Considering a Distance Learning MBA in HR: Is It Worth It and Which Program to Choose?

Hi to all the predominant members of this forum,

I solicit your valuable suggestions regarding pursuing a distance learning MBA in HR. I have 7 years of legal experience and am keen on doing an MBA in HR. Due to my current job, I can only pursue a distance learning course. However, a recent discussion on this forum suggesting that distance learning MBA programs do not significantly enhance a resume has left me perplexed. Nonetheless, I still wish to pursue an MBA as I believe strongly that HR is a very challenging field and the backbone of any organization.

a) If I opt for a distance learning MBA in HR, which institute would you recommend?

b) Alternatively, do you recommend an Executive MBA program over distance learning?

I would appreciate your responses.

Hi,

Symbiosis is what I feel is the best compared to others like IGNOU, Anna University, and there are some short-term courses also conducted by the government which you might have to google around.

Best Wishes,
Shalene

I heard there was something going wrong with ICFAI distance learning MBA. Can you tell me what it is? Is it not approved by AICTE?

You can go for Pondicherry University, Directorate of Distance Education. The course starts in October, with notifications generally sent out in August.

Regards,
Mahesh Kumar M.

Hi,

I am pursuing an MBA in HR from Symbiosis Distance Learning. I believe that Symbiosis is a good choice for Distance Learning, as I am not sure if ICFAI is recognized. The assignments and exams are objective and online. You can choose when to take the exams, so there are fewer theory questions. The topics are easy to comprehend and can be related to your field of work for better learning. My advice is to pursue your MBA from Symbiosis.

I am currently pursuing DLP from Symbiosis. Some of my friends are enrolled in programs at ICFAI. According to them, it is quite challenging and not easy to manage alongside work commitments. Many individuals fail to complete the program within 2 years as they struggle to allocate the required time and end up failing in some of the courses. One of my friends had to resign from her job to focus on completing the program within the stipulated time frame.

Another disadvantage is that ICFAI charges around Rs. 1 lakh for the entire course, whereas Symbiosis only costs around Rs. 25,000. Nonetheless, it is worth mentioning that the curriculum at ICFAI is comprehensive and regularly updated. The curriculum at Symbiosis is also robust, and the study materials provided are well-explained.

Apart from these options, there are other institutions like IGNOU, Anna Malai, Narsee Monjee, etc. that you may want to explore further.

Regards,
Sukanya

Hi Sukanya, I want to do MBA-HR/PGDHR 2-year from Symbio. Do you have more current information on placements as well?

What do you think of this one? It is more for Diploma in Hotel, but is it a good institute?

<link no longer exists - removed>

I am also looking at doing a course in HR only. I have worked for a few years as a Training Manager and would like to redirect my career into HR. Therefore, I would need to study more... but how and where????

Need your help, guys!

Thanks.

Hi,

I want to do an MBA in HR from IGNOU University. Please let me know if this is okay. I am a BA graduate with around 4+ years of experience in the HR department as a Generic HR executive. I want to know if they will conduct an entrance test to apply for the MBA because I don't have an idea of Accountancy or Business Management, etc. (Might they ask in the entrance test?). I also need to know if any nearby colleges will provide details to enter for an MBA from IGNOU University and what the cost is for the 2-year course. I am staying in BSK 1st Stage, Bangalore.

Is this an online course?

Please help me in this regard.

Thanks,
Suma

Dear Sharma,

If you are interested in pursuing an MBA through distance learning, you can also consider universities in other countries such as CIU in California, etc.

Regards,
Kalyani

Hey, now that you have 7 years of experience, consider pursuing an Executive MBA program instead of a correspondence course or distance learning course. There are reputable options like IIM and XLRI. IIM Indore is currently conducting its admission procedure, so check it out before the admission closes. Additionally, XLRI Jamshedpur is also a good choice.

You could probably check distance learning at Welingkar and MET, and I guess NMIMS also offers it. Check it out.

Regards,
Pratiti

Hi,

Views on the subject have been expressed as per the knowledge and experience of an individual replying. One can't label X Institute as good and Y Institute as bad without understanding the issues involved. I would suggest the following:

(a) Qualification from any recognized institute has equal value.
(b) Symbiosis provides convenience/flexibility of appearing in tests online in your own time.
(c) At IGNOU, the advantage is that while being a student of the Management Programme, one can select the subjects in such a manner that he/she earns Diploma Certificates in various specializations so that the job prospects increase right at the end of the first year of the three-year program.
(d) There is an entrance test for IGNOU. The last date for application is 30 June for the test to be held in August 08.

Hi,

You can go to GGSIP University, Delhi. They have a weekend program for executives. Classes are held on Saturday and Sunday (full day). They offer degrees in MBA (General - HR/Marketing/Finance/IT) or MBA - Banking & Insurance, MBA - Disaster Management, MBA - Real Estate. The faculties are excellent, both internal and external.

Regards,
Neesu

Dear Sukanya,

I want to do MBA-HR/PGDHR for 2 years from Symbiosis. Do you have more current information on placements as well?

DLP programs hardly come with any placements, as they are usually designed for working people. Symbiosis doesn't assure any placements but does inform when there are any vacancies on their website. You can visit www.scdl.net for more information.

Regards,
Sukanya

Hi, you may want to consider IMT Ghaziabad, as they are offering a one-year MBA course through distance learning.

Regards,
Chams

I think these days we have executive MBAs with evening classes, which could be a good option. All reputed institutes, including IIMs, XLRI, FMS, LBSIM, and Fore School, are conducting these programs.

Hi,

You may try from IMT Ghaziabad; they are offering a one-year MBA course through distance learning.

Regards,
Chaman

MBA HR Openmat application form is available at IGNOU Centre in Bangalore for Rs. 550/-. Just fill up the one-page form and post it by Registered Post. The entrance exam date is 17th August '08. GOOD LUCK!

Hi,

I am working in finance and wish to do an MBA. Does Symbiosis offer an MBA in finance?

Regards,
Vijoy

I think you can go for the IMT Distance Learning Programmes. They have restructured the whole program, and it has come out pretty well. Forms are available right now for the July '08 session.

Ritu

Hi,

I completed my Master's in Extension and Communication from M.S. University. Now, I am considering pursuing a PGDHRM from Symbiosis University. I am wondering if this program would be beneficial for my future growth. Should I go for it or not?

Thank you.

Hey all,

I wanted to do an MBA, and I have more than 25 years of working experience. Can you suggest a recognized university offering MBA in HR?

Hi,

You can also consider Nagarjuna University or Pondicherry distance education. Nowadays, there is no top priority like regular education; more value is placed on distance education. The main thing is that knowledge is very important, no matter how much you gain from an MBA.

All the best!

Warm wishes, Santhoshi Reddy :)

Hi Team,

Is there any university that offers an MBA in Material through distance education?

Regards,
Poonam

Hi,

As an HR professional with an MBA, I believe what counts the most are the skills that you have and your ability to work. That's all. If you are really interested in distance learning courses, then work hard on your skills and abilities. Please don't focus on AICTE, as it hardly matters much nowadays.

Regards,
Bhawana Shara

Hi,

In my perspective, Anna University, Chennai, would be the right choice. The predominant reason is that I'm a student pursuing MBA in that university. So, I know the value of it.

No university will conduct an online entrance exam other than this university, as far as my knowledge is concerned. This is one of the best features of this university. This can be a reason for its popularity and value in education. Anyone can join universities like ICFAI, IGNOU, or Symbiosis when they meet the minimum criteria and by paying money. When it comes to Anna University, an online exam will decide your fate, which is conducted across India in various centers.

The drawback is that the fee structure is a bit high when compared to other universities/institutes. I guess it can be because of the value that it adds when it comes to filling out a resume.

Best Wishes,
Vinod Prakasam

I think you should go for Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning and opt for PGDHRM.

Regards,
Reeta

Dear All,

Please clarify what's wrong with ICFAI-MBA. I'm pursuing a distance MBA with ICFAI. Your valuable suggestions are highly appreciated.

Thank you.

Dear friend,

I am also interested in studying MBA-HR. Can you tell me about the fees and duration of courses at Symbiosis? Are there any limitations in the admission criteria?

Ramesh
97911 74335

Hi,

I have viewed different opinions on your query. Before you go for any MBA program, please check for a few things:

1. Is the course approved by UGC?
2. Is the concerned University a member of the Association of Indian Universities?
3. Is the degree/diploma offered recognized in the industry/academics?
4. Is the curriculum industry-oriented?
5. Is the concerned university's distance education program recognized by the Board of Distance Education?
6. Is the course affordable?
7. Is the University offering this course a state university or deemed university?
8. Will the course add value to your CV?

If these questions are answered, then any state or deemed university is a good choice.

Cheers,
nekbote

Hi,

I have completed my MBA in Finance, but I am currently pursuing a career in the HR field. I am also interested in pursuing an MBA in HR through distance education. Please guide me in selecting the right institute and provide any other valuable information related to this.

Thank you all in advance.

I think MBA HR is also offered by IGNOU, which is equally recognized and reputed. It will be a degree because institutes would give you only PGDBM, not an MBA degree.

Regards,
P.K. Mishra
9412451914

Try Sikkim Manipal University for MBA - DE. It is a UGC-approved university, and they update their material every year. This university has good value for job search.

Thank you!

Hi,

The Symbiosis PGDBA course is good, but since you have good experience, I recommend you to go for an Executive MBA, which is a one-year course. It will provide you with better opportunities compared to the simple PGDBA course.

Thanks,
Asha

It completely depends on whether you are truly serious about pursuing an MBA. If you are, you can consider Symbiosis or Anna University in Chennai. However, these two universities are not as easy as you might think. I am currently pursuing an MBA through Anna University's Distance Education program, and I can share some insights. Attendance is compulsory, assignments and tests are part of the curriculum, and the experience can be quite similar to school life.

If you are aiming for an MBA solely to obtain a degree, you may want to explore ICFAI. They offer an MBA degree even if you have not taken the exams.

Please let me know if you need further assistance or information.

You may also try Madurai Kamaraj University. They have study centers in different parts where they conduct classes on Sundays. They also issue MBA certification after the completion of the course.

Hi,

Before suggesting any courses, I would like to know whether you are a postgraduate or undergraduate. If you have completed your postgraduation, you can consider Diplomas, which would be very helpful rather than pursuing a master's in HR. Pondicherry and LIBA have a twinning program of diplomas for all electives that you can explore. You can visit Pondicherry University's website to check for the twinning program and find your answer.

Best wishes,
Suhashini
HR Manager

You could also do this from Allahabad University. They have affiliates all across the country who offer these types of courses. I have completed my MBA from them, so I am familiar with this.

Cheers,
Vinit

Hi, the same query but with one observation. As I am also interested in pursuing the MBA course (distance learning) and I queried with IMT people and they're offering a 1-year course in HR costing 20000 which you can extend also if you like the overall structure. But out of a hundred responses on this thread, hardly one or two talked about IMT. Why? I was totally convinced with them and about to enroll myself in their 1-year program. There are numerous replies on Symbi, the most talked-about university.

Please suggest.

Thanks,
Pooja

The Indian Institute of Social Welfare and Business Administration offers a 3-year evening program for an MBA degree from Calcutta University. The program is designed for working individuals. Admission is based on MAT scores, followed by a Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI). This program is equivalent to the 2-year MBA day program offered by Calcutta University. To enroll in this program, you must be located in Kolkata.

Incidentally, admissions for this year have been completed. However, you can consider appearing for the MAT September exam to apply for the course starting in 2009.

P. K. Misra

I think it would be better if you could enroll in Madurai Kamaraj University for your MBA through distance education. Many of my friends have done so.

Thanks for all your advice, but I have contacted Symbiosis and the answer given back to me concerning distance learning was so unprofessional. The email has three different colors and sizes, and in the end, they still do not answer my question. Maybe they do not care about foreign students! Very disappointed!

Hi,

When considering pursuing an MBA, if your goal is solely to obtain a degree, you can choose any MBA institution that will carry similar weight. However, for a more substantial value addition, you might want to consider MDI - Gurgaon. They offer a part-time MBA course spanning over 3 years. If you are not located in the NCR region, HNGE - HughesNet Global Education is another viable option. The selection process and faculty at these institutions are from renowned establishments like IIMs, XLRI, or other top-tier brands, making it a promising choice for distance learning, believed to be the future of education.

For more information, you can visit www.hughes.in, www.hughesindia.com, or an outdated link, [link outdated-removed]. Best of luck.

NS

Dear Mr. Sharma,

You can simply log into the websites of the institutions offering MBA/PGDM in HR through distance education mode. You may wish to visit Distance MBA in India :: State-wise List to find a state-wise list of institutes.

Hope this would be beneficial.

Cheers! :icon1:
Nairsahab

Hi,

You can pursue programs from XLRI, XIMB, etc. Additionally, NIIT Imperia has partnered with many B-schools and offers various management programs. You can also inquire with them.

Regards,
Renu

Hi Meghna,

I did some research a while back and I think the PGDBA at Symbiosis is one of the best options. In fact, I'm currently pursuing it.

Regards,
Meghna

Dear Friends,

Could you please let me know what short-term courses are conducted by Symbiosis? Thank you.

Hi, I went through this same stage about 5-6 months back. I surfed the net for 3 months before I decided, and my decision was ICFAI. I don't want to discourage you from Symbiosis, but to be frank, I got quite a few bad reports about SCDL and maybe just 1 or 2 about ICFAI. I read most of the replies you received, and yes, ICFAI is a bit tough. The course is exhaustive with no shortcuts. It's as good as doing it as a full-time course in a class. The curriculum is the same for both, which is why they award you an MBA degree upon completion. Others mention Distance Learning. This is my understanding. Please correct me if I am wrong.

Regarding the cost aspect, SCDL is around 25K, while ICFAI is more expensive at 72K and not 1 lakh as mentioned by somebody. The 72K includes training classes, placement cell, etc., as add-ons, which are optional. The classes cost about 12.5K and placement around 5K, both included in the 72K. Additionally, this fee covers your first two exam fees. I suggest browsing this site for threads on ICFAI and Symbiosis to see the opinions before deciding. In fact, I have two emails downloaded on both that I can forward to you if you want.

For any other clarifications, you can email me at dostana19@gmail.com. While I am not an authority, I will try to share whatever knowledge I have.

Best regards.

Hi Rakesh,

You can also pursue DLP from Sikkim Manipal University, Gangtok, and it is approved by UGC. They have good quality syllabus. You can visit this website www.manipalu.com.

All the best! Go ahead, cheers!

Dear All,

I am Amrita, a student and an employee in the HR Department working under the payroll of ICFAI University. ICFAI itself is an autonomous body, and it is not mandatory for AICT approval. Most of the branded MBA institutes are not approved by AICT or UGC. Another fact is that the ICFAI MBA program is very good; its syllabus is updated and matches the current industry demands, but it is very tough to complete. Therefore, consider your capability to complete the course before taking up any MBA program.

Regards,
Amrita

Hi,

I don't think there is much difference between distance MBA-HR programs if you are working. I am currently pursuing my MBA-HR from Sikkim Manipal University. If possible, please inquire about it. The contact person is Mr. Akram - 09892309706.

Regards,
Vijay
Manager - HR

There are many universities offering distance education MBAs. However, if you have experience in the legal field and are looking to advance to a middle or senior-level position, considering XLRI (PGDBM HR via Satellite/Directway) could be a good option. This program provides a setting very similar to a campus environment, catering to working executives, and is associated with a prestigious institute.

Regards,
Vinod

Dear Sharma,

I had come across a similar situation last year and received many suggestions on this. Stick to your perception of the business school ratings and reputation from the last academic year. Symbiosis is a well-recognized institute, so go ahead with your choice.

Wishing you all the best.

Regards,
Rupesh Reddy

Dear rsharrma,

I have been hunting for a good distance learning institute for MBA in HR too. What I discovered is that many institutes provide a Post Graduate Diploma, i.e., PGDHRM. I feel a degree is anytime better than a diploma. Hence, I would suggest you go for an institute that offers a degree. You can visit the following sites for further details:

1. www.indiamba.com
2. Ministry of HRD

Alternatively, you can search through Google using the following address: Distance Learning Institutes in India for MBA.

Regards,
jsp

Hi,

You can join IGNOU because the study material provided by IGNOU is very good and detailed. However, you should have enough time to pursue it as IGNOU requires handwritten assignments for every subject.

Thank you and regards,
Jyoti Negi

My friend is doing XLRI - Post Graduate Diploma in HR, and it is good. Every Mon/Wed, you have classes to attend and you meet many people from the HR fraternity from various industries. I am pursuing Business Management (1.80 lakhs with books).

Regards

Hi,

In my experience, Symbiosis Pune is really worth it, and you would also have a good learning experience. On the other hand, ICFAI, Madras University, and Anna University have a good reputation, although they may be challenging to manage while working.

Additionally, studies should only be pursued if you are comfortable with the type of learning the institution provides. IGNOU is also equally good, and when comparing, B-Schools are always the best.

The value is appreciated when you have an interest in learning while working, which can be considerably tiring and difficult.

All the very best!

Dear Mr. Arun,

Greetings of the day! I have tried to contact you on your mobile, but I am not able to trace you. My area of concern is just to know whether Anna University and Annamalai University are the same or different. Please let me know.

Take care.

Hi,

For distance education, you can choose between Symbiosis or IMT Ghaziabad. They offer programs of 2 years and 3 years, respectively. Regarding the university, you can consider applying to Anna University.

Regards,
Samadh
9944491688

I think you can go ahead for the IMT 3-year PGPM flagship program. The course contents are elaborate and updated, and IMT holds a strong brand value. They also provide placement assistance now.

Goodbye,
Seema

Hi,

IGNOU is also very good. The materials are simple and easy to understand. The fee for the full course is around 17k. The last date for applying is 30th June 08.

Regards,
Savithri

Hi,

All these ICFAI & Anna Uni degrees don't help to the extent we think it would. It's just for having an degree, that's all. But if you really interested in doing MBA/PG courses, you may want to think of Uni's like NMIMS ( <link outdated-removed> ) or programs offered by IIM-K, Symbiosis (www.scdl.net/), XLRI & ISB etc. These are among the premier institutes, which offers good education. And one more thing, if you are planning to do it from these institutes, you really need to study! All the best

Regards,
Ashwin

Hi Nirupama,

Is your friend doing the course available through satellite classes recently started by XLRI?

My friend is pursuing XLRI's Postgraduate Diploma in HR, and it is beneficial. Every Monday and Wednesday, there are classes to attend, where you get to meet many people from the HR fraternity across various industries. I am currently studying Business Management (with a cost of ₹1.80 lakhs, including books).

Regards

I would suggest you go for Symbiosis as it is the best in terms of distance learning.

Dear ICFAI (Institute of Certified Financial Accountants of India),

As the term implies, ICFAI is all about accountancy and has nothing to do with HR. My brother is currently enrolled in the CFA program with ICFAI. It is worth noting that ICFAI conducts programs in affiliation with American University.

Regards,

Dear rsharrma,

I heard there was something going wrong with ICFAI distance learning MBA. Can you tell me what it is? Is it not approved by AICTE?

AICTE is not obligatory for universities. Secondly, distance learning programs are approved by DEC (Distance Education Council), which ICFAI has already obtained approval from. You can see that I have attached a new thread on the same topic today only. For any clarification or elaboration, you can email me at [Login to view].

I assure you that all information provided by me will be unbiased, brief, fully informative, and valuable to you.

Kind regards

Dear R. Sharma,

ICFAI has already received approval from DEC (Distance Education Council) and is an approved university by UGC, allowing it to issue an MBA degree in Distance Learning as well. There is currently no need for AICTE approval, but it appears to be in process.

Thank you.

Hi all,

I wanted to know which stream of the Distance Learning MBA would be most professionally suited to entrepreneurship. Presently, I'm working and can't give enough time for a full-time MBA. However, I do intend to get into business very soon. Please help.

Thank you.

Dear All,

I have 3 years of experience in HR. I want to pursue an MBA in HR through distance learning. Can you please let me know if the MET Institute would be the right option for this?

Regards,
Saga

Dear Sir,

In my opinion, you should opt for an MBA in IGNOU because the syllabus is very good. Every important topic is covered, which is important for a management graduate.

With Regards,
K. Ravi Kumar. :)

Hi,

I am working as an HR Generalist with 1.4 years of experience in the field. I am now considering pursuing an MBA in HR. Could you please suggest the best distance learning education center or university in Mumbai for this program?