

FPM in Organizational Behavior at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad


Ahmedabad, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Organizational Behavior at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad Ahmedabad?
This Organizational Behavior (OB) program at IIM Ahmedabad focuses on understanding human behavior within organizational contexts, drawing from psychology, sociology, and management. It addresses the complex dynamics of individuals, groups, and structures, highly relevant for navigating India''''s diverse and rapidly evolving corporate landscape. The program emphasizes advanced research and theoretical depth, preparing scholars and educators for impactful contributions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, researchers, and consultants who possess a strong foundation in social sciences or management and a keen interest in behavioral phenomena. It attracts individuals with Master''''s degrees or accomplished professionals seeking to contribute to cutting-edge research in organizational behavior, organizational theory, human resource management, or related fields within Indian and global academic institutions.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as faculty members in top-tier business schools and universities across India, as well as research scientists in prominent organizations. They are equipped to influence policy and practice through rigorous scholarship. While direct salary figures vary significantly, a faculty position at an IIM or similar institution in India typically commands competitive packages, starting from 15-30+ LPA for assistant professors, increasing with experience.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Management Concepts- (Year 1 (Trimesters 1-3))
Dedicate significant effort to thoroughly grasp the core management concepts covered in the first-year coursework (Microeconomics, Marketing, Finance, etc.). These interdisciplinary subjects form the bedrock for understanding organizational contexts. Focus on applying theoretical frameworks to real-world Indian business scenarios.
Tools & Resources
IIMA Library resources, Case study discussions, Peer study groups, Faculty office hours, Indian business news (Livemint, Economic Times)
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is crucial for developing sophisticated research questions and methodologies relevant to management challenges, essential for academic rigor and future research impact.
Develop Strong Quantitative and Qualitative Skills- (Year 1 (Trimesters 1-3))
Proactively engage with the Research Methods courses. Supplement classroom learning with self-study of statistical software (e.g., R, Stata, SPSS) and qualitative data analysis tools (e.g., NVivo). Seek opportunities for practical application through mini-projects or data exercises to build proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Online tutorials (Coursera, edX for R/Python), IIMA computing labs, Statistical software manuals, Workshops offered by the institute
Career Connection
Robust methodological skills are indispensable for conducting high-quality, publishable research, which is the primary output and career currency for an FPM graduate in academia.
Proactive Faculty Engagement and Research Idea Generation- (Year 1 (Trimesters 2-3))
Actively participate in class discussions and attend faculty research presentations. Schedule regular meetings with potential advisors or faculty whose research aligns with your interests to discuss nascent research ideas and receive early feedback on your conceptualizations.
Tools & Resources
IIMA faculty profiles (for research interests), Departmental seminars, Informal coffee meetings with professors
Career Connection
Early faculty engagement helps in identifying a suitable thesis advisor and developing a strong research proposal, accelerating the path to dissertation and academic career success.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Organizational Behavior Theories- (Year 2 (Trimesters 4-6))
Beyond formal coursework, immerse yourself in classic and contemporary OB literature. Form reading groups with peers to critically analyze influential papers and identify gaps in existing research that could inform your own dissertation topic, fostering intellectual growth.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Web of Science, Scopus), IIMA library''''s extensive collection of OB journals, Specialized doctoral seminars
Career Connection
A comprehensive understanding of OB theories is vital for formulating original research questions, contributing meaningfully to the field, and establishing credibility as a scholar and researcher.
Refine Research Proposal and Methodologies- (Year 2 (Trimesters 4-6))
Work closely with your chosen faculty advisor to develop and refine your doctoral research proposal. Attend research workshops focusing on advanced methodologies and actively seek feedback from faculty and peers during research presentations and discussions.
Tools & Resources
Research Proposal Writing workshops, IIMA''''s Research Centres, Mentorship from senior FPM scholars
Career Connection
A well-articulated and methodologically sound research proposal is a significant milestone towards thesis completion and demonstrates readiness for independent scholarly work, crucial for academic positions.
Begin Networking and Conference Participation- (Year 2 (Trimesters 5-6))
Attend national and international academic conferences (e.g., Academy of Management, Indian Academy of Management) relevant to OB. Present preliminary research findings, network with established scholars, and understand current research trends to expand your academic footprint.
Tools & Resources
IIMA travel grants for conference participation, University career services for networking tips, Academic social media platforms (ResearchGate, LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Networking builds professional relationships, provides exposure for your research, and can open doors for collaborations and future academic job opportunities, enhancing your career prospects.
Advanced Stage
Focused Dissertation Writing and Defense Preparation- (Year 3 onwards)
Dedicate consistent time to writing your dissertation, working closely with your advisory committee. Regularly share drafts, incorporate feedback, and meticulously prepare for comprehensive examinations and the final dissertation defense to ensure timely completion.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing centers, Statistical consulting services, Mock defense sessions with faculty/peers
Career Connection
Timely and high-quality dissertation completion is paramount for securing faculty positions and initiating your academic career in leading institutions.
Publish and Disseminate Research- (Year 3 onwards)
Aim to publish chapters of your dissertation or related research in peer-reviewed academic journals before or immediately after your defense. Actively submit papers to top-tier conferences to build your publication record, a critical asset for academic advancement.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, IIMA''''s research publication support, Guidance from senior faculty on journal selection and revision processes
Career Connection
A strong publication pipeline is the most critical factor for securing competitive academic appointments and gaining tenure at esteemed business schools and research institutions.
Prepare for the Academic Job Market- (Year 4-5 (prior to graduation))
Develop your CV, teaching philosophy statement, and research statement. Practice job talks and teaching demonstrations. Network extensively with faculty at target institutions and attend academic job fairs to enhance your employability.
Tools & Resources
IIMA Career Development Services, Mock interview panels, Faculty advisors for recommendation letters and career guidance
Career Connection
Strategic and thorough preparation ensures you are highly competitive for assistant professor positions in reputable business schools and research institutions across India and globally.



