Choosing MBA specialisations

It has become commonplace for most professionals to go for an MBA to further their careers. But many remain confused about what to major/specialise in – finance, marketing or strategy being the preferred options. However, students can also explore other diversified MBAs, such as the pharmaceutical management course.

The pharmaceutical industry has  proved to be the major driving force in economic growth for all the developed and developing countries. The pharmaceutical sector is now a key powerhouse, driving the Indian economy. As it is one of the major contributor to the overall production mechanism of any economy, people with special skillset and knowledge to face the challenges of services management are in demand.

The wind of change towards globalisation and liberalisation is fast penetrating into the pharma industry. Industry always looks for the best of the people to work with the odds in the sector. It expects fresh business minds to demonstrate enthusiasm, be self-motivated, lead teams and motivate others. For the past few years, there has been a drastic change in pharma business trend towards global diversification. To meet this demanding strategy, non-science graduates are also preferred, apart from science graduates, by many pharmaceutical companies. Those who want to take up a career in Pharma Management can opt for Pharma Business Management programme. The MBA programme is focused on producing leading MBA graduates who truly understand the dynamics of pharmaceutical industry and business.

An MBA programme in Pharma Business Management (MBA-PBM) typically includes modules such as Pharma Operations Management, Pharma Marketing and Sales Management, Pharmaceutical Regulations and Green Management. The programme is suitable for pharma graduates. However, graduates from other fields who would like to enter into pharma business can also pursue the programme.

(The author is associate dean, MSRUAS, Bengaluru)