Online MBA Dual Specialisation at Sikkim Manipal University 2025
If you want to add management credentials without quitting your job, the online MBA at SMU is a wise choice. Offered by Sikkim Manipal University, the online MBA is a UGC-approved two-year master’s program. It allows you to choose two specialisations, helping you build expertise in more than one area. This dual specialisation makes you more flexible and competitive in today’s job market, whether you want to advance in your current role or transition to a new career path.
About Sikkim Manipal University
Established in 1995, Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) is a NAAC A+ accredited institution with UGC and AICTE-approved online degree programs. For over 20 years, SMU has educated more than 5 lakh students through its distance and online programs. It is also known as one of the top private universities in Northeast India.
The university’s online MBA is delivered through the Online Manipal platform, which combines expert faculty with a modern, AI-powered learning system, providing a flexible and intelligent education experience.
SMU’s accreditations mean your credential is treated the same as a campus MBA by employers, government bodies and foreign universities.
Why an Online MBA with Dual Specialisation?
A dual specialisation MBA lets you master two business fields at once. That extra breadth helps you:
Handle cross-functional challenges by combining knowledge from different areas, like using marketing strategies with financial analysis.
Prepare for leadership roles that need both people management and strong decision-making skills.
Easily change your career path without needing to pursue another degree later.
Because SMU conducts the programme entirely online, you can maintain your current role and income while studying, a significant advantage over residential MBAs that require a career break.
How Dual Specialisation Works at SMU
Unlike some universities where you can choose any two specialisations freely, Sikkim Manipal University has a different system.
In SMU’s Online MBA Dual Specialisation, Marketing is a compulsory subject. This means every student will study Marketing as one of their two specialisations. Marketing is chosen by default because it teaches essential business skills, such as selling products, understanding customers, and promoting services, which are valuable in almost every job.
After Marketing, you can choose one more specialisation from the following options:
Finance – learn about money, investments, banking
Human Resource Management (HRM) – focus on hiring, training, and managing people.
Systems – learn about IT, software tools, and digital systems
Operations & Supply Chain Management – study how businesses run smoothly and deliver products.
Healthcare – focus on hospital and health services management
So, in total, you will study two specialisations: Marketing + your chosen second subject.
This setup helps you become skilled in two areas, making you well-prepared for future job roles.
Curriculum and Duration
The Online MBA Dual Specialisation course at Sikkim Manipal University is a 2-year program divided into 4 semesters. You will complete a total of 102 credits during the course.
In the first year, you will learn general business subjects. These subjects are the same for all students and help you understand the basics of business, management, marketing, finance, and communication.
In the second year, you will study special subjects (called electives) based on your two chosen specialisations. One of the specialisations is always Marketing, and the second one is your choice (like Finance, HR, Systems, etc.).
Here is a simple breakdown:
| Semester | What You Will Study |
|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Introduction to management, accounting, business economics, computer applications, and legal rules in business |
| Semester 2 | Maths in business, HR management, financial management, production, research methods, management information systems (MIS) |
| Semester 3 | Project management, business strategy, two subjects from Marketing, and two subjects from your chosen specialisation |
| Semester 4 | Banking and insurance, final project, two more subjects from Marketing and two more from your chosen specialisation |
Some examples of special subjects (electives) are:
Consumer Behaviour
Digital Marketing
Risk Management
Talent Management
Database Systems
Supply Chain Strategy
These subjects help you build deep knowledge in your chosen areas and prepare you for better jobs after completing the MBA.
Learning Experience and Student Support
Live and recorded classes are available each week, allowing you to watch them at your convenience.
AI tools in the LMS lecture summariser, instant quizzes, an “AI Professor” chatbot for concept doubts and a personalised study path.
24×7 help‑desk plus moderated discussion forums.
Optional campus immersion events in Sikkim for networking.
Online proctored exams are taken from home with a webcam.
Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s degree in any discipline (10+2+3/4 or 10+3+3).
- Minimum 50 % marks (45 % for reserved categories).
- No entrance exam; work experience is welcome but not mandatory.
Fees and Payment Plans
| Component | Amount (INR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 500 | Non‑refundable |
| Per‑semester fee | 27,500 | Four semesters |
| Total programme fee | 1,10,000 | Pay in full or in instalments |
Scholarships and Discounts
| Category | Concession | Proof required |
|---|---|---|
| Learners from Sikkim & North‑East | 30 % | Address proof |
| Defence personnel | 20 % | Service ID |
| SMU alumni | 20 % | Prior SMU degree |
| Learners with disabilities | 20 % | Disability certificate |
Admission Process for the July 2025 Intake
Apply online and pay the ₹500 application fee.
Upload documents: photo, government ID, all semester marksheets, degree certificate and (if applicable) category proofs.
Select a payment plan: complete, annual, semester‑wise or EMI.
University verification: Once approved, you receive LMS credentials and a digital welcome kit.
Start learning: orientation begins a week before classes.
Applications close on 22 July 2025; earlier submissions receive faster confirmation of seat availability.
Career Opportunities after Graduation
Dual specialisation broadens your job market. Typical roles and indicative salary bands are:
| Specialisation Mix | Sample Roles | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Marketing + Finance | Brand Finance Analyst, Product Pricing Manager | ₹9 – 14 LPA |
| Marketing + HRM | Employer Branding Lead, HR Communications Manager | ₹7 – 11 LPA |
| Marketing + Systems | Digital Marketing Analyst, Mar‑Tech Consultant | ₹8 – 12 LPA |
| Marketing + Operations & SCM | E‑commerce Operations Lead, Demand Planner | ₹10 – 15 LPA |
| Marketing + Healthcare | Hospital Outreach Manager, Health Services Marketer | ₹9 – 13 LPA |
Conclusion
The Online MBA at Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) gives you a strong base in Marketing along with a second specialisation of your choice, helping you build a career-ready skillset. All of this comes at an affordable fee of just ₹1.1 lakh.
With NAAC A+ accreditation, AI-powered learning tools, up to 30% scholarships, and flexible EMI options, this program offers excellent value for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without having to leave their jobs.
Admissions for the July 2025 batch are closing soon, so if you’re ready to upgrade your career, this is the right time to apply.
Need help choosing your second specialisation or understanding EMI options? Just ask—I’m here to guide you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the degree valid for government jobs and overseas study?
Yes. It is UGC-entitled and AIU-recognised, making it equivalent to any regular MBA from an Indian university.
Q2. Can I finish earlier than two years?
No. The curriculum is fixed at four sequential semesters, but you may take up to four years if you need more time.
Q3. May I change my second specialisation later?
Selections are locked at the start of Semester 3, so choose carefully.
Q4. Do I need to visit campus?
No mandatory visits; optional immersion weekends are offered for networking.
Q5. How do the online exams work?
You sit proctored tests at home using a webcam; results appear on the student portal.
