MBA Syllabus 2024: Semester-Wise Subjects List & MBA Colleges

Shailesh Jain
July 4, 2024

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MBA Syllabus 2024: Semester-Wise MBA Subjects List

MBA programs are renowned for equipping future business leaders with essential management and entrepreneurship skills. The MBA syllabus for 2024 reflects the dynamic demands of the global business environment, encompassing a diverse range of subjects tailored to different career aspirations.

From foundational courses in the first year to specialised electives in the second, the MBA syllabus prepares students to tackle real-world challenges across various industries.

About MBA Syllabus

MBA syllabus encompasses a diverse range of subjects designed to provide students with the skills needed to excel in the corporate world. Here’s a table highlighting some of the key components of the MBA syllabus and admission.

Aspect Details
Full-time MBA Duration Two Years
MBA Syllabus Core Subjects: 1st Year Finance
Marketing
HR
Operations
Organisational Behaviour
Business Ethics
MBA Syllabus Core Subjects: 2nd Year Finance
Marketing Strategy
HR Analytics
Entrepreneurship
MBA Capstone Projects and Internships Consulting Projects
Industry Internships
Business Simulations
Research Projects
Thesis
MBA Entrance Exams CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, GMAT, SNAP, ATMA, NMAT, and IBSAT
Types of MBA Full-time MBA
Distance MBA
Online MBA
Part-time MBA

Let’s learn about the MBA syllabus, subjects, and entrance exams in detail, starting from specialisations.

MBA Syllabus 2024: Semester-Wise Breakup

Candidates should carefully select their MBA college for admission, considering that the MBA syllabus and subjects are regularly updated to reflect current trends. 

While some colleges maintain consistent curricula over the years, many adapt their programs to incorporate the latest topics and industry demands.

Semester MBA Subjects
Semester 1 Marketing Management I
Corporate Financial Reporting & Analysis
Marketing of Products and Services
Organisational Behaviour I
Human Resources Management
Statistics for Management
Business Communication & Presentation Skills
Business Statistics
India and the World Economy
Marketing and Consumer Behaviour
Micro-Economics
Semester 2 Costing Products and Services
Organisational Behaviour II
Indian Economy in the Global Context
Marketing Management II
Macroeconomics
Human Resource Management II
Managing Operations and Supply Chain
Project Management
Marketing II
Transforming Business through Information Technology
Personal and Corporate Ethics
Indian Banking and Financial Markets
Operations Management
Managing Stakeholders and Legal Processes
Risk Management
Corporate Finance
Semester 3 Applied Business Research
India and the World Economy
Managing Digital Business
Entrepreneurial Mindset and Action
Production and Operations Management
Strategic Management
Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility
Management of Design
Cost and Management Accounting
Indian Legal System
Business, Government, and Society: Ethics and Responsible Business
Analysing and Mitigating Risk
Business Model and Intellectual Property
Leveraging IT for Business
Problem-solving and Consulting Skills
Semester 4 Capstone Simulation
Integrated Decision-Making
Project Study
Applied Business Research Project
Ethics and Indian Ethos
Leadership Development

MBA Syllabus Specialisation-Wise

In MBA programs, specialisations offer focused study paths tailored to different aspects of business management. Choosing an MBA specialisation depends on your career goals and interests. 

Each specialisation provides unique knowledge and skills, preparing you for various business roles. 

Specialisation Description MBA Subjects
Finance and Accounting Focuses on managing financial resources, analysing data, and making strategic decisions. Financial Management, Corporate Finance, Investment Analysis, Financial Reporting, Derivatives
Marketing Emphasises understanding consumer behaviour, developing strategies, and managing brands. Vital for marketing professionals leveraging digital platforms. Marketing Management, Consumer Behaviour, Digital Marketing, Brand Management, Market Research
Human Resource Management Focuses on attracting, developing, and retaining talent. Critical for creating inclusive workplaces and aligning HR strategies with organisational goals. Talent Acquisition, Performance Management, Organisational Behaviour, HR Analytics, Leadership Development
Information Technology (IT) Equips with skills in managing IT resources, leveraging technology, and ensuring cybersecurity. Essential for digital transformation and IT strategy. Management Information Systems (MIS), Database Management, IT Strategy, Information Security, E-commerce
Business Analytics Focuses on analysing data to derive insights for decision-making and operational improvements. Essential in data-driven industries for predictive analytics. Business Intelligence, Data Mining, Big Data Analytics, Data Visualization, Quantitative Methods
Operations Management Emphasises optimising processes, managing supply chains, and improving efficiency. Crucial in manufacturing, retail, and logistics for operational excellence. Supply Chain Management, Quality Management, Operations Strategy, Project Management, Operations Analytics
Logistics Management Focuses on managing the flow of goods and services efficiently across supply chains. Essential for logistics planning and transportation management. Supply Chain Management, International Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Logistics Strategy
Economics Explores economic theories and principles essential for understanding market dynamics and policy analysis. Important for economic research and consulting roles. Managerial Economics, International Economics, Public Economics, Econometrics, Monetary Economics
Entrepreneurship The Entrepreneurship specialisation is designed for students who wish to start their own businesses or work in entrepreneurial roles within organisations. Business Planning, Venture Capital, Innovation Management, Entrepreneurial Finance

Speaking of personalising your MBA journey, let’s now look at some of the elective subjects that can further refine your specialisation.

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MBA Syllabus: Elective Subjects

The programs of elective subjects in MBA offer students the opportunity to tailor their education to align closely with their career aspirations and interests. These specialised courses talk about specific areas of business management, providing essential skills and knowledge that enhance professional readiness and expertise.

Elective Subject Description Elective MBA Subjects
Finance Electives Focuses on financial decision-making, risk assessment, and valuation techniques. Investment Analysis, Financial Modelling, Risk Management, Corporate Valuation
Marketing Electives Covers digital strategies, retail operations, brand development, and consumer psychology. Digital Marketing, Retail Management, Brand Management, Consumer Behaviour
Logistics Management Electives Explores logistics efficiency, sustainability practices, quality control, and supply chain optimisation. E-commerce Logistics, Green Logistics, Quality Management, Supply Chain Optimization
Human Resource Management Electives Focuses on managing talent, organisational change, performance evaluation, and diversity initiatives. Talent Management, Organisational Development and Change, Performance Management, Diversity Management
Information Technology Electives Addresses IT infrastructure management, data analysis, cybersecurity protocols, and strategic IT planning. Management Information Systems (MIS), Big Data Analytics, Cybersecurity Management, IT Strategy
Operations Management Electives Covers advanced supply chain strategies, operational analytics, process improvement, and project leadership. Advanced Supply Chain Management, Operations Analytics, Lean Six Sigma, Project Management

Distance MBA

Distance MBA programs are meant for working professionals and individuals who seek flexibility in their higher education journey.  To access study materials for a Distance MBA program, students typically receive the following.

Online Learning Platforms

         Access to virtual classrooms, lecture videos, and digital libraries.

Printed Study Material

          Textbooks, study guides, and course modules delivered via postal services or downloadable formats.

E-Learning Resources

          Interactive modules, quizzes, and discussion forums are available on the university's Learning Management System (LMS).

With such learning resources, even distant students can achieve great things.  Let’s see how you can prepare for the entrance exams to these MBA colleges.

MBA Entrance Exams

The MBA entrance exam is an important step for aspiring management professionals to secure admission into top business schools. Here are some of the prominent MBA entrance exams in India:

Full Name Accepting Institutes
Common Admission Test (CAT) All IIMs, SJMSoM IIT Mumbai, IIFT, FMS Delhi, etc.
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) XLRI, MICA, TAPMI, GIM Goa, etc.
Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 160 colleges, including NMIMS Mumbai, IMT Ghaziabad, JBIMS Mumbai, and XIME Bangalore.
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) All AICTE-approved institutions including SIES, Mumbai, IMT Nagpur, IMS Ghaziabad
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Accepted in 2300 colleges worldwide including:
  • India: ISB, IIMs, XLRI, SPJIMR
  • USA: Yale University, Stanford University, University of Chicago
  • UK: London Business School, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford
Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) Admission to MBA programs at Symbiosis Institutes
AIMS Test for Management Admissions (ATMA) Accepted by 200+ management institutes in India including Christ University Bangalore, Delhi School of Business, IILM University Gurugram
NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT) NMIMS and other leading business schools in India, Morocco, Hungary, South Africa, Nigeria, & Philippines
ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test (IBSAT) ICFAI Business Schools along with JKBS Gurgaon, IBS Hyderabad, etc.

Now, let’s break down the syllabus for each of these prominent entrance exams so you can prepare effectively.

Who is an International Business Development Manager? Read to know more.

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MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus

Each exam assesses candidates across various sections, testing their proficiency in English, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and decision-making skills. Here's a breakdown of the MBA syllabus for prominent entrance exams in India:

Exam

Sections

Topics

SNAP

General English: Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, and Verbal Ability

  • Reading Comprehension, 
  • Verbal Reasoning, 
  • Synonyms & Antonyms, 
  • Grammar, 
  • Sentence Completion, 
  • Sentence Correction, 
  • Analogies, 
  • Idioms & Phrases

Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency

  • Arithmetic (Number System, Ratio & Proportion,
    Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Work and Time, etc.),
  • Algebra (Equations, Sequence and Series, Inequalities, Logarithms, etc.), 
  • Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry, etc.), 
  • DI (Tables, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, Pie Charts, Data Sufficiency)

Analytical & Logical Reasoning

  • Puzzles, Series, 
  • Clocks & Calendars, 
  • Analogy, 
  • Coding-Decoding, 
  • Blood Relations, 
  • Statements & Conclusions, 
  • Logical Deduction

ATMA

Analytical Reasoning Skills

  • Analytical Reasoning, 
  • Verbal Logic, 
  • Argument Analysis, 
  • Statement-Inference, 
  • Courses of Action

Verbal Skills

  • Reading Comprehension, 
  • Sentence Completion, 
  • Vocabulary (Synonyms & Antonyms),
  • Grammar, 
  • Para Jumbles, 
  • Idioms & Phrases

Quantitative Skills

  • Arithmetic (Number System, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Work and Time, etc.), 
  • Algebra (Equations, Inequalities, Logarithms, etc.), 
  • Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry, etc.), 
  • Modern Mathematics (Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory, etc.), 
  • Data Interpretation

NMAT

Language Skills

  • Reading Comprehension, 
  • Synonyms & Antonyms, 
  • Vocabulary Usage, 
  • Grammar, 
  • Sentence Correction, 
  • Para Jumbles, 
  • Fill in the Blanks

Quantitative Skills

  • Arithmetic (Number System, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Work and Time, etc.), 
  • Algebra (Equations, Sequence and Series, Inequalities, Logarithms, etc.), 
  • Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry, etc.), 
  • Modern Mathematics (Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory, etc.), 
  • Data Interpretation

Logical Reasoning

  • Critical Reasoning, 
  • Analytical Puzzles, 
  • Series, Coding-Decoding, 
  • Blood Relations, 
  • Statements & Arguments, 
  • Logical Deductions, 
  • Decision Making

IBSAT

Verbal Ability

  • Vocabulary (Synonyms & Antonyms), 
  • Reading Comprehension, 
  • Grammar, 
  • Sentence Completion, 
  • Para Jumbles, 
  • Analogies, 
  • Critical Reasoning

Reading Comprehension

  • Read passages and answer questions based on them

Quantitative Aptitude

  • Arithmetic (Number System, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Work and Time, etc.), 
  • Algebra (Equations, Sequence and Series, Inequalities, Logarithms, etc.), 
  • Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry, etc.), 
  • Data Interpretation (Graphs, Charts, Tables), 
  • Modern Mathematics (Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory, etc.)

Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation

  • Data Sufficiency, 
  • Data Analysis, 
  • Interpretation of Data (Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, Pie Charts, Tables)

CAT

Quantitative Ability (QA)

  • Arithmetic (Number system, HCF, LCM, ratio and proportion, percentage, profit and loss, time and work, time speed and distance, simple and compound interest, averages, logarithms, etc.),
  • Algebra (Inequalities, quadratic equations, functions, progressions, and others; Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, polygons, circles, etc.),
  • Mensuration (Areas and volumes - rectangles, squares, circles, triangles, cubes, cones, cylinders, spheres, and others),
  • Trigonometry (Trigonometric ratios, heights and distances, identities, and others)

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

  • Reading and understanding the content, identifying the main idea, deriving inferences, and drawing conclusions; 
  • Vocabulary-based questions, English usage, and grammar

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

  • DI: Tables, graphs (bar graphs, line charts, pie charts), and caselets; 
  • Logical reasoning: Clocks, calendars, binary logic, seating arrangement, blood relations, logical sequence, and others

XAT

Verbal and Logical Ability

  • Vocabulary-based questions, English usage, and grammar; 
  • Reading comprehension: Passage-based questions; 
  • Logical reasoning and decision-making
 

Decision Making

  • Analytical and logical reasoning; 
  • Situational decision-making
 

Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation

  • Arithmetic, algebra, geometry; 
  • Data interpretation: Tables, graphs, charts

CMAT

Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation

  • Arithmetic: Ratios and proportions, percentages, profit and loss, partnership, time-speed-distance, work and time, simple and compound interest, averages, and others; 
  • Algebra: Equations, inequalities, functions, and others; 
  • Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, circles, and others; 
  • Mensuration: Areas and volumes of squares, rectangles, circles, triangles, cubes, cones, spheres, and others; 
  • Data interpretation: Tables, graphs, charts
 

Logical Reasoning

  • Analytical reasoning, 
  • linear arrangements, 
  • seating arrangements, 
  • blood relations
 

Language Comprehension

  • English grammar and usage, 
  • vocabulary, 
  • sentence correction

MAT

Language Comprehension

  • Verbal reasoning, 
  • vocabulary, 
  • reading comprehension
 

Mathematical Skills

  • Arithmetic, 
  • algebra, 
  • geometry, 
  • modern mathematics
 

Data Analysis & Sufficiency

  • Data interpretation, 
  • quantitative reasoning, 
  • data sufficiency
 

Intelligence and Critical Reasoning

  • Analytical and logical reasoning

GMAT

Analytical Writing Assessment

  • Argument analysis and essay writing
 

Integrated Reasoning

  • Multi-source reasoning, 
  • table analysis, 
  • graphics interpretation, 
  • two-part analysis
 

Quantitative

  • Problem-solving and data sufficiency
 

Verbal

  • Critical reasoning, 
  • reading comprehension, 
  • sentence correction

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Also Read: Funding your MBA in India

Most Recommended MBA Books

Here are some essential books for MBA that aspiring MBA students should consider:

Subject Title Author Description
Entrepreneurship & Innovation The Lean Startup Eric Ries A must-read for entrepreneurs and managers, focusing on startup methodology and innovation.
Business Strategy Good to Great Jim Collins Examines why some companies leap to greatness while others don't through extensive research.
Principles & Leadership Principles: Life and Work Ray Dalio Offers insights into the principles that Dalio has developed and refined over his career.
Technology & Innovation The Innovator's Dilemma Clayton M. Christensen Explores the impact of disruptive technology on leading companies and industries.
Psychology & Decision Making Thinking, Fast and Slow Daniel Kahneman Talks about the systems that drive the way we think: fast, intuitive thinking and slower, more deliberate thinking.
Leadership & Teamwork Leaders Eat Last Simon Sinek Explores why some teams and organizations thrive while others falter, focusing on the role of leaders.

But first, let’s not forget that choosing the right institution is just as important. Here are some of India's top MBA colleges to get you started.

Popular MBA Colleges in India

India boasts over 100 top MBA colleges, with 64 privately owned, 43 government-run, and one operating under a public-private partnership. Lets have a looka t some of the top MBA colleges: 

College Name Entrance Exam MBA Fee (in INR) Median Salary (in INR) NIRF Rank 2023
Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad CAT 25 lakhs 31.50 LPA 1
Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore CAT 24.50 lakhs 3.15 LPA 2
Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode CAT 20.50 lakhs 27.00 LPA 3
Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta CAT 25 lakhs 33.67 LPA 4
Department of Management Studies, IIT Delhi CAT/GATE 11.20 lakhs 24.45 LPA 5
Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow CAT 12.60 lakhs 30 LPA 6
Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai (NITIE) CAT 21 lakhs 28 LPA 7
Indian Institute of Management, Indore CAT 20 lakhs 24.50 LPA 8
XLRI Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur XAT 28.60 lakhs 30 LPA 9
Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai CAT, MAH MBA CET 8 lakhs 25.76 LPA 10
Indian Institute of Management, Raipur CAT 16.28 lakhs 20 LPA 11
Indian Institute of Management, Rohtak CAT 17.90 lakhs 17.50 LPA 12
Management Development Institute, Gurgaon CAT 26 lakhs 26.70 LPA 13
Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur CAT 9 lakhs 24.50 LPA 14
Indian Institute of Technology, Madras CAT, GMAT 1.26 lakhs 16 LPA 15

Now that we've explored the top MBA colleges in India let's explore the best colleges for Distance MBA programs.

Insights: MBA Course Fees 2024: Government & Private College Fees

Best Colleges in India for Distance MBA

Distance MBA programs are offered by various reputed institutions in India. Some top colleges known for their Distance MBA programs are listed below.

MBA Colleges

Course (Duration)

Total Fees*

NMIMS, Global Access School for Continuing Education

Various PGD Programs (2 years)

INR 62,000

Institute of Management Technology, Centre for DL

PGDP (2 yrs)

INR 1 lakh

Various PGD Programs (1 year)

INR 60,000

Symbiosis Center for Distance Learning

Various PGD Programs (2 years)

INR  30,000-37,000

Various PGD Programs (1 year)

INR 18,000-22,000

IGNOU

MBA (maximum duration 8 yrs)

INR 31,500

PGDM (1 year)

INR 1,500 per course

Various PGD Programs (1 year)

INR 1,500 per course

Prin LN Welingkar Institute of Management

PGDM (2 yrs) with various specialisations (Dual specialisation option available)

INR 61,000 without Personal Contact Program (PCP) fees and INR 64,600 along with PCP fees

Amity University, Distance Learning

MBA

INR 1.27 lakhs

Master of Financial Management (2 yrs)

INR 1.13 lakhs

Various PGD programs (1 yr each)

INR 55,000-64,700

Diploma Courses

INR 18,600

Annamalai University

MBA programs (2 yrs) and various specialisations

INR 57,050

MIT School of Distance Education

PGD Business Administration (2 years)

INR 55,000

PGD Energy Management (1 year)

INR 35,000

LPU Distance Education

MBA

INR 54,000

*Subject to change

The MBA syllabus for 2024 integrates foundational management principles with cutting-edge practices, preparing professionals to lead in today's global economy.

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FAQs about MBA Syllabus 2024

Mention the list of MBA subjects in 1st Year. 

The list of MBA subjects in 1st year is given below:

  1. Marketing Management
  2. Financial Reporting & AnalysisOrganizational Behavior
  3. Human Resources Management
  4. Business Statistics, Microeconomics
  5. Macroeconomics
  6. Operations Management
  7. Business Ethics
  8. Business Communication

How many semesters are there in a typical MBA program? 

A typical full-time MBA program consists of four semesters spread over two years.

What specialisations are commonly offered in MBA programs? 

Common specialisations include Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, Business Analytics, Operations Management, and Logistics Management.

Is there any difference between the MBA syllabus of different colleges? 

Yes, while core subjects are similar, colleges may differ in their specialisations, elective offerings, and emphasis on practical learning or research.

What is the focus of the second year in an MBA program? 

The second year typically focuses on specialised subjects aligned with the student's chosen specialisation, along with electives and often includes a capstone project or dissertation.

Are internships part of the MBA syllabus? 

Many MBA programs include internships, usually during the summer break between the first and second year, though this can vary by institution.

Mention MBA subjects list in the Finance specialisation.

Common subjects include Financial Management, Corporate Finance, Investment Analysis, Financial Reporting, and Derivatives.

How does the MBA syllabus differ for distance programs? 

Distance MBA programs often cover similar core subjects but may have a more flexible structure, with fewer specialised courses and a greater emphasis on self-study materials.

What kind of projects or practical work is included in the MBA syllabus? 

The MBA syllabus often includes case studies, group projects, presentations, and sometimes a capstone project or dissertation in the final semester.

Are there any specific subjects focused on entrepreneurship in the MBA syllabus? 

Yes, many programs offer courses on Entrepreneurial Mindset and Action, Business Model Development, and Venture Capital.

How much emphasis is placed on digital skills in the 2024 MBA syllabus? 

There's increasing emphasis on digital skills, with courses on Digital Marketing, Business Analytics, and Management Information Systems becoming more prevalent.

Give MBA subjects list in the Marketing specialisation. 

Key subjects often include Consumer Behavior, Brand Management, Digital Marketing, Market Research, and Marketing Strategy.

Are there any subjects that focus on ethics and corporate responsibility? 

Yes, many programs include courses on Business Ethics, Corporate Governance, and Corporate Social Responsibility.

How does the MBA syllabus prepare students for global business environments? 

Many programs offer courses on International Business, Cross-Cultural Management, and Global Economics, and some include international exchange programs or study tours.

What kind of quantitative courses are included in the MBA syllabus? 

Quantitative courses typically include Business Statistics, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling, and Operations Research.

How many subjects are in MBA?

The number of subjects in an MBA program typically ranges from 15 to 20, including both core and elective courses. This varies by institution and chosen specialisation.

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