UGC's Decision On Distance Learning Universities (MBA)

I wish to pursue an online/correspondence MBA/PGDBM. After taking inputs from some and considering my requirements (dual-specialisation), I think IMT & Amity are the only options (please correct me). ICFAI and Symbiosis offer single specialisations.

My concern is the ongoing UGC's stance about the DL universities' affiliation because of that IMT is not taking admissions since January. Amity was once in talks for their affiliation/deemed status.

I wish to start from the July session; ICFAI is a good option, but they offer single specialisation and also take the entire fees in advance (their end date is nearing). Suggestions and inputs are welcomed. Any chances of UGC's approval to IMT soon?

Regards,
Vaibhav

Hey Vaibhav,

I don't know anything about the UGC, but ICFAI offers dual specialization and also does not require all the money at once. It has an installment facility. One of my friends is doing an MBA from there. For further details, you can contact me at [Login to view].

Singh.

Hi,

For dual-specialization, first, we have to complete the entire program; then we can additionally do the second specialization, costing 6 more months and fees.

Also, yes, they have an installment scheme; but they take all PDCs in advance which, if canceled, can lead to case-filations, etc.

Suggestions are eagerly awaited.

Regards,
Vaibhav

Dear Vaibhav,

I am pursuing the second semester of my MBA at IMT Ghaziabad through Distance Learning. All of our classes were delayed for one month due to the ongoing issues with the DLP affiliation of IMT. Although it's affiliated with one of the oldest universities in Bengal, we have been clearly informed that our study center would not be submitting any more student batches for DLP. The reason cited is also a problem with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), as most of the study centers are located in residential areas.

The whole situation still remains uncertain.

Regards,
Monika

Hello! I have taken admission for part-time MBA and I wanted to get some samples of question papers.

I want to know the full details of MBA through distance learning through ICFAI. What is the fee structure and from when does the course start? I stay in Lucknow, so please provide me with details and contact address in Lucknow.

Hi everybody,

I am pursuing an MBA from ICFAI through Distance Learning. They charge a significant amount - Rs. 70,000+ for Examination Fees of Rs. 1000 per group, Rs. 12,000 for Tuition Fees, placement fees, etc. The total cost goes above 1 lakh, and it's not easy.

There are 11 groups with 4 subjects per group, making it a total of 42+ papers. The exams are objective with 5 options per question, and the papers are 3 hours long. Despite these details, it is still challenging.

I recommend choosing Symbiosis instead. It is more reputable, much easier than ICFAI, and more cost-effective (only 30k including everything). Symbiosis requires only 24 papers of 1-hour duration each and provides a PGDBM degree. Note that even IIMs offer PGDBM, not an MBA. However, everyone refers to it as an MBA and includes it in their CV, making it practically equivalent to an MBA.

In conclusion, I advise against opting for an ICFAI MBA. It is not worth the money and effort you invest.

I am sharing this because I regret my decision of choosing ICFAI and hope to help others avoid similar frustrations. Feel free to contact me at prashant0084@gmail.com or 09887794633.

I know about 4 options of MBA from Distance Learning:

1. http://www.scdl.net: official site of Symbiosis Center for Distance Learning. There is also a sample paper of M. Accounting.
2. National Institute of Business Management (NIBM): AG, Anandraj Villa, (AU), 7, Second Canal Cross Road, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. See http://www.admissionnews.com/college...px?colid=14763.
3. www.icfai.org: this is ICFAI's website.
4. There is also an MBA in Distance Learning by Sikkim Manipal. It costs around Rs. 52,000. They all send free prospectuses.

My conclusion: don't go for ICFAI MBA. It's not worth the money and effort you spend. Choose Symbiosis instead. Yet, its course material is good if you want an MBA degree with a lot of effort.

I'm writing all this because I made a wrong decision by choosing ICFAI and I'm trying to reduce my frustration. You may contact me at [Login to view] or 09887794633.

Dear friends,

I am a new member in this discussion. I have been conducting extensive research on MBA programs through correspondence and have uncovered the following key points:

1. MBA and PGDBA are two distinct programs that carry equal weightage in the eyes of corporations. However, the perceived value varies within the Indian Education System. An MBA is a recognized degree that paves the way for further qualifications such as a Doctorate, whereas a PGDBA does not offer the same. An MBA is a master's degree, while a PGDBA is considered a professional qualification. An MBA holds higher value than a PGDBA. Institutes recognized by the UGC offer an MBA, while others provide a PGDBA.

2. MBA programs are generally not offered through correspondence for recent graduates, except for Manipal University and ICFAI University, which are the only two institutes offering a Master's degree. Institutes like Symbiosis, NIBM, IMT, Xaviers, Welingkar, etc., offer a PGD only. Open universities like IGNOU, KSOU, etc., require a minimum of 3 years of work experience to pursue an MBA.

3. Pursuing a course through correspondence is aimed at enhancing career prospects and creating opportunities for the future. Therefore, an MBA is a more prestigious qualification than a PGD.

4. It is important not to compare other institutes offering PGD with the prestigious IIMs, as IIMs are autonomous bodies with strong reputations. Just because IIMs offer PGD does not imply that all institutes offering PGD are of similar caliber.

5. Between ICFAI and Manipal, Manipal may be a more favorable choice due to lower fees and a minimum of 160 hours of classes, which can enhance knowledge. For individuals with a minimum of 3 years of work experience, IGNOU and KSOU are good options.

6. For those seeking advancement within the same organization, Symbiosis would be a better choice to enhance their resume. As a recent BCom graduate, I am leaning towards starting my MBA journey at Manipal University. I am open to suggestions and guidance on this matter. Let's engage in more discussions to make informed decisions, as pursuing an MBA is a significant opportunity in a lifetime.

Best regards,
Puneet

I am working in one of the outlets of "The Mobile Store" with experience in sales promotion. I am a Commerce graduate. I need help to understand which specialization I should choose to increase future job prospects. I want to pursue an MBA through Symbiosis distance learning. Please assist me.

Thanks,
Sachin