Harness the power of two

After years of imparting quality education and training to post-graduates, doctoral students, and working executives in the field of management, Indian Institute of Management Rohtak has recently introduced the five-year Integrated Programme in Management (IPM). “The objective of the programme is to mold young talents into business leaders equipped with analytical thinking, interpersonal competence, and decision making with an ethical orientation”, says Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director, Indian Institute of Management-Rohtak. In an interaction he shares key points of the new programme. Excerpts:

What was the motivation for introducing this programme?

I believe that any institution must continuously strive to innovate in curriculum content and programme structure towards getting superior academic and professional outcomes for participants. IPM is a step in that direction for IIM Rohtak. 

What are the key features of this programme?

IPM will provide a unique blend of foundational knowledge of various social science subjects along with core management subjects. This will result in the development of a deeper understanding of the multifaceted world of business for our participating students.  After five years of study,  candidates will be eligible to receive both bachelor’s and master’s degree in management. IPM also offers an exit option with a bachelor’s degree after three years.

What qualities IIM Rohtak looks for in IPM students?

A student must be able to apply basic principles of communication in the complex business environment.  Hence, stronghold on the subject knowledge, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills are few sought after qualities in an IPM programme aspirant. General awareness is again an indispensable requirement to be aware of the current happenings around in order to survive in the complex business eco-system.   

Who can apply for this programme?

Candidates who have secured minimum 60 per cent in their Class X and XII are eligible to apply (55 per cent for reserved category). Students, who are likely to complete Class XII/ HSC or equivalent by July 31, 2019, can also apply subject to meeting the minimum eligibility criteria. More information about the admission procedure and selection process is available at www.iimrohtak.ac.in

Why should students opt for IPM instead of BBA/ BMS programmes? 

IPM is a gateway to an IIM. The major difference between the integrated programme and other business management courses is in terms of curriculum. During the tenure of five years of programme, there are no direct repetition of course material between bachelor’s and master’s degree. IPM programme takes you to the next level. It provides a unique blend of foundational knowledge of various social science and core management subjects. Another benefit for a student is that he/she doesn’t have to reappear for any entrance test after UG, for pursuing the programme from IIM the institute. Finally, the course offers four internships, simulations, live projects, and project courses. This make the IPM programme unique learning experience and truly make the IPM participants uniquely qualified in management domain. 

What career opportunities does this programme offer to students?

With this course, students are developed and groomed academically for the business world from the young age. Uniquely developed curriculum combines theory and practice to provide students with greater self-confidence combined with superior skills that aid them to build a rewarding career. Analytical skills, managerial perspective, and ethical foundation will act as a catalyst to their understanding of the real-world problems. This unique proposition is also a win-win situation for the industry to hire such professionals, as they will have a pragmatic understanding of the corporate expectations and hence be confident to face real-time challenges. 

How does this programme benefit students more comparing to their counterparts as they will start early?

If management is the desirable choice for career, integrated programme is the best option for the students. The curriculum is entirely comprehensive and covers all spectrums and basics of management that make the future professionals more conscious of the larger ecosystem in which business functions. Hence, students develop a holistic view of management perspective. Moreover, five years in the IIM system are likely to develop students into business leaders with a sense of excellence; strong social commitment and a passion for a value system. 

— As told to Geetu Vaid