Hello Aspirant,

The most basic difference between the two programs is that

• MBA is a Degree program while a PGDM is a diploma program.
• Only universities, which come under the University Grants Commission (UGC), can award MBA while a PGDM program is offered by AICTE recognized B-Schools and standalone/autonomous b-schools.

However, the corporate world does not differentiate between the two. Graduates from both programs are equally eligible for the same kind of management jobs.

Even though a diploma, sometimes PGDM has more value than an MBA based on the college. For instance, IIMs offer PGDM programs but they provide by far the best management programs in India.

One more big difference between the two is that:

• MBA develops theoretical concepts and focuses on developing the technical knowledge of a student while PGDM course focuses on preparing the students for practical situations.
• MBA is a more affordable program while PGDM programs are a bit expensive. (usually)

In a nutshell, MBA is a degree while PGDM is a diploma but still in usual cases it holds more value than an MBA. More so, everything depends on the B-School you're graduating from.

Hope this helps.