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I don’t have background in Statistics/Coding – Should I go for PGDBA program by IIM Calcutta?

PGDBA program

I have got this question from multiple people at different points in time. I believe a lot of people aspiring for PGDBA program have this doubt in their mind that one should have prior knowledge of statistics or coding languages to excel in the PGDBA program.

Let’s first understand the background of students entering the PGDBA program and then answer this question.

Based on our estimates and research, hardly 10-15 per cent of students, i.e., 5-8 students, out of 50-55 students, have considerable background in statistics. Does that put you at a disadvantage in the course? At prima facie, it does look so. But, in reality, it isn’t the case because the amount of statistics that is part of the course can be easily learned during the course. Professors start statistics (or any other topic, for that matter) from the very basics and then gradually build. So, if we talk about the course, you won’t be at any disadvantage when compared to other students who have a background in statistics. The only thing is that you will have to put in a little extra effort to come up to speed, nothing else.

“When I joined the PGDBA program, I neither had experience in coding nor in statistics but I had the will to learn. I had to put in extra hours to learn and practice coding.”

If you were to talk about the interviews during the selection process, then our suggestion will be to spend some time and learn the basic concepts of statistics. This should not take more than a few hours to prepare.

Now, let’s talk about students who come with a coding background. The percentage of this category of students is a little higher. I would say, “they do have some advantage because they can code well, and they can code fast.” Having said that, this does not mean you won’t be able to compete with them. You can easily compete with them and maybe, beat them in their own game – all that with little extra effort.

When I joined the PGDBA program, I neither had experience in coding nor in statistics but I had the will to learn. I had to put in extra hours to learn and practice coding. Eventually, I reached a level where I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up my system and start writing a code whenever required.

I would end this post by saying that you don’t need to worry about your performance in the PGDBA program if you don’t have coding/statistics knowledge. The only thing is you should be willing to work hard, rest everything can be managed.You may also want to read Low marks in Class 10/12/Undergraduate – Should I go for PGDBA?

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