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Is Executive MBA from IIM worth doing?

Updated: Oct 2, 2023

Yes, definitely, the Executive MBA from IIM is worth it. IIM Executive MBA programs or the one year full time MBA programs offered by IIM are the go to destination for professionals with prior work experience for the main reason that it helps them pivot to a managerial career.


Professionals from technology sector to consulting sector who wish to study in smaller cohorts prefer the Executive MBA from IIM over other options Internationally because of three reasons:

  1. The Executive MBA from IIM costs at least 50% lesser than an equivalent education in US or Europe.

  2. The Executive MBA from IIM results in career growth of upto 100% to 150% in salaries for professionals post MBA.

  3. The Executive MBA from IIM provides a chance to be a part of an enhanced alumni base of 40000+ IIM graduates at coveted positions in India.

We researched the Executive MBA from IIM programs with reference to the GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey 2023 which outlined the recruiter expectations from the MBA graduates. This analysis shows that the reason the Executive MBA from IIM delivers value to the participants is because the course is appropriately designed to meet the current and the future requirements of the business world. It is this preparation that leads to graduates delivering value to their organisations in perpetuity.


Does the Executive MBA from IIM course deliver value to future recruiters?

Yes, let's explore how. The GMAC 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey outlines what employers expect from MBA graduates currently and in the future 5 years into the following categories:

1. Growth Areas : Skills that might not be as important now but will gain importance in the next five years.

2. Future Oriented : Skills that are very important now and will remain important in the next five years.

3. Low Utility: Skills employers say aren’t as important now and won’t gain much relevance.


In the following paragraphs, we have explored the Executive MBA from IIM curriculum in these categories for the 1 year MBA offered three IIM institutions which rank amongst the top 3 in the NIRF Rankings and analysed the value they deliver.

  1. 2023 NIRF Rank 1: IIM Ahmedabad

  2. 2023 NIRF Rank 2: IIM Bangalore

  3. 2023 NIRF Rank 3: IIM Kozhikode

1. Executive MBA from IIM Ahmedabad

Analysing the IIMA PGPX course with reference to the GMAC 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey:


The pursuit of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a resolute endeavour, fuelled by the aspiration to equip oneself with a comprehensive toolkit of skills that not only meet current market demands but also future-proof against the evolving landscape. The crucial question that arises is whether your chosen MBA program is moulding you into the ideal candidate coveted by recruiters. In this analytical odyssey, we dissect the mosaic of courses offered by the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) Post Graduate Programme for Executives (PGPX), dissecting them into two crucial streams: "Future-Oriented Skills" and "Growth Areas."

Here is our analysis of the courses offered at IIM A PGPX and how they relate to the recruiter requirements according to the GMAC's recruiter survey report 2023

Is IIMA PGPX worth it? Analyse the Future-Oriented Skills: Illuminating the Present and Paving the Path Forward provided by IIMA PGPX:


1. Data Analysis and Interpretation: The era of data proliferation necessitates the ability to decipher complex datasets. Electives like "Data Visualization for Decision Making" and "Seminar on Marketing Data Analytic Practices" hone your data analytical prowess for sound decision-making.


2. Communication: The art of effective communication transcends all dimensions of business. Courses like "Management Communication" and "Inspired Leadership through Personnel Mastery" nurture your ability to articulate ideas with impact.


3. Strategy & Innovation: Navigating disruptive forces mandates strategic finesse and innovation. "Strategic Management" and "Business Relationships and Networks" prepare you to steer enterprises through uncharted territories.


4. Interpersonal Skills: In a collaborative ecosystem, adeptness in team dynamics is pivotal. "Negotiation Lab" and "Leadership Skills" equip you with the skills to collaborate effectively and lead teams.


5. Decision Making Process: Swift decision-making amid uncertainty is an emblem of a visionary leader. "Strategy Execution", "Modelling for Decisions", and "Business Simulation Game (Capstone)" cultivate your acumen for calculated decisions.


6. General Business Functions: A robust grasp of core business functions is paramount. "Corporate Finance" and "Financial Statement Analysis" provide a strong foundation for strategic thinking.


7. Learning Motivation & Leadership: Continual learning and adaptive leadership define successful professionals. "Leadership, Values & Ethics" and "Leadership in Professional Service Firms" foster your leadership journey.



Is IIMA PGPX worth it? Explore the skills you gain in Growth Areas: Pioneering Ahead in Business Horizons at IIMA PGPX.

1. Business Ethics: With ethical considerations gaining prominence, courses like "Ethics in Business Management", "Leadership, Values & Ethics" and "Corporate Governance" lay the groundwork for ethical decision-making.


2. Human Capital: In the evolving workforce landscape, courses like "Strategic Human Resource Management" and "Leadership Skills" address the convergence of human capital and leadership.


3. Product Design & Production: Innovation-led product design holds sway. "Business Turnaround and Organizational Transformation" and "Valuation of Firms" offer insights into these domains.


4. Media Communications: Digital communication is paramount. "Marketing Management in the World of Hi-Tech and Innovation", and "Management Communication" delve into this dynamic arena.


5. Knowledge of Human Behavior: Consumer behavior underpins marketing success. "Neuroscience and Consumer Behavior" and "Connecting communities and corporations for frugal Innovations" decode this aspect.


6. Technology Software & Programming: Adeptness in technology is increasingly indispensable. "Data Visualization for Decision Making" and "Seminar on Marketing Data Analytic Practices" bridge this gap.


IIMA PGPX's eclectic elective offerings construct a bridge between current demands and future horizons. However, the mantle of engaging with these courses, seeking practical applications, and sustaining an unwavering dedication to learning rests upon you. The fulcrum of an MBA's efficacy stretches beyond the curriculum, finding its zenith in the practical realm. Read about the aspects which differentiate IIM vs ISB.


The question of whether your MBA is nurturing recruiter-desired skills is intricate. IIMA PGPX's curriculum reflects an earnest endeavor to resonate with contemporary and forthcoming industry requisites. Graduates who ardently embrace these offerings, coupled with a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability, are poised to emerge as coveted assets in the dynamic tableau of business.


2. Executive MBA from IIM Bangalore

Analysing the IIMB EPGP course with reference to the GMAC 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey:


The journey of pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a transformational one, driven by the aspiration to amass a repertoire of skills that resonate with the demands of recruiters both in the present and in the future. As the business landscape continues its dynamic evolution, the question emerges: Is your chosen MBA program aligning you with the competencies sought by recruiters? In this analytical exploration, we dissect the mosaic of elective courses offered by the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore's (IIMB) Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP), categorizing them into two pivotal clusters: "Future-Oriented Skills" and "Growth Areas."

Here is our analysis of the courses offered at IIM B EPGP and how they relate to the recruiter requirements according to the GMAC's recruiter survey report 2023

Is IIMB EPGP worth it? Discover the Future-Oriented Skills IIMB EPGP delivers: Navigating the Present and Pioneering the Future

1. Data Analysis and Interpretation: In a data-driven world, the ability to decipher and derive insights from complex datasets is invaluable. Electives such as "Business Analytics and Intelligence", "Data Science Doctrine" and "Data Visualization and Storytelling" equip you with the skills to harness data for strategic decisions.


2. Communication: Effective communication remains an enduring pillar of business success. "Communication for Leaders", "Management Communication", "Intercultural Managerial Communication" and "Storytelling for Business Managers" cultivate your ability to articulate ideas compellingly.


3. Strategy & Innovation: In a landscape of disruption, strategic prowess and innovation set you apart. "Strategic Business Transformation", "Design Thinking - An Approach to Innovation and Creativity" and "Digital Business Models and Strategy" foster your ability to navigate change.


4. Interpersonal Skills: Collaborative proficiency is a hallmark of modern business leaders. "People Management Skills", "Learning to Lead: Challenges and Competencies" and "Leading with Joy" enhance your aptitude for effective teamwork.


5. Decision Making Process: Swift and informed decision-making is the essence of leadership. "Strategy, Tactics and Economics of Pricing" and "Big Data Analysis" empower you to make critical choices.


6. General Business Functions: Foundational business acumen is indispensable. "Financial Markets", "International Macroeconomics" and "Supply Chain Management" instill core competencies for strategic thinking.


7. Learning Motivation & Leadership: A commitment to continuous learning and adaptive leadership defines remarkable leaders. "Leading with Joy" and "Leadership: Vision, Meaning and Reality" nurture these traits.


Is IIMB EPGP worth it? Explore the skills that IIMB EPGP Delivers in Growth Areas: Pioneering Ahead in Business Terrain

1. Business Ethics: Ethical considerations are paramount in contemporary business. "Ethics in Business Management" and "Corporate Governance and Ethics" underscore the importance of ethical decision-making.


2. Human Capital: As the workforce landscape transforms, "Strategic Talent Management" and "Inclusive Business Models" address the convergence of human capital and organizational success.


3. Product Design & Production: Innovation-driven product design holds prominence. "New Product Development" and "Design Thinking - An Approach to Innovation and Creativity" uncover this realm.


4. Media Communications: Digital communication is pivotal. "Digital Marketing Strategies" and "Marketing Communication" delve into the intricacies of modern media.


5. Knowledge of Human Behavior: Understanding consumer behavior is a cornerstone of effective marketing. "Consumer Behaviour" and "Neuroscience and Consumer Behavior" decode the psychology behind consumer choices.


6. Technology Software & Programming: Proficiency in technology and programming is becoming indispensable. "Artificial Intelligence Applications for Managers" and "Applied NLP" offer insights into this realm.


IIMB EPGP's eclectic array of electives constitutes a mosaic that adroitly embraces both the present and the forthcoming demands of the business world. However, the responsibility of engaging ardently with these courses, seeking practical application opportunities, and nurturing a commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability rests with you. An MBA's efficacy is not confined to the curriculum; its true value emerges in the application realm.


In conclusion, the inquiry of whether your MBA is sculpting you into the ideal recruiter's choice is multifaceted. IIMB EPGP's curriculum exemplifies a concerted effort to resonate with current and emerging industry requisites. Graduates who wholeheartedly embrace these offerings, coupled with an unyielding dedication to continuous learning and adaptability, are primed to emerge as coveted assets in the constantly evolving tapestry of business.


3. Executive MBA from IIM Kozhikode

Analysing the IIM Kozhikode PGP - BL course with reference to the GMAC 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey:


The realm of business is perpetually evolving, marked by paradigm shifts driven by technological innovations and shifting market dynamics. Against this backdrop, the conventional notion of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is undergoing a transformative evaluation. This incites us to scrutinize whether your MBA program is sculpting you into a candidate coveted by recruiters. We delve into this inquiry by dissecting the elective courses offered by the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK) Post Graduate Program (PGP), categorizing them into two integral segments: "Future-Oriented Skills" and "Growth Areas."

Here is our analysis of the courses offered at IIM K PGP BL and how they relate to the recruiter requirements according to the GMAC's recruiter survey report 2023

How does IIM Kozhikode PGP BL deliver Future-Oriented Skills: Navigating the Present and Preparing for Tomorrow?

1. Data Analysis and Interpretation: In a data-dominated landscape, the ability to discern insights from complex data holds immense currency. Electives such as "Data Analysis and Modeling" and "Data Analytics using R" furnish students with the expertise to decipher data patterns for informed decision-making.


2. Communication: Effective communication is the cornerstone of impactful leadership. "Communication for Transformation" and "Integrated Marketing Communication" fortify your prowess in articulating ideas persuasively across diverse stakeholders.


3. Strategy & Innovation: Navigating the competitive milieu necessitates strategic thinking and innovation. "Strategic Management" and "Strategic Management of Innovation" galvanize your ability to shape transformative strategies.


4. Interpersonal Skills: Collaboration is the lifeblood of modern businesses. "Managing People and Performance in Organizations" and "Negotiation Skills" bolster your aptitude to harmonize within teams and broker effective deals.


5. Decision Making Process: In a landscape where swift decisions are pivotal, "Managerial Judgment" and "Competitive Strategy: Game of Poker" cultivate your ability to make astute choices under pressure.


6. General Business Functions: Foundational business knowledge is paramount. "Corporate Finance", "Strategic Marketing", "Operations Strategy", "Macroeconomics: Policies, Institutions and Markets" and "Operations & Supply Chain Management" instill core competencies vital for business prowess.


7. Learning Motivation & Leadership: A willingness to learn and lead amid uncertainty is an earmark of distinguished leaders. "Business Leadership and Corporate Accountability" and "Entrepreneurship and Innovation" stoke your leadership acumen.


Read about the IIM Kozhikode PGP BL program.


How does IIM Kozhikode PGP BL deliver skills in Growth Areas: Pioneering Ahead in Business Terrain?

1. Business Ethics: The ascent of corporate responsibility demands ethical decision-making. "Business Leadership and Corporate Accountability" and "Corporate Valuation" elucidate the nexus of ethics and business.


2. Human Capital: "Human Resource Management" and "Managing People and Performance in Organizations" underpin the dynamics of human capital.


3. Product Design & Production: The evolution of consumer preferences underscores the significance of product design. "Product Management" and "Product Policy & Brand Management" hone your skills in this niche.


4. Media Communications: The digital era necessitates adeptness in media communication. "Marketing in Interactive Media", "Communication for Transformation" and "The Digital Customer" expound on this pivotal facet.


5. Knowledge of Human Behavior: Understanding consumer psychology fuels effective marketing. "Consumer Behaviour", "The Digital Customer" and "Marketing Research in Business Decision Making" unravel the intricacies of human behavior.


6. Technology Software & Programming: A grasp of programming is emerging as a crucial asset. "Management of IT Products and Services", "Data-Driven Product Strategy" and "Artificial Intelligence for Business" initiate you into this domain.


The IIM Kozhikode PGP BL curriculum discerningly embraces both current and impending industry requisites. However, the onus rests on students to engage ardently with electives, actively seek application avenues, and nurture an unyielding zeal for learning. An MBA's true potency extends beyond the classroom, thriving on real-world implementations. Read about other Executive MBA from IIM programs.


Conclusively, the conundrum of whether your MBA mirrors recruiters' demands is multifaceted. The IIM Kozhikode PGP BL spectrum radiates commendable effort in resonating with current and future needs. Graduates who wholeheartedly embrace these offerings, coupled with an unwavering commitment to continuous learning and adaptability, are poised to manifest as coveted assets in the dynamic arena of business.


The application cycle for the IIM one year MBA programs have started for the 2024 intake. A profile review is a great way to get started with the process and plan your career ahead.





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