Comparative Analysis of Employability Perceptions among MBA and PGDM Students: Factors Influencing Career Readiness and Job Market Preparedness

Abstract

This study investigates the employability perceptions among Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) students, focusing on factors influencing career readiness and job market preparedness. Drawing on a quantitative approach, data collected through a structured questionnaire are analysed using statistical techniques such as independent sample t-tests and correlation analysis. The findings reveal significant differences in perceptions related to internships' impact on employability, networking activities, satisfaction with institution career services, and the effect of academic success on job confidence between MBA and PGDM students. However, no significant differences are observed in confidence levels regarding securing desired industry jobs, readiness for the job market and honed skills, the impact of a volatile job market on employability, the enhancement of employability through project learning, and advocacy for rigorous career readiness training. These findings underscore the nuanced perspectives of MBA and PGDM students on factors shaping their employability, offering valuable insights for educational interventions and policy development to enhance graduate