MBA in Operations Management is a postgraduate management programme that develops the ability to optimise processes, manage resources, reduce prices and ensure smooth execution of organisational strategies. This programme makes focusses on designing, managing, and improving business operations and supply chain systems.
In this competitive and technical business environment, organisations heavily depend on efficiency of operations to sustain profitability and customer satisfaction. Operation plays a central role in converting business strategy into execution, whether its a manufacturing, logistics, e-commerce, healthcare, or even IT services. This has significantly increased the relevance of an MBA in operations management across industries.
Students learn to work with complex operational challenges, manage cross-functional teams and make data-driven decisions which in turn impacts the performance of organisations.
This two-year postgraduate degree focuses on the planning, execution, control, and optimisation of business operations. MBA in Operations Management programme creates expertise in various areas such as production systems, supply chain coordination, logistics, quality management, and process improvement.
This programme usually centred around the backend of business functions which ensures efficiency and scalability. Graduates are taught how materials, information, technology, and human resources flow across organisations and how these flows can be optimised for better performance. And MBA in Operations Management programme is perfect for students who are analytical, process-oriented, and interested in managing large-scale systems rather than purely customer-facing roles.
Why MBA in Operations Management is Relevant Today?
Current organisations work in various complex environments which are marked by global supply chains, digital transformation, changing demand, and cost pressures. These challenges are balanced by the operations management professionals while maintaining quality as well as efficiency.
Key reasons why this programme has gained importance include:
Rise of global and digital supply chains
Growth of e-commerce and logistics networks
Increased focus on cost optimisation and efficiency
Integration of analytics and automation in operations
Demand for professionals who can manage scale and complexity
An MBA in operations management prepares professionals to lead operational excellence initiatives and contribute directly to business outcomes.
MBA in Operations Management: Course Highlights
Parameter
Details
Course Level
Postgraduate
Duration
2 Years
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50%
Admission Process
Entrance exam + selection rounds
Average Fees
₹2 – ₹12 lakh
Learning Focus
Operations, supply chain, analytics
Career Roles
Operations, supply chain, project management
Average Salary
₹6 – ₹18 LPA
Eligibility Criteria for MBA Operations Management
The eligibility criteria for this programme is designed to ensure that candidates have a strong academic foundation and the analytical aptitude that are required for roles related to operations. Although requirements might vary from institute to institute, the core norms remain same.
Educational Qualification
Candidates should have a full-time bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or institution. The degree can be from any discipline, be it engineering, technology, science, commerce, economics, or mathematics. Maximum institutions prefer applicants with quantitative or analytical backgrounds due to the nature of operations and supply chain coursework.
In some institutes, candidates with the following qualifications are also considered eligible:
B.E./B.Tech in any engineering discipline
BS/B.Tech in Economics (minimum 4 years)
M.Sc. in Mathematics or Statistics
Dual Degree in Mathematics and Computing (minimum 5 years)
Minimum Marks Requirement
Applicants are generally required to secure a minimum aggregate of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA in their qualifying degree. A relaxation to 45% is typically provided for candidates belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories, as per government norms.
Final-Year Students
Final year students of under graduation or post graduation are also eligible to apply on a provisional basis, if they:
Meet the minimum eligibility criteria based on examinations completed till date
Complete all academic requirements, including examinations and viva voce, before the programme commencement
Entrance Examination
National-level MBA entrance examinations are held for admission to MBA in Operations Management programmes. CAT is the most widely accepted such exam. Some institutes also take scores from other recognised management entrance tests, followed by group discussions and personal interviews.
Work Experience
Although its not necessary, candidates who have previous experience working for a manufacturing, logistics, operations, or supply chain organisation might have an advantage during the selection process.
This selection process ensures that the students who are getting admission in this programme are academically prepared to handle the rigorous quantitative, analytical, and strategic components of operations management.
Admission Process
Admission to MBA in Operations Management usually follows a structured selection process:
Entrance Examination Candidates appear for national or institute-level MBA entrance exams.
Shortlisting Based on entrance scores, academics, and work experience.
Group Discussion / Written Ability Test Evaluates communication, analytical thinking, and teamwork.
Personal Interview Assesses motivation, domain understanding, and career goals.
Some universities also offer online or distance MBA programmes with merit-based admissions.
MBA in Operations Management Fees
The fees for this programme varies entirely depending on different institutions, programme mode and facilities that are offered in the campus.
Institute Type
Approximate Fees
Government Universities
₹1.5 – ₹4 lakh
Private B-Schools
₹5 – ₹12 lakh
Online / Distance MBA
₹1 – ₹3 lakh
Top MBA in Operations Management Colleges in India
India has several reputed business schools where aspirants can pursue an MBA with a specialisation in Operations Management, Operations & Supply Chain, or related branches. These colleges provide strong academic programmes, industry exposure, internships, and excellent placement opportunities in operations, logistics, analytics, and supply chain roles.
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore
IIM Bangalore offers an MBA programme with a specialisation in Operations & Supply Chain Management. The institute is known for its rigorous curriculum, case-based pedagogy, and strong placement records for operations roles.
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta
IIM Calcutta provides MBA/PGP programmes where students can specialise in Operations and Supply Chain Management. It is acclaimed for its analytics, strategic operations, and industry collaborations.
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai (formerly NITIE)
IIM Mumbai, known for its deep expertise in industrial engineering and operations, offers a dedicated MBA (Operations & Supply Chain Management) programme with strong experiential learning and industry integration.
S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai
SPJIMR’s MBA programme allows specialisation in Operations Management and is respected for its industry exposure and holistic learning environment.
Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), IIT Bombay
Part of IIT Bombay, SJMSOM offers an MBA with a strong emphasis on Operations & Supply Chain specialisation. The institute combines technical and managerial perspectives.
Symbiosis Institute of Operations Management (SIOM), Nashik
SIOM is one of the few Indian institutes dedicated primarily to Operations Management, with an MBA focussed on operations, supply chain, and process excellence.
International Management Institute (IMI), New Delhi
IMI offers a PGDM with specialisation in Operations Management, preparing students for roles in supply chain, logistics, and process management.
Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Ghaziabad
IMT Ghaziabad provides a PGDM with an Operations Management specialisation, blending practical learning with industry engagement.
K J Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai
K J Somaiya offers an MBA with an Operations focus, equipping students with analytical, planning, and process control expertise.
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi University
FMS offers an MBA with operations and supply chain electives, backed by strong faculty and excellent placement outcomes.
XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
XLRI offers a PGDM with the option to specialise in Operations Management, known for its leadership development and rigorous curriculum.
What You Will Study in This Programme?
Studying MBA in Operations Management develops a strong managerial insight along with deep operational expertise. The curriculum combines core business administration concepts with operations-focused specialisations, through which students can manage complex processes across manufacturing and service industries.
Core Management Subjects
These subjects build a solid foundation in general management and business decision-making:
Principles of Management
Financial Management
Marketing Management
Human Resource Management
Managerial Economics
Strategic Management
Business Research Methods
Business Communication
Operations & Supply Chain Subjects
These modules focus on optimising processes, systems, and resources across organisations:
Operations and Process Management
Supply Chain Management
Logistics and Distribution Management
Quality Management and Six Sigma
Project Management
Production Planning and Control
Operations Strategy
Risk and Inventory Management
Analytics, Tools & Decision Sciences
To support data-driven operational decisions, students are exposed to:
Business Analytics and Decision Science
Operations Research Techniques
ERP Systems (SAP/Oracle – fundamentals)
Advanced MS Excel and Data Visualisation Tools
Supply Chain Modelling Software
Practical Exposure & Industry Integration
Most institutes integrate hands-on learning components such as:
Summer internships
Live industry projects
Process improvement assignments
Business simulations and case studies
Industry visits and expert-led workshops
This structured approach ensures that students graduate with practical problem-solving ability, operational leadership skills, and industry-ready expertise.
Career Scope After MBA in Operations Management
MBA in Operations Management opens a wide range of career options for the students pursuing this programme. As every organisation relies on efficient processes, supply chains, and resource optimisation, the students usually have a broad working exposure through this course. Graduates can work in both manufacturing and service-driven sectors across domestic and global markets.
Operations professionals play a critical role in improving productivity, reducing costs, managing risks, and aligning execution with business strategy. With increasing adoption of automation, analytics, and digital supply chains, the demand for skilled operations managers continues to grow.
Key Employment Sectors
MBA in Operations Management graduates find opportunities across multiple industries, including:
Manufacturing & Production
Supply Chain & Logistics
E-commerce & Retail
Consulting Firms
IT & Technology Services
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
Infrastructure & Construction
FMCG & Consumer Goods
Energy & Utilities
Operations roles are essential in both large enterprises and fast-growing startups.
Job Roles After MBA in Operations Management
Depending on experience, domain knowledge, and specialisation, graduates can explore roles such as:
Operations Manager
Supply Chain Manager
Logistics Manager
Project Manager
Process Improvement Analyst
Operations Consultant
Production Planning Manager
Inventory & Procurement Manager
With experience, professionals can advance to senior positions such as Head of Operations, Supply Chain Director, COO, or Strategy Lead.
MBA in Operations Management Salary
The salary after an MBA in Operations Management varies based on role, industry, organisation size, and experience level.
Experience Level
Average Salary
Entry-Level
₹5 – ₹8 LPA
Mid-Level (5–8 Years)
₹10 – ₹15 LPA
Senior-Level
₹18 – ₹30+ LPA
Professionals with expertise in analytics, ERP systems, global supply chains, or consulting roles often command higher compensation packages.
International Career Opportunities
Operations management skills are globally transferable, opening doors to international roles in:
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar)
Europe
North America
Southeast Asia
Global consulting and logistics firms
International roles often offer higher salaries, cross-border exposure, and opportunities to work on large-scale supply chain and transformation projects.
Skills Required for MBA in Operations Management
To succeed in operations roles, professionals must develop a blend of analytical, technical, and managerial skills:
Analytical and problem-solving ability
Process optimisation and decision-making
Leadership and team coordination
Data-driven thinking
Risk assessment and planning
Communication and stakeholder management
MBA programmes focus heavily on building these competencies through case studies, simulations, and live projects.
Advantages of MBA in Operations Management
High demand across industries
Strong job stability and long-term relevance
Direct impact on organisational performance
Leadership and strategic growth opportunities
Integration with analytics and digital technologies
Globally applicable skill set
Who Should Pursue MBA in Operations Management?
This programme is ideal for:
Graduates interested in operations, logistics, or supply chains
Engineers and science graduates seeking managerial roles
Professionals aiming for backend leadership positions
Individuals who enjoy optimisation, analytics, and strategy execution
Aspirants looking for stable and scalable career growth
What’s the Future Scope with MBA in Operations Management?
ThefutureofanMBAinOperationsManagementispositiveduetothe growing trend of efficiency, sustainability, automation, and data-driven decision-making. Emerging fields such as digital supply chains, “Industry 4.0“, AI-driven operations, and green logistics are expanding thescopeofcareersinthisfield.By viewing operations as a strategic business function rather than a support service, organizationsaretransformingtheroleof operations leaders toa central positionforcreating long-lasting business success.
FAQs
Q1. What is MBA in operations management? It focuses on planning, managing, and optimising business operations, supply chains, logistics, and organisational processes.
Q2. What is the scope of MBA in operations management? Graduates find opportunities across manufacturing, logistics, e-commerce, IT, healthcare, consulting, and infrastructure sectors.
Q3. What are jobs for MBA operations management graduates? Common roles include operations manager, supply chain manager, production planner, logistics head, and operations consultant.
Q4. What is the salary of MBA in operations? MBA in operations management salary typically ranges from ₹6–18 LPA, based on role, industry, and experience.
Q5. What is the syllabus for MBA in operations management? The syllabus covers operations strategy, supply chain management, analytics, quality control, and process optimisation.
Q6. Is this programme good for engineers? Yes, engineers adapt well due to strong quantitative, analytical, and process-oriented coursework.
Q7. Is work experience necessary for MBA in Operations Management? Work experience is not mandatory, but it can improve learning outcomes and placement prospects.
Q8. Which industries hire MBA in operations management graduates? Manufacturing, FMCG, logistics, retail, pharmaceuticals, IT services, and consulting firms actively recruit graduates.
Q9. Are there good jobs for for this role in India? Yes, demand is strong in supply chain, production, logistics, and operations strategy roles.
Q10. What skills are developed during this programme? Students gain skills in process optimisation, data-driven decision-making, project management, and operational leadership.
Shreoshree Chakrabarty is an experienced content writer with over five years of professional expertise in creating engaging and impactful content across diverse formats. Over the course of her career, she has collaborated with well-known brands such as Myntra and Justdial, contributing high-quality content that aligns with brand voice and audience expectations.
Academically, Shreoshree holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, and outside of her professional pursuits, she is an avid reader and a passionate traveller who enjoys exploring new places and cultures. She also loves watching movies, finding inspiration in cinema and literature that often reflects in her writing style.
