Students often remain confused about whether to pursue an integrated program or a three-year undergraduate degree and then prepare for CAT. The students should make this decision based on his/ her goals. The decision will depend on factors like an individual’s preferences, strengths, and weaknesses. If you have a clear vision of pursuing a career in the field of management after completing your 12th grade, then choosing IPM is a definite step in the right direction. And if you do not have a clear vision on what to do after your graduation, it is better that you don’t opt for IPM. Therefore, holding a well defined vision is very important. The integrated course is currently being offered by only five IIMs: IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak, IIM Jammu, IIM Bodh Gaya, and IIM Ranchi.
Whether it is the BBA+MBA or the IPM course, both have their own advantages and disadvantages. The BBA+MBA course is a more traditional one and will give you a solid foundation in business administration. However, the IPM course is a newer and more unique program that offers a more well-rounded education. This course is undoubtedly little longer. But it may be a better option as you get to explore all aspects of the business little sooner. Hence, choosing the Integrated Program in Management (IPM) allows you to immerse yourself in the IIM culture right after completing your 12th standard. In this article, we will discuss various points on choosing an integrated course or a traditional graduation.
1.Course Fees
The course fee of Integrated MBA is more as compared to BBA+MBA programmes, as the institute’s expenditure on the student is for five continuous years. The total fee for the integrated programme is around 30 lakhs. Therefore, for some students, Integrated programme will be more expensive than a three year BBA programme.
2. Work Experience
One disadvantage of integrated programmes is that candidates willing to get some work experience before pursuing post-graduation should ideally opt for separate BBA and MBA degrees. In an integrated programme, candidates don’t have the option of working after completion of a three-year degree.
3. Saves Time
In the case of an Integrated MBA degree, candidates needs to appear for an entrance exam/selection procedure just once. However, in the case of separate degrees, candidates have to appear for the MBA entrance exams to undergo admission into IIMs or top colleges. Thus, we can conclude that the integrated programme saves a lot of time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is eligible for the integrated (BBA MBA) programme?
Any candidate who has passed 12th standard from a recognised board can apply for the integrated programme.
Q2. Is there any negative marking in IPMAT?
Yes, 1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer in IPMAT exam
Q3. Is it difficult to crack the IPM?
With strategic preparation it can be easily cleared.