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MCOM in Strategic Management at K.L.E. Society's Shri Mrityunjaya College of Arts & Commerce, Dharwad
Dharwad, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Strategic Management at K.L.E. Society's Shri Mrityunjaya College of Arts & Commerce, Dharwad Dharwad?
This Strategic Management program at K.L.E. Society''''s Shri Mrityunjaya College of Arts and Commerce, affiliated with Karnataka University, Dharwad, focuses on developing capabilities to formulate, implement, and evaluate business strategies. In the dynamic Indian business landscape, marked by rapid technological advancements and global competition, strategic management professionals are crucial for organizational survival and growth. This program distinguishes itself by integrating theoretical frameworks with practical case studies relevant to Indian industries, preparing students to navigate complex corporate challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for ambitious commerce and management graduates (B.Com, BBA, BBM) seeking to elevate their understanding of business strategy and leadership. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for roles in corporate planning, business consulting, or entrepreneurship. Additionally, mid-career professionals looking to transition into strategic leadership roles or enhance their decision-making skills in a competitive market will find immense value. A strong analytical bent and an interest in macro-economic trends are beneficial prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths in India as Strategic Analysts, Business Consultants, Project Managers, or Corporate Planners across diverse sectors like manufacturing, services, and IT. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals commanding significantly higher packages. The program equips students with advanced analytical and decision-making skills, preparing them for leadership positions and fostering entrepreneurial ventures, aligning with the growing demand for strategic thinkers in Indian companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Business Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to building a robust understanding of fundamental subjects like Managerial Economics, Organizational Behaviour, Advanced Financial Management, and Research Methodology. Actively engage in class, participate in discussions, and use textbooks and recommended readings for deep comprehension. Form study groups to solve problems and review complex topics.
Tools & Resources
University library, NPTEL courses on foundational management, Core textbooks (e.g., Kothari for Research Methodology), Online quiz platforms
Career Connection
A strong command of business fundamentals is essential for interpreting business data and understanding organizational dynamics, which underpins effective strategic decision-making.
Develop Foundational Analytical and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice data analysis using tools like MS Excel for assignments in Accounting for Business Decisions and Computer Applications. Focus on improving presentation skills through seminars and assignments. Participate in college-level debates or public speaking events to refine verbal communication.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, PowerPoint/Google Slides, Online tutorials for data visualization, Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds, College communication labs
Career Connection
These foundational skills are critical for interpreting market data, preparing business reports, and effectively conveying strategic insights to teams and management.
Broaden Understanding of the Business Environment- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read business newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard) and reputable business magazines (e.g., Business World, Forbes India). Follow industry news, economic policies, and global business trends to build a comprehensive view of the external environment influencing businesses in India.
Tools & Resources
Online news portals, Financial apps, Business podcasts, Industry reports from NASSCOM/FICCI
Career Connection
A well-informed perspective on the business environment is crucial for identifying strategic opportunities and threats, a key responsibility in strategic management roles.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Strategic Analysis Frameworks- (Semester 3)
Focus intensely on the Strategic Management I (Strategic Analysis) elective. Systematically learn and apply frameworks like SWOT, PESTEL, Porter''''s Five Forces, and Value Chain Analysis to real-world Indian company case studies. Analyze current strategies of prominent Indian firms from publicly available information.
Tools & Resources
Core textbooks on Strategic Management (e.g., Azhar Kazmi, Michael Porter''''s works), Corporate annual reports, Harvard Business Review case studies (Indian context)
Career Connection
Mastery of these analytical tools is fundamental for roles like strategic analyst or business intelligence specialist, enabling thorough assessment of a company''''s position.
Engage in Elective-Specific Skill Development- (Semester 3)
For Strategic Management I & II, seek out workshops or short courses on corporate strategy, competitive intelligence, or strategic planning software. Actively participate in discussions about real-life strategic dilemmas and proposed solutions. If an open elective is chosen, ensure it complements strategic thinking (e.g., advanced analytics or finance).
Tools & Resources
Coursera/Udemy courses on strategy or competitive analysis, Industry-specific webinars, Simulations platforms (if available through college)
Career Connection
Specialised skills gained here enhance your profile for specific strategy roles, showcasing a practical application of theoretical knowledge.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Start actively building a professional network, particularly with alumni or professionals working in strategic roles, consulting, or corporate planning. Attend guest lectures, industry seminars, and use platforms like LinkedIn for outreach. Seek informational interviews to understand career paths and industry demands.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network events, Industry association meetings (e.g., CII Young Leaders Forum), Career fairs
Career Connection
Early networking can open doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and provides insights into the practical aspects of strategic management careers in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Strategic Project/Dissertation- (Semester 4)
For the Project Work/Dissertation, choose a challenging strategic issue faced by an organization (preferably Indian). Conduct in-depth research, collect primary/secondary data, apply learned strategic frameworks, and propose actionable recommendations. This is your capstone project to demonstrate cumulative learning.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, EBSCO), Statistical software (SPSS, R basic), Advanced Excel, Academic writing guides, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
A well-executed project is a powerful portfolio piece for job interviews, showcasing your ability to conduct independent strategic analysis and problem-solving.
Prepare for Industry Placement and Advanced Certifications- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus recruitment drives and placement training sessions. Refine your resume, practice interview skills, and prepare for group discussions. Consider pursuing advanced certifications in areas like data science for business, digital strategy, or risk management to stand out in the job market.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Mock interview platforms, Aptitude test preparation materials, Professional certification bodies (e.g., PMP for Project Management, NISM for finance-related roles)
Career Connection
Targeted preparation significantly increases your chances of securing desirable strategic roles in top Indian companies or consulting firms.
Cultivate Global Strategic Perspective through Internship- (Semester 4)
Leverage the Internship opportunity to gain practical exposure in a corporate setting. Seek out internships where you can contribute to strategic initiatives or gain exposure to global business operations. Focus on understanding how strategies are implemented and controlled in a real-world context, especially in a globalized Indian economy.
Tools & Resources
Internship search platforms, Company websites, Networking contacts, Mentorship from industry professionals during the internship
Career Connection
Practical, real-world experience, especially in a strategic role, is highly valued by employers and provides a competitive edge for strategic management positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Com / B.B.A. / B.B.M. / B.A. with Economics / B.Sc. with Statistics/Mathematics from this University or any other University recognized as equivalent thereto. The candidate should have secured at least 45% of marks in aggregate (40% in case of SC/ST/Cat-I candidates).
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C 1.1 | Managerial Economics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Managerial Economics, Demand and Supply Analysis, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structures and Pricing Decisions, Business Cycles and Economic Forecasting |
| C 1.2 | Organizational Behaviour | Core | 4 | Introduction to Organizational Behaviour, Perception, Learning and Personality, Motivation Theories and Applications, Group Dynamics and Team Building, Leadership, Power and Conflict Management |
| C 1.3 | Advanced Financial Management | Core | 4 | Capital Budgeting Decisions, Capital Structure Theories, Working Capital Management, Dividend Policy and Theories, Mergers, Acquisitions and Corporate Restructuring |
| C 1.4 | Accounting for Business Decisions | Core | 4 | Financial Statement Analysis, Cost Accounting Concepts and Systems, Budgetary Control and Variance Analysis, Standard Costing, Responsibility Accounting and Transfer Pricing |
| C 1.5 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research and Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| C 1.6 | Seminar / Assignment | Core | 4 | Identification of Research Topic, Literature Review, Data Gathering Techniques, Data Presentation and Analysis, Report Formulation and Oral Presentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C 2.1 | Principles and Practices of Marketing | Core | 4 | Introduction to Marketing Management, Market Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning, Product Life Cycle and New Product Development, Pricing Strategies and Decisions, Promotion and Distribution Channels |
| C 2.2 | Human Resource Management | Core | 4 | Role and Functions of HRM, Job Analysis, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Appraisal, Compensation and Employee Relations |
| C 2.3 | Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 4 | Concept of Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneur, Business Idea Generation and Opportunity Analysis, Business Plan Preparation, Small Business Management, Institutional Support and Schemes for EDPs |
| C 2.4 | International Business | Core | 4 | Introduction to International Business, Theories of International Trade, Foreign Exchange Market and Balance of Payments, International Financial Institutions, EXIM Policy and Global Business Environment |
| C 2.5 | Business Environment | Core | 4 | Concept and Components of Business Environment, Economic Environment and Policies, Political and Legal Environment, Socio-Cultural Environment, Technological and Global Environment |
| C 2.6 | Computer Applications for Business | Core | 4 | MS Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Database Management Systems (DBMS) Basics, Internet and E-commerce Concepts, Data Security and Privacy, Accounting Software (Tally/ERP Basics) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C 3.1 | Corporate Social Responsibility & Governance | Core | 4 | Concept and Scope of CSR, Models and Approaches to CSR, Corporate Governance Principles and Practices, Business Ethics and Stakeholder Management, CSR Reporting and Disclosure |
| C 3.2 | Direct Tax - I | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Income Tax Law, Residential Status and Tax Incidence, Income under the head Salaries, Income under the head House Property, Profits and Gains of Business or Profession |
| C 3.3 | Strategic Management – I (Strategic Analysis) | Elective | 4 | Nature of Strategic Management, Environmental Appraisal and Analysis, Organizational Appraisal (SWOT Analysis), Strategic Advantage and Core Competencies, Business Ethics and Social Responsibility |
| C 3.4 | Strategic Management – II (Strategic Choice and Implementation) | Elective | 4 | Strategic Alternatives and Grand Strategies, Strategic Choice Process, Strategy Implementation Challenges, Structural Implementation of Strategy, Behavioural and Functional Implementation |
| OE 3.1 | Open Elective | Elective | 4 | Topics to be chosen from other specialization groups or departments as per university guidelines. |
| SE 3.1 | Skill Based Elective (Soft Skills) | Elective | 4 | Communication Skills (Verbal and Written), Presentation Skills and Public Speaking, Interpersonal Skills and Teamwork, Leadership and Managerial Effectiveness, Interview Skills and Professional Etiquette |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C 4.1 | Indirect Tax | Core | 4 | Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act, Levy and Collection of GST, Input Tax Credit, Time and Value of Supply, GST Returns and Refunds |
| C 4.2 | Project Work / Dissertation | Core (Research) | 4 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Extensive Literature Review, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing, Viva-Voce and Presentation |
| C 4.3 | Strategic Management – III (Strategic Evaluation and Control) | Elective | 4 | Strategic Evaluation Process, Control Systems and Techniques, Balanced Scorecard, Strategic Audit, Corporate Turnaround and Exit Strategies |
| C 4.4 | Strategic Management – IV (Global Strategic Management) | Elective | 4 | Global Business Environment Analysis, International Expansion Strategies, Global Strategic Alliances and Joint Ventures, Cross-Cultural Management in Global Firms, Achieving Global Competitiveness |
| OE 4.1 | Open Elective | Elective | 4 | Topics to be chosen from other specialization groups or departments as per university guidelines. |
| INT 4.1 | Internship | Core (Practical) | 4 | Practical Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Industry Exposure and Organisational Understanding, Report Writing on Internship Experience, Presentation of Findings and Learnings, Networking and Professional Development |
