Distance MBA From IIM: Courses, Duration, Ultimate Guide
The determination to pursue an MBA often highlights the significance of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), recognised as India’s premier business education hubs. As the country’s foremost and most prestigious, well-reputed business schools, the IIMs are renowned for their outstanding educational quality, wide-ranging exposure, and abundant opportunities available to their students. While most students look to pursue the famed 2-year MBA/PGDM, few know about the distance MBA from IIM options available to them. Read on to know how you can explore the distance/online MBA option while continuing to work.
The Distance MBA from IIM provides a great opportunity for working professionals and individuals unable to enroll in regular MBA programs. This option allows you to pursue a higher degree from the prestigious IIM while continuing with your current job.
In India, there are several Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) located in various regions and states, offering a wide range of MBA courses.
If you are considering an IIM for a distance MBA but are wondering about course options, fees, and other details, let’s understand this in-depth, beginning with an overview of IIM distance education.
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What is the Distance MBA from IIM?
You can pursue a Distance MBA, a two-year postgraduate degree, without visiting colleges. You can study at your own pace using study materials and online resources. The Indian Institute of Management does not offer a distance MBA, but it provides executive MBA programs and an e-Mode Postgraduate Programme.
The IIM executive MBA is designed for working professionals. It includes online classes and requires attending campus once or twice a week. The program is highly prestigious and allows individuals who are already working to upgrade their skills. The duration of the executive MBA can range from 4 weeks to 18 months. It helps professionals change careers, discover new opportunities, and plan for their future.
The e-mode post-graduation program offered by some IIMs is a 2-year hybrid learning program. It involves online resources, classes, campus sessions, and project work.
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Distance Learning MBA From IIM
Here are 5 top IIM colleges that offer a two-year MBA program through eLearning.
1. Distance MBA from IIM : IIM Ahmedabad
IIM Ahmedabad offers an online Master of Management Studies degree. The program has a duration of 2 years but can be completed in up to 3 years for added flexibility. The course consists of 850 hours of classes focused on improving managerial skills, leadership abilities, and decision-making skills.
| Course Name | Duration | Pedagogy |
| Master of Management Studies | 2 Years | Campus Visit, Project Work, Online Study |
2. Distance MBA from IIM: IIM Lucknow Noida Campus
IIM Lucknow has two campuses – one in Lucknow and the other in Noida. At the Noida campus, IIM Lucknow offers a two-year postgraduate management program for working executives called PGPWE, which is similar to a traditional MBA. It was previously known as the Working Managers’ Programme. The PGPWE is designed specifically for entrepreneurs, professionals, and executives.
| Course Name | Duration | Pedagogy |
| Postgraduate Programmes In Management For Working Executives | 2 Years | Candidates need to come to the IIM Noida campus on alternate weekends |
3. Distance MBA from IIM: IIM Indore
IIM Indore offers a 2-year Master of Management Studies program for working professionals. The program is designed to help participants gain comprehensive knowledge, essential skills, and strong ethical and leadership capabilities at their own pace.
| Course Name | Duration | Pedagogy |
| Master of Management Studies (MMS) | 2 Years | Online and offline sessions, project work, assignments, case discussions |
4. Distance MBA from IIM: IIM Raipur
IIM Raipur, situated in the state of Chhattisgarh, provides a comprehensive Executive Postgraduate Program in Management tailored to the needs of working professionals and executives. The program spans over two years and offers a well-rounded education to enhance career prospects and organisational leadership.
| Course Name | Duration | Pedagogy |
| Executive Post-Graduate Programme in Management | 2 Years | Case studies, lecture sessions on weekends or evenings, interactions with industry experts, business games |
5. Distance MBA from IIM: IIM Ranchi
Located in Jharkhand, the Indian Institute of Management in Ranchi offers a 2-year management program with the option to complete it in 3 years for flexibility. The blended mode classes make distance learning with IIM ideal for working professionals and executives.
| Course Name | Duration | Pedagogy |
| Executive Postgraduate degree in Management | 2 Years | Online classes on weekends, campus classes during term end |
In addition to these 5 IIMs, other IIM colleges in Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kozhikode, etc., offer various executive short and long-term courses. Enrolling in these courses allows you to learn valuable skills and secure good placements in reputable jobs.
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Distance Learning MBA from IIM: IIM Distance Programme Placement
IIM’s distance courses and executive programs are well-structured and focus on acquiring knowledge alongside earning a degree. These highly respected programs make it easier for students to secure higher positions in organisations and companies. The distance MBA program at IIM is designed for working professionals and does not include campus placements.
How to Get Admission to Distance MBA from IIM
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) releases the admission dates for their distance education programme on their official website. Typically, IIM offers admissions for distance learning courses twice a year. To apply, you can visit the official website of the specific IIM college where you wish to pursue your studies. Take a look at the different courses they offer, consider factors such as the course curriculum, eligibility requirements, duration, and cost, and then select the course that best aligns with your career aspirations and future goals.
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FAQs: Distance MBA from IIM
Q1: Is a distance degree valid for IIM?
A: Yes, you can pursue courses from IIM even if you have completed your bachelor’s degree through distance learning.
Q2: Is it worth doing an online MBA from IIM?
A: Yes, an online MBA from IIM is highly recognised. Students develop self-discipline, managerial skills, and leadership abilities through classes, project work, case studies, and more.