Know all about Maharaja Agrasen Business School: Interview with Dr. Sanjiv Marwah (Director)

In this interview with Careers360, Prof.(Dr.) Sanjiv Marwah, Director at Maharaja Agrasen Business School talks about the MABS admission process, vision and missions, facilities, internships, placements and more. Check the interview here.

About: Maharaja Agrasen Business School (MABS) is a part of Maharaja Agrasen Technical Education Society (MATES). MABS course includes PGDM programme approved by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Ministry of Education, Govt. of India. To be eligible for MABS admission, candidates should be qualified from any one of the six All India tests which are CAT, XAT, CMAT, ATMA, MAT, and GMAT. Further, candidates are evaluated based on the National Management Aptitude Test, Written Aptitude Test + Personal Interview, academic performance (10th, 12th and Graduation) and extra-curricular activities + academic and regional diversity.

Q. Tell us something about Maharaja Agrasen Business School; when it was set up, vision and mission

A: Maharaja Agrasen Technical Education Society (MATES), established in 1998 under the visionary leadership of Dr. Nand Kishore Garg, is a renowned institution dedicated to providing exceptional higher education and instilling noble values of Indian culture and traditions. With distinguished public personalities, renowned academicians, and leading industrialists as its founders and members, MATES has established a strong legacy of academic excellence and holistic development. In its pursuit of excellence, MATES has launched the Maharaja Agrasen Business School (MABS) to offer an Industry-Integrated Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programme.

At MABS, our vision is to be an institute that not only excels in academic pursuits but is deeply rooted in industry relevance, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability. We aim to foster a community of socially and environmentally sensitive managers who are not only adept in technology but also possess a global vision. Our mission is to establish trust as an institute committed to developing managers who navigate the dynamic industry with a keen sense of social responsibility and environmental consciousness. Additionally, we strive to nurture change leaders who embody the true spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' seeing the world as one family."

MABS, as a business school, sets the bar high for its PGDM programme, integrating industry practices and cutting-edge curriculum to shape future business leaders. In addition to Marketing, Finance, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain and Logistics, the programme offers specialised tracks in Business Analytics and Fintech, equipping students with highly sought-after skills in data-driven decision-making and financial technology.

In addition to the rigorous academic curriculum, MABS prioritises holistic development by offering various co-curricular activities, guest lectures by industry stalwarts, and opportunities for international exposure through study abroad programmes and global internships.

Upon completion of the PGDM programmes at MABS, students are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and industry exposure to excel in the competitive business landscape. The high-value career placement support ensures that graduates are well-prepared for thriving opportunities, with an average placement package of Rs. 11.5 LPA.

MABS takes pride in nurturing the next generation of business leaders who possess not only technical expertise but also ethical values, leadership acumen, and a global perspective. By choosing MABS, students embark on a transformative journey that prepares them to make a meaningful impact in the business world.

The launch of the Maharaja Agrasen Business School (MABS) by MATES represents a significant expansion of its educational offerings, aimed at empowering students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to excel in the dynamic business landscape.

Q. Tell us something about the MABS admission process.

A: Admission to MABS involves a systematic four-step process. In the first step, candidates are required to take the CAT/ XAT/ GMAT/ MAT/ CMAT/ ATMA common entrance exams, as mandated by respective State Governments for Non-Minority institutions. Graduates should have appeared for one of these exams.

Moving to the second step, interested candidates need to fill out the MABS application form available on the MABS website (mabs.ac.in). Maharaja Agrasen Business School admission process for the PGDM programme unfolds in two stages.

Stage 1 (Shortlisting): Candidates are shortlisted for the WAT-GD-PI stage based on entrance score percentiles. The MABS minimum cut off percentile is set at 60%, with emphasis on performance rather than merely exceeding the threshold.

Stage 2 (WAT-GD-PI): Shortlisted candidates undergo a comprehensive evaluation process. This includes a Written Analysis Test (WAT), where candidates provide a written analysis demonstrating conceptual clarity and language proficiency. Group Discussions (GD) assess group behaviour and content understanding, while Personal Interviews (PI) gauge communication skills, analytical ability, and overall personality. In the case of online admissions, candidates may be presented with a case study for analysis, engage in virtual group discussions, and undergo online personal interviews. Successful completion of this rigorous selection process ensures MABS PGDM admission.

Q. What kind of infrastructure can students expect at MABS? Please elaborate.

A: Infrastructure holds great importance especially when it comes to providing various facilities to the students for education, growth and health purposes. College Campus is basically like a second home to the students, a place where they can identify themselves, shape their careers and have expert guidance to walk on the right path.

MABS boasts cutting-edge infrastructure to foster a conducive learning environment. The ergonomically designed classrooms are equipped with screens, projectors, and Wi-Fi for real-time lectures. The digital library of Maharaja Agrasen Business School ensures up-to-date resources, while the computer center simulates online exams and interviews. With 14 fully air-conditioned classrooms featuring advanced audio-video facilities, MABS prioritises effective teaching.

Maharaja Agrasen Business School campus also features a state-of-the-art auditorium with a capacity of over 750 students, providing a venue for large-scale events and gatherings. Embracing sustainability, MABS incorporates greenery throughout the campus, creating a vibrant and eco-friendly atmosphere. Additionally, the campus offers Wi-Fi connectivity, an Internet-based video conferencing facility, and a learning management system for a 24x7 learning environment. Other Maharaja Agrasen Business School facilities are research facilities, an incubation center, a spacious cafeteria, and indoor/ outdoor sports amenities further enriching the holistic student experience at MABS.

I. Learning Facilities:

State-of-the-art classrooms designed for effective teaching, are equipped with screens, projectors, and Wi-Fi. The digital library at MABS provides up-to-date resources for students. The computer centre at Maharaja Agrasen Business School simulates online exams and interviews.

II. Classrooms:

Maharaja Agrasen Business School has 14 fully air-conditioned, well-furnished classrooms with advanced audio-video facilities. The institute also has amplifiers, Wi-Fi, and high-speed internet for effective connectivity.

The institute has seating capacity from 30 to 150 students, adhering to social distancing requirements. Accessible through elevators, with spacious corridors, tutorials, reading rooms, and common rooms.

III. Library (Knowledge Resource Center):

Maharaja Agrasen Business School has comprehensive library facilities, including books, ebooks, periodicals, e-journals, and online databases. Additional services like books on loan, biometric attendance, and multimedia systems. Membership in library consortia, interlibrary loan/ resource sharing, and reference/research services.

IV. Laboratories:

The institute has a well-developed IT infrastructure with 120 PCs/ laptops and a high-speed Gigabit UTP-based network. State-of-the-art computing facilities with servers and robust network security are also available. Maharaja Agrasen Business School has Wi-Fi facilities across various campus locations.

V. Web/Video Conferencing:

Maharaja Agrasen Business School has Wi-Fi network facilities in classrooms, auditorium, common rooms, hostel, and more. Internet-based video conferencing for global seminars, placement interviews, and virtual student seminars.

VI. Learning Management System:

MABS has the utilisation of Google Classroom and Moodle-based LMS for 24x7 learning environment. The institute has focused on environmental preservation by minimising paper usage.

VII. Research Infrastructure:

The research cell at MABS encourages faculty and student collaboration. There is use of data analysis tools such as Excel, SPSS, R-Studio, Python, and Smart PLS. Regular workshops on case writing and access to digitised libraries.

IX. Other Facilities:

Maharaja Agrasen Business School has a spacious cafeteria offering multi-cuisine dishes, snacks, and beverages. In-campus air-conditioned hostel facilities, indoor gymnasium and various indoor/outdoor sports facilities are also available. Adequate outdoor facilities for jogging, walking, football, volleyball, cricket, and badminton is there at the MABS campus.

MABS aims to provide a holistic educational experience, combining cutting-edge infrastructure with a focus on research, innovation, and student well-being.

Q. There is a lot of stress that is being made with regard to interaction with the industry as well as companies that recruit. What are the steps being taken by MABS in this direction?

A: One of the key differentiators of MABS is its strong industry integration, ensuring that the curriculum is aligned with the evolving needs of the business world. Industry experts, renowned academicians, and corporate leaders are involved in designing the MABS courses, imparting real-world insights, and mentoring students.

MABS places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering immersive experiences through internships, live projects, and apprenticeships. This hands-on approach allows students to apply their knowledge to practical scenarios, develop problem-solving abilities, and cultivate a business mindset.

The programme's comprehensive curriculum is mapped to industry demands, ensuring that students acquire the skills and knowledge required for a successful career. Course outcomes are designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering critical thinking, leadership capabilities, and effective communication skills.

Furthermore, MABS leverages its strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Grant Thornton Bharat to offer specialised training in Business Analytics and Fintech. This collaboration provides students with exclusive access to certifications, industry-relevant workshops, and networking opportunities with professionals at the forefront of their fields.

Q. Internships are now mandatory as per AICTE guidelines. Does Maharaja Agrasen Business School help students with this? If yes how?A: Absolutely, MABS adheres to AICTE guidelines, making internships mandatory for students. Collaborating with a wide network of industry partners, the college ensures that students have access to internships relevant to their fields of study. This hands-on experience not only aligns with academic requirements but also allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering a holistic learning experience and enhancing their employability in the competitive job market.

The institute facilitates live internships, ensuring continuous reporting on G-Drive. Industry mentors actively engage, providing valuable insights and evaluating performance, with 50% weightage to marks. This approach not only aligns with AICTE requirements but also enhances students' practical skills and industry readiness.

Q. Please share MABS placement statistics with information on the average package, highest and lowest package, number of students placed and details of companies that have recruited.

A: As a pilot batch entering our first year at MABS, we are enthusiastic about the dynamic learning environment and the unique opportunities that lie ahead. While specific placement statistics for our cohort are not yet available, we are fortunate to be part of MATES, renowned for its excellent placements with top companies in India and abroad.

MATES has a proven track record of facilitating excellent placements with some of the top companies, both in India and abroad. The network and reputation that MATES holds in the industry provide us with a unique edge. the strong industry connections within the MATES network open doors to a wide array of opportunities for internships, industry exposure, and eventual placements. The institute is committed to providing robust placement support, grooming us for successful careers in collaboration with esteemed industry partners.
Moreover, MABS has a strategic partnership with Grant Thornton Bharat, enhancing our prospects in the realm of Business Analytics. This partnership not only offers specialised education in Business Analytics but also presents exclusive job opportunities as business consultants and data analysts, further enriching career prospects and ensuring a well-rounded learning experience for students.

Q. "I understand that MABS emphasises a unique approach to education. Could you elaborate on the three pillars of academic and beyond academic strength at MABS?

A: MABS as a new age business school has developed a unique teaching-learning pedagogy which gives students the freedom to explore their intellectual curiosity. We call it ‘The MABS TriEdge’, three pillars of academic and beyond academic strength.

TriEdge1: Strong Industry-Academia Interface

Learn from leading business school faculty and industry experts. Indulge in real life assignments, live projects, internships and placement training with the best resource persons in the industry.

TriEdge 2: Beyond Classroom Learning Environment

Discover how to take your innovative ideas from the classroom to real life and vice versa. Students will learn from activities performed outside the classroom which will help in sharpening their problem-solving and management skills.

TriEdge 3: Innovative Tech Savvy Curriculum

Explore new pedagogical ways of learning through an innovative tech-savvy curriculum. Hybrid learning will be an integral part of the learning modules. Students will learn how to bring their bold ideas to fruition in our dynamic tech campus.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by Maharaja Agrasen Business School, and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.