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A Top-Ranked Business School in India’s Guide To Future-proofing Your Career

India’s business landscape is undergoing an exciting metamorphosis as it accelerates towards becoming an economic superpower. New frontiers like AI, data analytics, and green tech are blurring traditional boundaries, giving rise to exciting opportunities for business graduates. Aspiring business mavens need to be equipped with the right knowledge and skills to navigate this dynamic terrain. This is where top-ranked business schools in India play a pivotal role.

Overview of Business Education in India

India boasts a robust and diverse business education landscape, catering to aspiring entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and management professionals. With over 5,000 business schools offering a plethora of programs – BBA, MBA, PGDM, PhDs, and specialised executive programs – India equips its graduates with the knowledge and skills for a successful career in the dynamic world of business. Choosing the right institution is crucial, not just for academic rigour but also for industry connections, placements, and alumni networks.

Types of Programs

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): A 3-year undergraduate program laying the foundation for business acumen, core management principles, and analytical skills.

Master of Business Administration (MBA): A 2-year postgraduate program, often considered the gold standard, refining your knowledge of functions like finance, marketing, human resources, or entrepreneurship.

Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM): Similar to an MBA but offered by autonomous institutes, often with a practical and industry-oriented approach.

PhD in Business Administration: Focuses on academic research and advanced analysis, preparing individuals for careers in academia or research institutions.

Key Trends

Emerging Issues: Business education is adapting to keep pace with the evolving landscape. Emphasis is shifting towards digital technologies like AI, big data, and e-commerce, along with sustainability and ethical business practices.

Globalisation: International collaborations and exchange programs are increasingly common, exposing students to diverse perspectives and global best practices.

Entrepreneurship: Fostering entrepreneurial spirit is becoming a priority, with many schools offering incubators and mentorship programs to guide aspiring entrepreneurs.

Skill-based Learning: Practical skills and industry exposure are gaining importance, with case studies, simulations, and internships becoming integral parts of the curriculum.

Challenges and Opportunities

Access and Quality: While the number of business schools is vast, the quality varies. Ensuring consistent quality and making education accessible to all remain significant challenges.

Faculty Resources: Attracting and retaining qualified faculty with industry experience is crucial for delivering high-quality education.

Placement and Employability: Bridging the gap between academic qualifications and industry expectations is essential for improving graduate employability.

5 Criteria that Influence Ranking in Business Schools

Several factors contribute to becoming a top-ranked business school in India. Some of them include –

  • Faculty: Reputed faculty with industry experience ensure high-quality education and relevant insights.
  • Admissions & Placements: A rigorous selection process and strong placement records indicate excellent career prospects.
  • Curriculum: An updated curriculum embracing emerging trends equips students with future-ready skills.
  • Infrastructure & Facilities: Modern facilities and access to cutting-edge resources enhance the learning experience.
  • Industry Collaborations & Research: Strong industry partnerships and active research output expose students to real-world applications and cutting-edge knowledge.

BBA Programs: A Foundation for Future Leaders

A BBA program lays the groundwork for a successful business career. Top-ranked business schools in India offer rigorous, industry-oriented programs.

Integrated BBA and MBA Programs

Looking for a fast-track option? Several ranking business schools also offer integrated BBA-MBA programs, saving you time and resources.

PGDM – A Viable Alternative

Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programs, offered by institutes like IIM Indore and Management Development Institute, Gurgaon, are recognised as equivalent to MBAs and provide excellent career prospects.

PhD in Business Administration: Researching the Future

For those passionate about academic research and pushing the boundaries of business knowledge, pursuing a PhD in Business Administration can be a rewarding path.

Application Process and Tips

  • Standardized Tests: Prepare for exams like CAT, GMAT, or XAT required for admission to top-ranked programs.
  • Academic Excellence: Maintain strong academic performance in your undergraduate studies.
  • Work Experience: Relevant work experience can strengthen your application, especially for PGDM programs.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Showcase your leadership skills and social responsibility through extracurricular activities.
  • Essays and Interviews: Craft compelling essays and prepare well for interviews to demonstrate your motivation and aptitude.

Beyond Rankings: Choosing the Right Fit

While rankings provide valuable insights, remember, they are just one factor to consider. Choose a school that aligns with your career aspirations, offers specialisations you are interested in, and has a strong alumni network in your desired field.

Future-proofing your Career

Embracing emerging trends is crucial for long-term success. Top-ranked business schools in India are constantly adapting their curriculum to equip students with skills in:

  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Understanding AI applications in finance, marketing, and operations will be game-changing.
  • Data Analytics and Business Intelligence: Interpreting data to drive informed decision-making is a vital skill in any industry.
  • Digital Marketing and E-commerce: Mastering online marketing strategies is essential for success in the age of digital commerce.
  • Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility: Understanding sustainable business practices and ethical values is increasingly important.

Future Outlook

Indian business education is poised for exciting times. With its strong fundamentals, evolving curriculum, and focus on emerging trends, it is well-positioned to prepare future leaders for the challenges and opportunities of a globalised and technology-driven world.

Conclusion

The Indian business landscape is ripe with opportunities for those prepared to seize them. Choosing a top-ranked business school in India can be your launchpad to a fulfilling and impactful career. By equipping yourself with future-proof skills, embracing emerging trends, and aligning your education with your passion, you can navigate the evolving business landscape with confidence. Remember, the right education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about building resilience, adaptability, and a thirst for constant learning. So, take the first step today, research thoroughly, choose wisely, and embark on your exciting journey toward becoming a leader in the dynamic world of Indian business.

In the competitive landscape of business education in India, choosing the right school is a pivotal decision. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and insights to make informed choices on your educational journey. Explore the options, discover the possibilities, and embark on a path that aligns with your aspirations for success in the dynamic world of business.

Don’t forget to check the school’s website for specific information about application deadlines, fees, and scholarship opportunities. Also, attending online information sessions and connecting with alumni can provide valuable insights into the school’s culture and fit.

IFMR Graduate School of Business (GSB) offers a two-year Post-Graduate Masters in Business Administration (MBA) degree under the auspices of Krea University. Their Interwoven Learning approach that combines theory with real life practices aids students into making a significant impact in the business world. 2024-26 Admissions Open. For more information, visit https://krea.edu.in/ifmrgsb/mba-admissions-2/

An Interview with Prof Lakshmi Kumar, Dean, IFMR GSB, Krea University: Invest In Education When The Market Isn’t Hiring 

In a video interview for Konversations By InsideIIM, Prof Lakshmi Kumar, Professor, Economics and Dean, IFMR GSB, Krea University talks about the current economic situation in the country, the situation around unemployment and inflation, and why she is concerned about whether growth will happen or not. 

Prof Lakshmi Kumar talks about the importance of understanding economics and macroeconomics for an MBA student, and the ways in which she makes difficult financial concepts easier to understand for her students. She also talks about the importance of steady alumni support for a B-school, especially in times when the hiring is slow and the markets are down.

Purpose, Permanence and sustainability teaching intervention by Sathyanarayanan R, Sundram Fasteners Associate Professor, Marketing at IFMR GSB, Krea University

Sathyanarayanan R, Sundram Fasteners Associate Professor, Marketing at IFMR GSB, Krea University has been invited by the Network for Business Sustainability, powered by the Centre for Building Sustainable Value at the Ivey Business School (Western University, Canada), to present his Purpose, Permanence and sustainability teaching intervention in the Brand Management elective course of the IFMRGSB’s MBA programme. The intervention covers the idea of the economy of permanence of Gandhian economist J C Kumarappa, the deep purpose continuum of Harvard Business School Professor Ranjay Gulati, and the ENROADS climate action simulation of Climate Interactive and MIT Management Sustainability Initiative. Sathyanarayanan R will deliver this talk in March 2024, during the Global webinar on teaching climate in business schools.

IFMR GSB Krea University celebrates the trending new-age entertainment – OTT/web series over the weekend with Abhyudaya 2022

IFMR GSB Krea University celebrates the trending new-age entertainment – OTT/web series over the weekend with Abhyudaya 2022

Chennai, 04 March 2022: “In the world of entertainment, may it be OTT or Big screen, it’s the content and the wa y it is delivered that fascinates the audience,” said award-winning filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon while addressing management students at IFMR GSB’s annual fest Abhyudaya 2022. The two-day flagship cultural fest over the weekend hosted personalities from the world of entertainment this year.

This year’s theme was a tribute to the streaming world of today with a focus on over-the-top (OTT) and web seri es platforms. ‘Abhyudaya 2022’ was formally inaugurated by filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon, who is also an actor, screenwriter, producer and a playback singer.

“With the increase in technology it’s easy for us to reach any corner of the world and that attracts both good an d bad thoughts on us, and this negativity should not throw us off. We should study that and figure out where it works for us and keep ourselves away from it affecting us,” he said.

ENGLISH / TAMILNADU / UNIVERSITY
IFMR GSB Krea University celebrates the trending new-age entertainment – OTT/web series over the weekend with Abhyudaya 2022
March 7, 2022 – by admin

IFMR GSB Krea University celebrates the trending new-age entertainment – OTT/web series over the weekend with Abhyudaya 2022

Chennai, 04 March 2022: “In the world of entertainment, may it be OTT or Big screen, it’s the content and the wa y it is delivered that fascinates the audience,” said award-winning filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon while addressing management students at IFMR GSB’s annual fest Abhyudaya 2022. The two-day flagship cultural fest over the weekend hosted personalities from the world of entertainment this year.

This year’s theme was a tribute to the streaming world of today with a focus on over-the-top (OTT) and web seri es platforms. ‘Abhyudaya 2022’ was formally inaugurated by filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon, who is also an actor, screenwriter, producer and a playback singer.

“With the increase in technology it’s easy for us to reach any corner of the world and that attracts both good an d bad thoughts on us, and this negativity should not throw us off. We should study that and figure out where it works for us and keep ourselves away from it affecting us,” he said.

Over the course of the two-day event, two inspiring Krea Talks were hosted during Abhyudaya 2022. These wer e delivered by Dr. Rakesh Godhwani (Academician & Entrepreneur) and Ms. Janaki Sabesh (Actress & Storytel ler), who encouraged young minds to communicate efficiently and boost their self-esteem, by never giving up an d keep trying. Dr. Rakesh Godhwani influences individuals by addressing that “it is okay to fail, it is how we rec alculate and keep trying towards achieving our dreams.”

The two-day event saw participation by 2700+ students from more than 150 top management institutes in the country such as IIMs, IITs, NMIMS, Xavier’s, Great Lakes, etc. These institutes showcased their talent in different categories (9 management & 6 cultural) of events and competed for cash prizes worth INR 3.5 lakhs.

About Krea University

Krea University, with a pioneering approach of Interwoven Learning, is located in Sri City, 55 kms North of Chen nai. Instituted by a team of global academics, business leaders and scholars with a vision for the 21st Century an d beyond, Krea is an effort to re-imagine the education system, aiming to enable students to become agile, ethi cal and purposeful leaders in this fast-changing world. Krea University currently houses two Schools and provid es strategic oversight to globally acclaimed Research Centers. The IFMR Graduate School of Business offers Ph D, MBA and customised Management Development Programmes. The School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences currently offers 3-year BA (Honours) & BSc (Honours) degrees, with an option to do an additional year, i.e., four th year of Advanced Studies.

Routledge Taylor & Francis publishes sustainability marketing case study by IFMR GSB Professor

‘Nurpu: A Dream towards a Sustainable Handloom Weaving Society’, a case study written by Prof R Sathyanarayanan (Sundram Fasteners Associate Professor of Marketing, IFMR Graduate School of Business – Krea University) has been published by Routledge Taylor & Francis as a part of their new book “Social and Sustainability Marketing: A Casebook for Reaching Your Socially Responsible Consumers through Marketing Science”. The book will be available in the market from 27 September 2021. 
Access it here: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781003188186-23/nurpu-dream-towards-sustainable-handloom-weaving-society-sathyanarayanan-ramachandran-senthil-kumar

WayCool kick-starts leadership development programme; announces partnership with IFMR Graduate School Of Business at Krea University

WayCool Foods, India’s fastest growing agri-commerce company, announced their association with IFMR Graduate School of Business (IFMR GSB) at Krea University to kick-start their leadership development program, christened as L.E.A.P. L.E.A.P (Learn…Emerge…Accelerate…Progress) will be a one-of-its-kind programme which will not only enable the creation of future leaders but also drive business and people leadership capabilities in the uncharted agri-commerce space. A select few who have come through a rigorous and neutral assessment process, have earned the opportunity to take up this unique programme that is slated to be path-breaking with the potential to drive the future direction of the agri-commerce industry.

L.E.A.P, designed to build the leadership pipeline within WayCool, will handle development in three distinct streams, academic, on-the-job, and mentorship. The academic stream will be led by renowned academicians and faculty from IFMR GSB at Krea University. Uniquely curated, L.E.A.P will be a one-year industry relevant certification programme consisting of academic content, engagement with other industry experts as part of the academic programme, and hands-on experience with different departments within WayCool, handling banner projects. These projects, which are growth oriented, will have an impact on critical business parameters of each division within WayCool. The mentorship stream of L.E.A.P will be under the direct guidance of WayCool’s leadership team who have established themselves as pioneers in the agri-commerce space.

“We are pleased to partner with WayCool, a pioneer in the technology-led, agri-commerce industry committed to re-imagining India’s food supply chain,” said Mr. Ramkumar Ramamoorthy, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Professional Learning at Krea University. . “Working closely with the practicing leaders at WayCool, the highly-experienced IFMR GSB faculty members have curated a unique program that addresses the specific needs of the emerging leaders in the agri-commerce sector. The program will be delivered using multi-modal learning (online and on-premise) coupled with experiential learning through the application of concepts on the job, working closely with managers and mentors at WayCool.

Speaking on the tie-up, Ms. Lakshmipriya Somasundaram, Head- Human Resources Operations, Waycool Foods, said, “We have invested in massive capacity building over the last 6 years. On the Capability front, we have doubled our human resource strength in the last one year to 2000. As we continue to expand our reach and operations, talent needs too shall continue to grow. Agri-commerce, unlike any other sector, is very complex and demands specific skill sets and capabilities. With this partnership with KREA, we aim to not just breed future leaders for WayCool alone, but, for the industry as a whole”.

Krea University commenced the first batch of LEAP programme for the WayCool leadership team in the first week of August 2021.

‘AIMA India Case Research Centre’ publishes marketing management case study by IFMR GSB professor in their latest issue

The AIMA India Case Research Centre, a well-known portal focusing on developing and publishing industry based India-focused research cases, has published a marketing management case study by Prof Sathya Saminadan, Assistant Professor at IFMR GSB – Krea University. The case study titled ‘Sustaining the Market Share Against the Branded Firms in an Unorganized Sector’, explores several unorthodox marketing and relationship strategies used by an entrepreneur against branded firms. The case study also highlights the realities of the market, a perspective that would serve well for management students.

Read the case study here: https://www.caseresearchaima.in/frontend/product_display/390

New-age marketing case study co-authored by IFMR GSB professor to be presented at NACRA 2021 Conference

Prof Sathyanarayanan Ramachandran, Sundram Fasteners Associate Professor of Marketing at IFMR GSB – Krea University, has co-authored a case study about the marketing of the book series “Incredible Champions” written by Dr N Chandrasekaran. The case study has been accepted for presentation at the North American Case Research Association 2021 (NACRA 2021) Conference to be held in October this year. As the lead author of the case study, Prof Sathyanarayanan shall be presenting it at the conference. 

IFMR GSB welcomes the L&T C EMBA cohort of 2021-24

IFMR GSB at Krea University welcomed the new cohort of L&T Executives to the EMBA program 2021-24 on 31 July 2021. The chief guests for the function were Mr Ramkishore, Vice President & Head – Divisional Corporate HR at L&T Construction and Ms Niranjana C, Vice President – Accounts & Administration, Power Transmission & Distribution IC at L&T Construction. The welcome address delivered by Mr Ramkumar Ramamoorthy, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Professional Learning, focused on the programme and how it would help EMBA executives decipher situational trends and proactively address the challenges coming their way.

Learning from mistakes: E&E Industry leader Shailesh Vilankar shares lessons from his journey

Shailesh Vilankar, Senior Vice President of Field Operations at Schindler India and a well-known name in the field of Elevators and Escalators (E&E), recently interacted with IFMR GSB students, giving them insights about his leadership journey and the lessons he learnt along the way. The interaction included an overview of the E&E industry and the challenges they faced due to the pandemic. Motivating students to take on challenges beyond their comfort zone, he shared his success mantra – understanding a customer’s needs irrespective of the industry.