MBA in Human Resource Management vs PGDM in HR: What’s the Difference?

SCMHRD Pune

SCMHRD Pune

— 3 min read
MBA in Human Resource Management vs PGDM in HR: What’s the Difference?
MBA in HR Management

If you're considering a career in HR, one of the first decisions you'll face is choosing between an MBA in HR Management and a PGDM in HR. Both sound similar and cover areas like recruitment, people management, compensation, and employee relations, but they differ in structure, recognition, and career outcomes.

Let’s break down the key differences so you can make a well-informed decision.

Understanding the Basics: MBA vs PGDM

At first glance, both courses offer HR-focused training. However, the awarding body and structure are distinct.

MBA in Human Resource Management

  • Offered by universities approved by UGC
  • Degree awarded: MBA (Master of Business Administration)
  • Curriculum is fixed and regulated by the university
  • More academic and theory-based

PGDM in HR

  • Offered by autonomous institutes approved by AICTE
  • Diploma awarded: PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)
  • Curriculum is updated regularly to match industry needs
  • Skill-focused and industry-oriented

Key takeaway: MBA is a degree, PGDM is a diploma, but top PGDMs often offer greater flexibility and corporate alignment.

Curriculum & Learning Outcomes

While both programs include similar HR subjects, the way they’re taught and updated can differ significantly.

MBA in Human Resource Management:

  • More emphasis on theoretical frameworks and research
  • Syllabus is revised less frequently
  • Strong foundation in organisational behaviour and HR systems

PGDM in HR:

  • Industry-relevant skills such as HR analytics, HR tech, and tools like SAP HR
  • Frequent syllabus updates based on recruiter inputs
  • Practical learning through live projects and simulations

A PGDM course often responds faster to changing market dynamics, while MBA programs provide academic depth.

Recognition & Further Study

If your goal includes higher education or international recognition, this section matters.

MBA in HR:

  • Recognised as a master's degree worldwide
  • Ideal if you're considering a PhD later or aiming for academic roles

PGDM in HR:

  • Treated as equivalent to MBA if AIU recognition is granted
  • Accepted by most recruiters, but check AIU status if you want to pursue a PhD

For most corporate roles, recruiters prioritise the institute’s reputation and placement history over the MBA vs PGDM label.

Placement & ROI

In today’s job market, both MBA and PGDM graduates are hired for HR roles, but the placement ecosystem around PGDM programs often offers a stronger edge.

PGDM in HR:

  • 100% placement assistance at leading institutes
  • Extensive industry projects and internship networks
  • Recruiters often visit PGDM campuses for live hiring

MBA in HR:

  • Placement strength depends heavily on university brand
  • May offer fewer touchpoints with industry mentors or recruiters

Fees & Return on Investment

  • MBA in HR (public university): Fees range from ₹2 to ₹6 lakh
  • PGDM in HR (Tier-1 B-schools): Fees can go up to ₹15–20 lakh

However, PGDM programs also record higher average salary packages and stronger recruiter networks, especially in sectors like IT, consulting, and BFSI.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose MBA in Human Resource Management if:

  • You want a research-based or academic path
  • You're preparing for government or teaching roles
  • You prefer a structured learning environment

Choose PGDM in HR if:

  • You want dynamic, industry-focused training
  • You value exposure to tools, certifications, and corporate case studies
  • You aim for leadership roles in evolving HR functions like HR analytics, digital transformation, and change management

Final Word: Look Beyond the Acronym

Whether it’s MBA or PGDM, what ultimately matters is institute quality, faculty experience, curriculum relevance, and placement support. Look closely at the outcomes, not just the title.

At SCMHRD Pune, students pursue a full-time MBA in Human Resource Management that combines strategic HR, technology integration, and real-world learning. As an AACSB-accredited institute with strong industry partnerships and a consistent placement record, SCMHRD equips HR aspirants with the capabilities needed to lead in tomorrow’s organisations. It's a smart choice for those who want their HR career to begin with both credibility and career momentum.

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