Confused About Choosing Between an MBA or MSW for Advancing in HR? Need Your Advice!

Dear All Seniors,

I have completed PGDHRM and am now contemplating pursuing an MBA. However, I am a little confused. Should I invest a considerable amount in doing an MBA? Will it be beneficial for advancing my career in HR? Between MSW and MBA, which one would be more valued? I need your guidance.

Regards,
Nilima

If you are aiming for a career in HR, it is advisable to pursue an MSW rather than an MBA in HR. You can also think of pursuing an MA in Sociology, Social Work, or Psychology.

Thanks.

Regards,
R. K. Nair

First, you need to confirm where you have completed your PGDHRM, the duration (1 year / 2 years), whether it was full-time or part-time, and if it is approved by AICTE or not.

If you have already spent two full years on PGDHRM, there is no point in investing more time and money in the same course. To my knowledge, PGDHRM and MBA curricula will hardly differ. What matters is where you studied and how diligently you pursued your studies.

I wonder why you chose PGDHRM instead of opting for an MBA directly.

Do not waste your time and money by learning the same things repeatedly. Do not be swayed by attractive brochures and colorful advertisements.

I completed my PGDHRM from ICFAI University, with a duration of 1 year, approved by AICTE. Personally, I have noticed that when there is a job opening, employers tend to give preference to MBA candidates over Diploma holders. That's why I am considering pursuing an MBA.

Regards,
Nilima

I suggest continuing for one more year with ICFAI University, and they will offer you a Master's Degree.

It seems that you are getting distracted by the various suggestions you are receiving. Whatever you have done is already done! Okay! Don't repent for what you have done earlier, as you would have taken up PGDHRM at that moment in time when you had limited understanding of the prospects. While going through the course, you would have come across the fact about being a Post Graduate (I mean, MBA or MSW). No worries, this happens to many of us.

Now, a wise decision would be to continue with your MBA rather than MSW. I am really not sure if the Institute/University you have mentioned is an approved/recognized one, but any of the other universities, which are State or Central Universities, would suffice. You may pursue this MBA while you are working so that you can continue to earn both money and experience simultaneously. Additionally, your earnings would help you to meet your university course and examination fees too.

Regarding your query, "Should I invest a considerable amount to do an MBA?", I would personally not invest lakhs of rupees to obtain that *expensive* MBA. I would choose an MBA from any State or Central University and strive to excel in that.

I hope this advice helps you make a decision. Wishing you all the best in your career.

Regards,
Suresh.

I have a total of 3.6 years of experience in an Admin and HR profile. Currently, I am pursuing PGDHRM from Amity University (one year, part-time). Will this course help me secure a job as an HR generalist?

Thank you for your valuable reply. In my belief, knowledge is the main key to achieving success in any field. While I understand that recruiters often give preference to MBA students, what about those who have completed a PGDHRM (One Year) program? It may not hold the same weight, but for a dedicated learner and seeker, success is still attainable.

Many individuals are unable to commit to a full 2-year MBA program. For them, a concise, summarized, and time-saving PG diploma is a blessing.

Thank you.

Regards