Torn Between MBA and PGDM: Seeking Advice on Distance Learning for Career Growth in Nonprofit Management

Respected Seniors,

I have completed my Master's in Social Work and am currently working with an international NGO that focuses on Child and Youth Care and Development. I hold a mid-management position and have 8 years of experience in the development sector, providing me with a strong understanding of my field. I am now considering pursuing an MBA to further enhance my skills in people management, personnel development, and operations management. I believe this is the right time to focus on these areas to drive my growth through improved skills, better performance, and a positive impact on productivity.

I am currently torn between pursuing an MBA, a PGDM in HR/Operation Management, or another course in Nonprofit Management. I would also appreciate recommendations for reputable institutes that offer distance learning courses. Despite reviewing some previous discussions, I still feel the need for personalized support and suggestions.

Thank you.

Dear Mr. Parm,

Whether it is a profit-making organization or a non-profit organization, the principles and practices of management do not change. Secondly, in either organization, people work. Therefore, people issues also remain the same. To drive the organization to attain its goal, the optimum utilization of resources is also important. Against this backdrop, an MBA course with whatever specialization you choose is important.

In a commercial organization, while influencing customers to buy a product/service is important, in a non-commercial organization, influencing people or organizations to donate funds is important.

I would like to keep HR, Marketing, and Operations in the order of priority. While an MBA in Operations is quite interesting and challenging, subjects like Production Management, Materials Management, Supply Chain Management, and Production Scheduling may not be that useful considering your past career.

All the best!

Regards,
Dinesh Divekar