The Indian education landscape is changing rapidly. As industries become more complex and the demand for versatile, multi-skilled professionals increases, more students and working professionals are exploring dual degree programs to stay ahead.
One of the fastest-growing options in this space is the PGDM + EMBA dual degree program, which combines the practical, industry-focused training of a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) with the advanced leadership edge of an Executive MBA (EMBA).
This detailed guide will help you understand:
- What these dual degree management programs are
- Their duration & fees
- Benefits and ROI
- Specialisations available
- Why they make sense for working professionals and fresh graduates in India
Let’s dive in.
What Is a Dual Degree Program in India?
A dual degree program allows a student to earn two separate qualifications simultaneously, usually in less time and often at a lower cost than pursuing each degree separately.
In management education, this typically means:
Combining a PGDM Executive with an EMBA
Getting dual certifications from the same institution (or partnered institutions)
Completing the program via flexible online or blended learning modes
In India, reputed institutions like MIT School of Distance Education (MITSDE) offer structured PGDM + EMBA dual programs that are specifically designed to:
- Help working professionals upgrade without quitting their jobs
- Provide advanced managerial and leadership skills
- Add both breadth (PGDM) and depth (EMBA) to a candidate’s resume
Duration: How Long Does a Dual Degree (PGDM + EMBA) Take?
One of the key benefits of dual degrees is the time efficiency.
A typical structure:
- PGDM Executive: 12–15 months
- EMBA: 12–18 months
Separately, it might take around 2.5–3 years to complete both.
But in a dual degree program, the curriculum is integrated, overlapping common subjects, and often can be completed in:
18–24 months (depending on the institution and the student’s pace)
For example:
- MITSDE offers flexible learning where you can complete the program in about 20 months while continuing your current job.
This balance between depth and speed is why dual degree management programs are gaining popularity among professionals.
💰 Fees: Is a Dual Degree Expensive?
At first glance, two degrees might sound like double the cost. But that’s not always true.
Here’s a general fee estimate in India:
Program | Typical Fees (Separate) | Dual Degree Fees (Integrated) |
PGDM Executive | ₹1.5–3 lakhs | |
EMBA | ₹3–5 lakhs | |
Total (separate) | ~₹4.5–8 lakhs | |
Dual Degree (PGDM+EMBA) | — | ₹1.5–4 lakhs |
This means:
- You save up to 40–50% on fees compared to pursuing each separately.
- You save time, which also adds to indirect savings (lost salary, opportunity cost).
Institutes like MITSDE keep the fee affordable to ensure higher ROI for students.
✅ Key Benefits of Dual Degree (PGDM + EMBA) Programs
Let’s look at why these programs are trending:
1️⃣ Double Credentials
You graduate with:
- Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Executive)
- Executive MBA
Both are valuable for promotions, leadership roles, and salary hikes.
2️⃣ Faster Career Growth
Employers value candidates who show commitment to learning and leadership.
- Helps mid-level professionals move to senior roles
- Equips fresh graduates with dual certifications to stand out in the job market
3️⃣ Cost & Time Efficiency
- Earn two respected qualifications faster
- Save tuition and living costs
4️⃣ Specialisations to Match Industry Demand
Dual degree programs often come with trending specialisations like:
- Finance Management
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing Management
- Operations Management
- Project Management
- Business Analytics & AI
- Global Logistics & Supply Chain
- Banking & Financial Services
- Construction & Project Management
- Human Capital Management
- Strategic Marketing Management
- Material Management
These options help tailor your learning to your industry.
5️⃣ Flexibility
Many dual degree programs are offered in:
- Online mode
- Weekend or evening classes
- Self-paced modules
Perfect for working professionals balancing job and study.
6️⃣ Global Perspective
With EMBA-level courses, you get:
- Case studies from international businesses
- Modules on global strategy and leadership
- Exposure to international best practices
📊 Career Impact & ROI: Is It Worth It?
One of the most common questions:
Will investing in a dual degree pay off?
Let’s see why the answer is usually yes.
Benefit | Impact |
Dual certifications | Opens doors to leadership & specialist roles |
Specialisations | Helps target high-demand industries |
Faster completion | Quickens return on investment |
Networking & alumni | Strong professional connections |
Average ROI:
- Salary hike of 30–50% within 1–2 years after completion
- Better eligibility for roles like:
- Project Manager
- Business Analyst
- Senior HR Manager
- Operations Head
- Marketing Lead
- Finance Manager
- Project Manager
Why Choose Online EMBA & Online Executive PGDM?
Many Indian professionals now prefer online dual degrees, and here’s why:
- Location independent: Study from anywhere in India (or abroad)
- No career break: Learn while you work
- Digital-first learning: e-books, video lectures, online assessments
- Industry-relevant content: Regularly updated with AI, analytics, and digital marketing trends
- Affordable: Lower tuition and no relocation cost
Institutes like MITSDE specialise in designing these online courses for modern professionals.
Specialisations: Choose Your Path
Here’s a closer look at specialisations available in dual degree management programs in India:
Dual Degree in Finance Management
- Financial analysis, investment banking, corporate finance
- Ideal for roles in BFSI, fintech, corporate strategy
Dual Degree in Human Resource Management
- Talent acquisition, learning & development, HR analytics
- For careers as HR business partners, HR managers, talent managers
Dual Degree in Marketing Management
- Digital marketing, brand management, market research
- For roles in brand, digital, product marketing
Dual Degree in Operations Management
- Process optimisation, quality control, supply chain
- Suited for manufacturing, service, and IT industries
Dual Degree in Project Management
- Agile, PMP frameworks, risk management
- For roles like project leads, PMO, program managers
Dual Degree in Business Analytics & AI
- Data visualisation, AI applications in business
- For careers in data analytics, AI consulting, business strategy
Global Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Sourcing, warehousing, global logistics trends
- High demand in e-commerce, FMCG, retail
Banking & Financial Services
- Retail banking, credit management, fintech
- For careers in banks, NBFCs, payment startups
Human Capital Management
- Advanced HR strategy, employee engagement
- Ideal for senior HR roles
Material Management
- Procurement, inventory control
- Needed in manufacturing, construction, retail
Construction & Project Management
- Cost estimation, construction scheduling
- For professionals in real estate, infrastructure, EPC companies
Strategic Marketing Management
- Advanced branding, international marketing
- For leadership roles in MNCs, consultancies
Dual Degree vs. Single Degree: Which Is Better?
|
Criteria |
Single EMBA or PGDM |
Dual Degree (PGDM + EMBA) |
|
Duration |
1–1.5 years |
1.5–2 years |
|
Credentials |
One certification |
Two certifications |
|
Cost |
Lower than two separate degrees |
Lower than total separate cost |
|
Specialisations |
Limited |
More options |
|
ROI |
Good |
Often higher due to added value |
For working professionals who want faster growth and broader skills, dual degree makes strategic sense.
Who Should Consider a Dual Degree?
- Mid-level professionals aiming for senior roles
- Technical specialists wanting management skills
- Entrepreneurs wanting holistic business knowledge
- Fresh graduates seeking an edge in competitive job markets
- Professionals switching industries
FAQs About Dual Degree Management Programs in India
Q: Are dual degrees recognised?
Yes. When offered by accredited institutions like MITSDE, they are industry-recognised.
Q: Do I need to quit my job?
No. Online and executive formats are designed for working professionals.
Q: What is the eligibility?
Generally, a bachelor’s degree; some EMBA courses may require work experience.
Q: Can I get scholarships?
Many institutions offer merit-based or need-based scholarships.
Q: What’s the difference between dual degree and dual specialisation?
- Dual degree: Two separate qualifications (e.g., PGDM + EMBA)
- Dual specialisation: One degree with two focus areas (e.g., marketing + HR)
Conclusion: Is It Worth Investing in a Dual Degree?
In today’s competitive job market, credentials matter – but so does real, practical knowledge.
A PGDM + EMBA dual degree:
Saves time and cost
Equips you with broader and deeper skills
Makes you eligible for leadership roles
Offers specialisations in high-demand areas
Delivers strong ROI through salary growth and career mobility
If you’re a professional or fresh graduate ready to future-proof your career, this could be your smartest next step.
Explore Dual Degree Programs at MITSDE
MIT School of Distance Education (MITSDE) offers industry-focused, flexible, and affordable dual degree programs:
- Online EMBA
- Online Executive PGDM
- Specialisations in Finance, HR, Marketing, Operations, Business Analytics, and more
