IIM B Launches Online BBA in Digital Business And Entrepreneurship; Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula Shares Course Insights

The three-year programme with internship opportunities and practical projects, is set to commence in September

Indian Institute of Bangalore (IIM Bangalore) (File Photo)

The Indian Institute of Bangalore (IIM Bangalore) has launched an online undergraduate programme on Digital Business and Entrepreneurship. The three-year programme with internship opportunities and practical projects, is set to commence in September. The application process for the programme will open on 15 June 2024. IIMB will be the first IIM to offer a UG course, the classes for which will commence in September 2024. Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula, senior faculty of the Entrepreneurship area of IIMB, will be the Course Director of the three-year UG programme, which will have internship opportunities and practical projects.

IIM Bangalore, renowned for its educational excellence, courses and initiatives relating to entrepreneurship, and leadership in offering Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), has introduced this BBA programme marking a significant milestone for the institution. It is strategically designed to blend digital technology, business management principles and an entrepreneurial mindset, laying a robust foundation for students aspiring to succeed in the ever-evolving and competitive business landscape. The innovative curriculum will provide the skills needed in the digital future.

In conversation with ABP Live, Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula, Programme Director, BBA DBE at IIM Bangalore and Faculty in the Entrepreneurship Area shared important information on programme.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

Q 1. What are the eligibility criteria to enroll in these courses?

Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula: Eligibility The programme is open to Indian Nationals. 

The basic eligibility criteria for applying to the Programme include the following: 

12th or equivalent: 

1. A minimum of 60% marks or equivalent CGPA in recognized 12th or equivalent board exams for General category, NC OBC & EWS Category candidates
2. 55% marks or equivalent CGPA for SC, ST & for PWD candidates with 40% or more disability
3.  Pass certificate of any recognized class 10 board 

Q 2. How is this online degree different from a residential programme, and how much value will it hold?

Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula: IIMB is proud to be the first among the IIMs to offer a three-year, market-aligned online degree programme designed for the Digital First Economy. This is a flexible, self-paced programme. Despite being online, learners benefit from IIMB's world-class faculty, ensuring high-quality, industry-relevant instruction. The programme's scalability makes IIMB's education accessible to a diverse audience of students, fostering a rich learning environment. Focused on skill enhancement, the curriculum equips students with practical, industry-relevant skills and knowledge for immediate application in today's fast-paced digital landscape, offering a prestigious degree while pursuing work/ another study programme or a business.

Q 3. Is there flexibility in the course schedule to accommodate working professionals? Please explain some details on the structure and design of the programme.

Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula: IIMB's online programmes go the extra mile to accommodate working professionals with busy schedules. The asynchronous approach offers complete flexibility. Students can access pre-recorded lectures and coursework materials 24/7, allowing them to learn and complete assignments at their own pace. The programme structure includes pre-recorded lectures, interactive sessions & assignments, and real-world projects, with one in-center assessment per term. Additionally, the programme recognises that working professionals have varied goals.  Participants can choose from multiple exit points, opting for a focused certificate programme or a full degree for a more comprehensive education.

Q 4. Will these online programmes provide on-campus placement?

Prof. Suresh Bhagavatula: A cornerstone of the programme involves facilitating student networking opportunities through collaborative projects, local engagements, and institutional events. Students expand their horizons by fostering connections within the digital, business, and entrepreneurial spheres, cultivate essential relationships, and unearth pathways to diverse career opportunities.