The 22-month long PGDM (RM) programme is divided into six Classroom Terms, a Village Fieldwork Segment (VFS), and a Summer Internship Segment (SIS). The courses in each of these six terms are carefully structured in order to give a wholesome view of the entire discipline and are judiciously placed to enable the participants to apply the same during their internship. In order to achieve this perfect learning mix, IRMA, through its illustrious faculty, follows a distinct pedagogy with regard to each course that includes case analyses, simulations, experiential exercise, project presentations, writing papers, and guest lectures, apart from extensive use of audio-visual aids during regular classes.

Projects and Presentations

These form an integral part of the stimulating curriculum at IRMA, giving participants an opportunity to showcase their knowledge, creativity, and dynamism. Working in different groups with their peers from diverse academic backgrounds widens the knowledge base of participants, introducing variety to their unique learning experience besides honing their leadership and people management skills. Innovative projects such as writing policy briefs, creating business and marketing plans for cooperatives, products, book reviews, etc. are vital components of the curriculum.

Simulation / Experiential Exercises and Audio-Visual Aids

The aforementioned components help participants gain better insights into various management concepts and development constructs. Every new batch is inducted into the PGDM(RM) programme through the famed in-house management simulation game called ‘Naranpur Express’ that simulates the rural economy and emphasizes the need for asset management and financial prudence. IRMA faculty members have been repeatedly invited by other top management schools in the country to conduct this game. Simulation games are also employed in courses to demonstrate practical situations and the strategies required to be used in them.

Case Analyses

Drawing upon their vast experience in research and consultancy, IRMA faculty members prepare and publish case studies in the field of rural management and other functional areas of management. These case studies, along with those drawn from other leading national and international B-Schools, are used for introducing contextual analyses and insights into issues discussed in classes by simulating a business environment in the classroom.

Experiential Learning

The most striking feature of the PGDM(RM) is the emphasis placed on experiential learning. IRMA believes this to be an integral part of shaping the participants’ outlook. Therefore, as a part of the curriculum, participants spend considerable time outside of the campus, learning, and applying. A graduating participant will have lived and worked with the underserved for nearly five months and hence, becomes a valuable asset to any organization wanting to cater to the needs of the rural populace.

A Firm Belief in Gender Inclusivity

Promoting equity and ensuring equal opportunities for the marginalized is implicit in the ambit of rural management. This can only be achieved if the same principles are respected at home. Here at IRMA, the genders are treated on par. Female participants face the same challenges as their male counterparts while on their fieldwork in the hinterlands. The tenacity of assignments remains the same and neither of the genders is discriminated against in the context of opportunities.