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B-VOC in Retail Management at Maharaja Lakshman Sen Memorial College
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Retail Management at Maharaja Lakshman Sen Memorial College Mandi?
This Retail Management program at Maharaja Lakshman Sen Memorial College focuses on equipping students with essential skills for the dynamic Indian retail sector. It covers store operations, merchandising, customer service, and digital retail. The program emphasizes practical exposure, preparing students for various roles in India''''s booming retail industry, from traditional outlets to modern e-commerce giants.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into the retail field, aiming for roles like store managers, merchandisers, or sales executives. It also suits individuals looking to upskill for career growth within the retail domain, or career changers transitioning to the fast-paced retail industry, requiring a 10+2 academic background.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including retail operations, visual merchandising, e-commerce, and supply chain. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program aligns with industry demands, fostering growth in Indian and international retail companies operating in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Retail Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions on retail concepts, visit local stores to observe different retail formats and operations, and summarize key learnings weekly. Focus on understanding the basics of retail business and customer service from real-world examples in Mandi.
Tools & Resources
Industry journals, Retail case studies, Local retail outlets for observation
Career Connection
A solid understanding of retail fundamentals is crucial for entry-level roles and provides a base for future specialization and growth in the Indian retail market.
Enhance Communication and Computer Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice spoken English, presentation skills, and professional writing consistently. Master essential computer applications like MS Office and basic retail software through hands-on practice, utilizing college computer labs and online tutorials.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, LinkedIn Learning, College computer lab facilities
Career Connection
Effective communication and digital literacy are non-negotiable for retail professionals, facilitating customer interaction, team collaboration, and efficient use of retail technology in India''''s evolving digital landscape.
Engage in Peer Learning and Group Projects- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex topics and work collaboratively on assigned projects. Take initiative in group assignments to develop teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills crucial for managing retail teams.
Tools & Resources
Google Docs for collaboration, College library resources, Study group meetups
Career Connection
Teamwork and collaboration are vital in retail operations. Developing these skills early prepares students for managing diverse teams and navigating dynamic work environments common in Indian retail.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Practical Retail Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for part-time retail jobs or volunteer opportunities in local stores during college breaks. Participate in college-organized industrial visits to understand supply chain, merchandising, and store management firsthand.
Tools & Resources
Local job portals, College placement cell for industrial visits, Retail industry events
Career Connection
Hands-on experience provides invaluable insights into daily retail challenges and operations, making students more competitive for internships and entry-level positions in Indian retail companies.
Develop Specialization Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on building skills in visual merchandising, e-commerce operations, and supply chain management through practical exercises and projects. Seek relevant online certifications to augment the curriculum, aligning with industry trends in India.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Coursera/Udemy for specific retail skills, Retail software tutorials
Career Connection
Specialized skills are highly valued in the competitive Indian retail market. Expertise in areas like digital retailing or visual merchandising opens doors to specific, high-demand roles and better career progression.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3-4)
Attend retail industry seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the college. Connect with speakers and alumni on platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network for mentorship and future career opportunities within India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry associations (e.g., RAI), College alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is key to discovering job opportunities, gaining industry insights, and finding mentors who can guide career paths in the diverse Indian retail landscape.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Intensive Internship- (Semester 5)
Secure a full-time internship with a reputable retail company (online or offline) for a minimum of 4-6 weeks. Focus on gaining experience in a specific functional area like marketing, operations, or e-commerce, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Internshala, Company career pages
Career Connection
A strong internship experience is often a direct pathway to placements, provides valuable industry references, and enhances the resume significantly for the Indian job market.
Prepare a Comprehensive Major Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Choose a relevant retail challenge or innovation for your major project. Conduct thorough research, collect and analyze data (primary/secondary), and present well-reasoned findings and recommendations. This showcases problem-solving abilities and specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, Statistical software (Excel/SPSS), Academic journals, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates analytical prowess and the ability to contribute strategically, impressing potential employers for roles in retail management and strategy.
Refine Placement and Interview Skills- (Semester 6)
Actively participate in mock interviews, group discussions, and resume-building workshops offered by the college. Practice answering common HR and retail-specific questions, focusing on showcasing skills and experiences relevant to the Indian retail industry.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell workshops, Online interview guides, Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
Excellent interview skills are paramount for securing desirable placements. This practice ensures readiness for the rigorous recruitment processes of top retail companies in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent in any stream from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 144 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVORM-GE-101 | General English | General Education | 4 | Grammar and Usage, Written Communication, Reading Comprehension, Presentation Skills, Vocabulary Building |
| BVORM-GE-102 | Environmental Studies | General Education | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Conservation Efforts, Sustainable Development |
| BVORM-SC-103 | Introduction to Retail Business | Skill Component | 4 | Retail Industry Overview, Retail Formats and Trends, Retail Environment Analysis, Retail Sector in India, Retail Business Models |
| BVORM-SC-104 | Retail Store Operations | Skill Component | 4 | Store Layout and Design, Merchandise Management, Inventory Control, Billing and Cash Handling, Safety and Security |
| BVORM-P-105 | Retail Documentation and Communication Lab | Practical/Lab | 2 | Preparing Retail Reports, Customer Interaction Role-plays, Drafting Business Correspondence, Data Entry Practice, Basic Presentation Practice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVORM-GE-201 | Business Mathematics | General Education | 4 | Basic Algebra, Commercial Arithmetic, Interest and Annuities, Matrices, Statistical Methods |
| BVORM-GE-202 | Fundamentals of Computer Applications | General Education | 4 | Operating Systems, MS Office Suite, Internet and Web Browsing, Data Security Basics, Introduction to Databases |
| BVORM-SC-203 | Retail Selling Skills and Customer Service | Skill Component | 4 | Sales Process Stages, Product Knowledge, Customer Handling Techniques, Conflict Resolution, Post-Sale Service |
| BVORM-SC-204 | Retail Merchandising Basics | Skill Component | 4 | Merchandising Concepts, Assortment Planning, Pricing Strategies, Vendor Management, Category Management |
| BVORM-P-205 | Retail Selling and Merchandising Lab | Practical/Lab | 2 | Mock Sales Pitches, Visual Merchandising Exercises, Inventory Tracking Software Usage, Customer Feedback Collection, Point of Sale (POS) Operations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVORM-GE-301 | Business Organization and Management | General Education | 4 | Forms of Business Organization, Principles of Management, Organizational Structure, Decision Making, Leadership and Motivation |
| BVORM-SC-302 | Visual Merchandising | Skill Component | 4 | Principles of Visual Merchandising, Store Displays, Window Dressing, Lighting and Fixtures, Signage and Graphics |
| BVORM-SC-303 | Supply Chain Management in Retail | Skill Component | 4 | Introduction to SCM, Logistics and Warehousing, Transportation Management, Demand Forecasting, Vendor Relationship Management |
| BVORM-SC-304 | Retail Marketing and Branding | Skill Component | 4 | Retail Marketing Mix, Brand Management, Promotional Strategies, Advertising in Retail, Digital Marketing for Retail |
| BVORM-P-305 | Visual Merchandising and SCM Lab | Practical/Lab | 2 | Creating Display Mock-ups, Inventory Flow Simulation, Supply Chain Mapping, Retail Branding Case Studies, E-commerce Platform Navigation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVORM-GE-401 | Business Economics | General Education | 4 | Demand and Supply Analysis, Market Structures, Pricing Decisions, National Income, Inflation and Unemployment |
| BVORM-SC-402 | E-Commerce and Digital Retailing | Skill Component | 4 | E-Commerce Models, Online Store Management, Digital Marketing Channels, Payment Gateways, Cyber Security in E-Commerce |
| BVORM-SC-403 | Human Resource Management in Retail | Skill Component | 4 | HR Planning, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Appraisal, Employee Relations |
| BVORM-SC-404 | Retail Finance and Accounting | Skill Component | 4 | Financial Statements, Budgeting and Forecasting, Cost Analysis, Working Capital Management, Retail Accounting Software |
| BVORM-P-405 | Digital Retailing and HRM Lab | Practical/Lab | 2 | Creating E-Commerce Content, Social Media Marketing Campaigns, HR Interview Simulations, Payroll Software Practice, Financial Reporting Exercises |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVORM-GE-501 | Entrepreneurship Development | General Education | 4 | Concept of Entrepreneurship, Business Plan Formulation, Funding Sources, Legal Aspects of Business, Small Business Management |
| BVORM-SC-502 | Retail Analytics and CRM | Skill Component | 4 | Data Analysis in Retail, Customer Relationship Management, Loyalty Programs, Market Research Techniques, Predictive Analytics Basics |
| BVORM-SC-503 | Retail Space Management | Skill Component | 4 | Store Location Selection, Layout Planning, Space Allocation, Fixture Management, Category Adjacency |
| BVORM-SC-504 | International Retailing | Skill Component | 4 | Global Retail Markets, Entry Strategies, Cultural Aspects, International Sourcing, Cross-Border E-commerce |
| BVORM-P-505 | Internship and Project Report | Practical/Lab/Project | 6 | Industry Exposure, Problem Identification, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVORM-GE-601 | Business Law and Ethics | General Education | 4 | Contract Law, Consumer Protection Act, Intellectual Property Rights, Ethical Dilemmas in Business, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| BVORM-SC-602 | Retail Strategy and Management | Skill Component | 4 | Strategic Retail Planning, Competitive Strategies, Growth Strategies, Retail Innovations, Retail Leadership |
| BVORM-SC-603 | Retail Technology and Security | Skill Component | 4 | POS Systems, RFID Technology, Big Data in Retail, CCTV and Loss Prevention, Cybersecurity Best Practices |
| BVORM-P-604 | Major Project / Dissertation | Project | 6 | In-depth Industry Research, Problem Solving, Advanced Data Analysis, Academic Writing, Thesis Defense |
| BVORM-P-605 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Viva Voce | 2 | Overall Program Knowledge Assessment, Specialization Concepts, Industry Awareness, Critical Thinking, Communication Skills |
