ISB Hyderabad Dean Madan M Pillutla discussed curriculum revisions, placement challenges, and the institution’s fee structure, stating a commitment to increasing scholarships despite high operational costs. ISB launched a new Postgraduate Programme for Young Leaders (PGP-YL) this year, targeting students with limited experience.
New Programs Target Young Leaders
ISB’s new 20-month Postgraduate Programme for Young Leaders (PGP-YL) launched in 2025. This program caters to individuals with zero to two years of work experience. The first cohort of 130 students began in July. Dean Pillutla indicated the program responds to a trend of younger professionals assuming leadership roles, aligning with similar global Masters in Management offerings.
Placements See Shift, Fewer Offers
Placements have become more competitive over the last two years. Historically, a batch of 800 students received about 2,000 offers. This number has dropped to approximately 1,200-1,250 offers for the same batch size. Year-on-year salary growth has also decreased from previous rates of 10-21%.
Tech companies have significantly reduced hiring for product management roles. However, positions in consulting, general management, and Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) remain strong, according to Dean Pillutla.
Curriculum Adapts to AI and Industry Needs
ISB revised its curriculum two years ago to address new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). Changes include a “flexi-core” course on “frontier technologies” . AI integration now features in functional courses; for example, two out of ten marketing sessions focus on AI in marketing.
The school introduced a mandatory Experiential Learning Project (ELP), where students work in teams on live industry projects, many focused on AI. The academic calendar changed from eight six-week terms to seven six-week terms plus an additional six “block weeks” per term. These block weeks feature industry practitioners teaching and immersive work trips, integrating direct industry input.
Diversity Remains a Core Value
ISB prioritizes diversity in its classrooms. Non-engineers constitute a significant portion of batches. Women consistently make up 35-40% of each cohort, including the new PGP-YL program. Dean Pillutla emphasized that a diverse student body fosters a stronger learning environment and meets industry demand for varied perspectives.
Addressing Mental Well-being
Following the death of an assistant professor on campus, ISB increased its mental health support. The institution provides two full-time counselors and additional counselors from its network for faculty, staff, and students. Online tools are available. Student-led special interest groups, overseen by staff, also contribute to well-being initiatives. Staff can claim reimbursement for external counseling services through insurance.
MBA Remains Relevant, Says Dean
Dean Pillutla dismissed notions of an “oversaturation” in MBA degrees. He stated that an MBA provides a comprehensive understanding of business, transforming specialists into managers with a broader perspective. He highlighted the degree’s role in enhancing decision-making and its continued value for large organizations seeking well-rounded professionals.
High Fees and Scholarship Expansion
ISB Hyderabad’s course fees are high due to the cost of maintaining world-class faculty, who are competitive with top institutions globally. Dean Pillutla noted ISB’s fees are comparable to, and sometimes lower than, one-year programs at certain Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
ISB has significantly increased scholarship allocations from Rs 6 crore to Rs 26 crore . The goal is for 50% of students to receive some form of scholarship, aiming to ensure affordability and access. Efforts to raise endowment funds for scholarships are ongoing, focusing on sustained support without compromising educational quality.
Strategic Partnerships and AI in Education
ISB maintains deep partnerships with international institutions including Wharton, Kellogg, London Business School, and the Fletcher School at Tufts University for research, student, and faculty exchanges. Domestically, ISB serves as a knowledge partner for the Capacity Building Commission and works with state governments like Telangana, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh on capacity building, executive education, and impact assessments.
Regarding AI, Dean Pillutla anticipates using AI tools to expand reach and offer personalized education to more students. He affirmed that AI will become an integral part of ISB’s offerings, focusing on preparing graduates for jobs where AI competence is critical for decision-making and learning.