM)

If your interests lie in the field of Human Resource Management then your options don’t end at XLRI & TISS. The PGP-HRM program offered by MDI Gurgaon is rapidly creating its mark. It is designed and reviewed by faculty members and continuously draws from the contemporary business developments, and ensures a rich academia-industry blend.

In the last few years, since its inception, the program has achieved notable placement records. The highest CTC last year in PGP HRM was 40.79 LPA and the average CTC was 20.93 LPA. The ROI from this program is equivalent to that of XLRI as both the respective programs cost close to 20 Lakhs and have attained similar average CTC.

3. MICA – PGDMC

Mudra Institute of Communication, Ahmedabad is known for its one of a kind Postgraduate Diploma in Management – Communication. MICA’s PGDM – C is equivalent to an MBA and is one of the premier specialized programs in the country. The program is focused on strategic marketing, advertising, and creative communication. It has also been recognized as one of the Economic Times Best Education Brands 2017.

Admission to the PGDM – C program requires a Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Association of Indian Universities. Candidates appearing for final examination towards a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent are also eligible to apply.

One needs to appear for CAT/XAT/GMAT to be eligible for the entrance test (MICAT) conducted by the university. MICAT is conducted twice in a year. MICAT 1 is conducted mid-December and MICAT 2 is conducted mid-February. If a candidate appears for the exam twice, the better score out of the two attempts is considered.

Unlike other MBA colleges, the ratio of females to males is higher at MICA. The recent average package reported by MICA for its PGDM-C program is 12.3 LPA and the highest package is 25 LPA. If you are inclined towards advertising & mass media management and possess a knack for creative thinking then this course is for you.

4. SP Jain –GMP

SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) offers a unique Global Management Program (GMP). The program structure is such that a student spends 6 months at SP Jain, Mumbai and remaining 12 to 18 months at a partner business school abroad.

The partner business schools are:

ESB Business School, Reutlingen University, Reutlingen, Germany
IESEG School of Management, Paris, France
Nyenrode Business Universiteit, Breukelen, Netherlands
EBS Business School, Oestrich – Winkel, Germany

This program provides a global learning platform for students. The shortlisting for admission to this program is done on the basis of the profile and GMAT/GRE/CAT/XAT scores. Candidates in the past after successful completion of the program have gone on to receive offers from notable organisations like World Bank, Credit Suisse and Barclays to name a few.

Whilst you decide on your desired B - Schools, ensure you fill the application form in time. As you might be aware, there are various B-Schools that require candidates to apply separately. It is important that you make an informed decision. However, what’s even more important is you work hard to achieve the desired result. Converting your desired B-Schools and accomplishing the privilege to select one will be a good problem to have in life!