IIM Bangalore introduces online UG course in digital business and entrepreneurship

Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B) has launched an online undergraduate programme in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship. The last date to apply for this programme in IIM Bangalore is June 15. The three-year Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship (BBA DBE) programme integrates digital technology, business management, and entrepreneurship to train leaders for the digital business world.

The curriculum focuses on digital strategies and entrepreneurial practices, offering live sessions, mentorship, and hands-on projects for practical experience. The institution aims to start off the course with around 1,000 students. The programme consists of around 60 courses which will be managed by over 50 faculty members.

Equal opportunities
This programme also aims to create equal opportunities for prospective learners from all backgrounds and regions, allowing them to continue their current activities without having to relocate or disrupt their lives. This first-of-its kind programme combines digital and in-person interactions to build a community and promote professional growth in a dynamic environment. While the course is mostly digital, the students however are expected to appear for a proctored examination in their respective examination centres.

Prof Rishikesha T Krishnan, director, IIM-B said that programme is set to begin from September 2024. “IIM-B has launched the programme to address the decline in Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education (27.1%) which is relatively low compared to developed countries. The low GER indicates that a significant portion of the youth needs to engage in higher education. Many young people need access to industry-ready and contemporary educational programmes in their neighbourhoods and are not able to migrate to cities for education. This online BBA programme addresses this gap by providing accessible education that students can pursue from anywhere,” he said.

Eligibility criteria
Students with a pass certificate of any recognised class X, XII board or equivalent with a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) in recognised board exams for general category and NC-OBC & EWS category candidates. Meanwhile, 55% marks or equivalent CGPA is the required eligibility criteria for SC, ST & PwD (40% disability) candidates. The programme is also currently open to Indian nationals only. Candidates will be selected based on the Online Qualifier Test aptitude-based test and their Class 12 marks.

Course structure
The course consists of one year certificate in digital business and entrepreneurship with 22 courses, 45 credits, and with a fee of Rs 1.25 lakh. Meanwhile, the two-year diploma programme consists of 21 courses, 45 credits with a fee of Rs 1.50 lakh. The three-year degree consists of 17 courses with 45 credits costing Rs 1.75 lakh.