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PGP in Strategy at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Strategy at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad Ahmedabad?
This Strategy specialization program at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad focuses on equipping future leaders with the analytical tools and frameworks necessary to formulate and implement winning strategies in a dynamic global environment. Within the flagship PGP, this focus enables deep dives into competitive advantage, organizational growth, and market positioning. India''''s rapidly evolving economy and diverse market landscapes demand professionals adept at strategic foresight and execution.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high-potential graduates eager to shape business trajectories, aspiring consultants seeking robust problem-solving skills, and mid-career professionals aiming to transition into strategic leadership roles. It caters to those with an analytical mindset, a keen interest in business dynamics, and a desire to drive impactful change across sectors. A foundational understanding of business principles is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as strategic consultants, corporate strategists, business development managers, and M&A analysts across diverse industries in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 18-35 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The rigorous curriculum prepares students for leadership positions in top Indian and multinational companies, fostering decision-making acumen.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Business Concepts- (Trimester 1-2)
Diligently engage with fundamental courses like Managerial Economics, Financial Accounting, and Marketing. Focus on understanding the interdependencies of various business functions through active class participation and group discussions, building a strong analytical foundation for strategic thinking.
Tools & Resources
IIMA library resources, Case study method, Peer study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A solid grasp of core concepts is crucial for identifying strategic problems and understanding their operational and financial implications, essential for roles in consulting and general management.
Develop Strong Communication and Presentation Skills- (Trimester 1-2)
Actively participate in case discussions, presentations, and group projects. Seek feedback on written reports and oral presentations to hone persuasive communication, a vital skill for strategists to articulate complex ideas clearly and influence decision-makers.
Tools & Resources
Communication workshops, Toastmasters-like clubs (if available), Presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote), Peer critique sessions
Career Connection
Effective communication is paramount in strategy roles, from stakeholder management to presenting recommendations to senior leadership and clients.
Cultivate a Problem-Solving Mindset- (Trimester 1-2)
Approach every case study and assignment with a structured problem-solving framework. Practice breaking down complex business challenges into manageable components, identifying key drivers, and proposing logical solutions, even before formal strategy courses begin.
Tools & Resources
Case method pedagogy, Consulting club workshops, IIMA case archives
Career Connection
The ability to think critically and solve unstructured problems is the bedrock of any strategic role, preparing for case interviews and real-world business challenges.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Strategy Electives and Cases- (Trimester 3-5)
Strategically select electives from the ''''Strategy'''' area, focusing on specific domains like Corporate Strategy, Competitive Strategy, or Digital Strategy. Engage deeply with advanced case studies, applying theoretical frameworks to real-world business scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Advanced strategy textbooks, Industry reports, IIMA Strategy Area faculty expertise, Specialized workshops
Career Connection
Specializing through electives builds specific expertise, making students more attractive for roles in strategic consulting, corporate strategy, and business development.
Seek Industry Immersion through Internships and Live Projects- (Summer after Year 1, Trimester 4-5)
Actively pursue summer internships with consulting firms, corporate strategy divisions of large Indian companies, or startups. Participate in live projects that offer hands-on experience in market analysis, strategic planning, or business expansion.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell, Alumni network, Industry interaction events, Student clubs like the Consulting Club
Career Connection
Practical experience validates academic learning, builds a professional network, and is often a direct pathway to pre-placement offers in desired strategy roles.
Build a Strong Professional Network- (Trimester 3-5)
Actively connect with IIMA alumni in strategy roles, guest speakers, and industry leaders through seminars, conferences, and formal/informal networking events. Participate in strategy-focused competitions to expand peer and professional contacts.
Tools & Resources
Alumni portal, LinkedIn, IIMA club events, Industry conferences
Career Connection
Networking is vital for mentorship, uncovering hidden job opportunities, and gaining insights into industry trends, significantly enhancing career prospects.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Placement Preparation for Strategy Roles- (Trimester 6)
Tailor resume and cover letters to highlight strategic skills and experiences. Practice case interviews extensively with peers, alumni, and career services. Refine storytelling ability to articulate strategic projects and insights effectively.
Tools & Resources
IIMA Career Development Services, Mock interviews, Online case banks (e.g., Victor Cheng), Alumni mentors
Career Connection
Targeted preparation significantly increases the chances of securing desired roles in top-tier consulting firms, corporate strategy teams, and strategic advisory positions during campus placements.
Pursue an Applied Strategic Project- (Trimester 6)
Undertake a research project, dissertation, or a field-based project focusing on a specific strategic challenge faced by an organization. This demonstrates advanced analytical capabilities, independent problem-solving, and a deep understanding of strategic frameworks.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Industry contacts, Research databases, IIMA library
Career Connection
A capstone project provides a tangible demonstration of strategic capabilities, enriching the resume and offering talking points for interviews, showcasing readiness for complex strategy roles.
Develop Leadership and Influencing Skills- (Throughout Year 2, culminating in Trimester 6)
Take on leadership roles in student clubs, committees, or project teams. Practice negotiating, motivating teams, and managing conflicts. These experiences are crucial for implementing strategies effectively and driving organizational change.
Tools & Resources
Student body leadership opportunities, Group project assignments, Leadership workshops
Career Connection
Strategic roles often require leading cross-functional teams and influencing stakeholders without direct authority, making leadership development critical for career progression beyond entry-level positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (minimum 3 years duration) with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA in any discipline. A valid CAT score is mandatory. Final year students are also eligible to apply.
Duration: 2 years (6 Trimesters)
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
