PGDM in Data Science: Top Colleges, Fees & Job Prospects

Vaishali Pandey
November 18, 2024

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A PGDM in Data Science is a sought-after program combining analytics expertise with essential management skills. This blog covers everything you need to know, from eligibility criteria, top colleges, and syllabus to career opportunities in data science. It also explores the differences between a PGDM and a PGD in Data Science.

Let’s see how a PGDM in Data Science can enhance your professional journey!

PGDM in Data Science: Highlights 

Let’s start with a quick summary of the PGDM in Data Science program:

Aspect

Highlights

Duration

Typically 1.5 to 2 years

Core Subjects

Data Science, Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Marketing Analytics, Financial Analysis, and Strategic Management

Eligibility Criteria

Bachelor’s degree (preferably in science, engineering, or business) and a valid score in entrance exams like CAT, XAT, GMAT, or GRE.

Top Institutions

Great Lakes Institute, NMIMS, INSOFE, SCIT, and others in India.

Career Opportunities

Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Engineer, and AI Product Manager.

Average Salary (INR)

INR 10,00,000 to 18,00,000 per annum, depending on experience and role.

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Eligibility for PGDM in Data Science 

Here are the eligibility criteria students need to fulfil to pursue a PGDM in Data Science: 

Eligibility Criteria

Description

Educational Qualification

A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline, with a minimum of 50% marks in undergraduate studies, is required. 

Entrance Exams

Candidates may need to qualify in national or institute-specific entrance exams like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, GMAT, or GRE. Some universities also accept their entrance tests.

Work Experience

While not mandatory for all institutions, 1-2 years of work experience in a relevant field (analytics, IT, or business) may be preferred.

Age Limit

There is no strict age limit, although some institutions may have an upper age cap, usually around 30 years, for specific categories.

While we are at it, if you are genuinely interested in a PG in Data Science and want to aim for relevant management roles in the same field, it is worth your time to explore other courses, such as an MBA in Data Science and a PGDM in Business Analytics. We have covered both of these courses in detail. Check them out! 

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Entrance Exams for PGDM in Data Science 

To get into the top PGDM colleges in India, you need to qualify for the entrance exam that the college accepts. Most PGDM in Data Science Colleges in India accept the following test scores: 

Exam Name

Tentative Date

Description

Common Admission Test (CAT)

24 Nov 2024

A national-level management entrance exam conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) assesses quantitative ability, verbal ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning.

Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)

5 January 2025

Administered by XLRI Jamshedpur, XAT assesses decision-making, verbal and logical ability, quantitative ability, and general knowledge.

Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)

May 2025

Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CMAT evaluates quantitative techniques, logical reasoning, language comprehension, and general awareness.

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

Available year-round

Many Indian and global institutions accept an international exam assessing analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal skills.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

Available year-round

An international test measuring verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, accepted by select management programs.

Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)

December 2024

Conducted by Symbiosis International University, SNAP evaluates general English, quantitative data interpretation, data sufficiency, and analytical and logical reasoning.

Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test (NMAT)

October to December

Administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), NMAT assesses language skills, quantitative skills, and logical reasoning.

Please note that these dates are tentative and may vary each year.

Colleges for PGDM in Data Science 

All of these colleges provide an exclusive executive PGDM in Data Science programs or flagship certificate courses in Data Science: 

College Name

Location

Approximate Total Fees (INR)

Great Lakes Institute of Management

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

11,76,000

International School of Engineering (INSOFE)

Hyderabad, Telangana

24,82,000

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

12,00,000

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore

Bangalore, Karnataka

23,00,000

Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

17,00,000

Symbiosis Centre for Information Technology (SCIT)

Pune, Maharashtra

10,00,000

International Management Institute (IMI)

New Delhi, Delhi

19,25,000

Institute of Management Technology (IMT)

Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh

19,53,000

KJ Somaiya Institute of Management

Mumbai, Maharashtra

18,78,000

Looking for the best colleges for your course might seem overwhelming. 

If you are trying to find the best PGDM Colleges in India, check out our list of colleges. We also discuss the fees, entrance exams they accept, and placement statistics.

 

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PGDM in Data Science: Syllabus 

Please note that actual subjects may vary slightly based on the institution.

Trimester

Subjects/Certifications

Trimester 1

- Managerial Economics

- Financial Accounting

- Marketing Management I

- Principles of Management

- Organisational Behaviour I

- Business Law

- Innovation & Design Thinking

- Business Communication

Trimester 2

- Macro Economics

- Corporate Finance

- Entrepreneurship

- Marketing Management II

- Statistics for Managers

- Organisational Behaviour II

- Research Methods

- Advanced Excel

- Power Skills

Trimester 3

- Human Resources Management

- Strategic Management

- Project Management

- Python Fundamentals

- Python for Data Analytics

- Operations Research

- Microsoft Certification DP-900

- Business Environment

- Research Paper

Trimester 4

- Disaster Management & Sustainability

- Essentials of Linear Algebra, Statistics, and Probability

- Machine Learning I

- PowerBI Essentials

- Designing and Implementing Data Science Solutions on Azure DP-100

- Basics of Language R

- Database Using SQL

- Internship

Trimester 5

- Business Ethics & Corporate Governance

- Basics of Artificial Neural Networks

- Deep Neural Networks

- Machine Learning II

- Introduction to Reinforcement Learning and Time Series Forecasting

- Basics of Natural Language Processing

- Designing and Implementing AI Solutions on Azure AI-102

Trimester 6

- Project and Dissertation

Note: Please note that actual subjects may vary slightly based on the institution. The syllabus can vary widely depending on the institution, so it's always beneficial to consult the specific program's curriculum.

If you are interested in a PGDM course, why not explore the course in depth? A PGDM course offers many more specialisations other than data science. Get to know much more about the PGDM Course, including top colleges, specialisations, and syllabus. 

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PGDM in Data Science Job Prospects 

Here’s a table of potential job roles after completing a PGDM in Data Science, along with job descriptions and average salaries:

Job Role

Description

Average Salary (INR per annum)

Data Scientist

Analyses and interprets complex data to help businesses make informed decisions. They also Develop predictive models and data-driven strategies.

10,00,000

Data Analyst

Gathers, processes, and performs statistical analyses on data to identify trends and patterns. Also responsible for Presenting insights to stakeholders.

4,00,000 

Machine Learning Engineer

Designs and implements machine learning models and algorithms to solve business challenges while working with AI-based technologies.

8,00,000 

Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst

Uses data visualisation tools to translate data into actionable business insights, focusing on performance and market trends.

5,00,000

Data Engineer

Builds, optimises, and maintains data architectures and pipelines for data collection and processing.

6,00,000

Big Data Engineer

Manages and analyses large sets of structured and unstructured data, often using Hadoop, Spark, and similar technologies.

8,00,000

AI/ML Product Manager

Oversees AI/ML project lifecycle, working with cross-functional teams to develop and deploy AI-driven solutions.

12,00,000

Data Architect

Designs and manages an organisation’s data infrastructure, focusing on data integration, security, and efficiency.

15,00,000

Quantitative Analyst

Uses mathematical models to analyse financial data, predict market trends, and aid in investment decisions, primarily in finance.

10,00,000

Analytics Consultant

Provides expertise and strategic advice on data-driven projects, helping businesses optimise their data analytics approaches.

10,00,000 

Note: Salaries may vary based on location, company, experience, and specific industry.

PGDDS: PGD in Data Science

A Post Graduate Diploma in Data Science (PGDDS) is a specialised program designed to equip students and professionals with essential skills in data science, including data analysis, machine learning, statistical modelling, and big data management. Typically spanning one year, the program covers both foundational and advanced aspects of data science, blending technical knowledge with practical applications to meet industry demands.

In the next section, we will look at the differences between a PGD and a PGDM in data science. 

PGDM VS PGD in Data Science

Criteria

PGDM in Data Science

PGD in Data Science

Program Duration

Typically 1.5 to 2 years

Generally 1 year

Curriculum Focus

Combines data science with management, covering business analytics, managerial concepts, and leadership skills.

Primarily technical, focused on data science fundamentals and practical applications.

Core Subjects

Business Analytics, Machine Learning, Big Data, Managerial Economics, Financial Management, Marketing Management

Data Science, Statistics, Data Mining, Machine Learning, Data Visualisation, Big Data Technologies

Eligibility

Bachelor’s degree in any discipline, with a preference for those with backgrounds in engineering, computer science, economics, or business. Entrance exams (CAT, MAT, XAT, etc.) may be required.

Bachelor’s degree, preferably in science, engineering, or IT fields. Some programs may require basic programming or data analysis knowledge.

Career Opportunities

Data Scientist, Business Analyst, BI Consultant, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Product Manager, Analytics Manager

Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Big Data Engineer, Data Engineer

Industry Relevance

Suitable for roles where data science is applied within business contexts, such as finance, marketing, and strategy.

It is geared toward technical and data-heavy roles across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and IT.

Average Salary (INR)

Generally higher due to the business management component, ranging from 10-18 LPA based on role and experience

Typically around 8-15 LPA, depending on the technical nature of roles and experience

Who Should Opt for It

It is ideal for those looking to bridge data science and business management and aiming for leadership roles.

Suitable for individuals focused purely on data science, analytics, or transitioning to technical data roles.

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Particulars

Details

Max Loan Amount

50 Lakhs

Collateral 

Not Required

Moratorium

Available

Processing Time

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Disbursal Time

7 Days

Approval Rate

Higher than Other Banks

Special USP

Marks Based Approval

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100% of Fees

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FAQs

What is PGDM in Data Science?

A PGDM in Data Science is a postgraduate diploma program that combines data science skills with management principles. It prepares students for roles that require both analytical and business acumen. This program typically covers data analysis, machine learning, business analytics, and data visualisation, helping graduates make data-driven business decisions.

What are the highlights of PGDM in Data Science?

1. Duration: Generally 1.5 to 2 years

2. Focus: Blends data science with management concepts

3. Skills: Develops expertise in analytics, business intelligence, and data management

4. Career Prospects: Prepares for roles such as Data Scientist, BI Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, and Analytics Manager

What is the eligibility for PGDM in Data Science?

1. A bachelor’s degree in any discipline, though backgrounds in fields like engineering, computer science, mathematics, or economics are often preferred.

2. Minimum 50% marks in undergraduate studies.

3. Some programs may also recommend basic programming skills in languages like Python or R.

What entrance exams are required for PGDM in Data Science?

1. Standard entrance exams include CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, and GMAT.

2. Some colleges also have their entrance exams or consider scores from the GRE.

 Which colleges are the best for PGDM in Data Science?

1. Top institutions in India include:some text

2. Praxis Business School, Kolkata

3. Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai

4. Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Mumbai

5. International School of Engineering (INSOFE), Hyderabad

6. Symbiosis Centre for Information Technology (SCIT), Pune

7. Each of these institutions offers unique specialisations, curriculum styles, and industry collaborations.

What does the PGDM in Data Science syllabus typically cover?

The syllabus generally includes:

1. Core Subjects: Data Science, Machine Learning, Business Analytics, Data Visualisation

2. Technical Modules: Python, R, Big Data tools (Hadoop, Spark)

3. Management Subjects: Business Strategy, Marketing, and Financial Analysis

4. Practical components often include projects, internships, and a capstone project.

What are the job prospects after completing a PGDM in Data Science?

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

1. Data Scientist

2. Business Intelligence Analyst

3. Machine Learning Engineer

4. Data Engineer

5. AI Product Manager The demand for data science professionals continues to grow, with salaries generally starting around INR 10-18 LPA, depending on experience and role.

What is PGDDS? How is it different from PGDM in Data Science?

PGDDS, or Post Graduate Diploma in Data Science, is a shorter, technically focused program often lasting around one year. Unlike the PGDM, it typically does not include management or business subjects. PGDDS is best suited for those aiming to build purely technical skills in data science without the management focus.

How does PGDM in Data Science differ from PGDDS?

1. PGDM in Data Science: Combines data science with business management, which is ideal for those aiming for roles that blend analytics with leadership.

2. PGDDS: A more technical program focused solely on data science that is suitable for technical roles that do not require management skills.

What is the scope of PGDM in Data Science globally?

Data science professionals and their skills are in demand worldwide. A PGDM in Data Science opens up opportunities in multinational corporations, tech firms, financial institutions, and even startups, as data-driven decision-making is integral across industries globally.

How challenging is the PGDM in the Data Science program?

The program can be intensive as it covers both technical data science concepts and management principles. However, it is manageable for students with a solid analytical background or interest in data and problem-solving.

What are the top skills gained from a PGDM in Data Science?

1. Technical Skills: Machine learning, statistical analysis, programming in Python and R, data visualisation.

2. Analytical Skills: Data interpretation, predictive modelling, big data analytics.

3. Business Skills: Strategic thinking, business intelligence, and management concepts.

What are the typical projects undertaken in a PGDM in Data Science?

Students often work on real-world data analytics projects, such as:

1. Predictive modelling in finance

2. Customer segmentation analysis for marketing

3. Big data analysis using Hadoop or Spark

4. Data visualisation projects with tools like Tableau or Power BI

5. Capstone projects that solve specific business or organisational challenges using data science

How is PGDM in Data Science different from an MBA with Data Analytics specialisation?

1. PGDM in Data Science: Focuses on developing deep data science and analytical skills with foundational management knowledge.

2. MBA in Data Analytics: Emphasises broader business skills with an option to specialise in data analytics. It is ideal for those looking for high-level management roles with some data analysis knowledge.

What are the industry applications of skills gained in PGDM in Data Science?

1. Finance: Fraud detection, risk analysis, and algorithmic trading.

2. Healthcare: Predictive analytics for patient outcomes and disease trends.

3. Retail: Customer segmentation, recommendation engines, and demand forecasting.

4. Manufacturing: Predictive maintenance, supply chain optimisation, and quality control.

Is PGDM in Data Science worth the investment?

Yes, given the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making across industries, a PGDM in Data Science offers an excellent return on investment through diverse career opportunities, high salaries, and the ability to work in dynamic and impactful fields.

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