Master of Management Studies (MMS) in India: Courses, Colleges, Fees, and Career Scope
A Master of Management Studies is a 2-year PG degree offering opportunities in consulting, retail, e-commerce and other sectors. Read everything about this course here, including top colleges, course fees, syllabus, job options and more.
The Master of Management Studies (MMS) is a highly sought-after two-year postgraduate degree in India, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in the evolving business landscape. MMS graduates find opportunities as Business Analysts, Marketing Managers, and in other key roles, with average salaries ranging from INR 6 LPA to INR 12 LPA. Top recruiters like Infosys, TCS, and HDFC Bank actively seek MMS graduates. Admission typically involves entrance exams like CAT, XAT, and MAH CET, followed by selection rounds. Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree, often with a minimum percentage (e.g., 50% or 60%), from various streams like engineering, commerce, or science.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Master of Management Studies in India, covering courses, colleges, fees, and career scope, including syllabus, placements, and top recruiting companies.
Master of Management Studies (MMS) in India: Overview
The Master of Management Studies (MMS) program in India is a two-year postgraduate degree designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the management industry. The program is typically divided into four semesters, with a mix of core and elective subjects. Here is a quick overview:
| Feature | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Course Name | Full Course Name | Master of Management Studies (MMS) |
| Duration | Typical program length | 2 Years |
| Average Fees | Typical fee range | INR 50,000 – INR 5,00,000 per year |
| Eligibility | Minimum qualification required | Bachelor’s Degree with 50% marks |
| Entrance Exams Accepted | National and state-level exams | CAT, XAT, MAT, MAH CET |
| Specializations | Popular areas of focus | Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Operations Management |
| Top Recruiters | Companies that hire MMS graduates | Infosys, TCS, HDFC Bank, Deloitte |
| Average Salary | Expected salary range | INR 6 LPA – INR 12 LPA |
| Approving Bodies | Regulatory authorities | AICTE, UGC |
| Ranking Framework | National ranking system | NIRF |
Master of Management Studies Eligibility Criteria: Detailed Requirements for Indian Students
Eligibility criteria for the Master of Management Studies (MMS) in India vary across colleges. Generally, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum percentage of marks. Some colleges accept any bachelor’s degree, while others require specific streams like engineering, commerce, or science. Here is an overview:
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Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree (3-year or 4-year) from a recognized university with a minimum of 45%–55% marks, depending on the institute.
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Most colleges accept graduates from any academic stream, while some prefer specific backgrounds such as engineering, commerce, business administration, or science.
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Applicants are usually required to clear an entrance exam such as MAH MBA/MMS CET, CAT, MAT, CMAT, or ATMA, depending on the college’s selection process.
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Final-year bachelor’s degree students can apply provisionally, provided they submit their passing certificate during admission.
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Many institutes conduct Group Discussions, Personal Interviews, or Written Ability Tests to evaluate communication skills and managerial aptitude.
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There is no upper age limit for applying to an MMS program in India.
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Work experience is not compulsory, but candidates with internships or 1–2 years of professional experience may have an advantage in the selection process.
Master of Management Studies Admission Process: Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Applicants
The Master of Management Studies (MMS) admission process in India includes entrance exams, application form submission, and personal interviews. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks to be eligible. The process involves these steps:
- Register for entrance exams like CAT, XAT, MAH CET, and CMAT (fees range from INR 1,000 to INR 2,000).
- Apply to individual colleges based on entrance exam scores (application fees range from INR 500 to INR 2,000).
- Attend Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds (weightage of 20-30% in the selection process).
- Colleges release merit lists based on performance, considering academic background, work experience, and entrance exam scores.
- Accept the admission offer and pay the annual fees (range from INR 50,000 to INR 4,00,000, depending on the college).
Entrance Exams for Master of Management Studies in India: CAT, XAT, MAT, and CUET PG
Admission to the Master of Management Studies (MMS) program in India requires candidates to appear for entrance exams that assess aptitude, knowledge, and skills. Common entrance exams include CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, and CUET PG, conducted by institutions such as the IIMs, XLRI, AIMA, and NTA.
| Exam Name | Eligible Colleges/ Institutes (for MMS) | Exam Pattern | Conducted During |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAH MBA/MMS CET | Primary for most Maharashtra MMS colleges (JBIMS, SIMSREE, PUMBA, Alkesh D. Mody, Garware, MET, Chetana’s, etc.); mandatory for Maharashtra state quota via CAP rounds | 200 MCQs, 150 minutes; Sections: Logical/Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | April/May |
| CAT (Common Admission Test) | Accepted for All India quota in some MMS institutes (e.g., certain private ones); not primary for top govt-aided like JBIMS/SIMSREE (they prioritize MAH CET) | 66 questions, 120 minutes; Sections: VARC, DILR, QA; | November–December |
| XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) | Accepted by select MMS-offering institutes (e.g., some private/self-financed in Maharashtra via AI quota) | ~100–105 questions, 190–210 minutes; Sections: Verbal, Decision Making, QA & DI, GK | January |
| MAT (Management Aptitude Test) | Accepted by many private MMS institutes in Maharashtra (e.g., via AI quota or direct); multiple modes | 200 questions, 150 minutes; Sections: Language, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Indian & Global Environment | Multiple sessions yearly |
| CMAT (Common Management Admission Test) | Widely accepted for MMS in private institutes and some via AI quota | 100 questions, 180 minutes; Sections: Quantitative, Logical Reasoning, Language, General Awareness, Innovation & Entrepreneurship | January–February |
| CUET PG (Common University Entrance Test – PG) | Limited relevance for MMS (primarily for central/state universities’ MBA/PGDM; not standard for Maharashtra MMS programs like those under Mumbai/Pune universities) | Varies by paper (e.g., MBA/Management: 75–100 questions); Subject-specific + general; CBT mode | March–April |
Tips to Prepare For MMS Entrance Exams
Students preparing for MMS in India can follow these practical tips to ace their entrance exams:
- Understand the exam pattern and prioritize high-weightage sections : Familiarize yourself with the structure—no negative marking in MAH CET, heavy emphasis on Logical/Abstract Reasoning. Target these for maximum scores early in preparation.
- Create a structured study plan with daily targets : Allocate time for each section weekly, starting with basics and progressing to advanced practice. Consistent daily study (4–6 hours) ensures steady coverage without burnout.
- Practice regularly with mock tests and previous papers: Take 2–4 mocks weekly, analyze errors thoroughly to identify weaknesses. This builds speed, accuracy, and familiarity with question types for better performance.
- Focus on speed and accuracy, especially in reasoning: Master shortcuts for Quant and puzzles in Logical Reasoning—these sections dominate. Practice timed sets daily to attempt 180+ questions confidently in the exam.
- Revise consistently and maintain exam-day composure: Revise key concepts and formulas in the final weeks; avoid new topics. Stay calm, manage time wisely using rounds strategy, and attempt all questions due to no negative marking.
Top Government Colleges for Master of Management Studies in India
Several government colleges in India offer the Master of Management Studies (MMS) program. Here is a comprehensive list with locations, fees and admission mode:
| College Name (City) | Total Course Fees | Admission Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) (Mumbai) | ₹6.10 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship Education (SIMSREE) (Mumbai) | ₹1.38 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET, CAT, CMAT |
| Department of Management Sciences (PUMBA) (Pune) | ₹1.32 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Alkesh Dinesh Mody Institute for Financial and Management Studies (Mumbai) | ₹1.02 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) (Vadodara) | ₹80,000 | CMAT |
| Garware Institute of Career Education and Development (Mumbai) | ₹1.46 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| SNDT Women’s University (Mumbai) | ₹2.01 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Technological University (Lonere) | ₹1.00 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Shivaji University Department of Commerce and Management (Kolhapur) | ₹1.20 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| North Maharashtra University Department of Management Studies (Jalgaon) | ₹60,000 | MAH MBA CET |
Top Private Colleges for Master of Management Studies in India
Private colleges in India offer high-quality Master of Management Studies (MMS) programs, with experienced faculty, infrastructure, and industry connections. Here is a comprehensive list:
| College Name (City) | Total Course Fees | Admission Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Prin LN Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research (Mumbai) | ₹7.00 Lakhs | CAT, CMAT, MAH MBA CET, XAT, GMAT, ATMA |
| Bharati Vidyapeeth’s Institute of Management Studies and Research (Navi Mumbai) | ₹3.15 Lakhs | CAT, CMAT, MAH MBA CET, MAT |
| SIES College of Management Studies (Navi Mumbai) | ₹5.00 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| VES Institute of Management Studies and Research (Mumbai) | ₹5.30 Lakhs | CAT, CMAT, MAH MBA CET, XAT, GMAT, ATMA, MAT |
| MET Institute of Management (Mumbai) | ₹3.88 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Sasmira’s Institute of Management Studies and Research (Mumbai) | ₹3.44 Lakhs | CMAT, CAT, MAH MBA CET, MAT |
| Chetana’s Ramprasad Khandelwal Institute of Management and Research (Mumbai) | ₹4.86 Lakhs | CAT, CMAT, MAH MBA CET, MAT |
| Pillai Institute of Management Studies and Research (Navi Mumbai) | ₹4.41 Lakhs | CAT, CMAT, MAH MBA CET |
| St Francis Institute of Management and Research (Mumbai) | ₹4.25 Lakhs | MAH MBA CET |
| Thakur Institute of Management Studies and Research (Mumbai) | ₹5.08 Lakhs | CAT, CMAT, MAH MBA CET |
Top Distance Learning Options for Master of Management Studies in India
Here is a list of colleges offering distance learning for Master of Management Studies in India:
| College Name (City) | Total Course Fees | Admission Mode | Study Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai University Institute of Distance and Open Learning (IDOL) (Mumbai) | ₹60,000 | Merit-based (Graduation marks) | Distance |
| NMIMS Global Access School for Continuing Education (Mumbai) | ₹1.44 Lakhs | Merit-based | Online |
| Manipal University (Jaipur) | ₹1.50 Lakhs | Merit-based | Online |
| Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) (Delhi) | ₹62,000 | Merit-based | Distance |
| Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (Pune) | ₹50,000 | Merit-based | Distance |
| ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education (Hyderabad) | ₹2.00 Lakhs | Merit-based | Distance |
| Annamalai University (Annamalainagar) | ₹50,000 | Merit-based | Distance |
| Amity University (Noida) | ₹1.80 Lakhs | Merit-based | Online |
| Lovely Professional University (Phagwara) | ₹80,000 | Merit-based | Online |
| Sikkim Manipal University (Gangtok) | ₹80,000 | Merit-based | Distance |
Master of Management Studies Fee Structure: Government vs Private Colleges in India
The Master of Management Studies (MMS) fee structure in India differs significantly between government and private colleges. Here is a side by side comparison:
| Fee Element | Government Colleges | Private Colleges |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Very low, usually ₹40,000 – ₹1.5 lakh per year | Significantly higher, typically ₹2 lakh – ₹6 lakh per year |
| Admission/Registration Fees | Minimal, generally ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 | Higher, often ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Examination Fees | Around ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per year | Ranges from ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 per year |
| Hostel Fees | Affordable, around ₹20,000 – ₹50,000 per year | Higher, usually ₹80,000 – ₹1.5 lakh per year |
| Mess/Food Charges | Low, approximately ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per month | Higher, usually ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 per month |
| Library & Lab Fees | Minimal, often ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 annually | Higher, around ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 annually |
| Other Charges (Activities, Materials, etc.) | Low, ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 | Higher, ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost for 2 Years | ₹1 lakh – ₹3 lakh | ₹4 lakh – ₹12 lakh |
Master of Management Studies Subjects and Syllabus: Year-wise Breakdown
Click Here for Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) MMS Syllabus
The Master of Management Studies (MMS) program in India is a two-year postgraduate degree covering a wide range of subjects related to management and business. The program is typically divided into four semesters, each covering core subjects, elective subjects, and credit hours. Here is a breakdown of the syllabus structure:
| Semester | Core Subjects | Elective Subjects | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Financial Accounting, Marketing Management, Organizational Behavior | Business Communication, Business Ethics | 22 credits |
| Semester 2 | Operations Management, Human Resource Management, Business Statistics | Business Law, Entrepreneurship | 23 credits |
| Semester 3 | Strategic Management, Business Analytics, Financial Management | Digital Marketing, Supply Chain Management | 24 credits |
| Semester 4 | International Business, Management Information Systems, Project Management | International Marketing, Human Resource Development | 25 credits |
| Semester 1 (Specialization) | Finance: Financial Markets, Marketing: Consumer Behavior | Finance: Investment Management, Marketing: Brand Management | 20 credits |
| Semester 2 (Specialization) | Operations: Quality Management, Human Resources: Talent Management | Operations: Logistics Management, Human Resources: Organizational Development | 21 credits |
| Semester 3 (Specialization) | Finance: Corporate Finance, Marketing: Marketing Research | Finance: Financial Modeling, Marketing: Digital Marketing Strategy | 22 credits |
| Semester 4 (Specialization) | Operations: Supply Chain Management, Human Resources: Leadership Development | Operations: Project Management, Human Resources: Strategic Human Resource Management | 23 credits |
| Semester 1 (Electives) | Business Analytics, Business Communication | Entrepreneurship, Business Law | 20 credits |
| Semester 2 (Electives) | Financial Management, Human Resource Management | Digital Marketing, Supply Chain Management | 21 credits |
Understanding Core Subjects in Master of Management Studies
Here is a list of core subjects taught under Master of Management Studies along with their descriptions:
| Subject Name | Subject Description |
|---|---|
| Perspective Management / Principles of Management | Introduces fundamental management concepts, theories, principles, and the evolution of management thought for effective organizational leadership. |
| Financial Accounting / Financial Accounting for Business | Covers basics of accounting principles, preparation of financial statements, and analysis to understand business financial health. |
| Managerial Economics / Business Economics | Explores microeconomic and macroeconomic principles applied to business decision-making, demand, supply, costs, and market structures. |
| Business Statistics / Statistics for Business | Provides tools for data collection, analysis, probability, hypothesis testing, and statistical inference to support managerial decisions. |
| Organizational Behaviour | Examines individual and group behavior in organizations, including motivation, leadership, personality, and team dynamics for better HR management. |
| Operations Management | Focuses on designing, planning, and controlling production/operations processes to optimize efficiency, quality, and supply chain performance. |
| Fundamentals of Marketing / Marketing Management | Introduces marketing concepts, consumer behavior, segmentation, targeting, positioning, and the 4Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion). |
| Information Technology for Business / Information Technology for Management | Explores role of IT in business, including systems, databases, emerging technologies, digital tools, and their application in management. |
| Business Research Methods | Teaches research design, data collection methods, sampling, analysis techniques, and report writing for evidence-based business decisions. |
| Corporate Finance / Financial Management | Covers capital budgeting, cost of capital, working capital management, financing decisions, and financial planning for corporate value creation. |
| Human Resource Management | Deals with recruitment, training, performance appraisal, compensation, labor laws, and employee relations to manage human capital effectively. |
| Strategic Management / Corporate Strategy | Involves formulation, implementation, and evaluation of organizational strategies, competitive analysis, and long-term business planning. |
| Business Laws / Legal & Tax Aspects of Business | Provides overview of key Indian business laws, contracts, company law, taxation basics, and regulatory compliance for ethical operations. |
Top Job Roles After Master of Management Studies in India
Here are the top job options to target after completing MMS in India:
| Job Role | Job Description | Salary Range (INR LPA) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance Manager / Analyst | Oversees financial planning, analysis, budgeting, and reporting for organizations. | 10 – 25 |
| Management Consultant | Advises businesses on strategy, operations, and performance improvement. | 12 – 30 |
| Marketing Manager | Develops and executes marketing strategies to promote products/services and drive sales. | 10 – 20 |
| Product Manager | Manages product lifecycle from ideation to launch, focusing on market needs and user experience. | 12 – 35 |
| Business Analyst | Analyzes business processes, data, and requirements to recommend improvements and solutions. | 8 – 20 |
| Investment Banker / Analyst | Handles mergers, acquisitions, capital raising, and financial advisory services. | 15 – 35 |
| Operations Manager | Manages day-to-day operations, supply chain, and efficiency in manufacturing or service firms. | 10 – 18 |
| Project Manager | Plans, executes, and monitors projects to ensure timely delivery within budget. | 12 – 25 |
| HR Manager | Oversees recruitment, employee relations, training, and organizational development. | 8 – 18 |
| Sales & Business Development Manager | Drives revenue growth through client acquisition, relationship management, and sales strategies. | 10 – 22 |
Top Recruiters for Master of Management Studies
Here are the top recruiters to target for each sector after completing this course:
| Industry/Sector | Top Recruiters | Average Package (INR LPA) |
|---|---|---|
| BFSI & Investment Banking | ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Goldman Sachs | 15–26 (higher at top institutes like JBIMS) |
| Consulting | Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, McKinsey & Company / BCG | 18–26 |
| FMCG & Retail | Hindustan Unilever (HUL), P&G, ITC, Nestlé | 12–20 |
| IT/Tech & E-Commerce | Accenture, Infosys, Cognizant, Amazon | 10–18 |
| Manufacturing & Conglomerates | Reliance Industries, JSW, L&T, Adani Group | 10–16 |
Master of Management Studies (MMS) vs Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Here is a side by side comparison of two of the most popular management courses – MBA and MMS:
| Parameter | Master of Management Studies (MMS) | Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Master of Management Studies | Master of Business Administration |
| Awarding Body | University-affiliated (state universities, e.g., Mumbai University) | Universities (central/state/private) or autonomous institutes (often PGDM equivalent) |
| Degree Type | University Degree (Master’s) | University Degree (Master’s); some institutes offer PGDM (diploma) |
| Duration | 2 years (full-time) | 2 years (full-time); executive variants 1–2 years |
| Focus & Curriculum | Core management skills with practical, India-centric application; specializations in Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Systems | Broader strategic business education; global perspective, leadership, innovation; diverse specializations including emerging areas like Analytics, Digital Business |
| Recognition & Scope | Strong in India (especially Maharashtra); good for domestic jobs; less international recognition | Globally recognized; preferred for multinational roles, higher studies abroad, or diverse industries |
| Entrance Exams (Primary) | MAH MBA/MMS CET (state-level, no negative marking); also accepts CAT/CMAT/MAT/XAT for All India quota | CAT (national, for IIMs/top B-schools); XAT, GMAT, SNAP, NMAT, etc. |
| Average Fees | ₹1–6 lakhs | ₹5–25 lakhs+ |
| Average Starting Salary | ₹8–15 LPA | ₹10–25 LPA+ |
| Top Institutes | JBIMS Mumbai, SIMSREE Mumbai, PUMBA Pune, Alkesh D. Mody, Welingkar (MMS seats) | IIM Ahmedabad/Bangalore/Calcutta, XLRI, ISB, FMS Delhi, SPJIMR, MDI Gurgaon |
| Best Suited For | Affordable option, Maharashtra residents, strong ROI for entry-level roles in BFSI/FMCG/IT | Ambitious candidates seeking global exposure, higher packages, leadership roles, or international careers |
| ROI (Return on Investment) | Excellent (lower fees, solid placements in top colleges) | High long-term, but higher initial investment |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the typical duration of a Master of Management Studies (MMS) program in India?
The Master of Management Studies (MMS) program in India is typically 2 years long, divided into four semesters, allowing students to complete coursework and gain practical experience.
Q2. What are the average fees for Master of Management Studies (MMS) programs in government and private colleges in India?
Average fees for Master of Management Studies (MMS) programs in government colleges in India range from INR 50,000 to INR 80,000, while private colleges charge higher fees, ranging from INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000.
Q3. What are the common job roles available to Master of Management Studies (MMS) graduates in India?
Master of Management Studies (MMS) graduates in India can pursue careers as Business Analysts or Marketing Managers, roles in high demand across various industries. Top recruiters such as Infosys, TCS, and HDFC Bank hire MMS graduates for these roles.
Q4. What are the entrance exams required for admission to Master of Management Studies (MMS) programs in India?
Admission to Master of Management Studies (MMS) programs in India requires candidates to appear for entrance exams such as CAT, XAT, MAT, or MAH CET, conducted by reputable institutions, including IIMs, XLRI, and AIMA.
Q5. Is MMS better than MBA?
MMS and MBA are similar management degrees, but MMS is often more affordable and industry-focused, especially in Maharashtra. MBA offers wider national recognition. The better option depends on career goals, budget, and college reputation.
Q6. What is the salary after MMS in India?
MMS graduates typically earn ₹4–8 LPA starting salaries, depending on the college, specialization, and skills. Graduates from top institutes or those with strong internships may earn ₹10 LPA or more in high-demand roles.
