.png&w=1920&q=75)
FPM in Strategy at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Strategy at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad Ahmedabad?
This Strategy specialization program at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) focuses on developing cutting-edge research capabilities in strategic management. It delves into how organizations achieve and sustain competitive advantage, make pivotal resource allocation decisions, and navigate complex market dynamics. The program prepares scholars to contribute to both academic theory and practical strategic challenges within the Indian and global business landscape, distinguishing itself through its rigorous, interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on contextualized research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, researchers, and thought leaders with a strong analytical bent and a passion for understanding organizational success. It attracts candidates with prior management education (e.g., MBA), engineering, or economics backgrounds, seeking to embark on a career in academia, policy think tanks, or advanced research roles in India. Professionals looking to transition into research-focused roles will find the program particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling careers as faculty members in top management institutions across India and abroad, contributing significantly to strategic thought. They can also take on research leadership roles in consulting firms or corporate strategy departments. While direct salary figures vary widely, IIMA FPM graduates are highly sought after, commanding competitive academic and research positions with strong growth trajectories within India''''s evolving education and corporate sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Disciplinary Foundations- (Semesters 1-3 (Year 1))
Dedicate intensive effort to building strong theoretical and quantitative foundations in economics, statistics, and core management disciplines during the first year. Leverage IIMA''''s rich library resources and faculty office hours to clarify concepts and engage in critical discussions.
Tools & Resources
IIMA Library, Faculty Mentoring, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for advanced coursework, comprehensive exams, and eventually, developing robust research questions in strategy.
Proactively Engage with Research Seminars- (Semesters 1-3 (Year 1))
Actively attend and participate in research seminars across various areas, even outside strategy. This exposure broadens perspectives, introduces diverse methodologies, and helps identify potential interdisciplinary research interests relevant to strategic challenges in India.
Tools & Resources
IIMA Research Seminars, Visiting Scholar Talks
Career Connection
Early exposure to cutting-edge research helps refine research tastes and prepares for contributing to academic discourse.
Develop Foundational Research Skills- (Semesters 1-3 (Year 1))
Focus on developing strong academic writing and presentation skills. Take advantage of workshops and courses like ''''Communicating Research'''' to articulate complex ideas clearly, a vital skill for publications and conference presentations in India and globally.
Tools & Resources
IIMA Writing Center (if available), Presentation Workshops, Academic Writing Guides
Career Connection
Effective communication of research findings is paramount for academic impact and job market success.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Strategy Literature and Methods- (Semesters 4-6 (Year 2))
As you transition into area-specific coursework, intensely study seminal and contemporary strategy literature. Simultaneously, master advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to strategy, critically evaluating their application in various contexts, including India-specific case studies.
Tools & Resources
Strategy Journals (e.g., SMJ, AMR, AMJ), Advanced Econometrics Software (e.g., Stata, R), Qualitative Data Analysis Software (e.g., NVivo)
Career Connection
This deep knowledge forms the basis for identifying gaps in existing literature and formulating original research questions.
Cultivate Faculty Mentorship and Collaboration- (Semesters 4-6 (Year 2))
Build strong relationships with faculty in the Strategy area. Discuss your research ideas, seek feedback on term papers, and explore opportunities to assist with faculty research. This provides invaluable guidance and potential co-authorship opportunities, crucial for your CV in India.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Office Hours, Area Meetings, Research Groups
Career Connection
Mentorship is vital for navigating the research process, building an academic network, and securing strong recommendation letters for placements.
Start Conceptualizing Thesis Ideas Early- (Semesters 4-6 (Year 2))
Begin exploring potential dissertation topics during the second year by reading widely, identifying puzzles, and discussing with faculty. Consider research questions with relevance to the Indian business environment or global strategy from an Indian perspective.
Tools & Resources
Research Databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Industry Reports (IBEF, CRISIL), Faculty Research Interests
Career Connection
Early conceptualization helps in focused coursework selection and efficient progress towards the comprehensive examination and thesis proposal.
Advanced Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Comprehensive Examination- (Post-Semester 6 (End of Year 2 / Start of Year 3))
Develop a structured study plan to prepare for the comprehensive examination, which assesses mastery of core and area-specific knowledge. Form study groups, practice past papers (if available), and seek guidance from faculty on expected scope and depth, critical for advancing to thesis stage.
Tools & Resources
Core Reading Lists, Past Exam Questions (if accessible), Faculty Consultation
Career Connection
Passing the comprehensive exam is a major milestone, demonstrating readiness for independent research and a critical step towards thesis completion and academic job market entry.
Develop and Defend a Strong Thesis Proposal- (Post-Comprehensive Exam (Year 3))
Work closely with your thesis advisory committee to develop a compelling and feasible thesis proposal. Ensure your research question is novel, theoretically grounded, and methodologically sound. Practice your defense presentations with peers and faculty, incorporating their feedback.
Tools & Resources
Thesis Advisory Committee, Research Proposal Guidelines, Mock Defense Sessions
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal is the blueprint for your dissertation, significantly impacting the quality and timeliness of your research output, and crucial for academic reputation.
Network and Present at Conferences- (Years 3-5 (During Thesis Research))
Actively seek opportunities to present your research at national and international conferences. Network with scholars, receive feedback, and stay updated on research trends. This is crucial for gaining visibility, refining your work, and building professional connections for future collaborations and job searches.
Tools & Resources
Academy of Management (AOM), Strategic Management Society (SMS), Pan-IIM World Management Conference
Career Connection
Conference participation enhances your research profile, helps in publishing, and is vital for securing academic positions in top institutions.
