An MBA from a reputable college is one of the finest lifelong investments you can make. It helps broaden your skill set, knowledge base, and career prospects, preparing you for the highest-paying professions in today's work market.
But the issue is, which program should you enroll in? An MBA program anywhere in the world requires you to be extraordinary; that is, someone who can deliver academic work at another level, with the top institutions enrolling just a percentage of candidates from the pool of great performers.
Because product management is a relatively young and expanding discipline, not many B-Schools worldwide offer a specific MBA degree. However, given the vital need for product managers, many business institutions now provide MBA degrees with product management specialties or emphases.
What is Product Management?
Product management is more than simply producing items and brands; the main goal is ensuring the products' success and durability.
Product management necessitates team-building abilities and outstanding leadership capabilities, as the function necessitates precise collaboration with diverse teams.
Furthermore, because there are so many interactions between sales, advertising, finance, R&D, operations, the supply chain, and senior management, a product manager must master the art of influence without authority.
The title role is crucial in honing the primary marketing strategy, as evidenced by the fact that great brand managers frequently become CEOs.
Furthermore, in addition to traditional duties, product and brand management degree graduates are seen as valuable assets in communication consulting and advertising. As a result, a program such as an MBA in product management prepares any individual for crucial positions that affect a product's success.
What is an MBA in Product Management?
An MBA in product management is a degree program provided by numerous B-Schools with a product management emphasis or specialty. As a result, the curriculum for an MBA in product management is designed to familiarize students with the many responsibilities in a product's life cycle.
The various stages of the processes vary according to the product type.
- The first step is always creativity; you are in charge of gathering innovative product ideas.
- The second stage is to evaluate. These concepts must be examined in terms of practicality, differentiability, what distinguishes them from the present ones on the market, and what the USP of this product would be.
- Other topics covered include targeted clients, product demand and supply, how the new product will perform in a competitive market, and revenue-generating potential assessment.
- As a product management MBA graduate, you will be required to handle marketing, sales, advertising, strategy, and positioning, get insights from customer input, address product challenges, and improve user experience.
- While all MBA programs teach business principles, an MBA in Product Management provides a curriculum specializing in everything from product conceptualization to brand design. The following sections will go through all the most popular MBA programs for Product Managers.
Product Manager after MBA
As a product manager after your MBA, your role will be multidisciplinary,
- Involving talking to customers,
- Developing the next feature to delight customers,
- Delving into analytics,
- Increasing revenue through conversion optimization,
- Giving specs to engineers,
- Devising ways to increase user retention, and
- Coordinating with all sections of the organization to bring technology to life.
Product managers are the core of a technological firm in many aspects, placing the function of the product manager in great demand. Furthermore, with over 14,000 job opportunities, Glassdoor ranks product manager third on the list of the best-suited careers in America for 2021.
Types of Product Management Courses
Product management courses are available online and offline and can be taken as UG, PG Certification, Diploma, or PG Diploma degrees. A Ph.D. in Product Management is also an option. Product Management courses are classified as Online / Offline and Degree or Certification. The following are the details for the many types of Project Management courses:
Project Management Certificate Programs
Product Management Certification courses aim to improve a person's product management and design skills and competencies. Certification courses are often 6- to 12-month short-term courses, which are available in both offline and online formats. There are no set requirements for project management certificate courses. However, students must have finished their 10th or 10+2 from a recognized board.
Online Product Management Training
Online Product Management courses are available for a limited time and can be paid for or provided for free. Such online courses are simply accessible by enrolling on the official website and paying the costs (if required).
Some Online Product Management courses are self-paced and may be done whenever convenient for you. Most students prefer Online Product Management courses because they can access them anytime and from any location. Several Popular Online Platforms and a few overseas colleges offer these online courses.
Some of the finest include Digital Product Management by the University of Virginia, Google Product Management by Google, and Real-World Product Management sponsored by Amazon Web Services through Coursera and other web portals. Some of the most outstanding Product Management courses accessible online, along with their prices, are listed below:
| Course Name | Provider | Fees |
| Becoming a Product Manager | INR 1,599 | |
| Product Management Certification Program | Up Grade (Duke Corporate Education) | INR 16,889 |
| Engineering Project Management: Mastering Project Complexity | edX (TUDelft) | INR 19,979 |
| Results-Based Project Management | edX (BID) | INR 6,637 |
| Product Management: Building a Product Strategy | INR 899.99 | |
| Become a Product Manager | Udemy | INR 450 |
| The Complete Product Management Course | Udemy | INR 490 |
Free Product Management Courses
There are various free product management courses accessible online. Most free online product management courses are offered on well-known online platforms such as Coursera, EdX, and Udemy. However, numerous renowned overseas colleges provide free product management courses. The following table lists free online product management courses:
| Course Name | Provider | Duration |
| Digital Product Management | Coursera (University of Virginia) | 5 months |
| Real-World Product Management | Coursera (Advancing Women in Product) sponsored by Amazon web services | 17 weeks |
| Software Product Management | Coursera (University of Alberta) | 2 weeks |
| Product Management Fundamentals | EdX (University of Maryland) | 4 weeks |
| Becoming a Product Manager | LinkedIn Learning | 11 hours |
| Brand and Product Management | Coursera (ie Business School) | 15 hours |
| Achieving Product-Market Fit | EdX (University of Maryland) | 4 weeks |
| Product Design | Udacity (by Google) | 4 months |
| Introduction to Software Product Management | Coursera (University of Alberta) | Varies |
| Product Masterclass: How to Build your Product Career | By Product School | Varies |
| Strategic Social Media Marketing | EdX (Boston University) | 6 weeks |
| Becoming A More Strategic Product Manager | Via Highbrow | 10 days |
MBA in Product Management VS Masters/Diploma in Product Management
To illustrate the distinction between an MBA in Product Management and a Master's in Product Management, consider the following points:
- First and foremost, candidates for the program should have a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, software engineering, or computer science.
- Computer engineers with a one-year M.S. degree will be trained to become product managers in I.T. businesses.
- The curriculum is designed so that the C.S. department (Computer Interaction Institute–CMU) teaches technical skills while the Tepper Business School teaches managerial abilities.
- Furthermore, the curriculum includes internship and capstone projects to provide students with industry-relevant skills. An MBA in Product Management, on the other hand, focuses on developing global leaders' management, leadership, and networking abilities.
Admissions requirements in various courses:
The application process for online Product Management courses is straightforward. Product Management courses are accessible online as degree, certification, or diploma programs.
Candidates seeking admission to such courses should only register on the course provider's website and enroll in their selected course by paying the costs (if required).
The following are the best colleges that provide Product Management Courses:
| Course Name | Top Colleges |
| Digital Product Management | University of Virginia |
| Software Product Management | University of Alberta |
| Product Management Fundamentals | University of Maryland |
| Strategic Social Media Marketing | Boston University |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | Graphic Era Hill University Haldwani Campus |
| MBA Project Management | Amity University, Gurgaon |
Diploma
Aside from Product Management certificate courses, there are also Diploma and Post Graduate Diploma (PG Diploma) courses in Product Management. Most Product Management Diploma courses last six months to a year, whereas PG Diploma programs last six months to 2 years, depending on the institute. PG Diploma courses are designed to instill unique ideas and skills for product management and creating, developing, and selling goods for the industry.
- To pursue a Diploma in Project Management degree, you must have completed your 10th or 10+2 from a recognized Board.
- To enroll in a PG Diploma in Project Management program, you must have a bachelor's degree in any field from a recognized university.
- Some prominent product management Diploma courses include the Diploma in Production Management and the Executive Diploma in Pharmaceutical Product Management.
- Diploma in Product Management courses typically cost between INR 5,000 and INR 2,00,000, depending on the course and school.
- Graduates of the Diploma courses in Product Management can find attractive work possibilities in various industries, including financial services, banks, government agencies, manufacturing firms, and so on.
Admissions Procedure
The admission procedure for Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma programs in Product Management differs based on the institution and course. Admission to Diploma in Product Management courses is based on merit. Candidates are chosen based on their past academic performance. The following are the prerequisites for pursuing Diploma courses in Product Management:
- Aspirants for a Diploma in Product Management program must have completed their 10+2 with a minimum aggregate of 60% from a recognized university.
- For selection, the Candidate may also need to go through Group Discussion or Personal Interview rounds.
- Candidates for PG Diploma courses must have completed their degree or certification / Diploma studies.
- Some private organizations shortlisted individuals based on their previous job experience or conducted personal interviews.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate candidates seeking a degree in Product Management can enroll in Management courses with a Product Management concentration. Popular Management courses such as BBA and BBM are available at the undergraduate level.
- To be eligible for UG courses in Product Management, you must have completed 10+2 in any stream with at least 60% marks.
- Admission to UG Product Management courses is based on merit and the results of admission exams such as DU JAT, IPU CET, NPAT, and others.
- Product Management courses often cost between INR 45,000 and 8 Lakhs, depending on the institute.
- As a newbie, one may anticipate earning between INR 3 to 8 LPA after completing the course.
Admissions Procedure
Students must meet the course eligibility requirements to be admitted to Product Management courses at the undergraduate level. One must complete their 10+2 with a minimum aggregate of 60% and may be required to qualify for entrance exams such as DU JAT, IPU CET, NPAT, and so on.
Candidates are chosen based on their performance in entrance tests or previous qualifying exams. Shortlisted candidates may also be requested to participate in group discussions or personal interviews as part of the admissions process. Admission to bachelor's degree programs in product management is made through entrance examinations and merit.
The table below lists the examinations considered for admission to UG courses in India.
| Exam Name | Applications date | Exam Date |
| DSAT | Up to August 2022 | September 2022 |
| SUAT | Up to August 5, 2022 | August 5, 2022 |
| KIITEE | June 12 to July 11, 2022 | June 17-19, 2022 |
| CMRUAT | July 8, 2022 | July 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2022 |
| ITM NEST | January 30 to July 20, 2022 | July 26, 2022 onwards |
| SPSAT | February to June 2022 | Candidates can take the test within 10 days after filling out the form |
| DU JAT | July 15 2022 | To be announced |
| BVP CET | Up to June 13,2022 | June 20-27, 2022 |
| NPAT | April 2022 | May 2022 |
| CUCET | To be announced | To be announced |
| BUMAT | June 26, 2022 | July 6, 2022 |
The table below lists some of the top universities that offer Product Management courses at the undergraduate level:
| Course Name | Average Annual Fees(INR) |
| Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai | 3,02,000 |
| Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Hyderabad | 2,52,000 |
| ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad | 2,60,000 |
| Christ University, Bangalore | 1,66,000 |
| JK Business School, Gurgaon | 93,000 |
| Jindal Global Business School, Sonipat | 4,50,000 |
| Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar | 1,12,000 |
| OP Jindal Global University, Haryana | 4,50,000 |
| Shri Ram Murti Smarak International Business School, Uttar Pradesh | 25,550 |
| Reva University, Karnataka | 1,00,000 |
Postgraduate
Postgraduate studies in Product Management are also available. Candidates interested in pursuing PG courses in Product Management can enroll in a 2-year MBA in Product Management. It is necessary to be a graduate of an accredited university with at least a 50% average.
Product Management courses at the postgraduate level often cost between INR 2 and 25 lakhs. Top MBA universities in India, such as IIM Calcutta, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi, XLRI Jamshedpur, and others, provide Product Management programs. The average pay for Master Product Managers in India is INR 4-12 LPA.
IIM Product Management Courses
IIM, or the Indian Institute of Management, provides the highest quality education for MBA programs. IIMs in India are well-known for their high levels of placement and quality education. They offer MBA programs with a variety of specialties, including Product Management. MBA Product Management at IIM is priced between INR 20 and 30 lakhs. The top IIMs that provide MBA Product Management, as well as their costs, are listed below:
| Course Name | Average Annual Fees(INR) |
| Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta | 12,50,000 |
| Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode | 5,00,000 |
| Indian Institute of Management, Indore | 9,80,000 |
| Indian Institute of Management, Kashipur | 7,82,000 |
| Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi | 8,80,000 |
Admissions Procedure
- A minimum GPA of 50% from an accredited university is required of applicants for the MBA in Product Management program.
- Entrance examinations such as the CAT, GMAT, XAT, and TANCET may also be required at the national or state level.
- Candidates for admission are shortlisted based on entrance exam counseling and group discussions/personal interviews.
The following are some of the most well-known and excellent MBA institutions in India that provide an MBA in Product Management with a pricing structure:
| Course Name | Average Annual Fees(INR) |
| Community Institute of Management Studies, Bangalore | 4,50,000 |
| Seshadripuram Institute of Management Studies, Bangalore | 2,50,000 |
| St.George College of Management, Science & Nursing, Bangalore | 3,60,000 |
| Jaipur National University, Jaipur | 1,10,000 |
| Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur | 4,00,000 |
| Institute of Product Leadership, Bangalore | 6,45,000 |
Doctorate
A person who wants to become a master in product management and intends to pursue Doctorate level courses in product management might enroll in Ph.D. in Management courses.
These courses are often taught for five years, which aids in the progress of technology, notably in the management field. It also teaches students new methodology in Business Management, as well as qualitative and quantitative techniques.
The typical price for such courses ranges from INR 50,000 to 7,00,000, depending on the field of study and discipline chosen. Ph.D. Business Management and Ph.D. Business Administration two standard doctoral programs in Product Management.
Admissions Procedure
Admission to Doctorate level programs in the Product Management discipline is either on merit (based on prior qualifying test grades) or on entrance exams administered by the University or at the national or state level. Aspirants must have a minimum of 50% in their Master's Degree to be eligible for the admission test. PGIMER, NET, PET, UGC-NET, and ICAR are some of the standard entry examinations for Ph.D. programs.
Entrance Exams for Doctorate Courses in Product Management:
| Entrance Exam | Exam Registration Date | Exam Date |
| UGC-NET | March and September 2022 | June and December 2022 |
| IBSAT | July 5 to December 16, 2022 | December 25-26, 2022 |
| JET | May 2022 | May 29, 2022 |
| CUCET | To be announced | To be announced |
| LPUNEST | January 1, 2022 | July 19 to August 3, 2022 |
The following are some of the best colleges/universities offering Doctorate Product Management programs, along with their typical fees:
| Course Name | Average Annual Fees(INR) |
| Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad | 23 - 30 lakhs |
| Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore | 23 - 28 lakhs |
| Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta | 13 - 23 lakhs |
| Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow | 6 - 10 lakhs |
| Department of Management Studies, IIT Delhi | 63,900 |
Product Management Courses in Other Countries
Aspirants interested in pursuing Product Management courses at various overseas schools or institutions can do so in nations such as Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, which offer the top Product Management courses:
Students want to study in foreign universities/colleges because they provide superior education, vital facilities, practical knowledge, and high-paying job prospects. However, before applying to international universities, students should consider the following:
College Specifics:
Aspirants must investigate the college's specifics and its rankings by various agencies such as the QS World Ranking. Also, Candidates must obtain all information about the feds, living expenditures, etc.
Educational Needs:
College education requirements differ from one another. However, applicants must be fully aware of the qualifying conditions and meet all academic requirements.
Aside from academic credentials, international colleges also require results from English Language Proficiency examinations. TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE are three prominent English proficiency examinations. To get admitted to overseas universities, students must have an IELTS score of 6.5 or above. In the case of TOEFL, the average score should be between 80 and 100.
Other Papers:
Before applying to the College/ University, candidates should have gathered other documents such as mark sheets, letter(s) of recommendation, statements of purpose, health insurance, and bank statement, VISA, Passport, and so on.
The following are the best colleges/universities in Canada that offer Product Management courses:
| College Name | Average Fees |
| University of Alberta | 17,70,000 |
| McMaster University - DeGroote School of Business, Burlington | 22,90,000 |
| Ryerson University - Ted Rogers School of Management, Toronto | 28,00,000 |
| McGill University - Desautels Faculty of Management, Montreal | 59,30,000 |
| University of Calgary - Haskayne School of Business | 22,00,000 |
The following are the best colleges/universities in the UK that offer Product Management courses:
| College Name | Average Fees |
| The University Of Liverpool – Management School | 26,00,000 |
| Aston University, Birmingham | 26,40,000 |
| Brunel University, London | 24,60,000 |
| Kingston University, Kingston | 24,50,000 |
| University of Essex, Colchester | 18,60,000 |
The following are the best colleges/universities in the United States that offer Product Management courses:
| College Name | Average Fees(INR) |
| Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) – Tepper School of Business, Pittsburgh | 52,20,00 |
| New York University - [NYU] | 58,60,000 |
| University of Wisconsin, Madison | 31,80,000 |
| Haas School of Business (HAAS), Berkeley | 51,00,000 |
Required Skills:
The table chart below lists some of the critical talents or competencies necessary for Product Management courses:
| Communication Skills | Leadership Skills |
| Problem Solving Skills | Time Management |
| Observational Skills | Analytical Skills |
| Adaptability | Marketing Skills |
| Innovative Ideas | Negotiating Skills |
Courses in Product Management with Job Placement
Graduates in this profession can find a wide range of work prospects in the commercial and public sectors after finishing the Product Management courses. High-profile positions include Brand Manager, Product Manager, Product Marketing Manager, and many others.
Some certified product Management courses provide placement prospects upon completion of the classes. Candidates may find job possibilities in manufacturing, finance, market research, software business, and advertising.
A graduate's typical pay after finishing Product Management courses might range from INR 12 - 16 LPA, depending on the organization, talents, and classification. The following are the top recruiting employers for Product Management graduates:
| Cisco | HCL |
| TCS | Amazon |
| IBM | |
| Capgemini | Cognizant |
The table below depicts some of the most common job profiles that one may pursue after finishing Product Management courses, along with their tasks and responsibilities and typical salaries:
| Job Profile | Job Description | Average Annual Salary |
| Sales Manager | Pricing, promotion, sales, marketing, strategy, market research, and other public relations operations are all the responsibility of a Sales Manager. | INR 5 - 11 LPA |
| Marketing Managers | Marketing Managers are in charge of overseeing and developing strategies for marketing items and increasing sales. They are also in charge of their industry's advertising initiatives. | INR 4- 10 LPA |
| Product Manager | A Product Manager is in charge of a product's lifespan, from conception to conclusion. Also responsible for various product and customer service transactions and monitoring the specifics of all items daily. | INR 7 - 15 LPA |
| Business Development Manager | A Business Development Manager is in charge of discovering new business possibilities for the firm to increase profitability and create income. Also, finding and building appropriate ties with other clients and businesses. | INR 4 -6 LPA |
| Marketing Professionals | Marketing professionals discover the methods and approach businesses to employ to gain customers and clients. They calculate the cost and budget based on the product's demand and supply. | INR 4 - 5 LPA |
Conclusion
With this in mind, we can infer that post-MBA, product managers must acquire strategic thinking and a strong vision, as the success of any product and the future of the business is ultimately, and to a large part, dependent on their involvement in decision-making. Furthermore, because of the unique nature of the work, product or brand management is frequently acknowledged as the most specialized aspect of leadership across all sectors.
When considering your possibilities for an MBA in Product Management, there are a few factors to keep in mind. You must grasp every part of the curriculum, scholarship, and admission procedure, which may be stressful for someone new to this profession.
