In the current era of data, there is a massive demand for people with analytical skills. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, data science and analytics occupations are in the top five rapidly emerging job types in the world. Companies are rushing to hire individuals who can work wonders with raw or processed data.
Data is the fuel to businesses, whether it is to predict market fluctuations, enhance the way shipping and supply chains operate, or even drive the advancements in AI. Courses in data science or analytics are increasingly gaining attention for career-oriented individuals.
However, if you have come across two trending options like an MBA or the PGDM in Data Science, the ultimate question arises: MBA vs PGDM in Data Science, which one should you opt for to get ahead in the analytics industry?
This blog will compare the differences between an MBA and PGDM in Data Science in terms of PGDM and MBA eligibility curriculum, career scope, cost, and more, as well as how a business school, such as ISBR Business School, can help launch your career in analytics.
MBA vs PGDM in Data Science: What Sets Them Apart?
Let’s say you are standing at a crossroads. On one side is the MBA course, a broad, business-focused degree that develops your leadership competence, and on the other side is the PGDM in Data Science course, a fast-paced program that is technology-focused and aims to help you speak the language of data and analytics.
MBA Data Science: The Business Leader’s Route
Think of this as a 360° tour of the corporate world. You will explore:
- Marketing
- Finance
- HR
- Operations
- Supply Chain Management and many more.
Note: Best for those who want to lead teams, understand business deeply, and use data as one of many tools in their toolkit.
Along the way, you will take a data science tour, learning how analytics fits into strategic decision-making.
PGDM Data Science Course: The Data Specialist’s Path
PGDM Data Science course is for the code-loving number-crunchers. It bypasses the general management tour and dives straight into:
- Python & R
- Machine Learning
- Cloud Computing
- Big Data & AI
- Data Visualization
Note: Best for those who want to become data scientists, analysts, or tech-driven decision-makers right from the start.
These two programs are offered by one of the renowned B-schools in the city of Bangalore, which has ample opportunities. Here is what ISBR has to offer.
The prestigious ISBR Business School, Where Innovation Meets Industry
ISBR Business School is a pioneer in delivering business education that meets global standards with contextual knowledge for India. ISBR isn’t just an average business school; it’s a springboard for future leaders, innovators, and people who want to make a difference. Here’s why choosing ISBR makes a lot of sense if you are looking ahead:
Ranked Among India’s Top B-Schools
- Platinum Rated by AICTE-CII for six years straight, putting it in the top 3% across the country.
- #1 in New Generation B-Schools – DM B-School Survey
- Top 10 for Industry Interaction – Silicon India
Global Collaborations
- 50+ international university partnerships
- Study abroad options, global internships & exchange programs
- International faculty & global case studies integrated into the curriculum
Placement Powerhouse
- Skill enhancement programs through Skill Capital (Internship Fair) and Talent Connect (Placement Drive)
- 250+ top recruiters onboard
- Companies like Deloitte, Biocon, HDFC, IDBI Bank, KPMG, Siemens, the London Stock Exchange, and more hire graduates every year
- 10,000+ alumni shaping the business world across industries
Industry-Driven Learning
- Professional certifications in Data Science, FinTech, HR Analytics, and other emerging fields
- Practical exposure through live projects, internships, and industry visits
- Guidance from business leaders and startup founders
A Vibrant Learning Culture
- An interdisciplinary approach with a strong focus on soft skills and leadership
- Active entrepreneurship cell, awarded National Championship by NEN
- Campus life is enriched with cultural diversity and innovation-driven events
With ISBR’s strong connections with the industry and relevant curriculum, let’s examine how its MBA and PGDM in Data Science programs can help you prepare for career opportunities in the fiercely competitive data science or analytics field.
ISBR’s MBA Course: Blending Business with Data Intelligence
ISBR’s MBA is a comprehensive course associated with reputed universities, designed to nurture future leaders. The course has various core business subjects, including marketing, finance, HR, and operations, along with an option for specialization in Business Analytics-which is mostly suitable for people who want to develop their strategic thinking aligned with the data-driven decision-making framework
Here’s what you need to meet the requirements for MBA admission:
- Graduation from a recognized university, a minimum of 50 % for General and 40% in case of SC/ST
- Valid score in any one of these entrance exams: ISBR aptitude test, GMAT, CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, NMAT, ATMA, KMAT, or PGCET
MBA Fees at ISBR:
The fees for the MBA program at ISBR are affordable and competitive, with scholarships awarded by merit and entrance test scores. There are also flexible payment plans that will ease your financial burden.
Total MBA fees, including Registration:
Indian Nationals: INR 10,00,000/-
(INR 9,50,000 tuition + INR 50,000 registration)
NRI & SAARC Nationals: INR 10,00,000/-
(INR 9,50,000 tuition + INR 50,000 registration)
Foreign Nationals: USD 16,000
($15,000 tuition + $1,000 registration)
ISBR MBA Eligibility and MBA Admission Process:
The ISBR MBA admission process is designed to be straightforward, systematic, and student-friendly. The process starts from applying with valid scores from the entrance test, either listed and recognized by the respective University or ISBR’s own aptitude test. The process aims to be transparent and selects students who demonstrate ISBR’s values and embody the forward-thinking business mindset.
It usually involves:
- Entrance test / ISBR aptitude test
- Cognitive Case Study
- Micro presentation
- Personal Interview
What sets ISBR’s MBA apart?
ISBR’s MBA Program is designed to provide a solid foundation in business while developing the necessary skills for a data-centric world. The learning here goes beyond the classroom setting; it is about applying that learning to authentic challenges. Students work with professionally used tools such as Excel, Tableau, Python, and Google Analytics, preparing for roles like Business Analyst, Product Manager, and Data Strategist.
ISBR’s curriculum is shaped by the industry’s needs, along with live projects, sessions from industry experts, and experiential simulations, which ensures you are not just job-ready, but rather, you are future-ready!
ISBR’s PGDM Data Science & Business Analytics: Deep Dive into the Tech Field
If you are ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into machine learning, AI, Python, R, PowerBI, and much more, the PGDM in Data Science & Business Analytics course at ISBR will suit you perfectly.
PGDM Data Science Eligibility:
To be considered for the PGDM in Data Science & Business Analytics, you must fulfil the following PGDM Data Science eligibility criteria:
- A graduate degree from any recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST)
- Valid score in any one of the entrance tests: GMAT, CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, NMAT, ATMA, KMAT, PGCET, or ISBR aptitude test.
PGDM Data Science Fees:
The fees for this program are slightly higher than those of the MBA course because of the advanced tools, lab access, and certifications. But it is definitely worth the investment after considering the high ROI and placement options.
ISBR also offers a range of scholarships for meritorious and deserving candidates who want to pursue their Master’s at ISBR. Scholarships are offered as fee waivers up to a 100% full ride.
PGDM Data Science fee for the academic year 2025-2027:
- Indian Nationals: INR 11,50,000 (including INR 50,000 registration fee)
- NRI & SAARC Nationals: INR 11,50,000 (including INR 50,000 registration fee)
- Foreign Nationals: USD 16,000 (including USD 1,000 registration fee)
The registration fee is non-refundable and is to be paid within 48 hours of accepting the admission offer. The tuition fee is payable in three instalments throughout the program.
PGDM Data Science Admission Process:
The entire admissions process is pretty straightforward and open, ensuring not only that the academic achievement of the student is assessed, but also checks if students have the ability for data-driven thinking and a real passion for innovation. Every step is designed in such a way that the students who join are the perfect fit for this advanced, skills-focused program.
These are the following steps:
- ISBR Aptitude Test / Entrance exams
- Cognitive Case Study
- Micro Presentation
- Personal Interview
The students study Python, Neural Networks, Database using SQL, NLP, Time Series forecasting, Ethics in Artificial Intelligence, and much more. Thus, students are ready for roles as a Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, or ML Developer.
Why choose the PGDM Data Science and Business Analytics course?
ISBR Business School’s PGDM in Data Science & Business Analytics has a truly industry-aligned program that focuses on practical application, not just theory. The PGDM Data Science admission opens a world of skill-based learning that equips students with the right knowledge and skillset to succeed in this competitive world.
The program offers a significant benefit, an opportunity for all students to obtain 5 Microsoft Certifications (3 basic and 2 advanced), which is a great asset for any student on their resume. The Program is aimed at giving students the fundamentals of data, analytics, and AI tools that prepare them to analyze complex sets of data and turn that data into valuable insights for businesses. This course is really helpful to those wanting futures in analytics, artificial intelligence, and business strategy.
Why Choose ISBR for a Data-Driven Future?
In the ever-evolving landscape of Bangalore, one of India’s fastest-paced cities and the current capital of technology, ISBR Business School provides a springboard for data professionals.
Whether you’re exploring a pathway to maximise your leadership potential with an MBA or studying analytics in-depth with a PGDM in Data Science and Business Analytics, ISBR has everything you need to support your journey:
- Curriculum designed with industry relevance in mind
- Strong placement association with global MNCs and high-growth startups
- Access to a growing global network of tech and analytics
- A campus experience that integrates academics and actual world challenges
Final Conclusion: Which Is Right for You?
Choose ISBR’s MBA if you want:
- Broader business skills with analytics exposure
- Leadership and strategic decision-making roles
- Flexibility to switch industries or functions
Choose ISBR’s PGDM in Data Science if you want:
- Deep, technical skills in AI/ML/Data Science
- A focused career as a Data Scientist or Analyst
- Direct implementation into the Analytics world.
MBA vs PGDM in Data Analytics – whichever path you choose, ISBR Business School will provide you with the tools, mentorship, and industry exposure to turn your ambition into action.
FAQS:
Q. What’s the main difference between ISBR’s MBA and PGDM in Data Science and Business Analytics?
Ans: ISBR’s MBA course is a broad-based business course with options to specialize in Business Analytics, ideal for people wanting to be leaders. The PGDM Data Science course is much more technical. You will develop practical capabilities in AI, machine learning, Python, R, and many more. It is a great option if you are preparing for a core data science career with a business orientation.
Q. Which course is better if I come from a non-technical background?
Ans: If you are from a non-tech background but want to enter the analytics space, MBA in Business Analytics at ISBR is recommended, as the program will help you build the foundation in data and improve your overall understanding of business. But if you are ready to tackle coding and data tools, the PDGM in Data Science can work wonders with a little effort.
Q. What is the highest CTC for the PGDM candidates at ISBR?
Ans: The highest CTC offered at ISBR for the PGDM graduates stands at INR 15 LPA, and the average hovers around INR 8 LPA. The companies hiring the graduates are PWC, FEDEX, Unilever, TCS, Grant Thornton, The Edge, London Stock Exchange, and many more.
Q. Does the curriculum have international exposure or certification?
Ans: Yes. ISBR provides global certifications with Microsoft. There are guest lectures, exchange programs, and corporate mentors that provide international exposure to both MBA and PGDM Data Science students.
Q. Can I change careers after completing one of these programs at ISBR?
Ans: Yes! ISBR’s Career Development Cell provides one-on-one support to help students change career paths to analytics, consulting, operations, or data tech. Whether you’re moving from finance into data or from IT into analytics, the programs are designed to support you.