MBA syllabus & subjects 2025 form the foundation of business education, equipping students with essential skills for leadership and decision-making. Key subjects include Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Operations Management, Organisational Behaviour, and Economics. Each course builds specialised knowledge, from managing company finances and interpreting market trends to understanding consumer behavior and employee dynamics. These subjects are critical for professionals aiming to excel in corporate, entrepreneurial, or consulting roles. Whether you plan to lead a startup or join a multinational company, mastering MBA core subjects is essential for strategic thinking, problem-solving, and long-term career success.
MBA syllabus & subjects 2025 aims to provide students with a deep understanding of management principles and their application in the business world. Emphasising managerial and entrepreneurial skills, the program fosters effective leadership development. Key MBA subjects like Business Law, Entrepreneurship, Corporate Finance, and Financial Accounting are covered to promote individual excellence, initiative, and creativity. By focusing on these areas, MBA students are equipped with the tools needed to thrive in today's dynamic business landscape.
The MBA course syllabus 2025 includes core subjects and elective subjects, tailored to the student's chosen specialisation. These MBA subjects are designed to impart a comprehensive understanding of business concepts, theories, and strategies applicable to real-world scenarios. Additionally, practical opportunities such as internships and group projects are offered in an MBA course to develop hands-on experience and professional skills necessary for future careers. If you're a prospective MBA aspirant, take a closer look at the MBA syllabus and subjects – it's your first step towards an exciting journey in business education!
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An MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a globally recognised postgraduate program focused on developing managerial, leadership, and business skills. Here’s an overview of the course.
Particulars | Details |
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Course Name | Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
Course Level | Postgraduate |
Duration | 2 Years (4 Semesters) |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree (minimum 50% marks); Entrance exam score (CAT, XAT, etc.) |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam + GD/PI (Group Discussion/Personal Interview) |
Top Entrance Exams | CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, NMAT, SNAP, MAH MBA CET |
Core Subjects | Marketing, Finance, HRM, Operations, Strategy, Organisational Behaviour |
Electives/Specialisations | Finance, Marketing, HR, IB, Business Analytics, IT, Healthcare, etc. |
Course Format | Full-Time, Part-Time, Distance, Online |
Top Institutes in India | IIMs, XLRI, SPJIMR, FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, ISB Hyderabad |
Skills Developed | Leadership, Decision Making, Communication, Analytical Thinking |
Average Fees | INR 2 Lakh – INR 25 Lakh (varies by institute) |
Job Roles | Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, HR Manager, Consultant, Operations Head |
Average Salary | INR 6 LPA – INR 25+ LPA (depends on institute and specialisation) |
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The MBA course syllabus 2025 has been segregated into four semesters that are designed to inculcate leadership and entrepreneurship qualities in students and make them competent for various MBA jobs. The MBA syllabus 1st year deals with all the essential management and business principles. The MBA subjects in the 2nd year emphasise business administration principles based on the chosen specialisation.
MBA First Year Syllabus
The MBA first-year syllabus has been listed in the following pointers.
Semester 1 | |
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Micro Economics | Macro Economics & Policy |
Business Statistics | Excel Spreadsheet Modelling |
Operation Research | Business Research Methodology |
Financial Accounting | Financial Reporting and Analysis |
Managerial Economics | Marketing of Products and Services |
Business Environment | Marketing and Consumer Behaviour |
Business Communication | Business Communication & Presentation Skills |
Organisational Behaviour | Management Concepts & Organisational Behaviour |
Finance for Non-Finance | |
Semester 2 | |
Costing Products and Services | Indian Economy in the Global Context |
Research Tools & Techniques | Corporate Environment |
Bringing Ideas to Market | Indian Banking and Financial Markets |
Financial Management | Cost & Management Accounting |
Human Resource Management | Managing Operations and Supply Chain |
Marketing Management | Business Data Processing |
Data Science Using R and Python | Managing Financial Resources |
Production & Operations Management | Communication & Behavioural Skills |
Managing Stakeholders and Legal Processes | Synthesising and Analysing Data |
Strategic Management |
MBA Second Year Syllabus
The MBA second-year syllabus has been listed in the following pointers.
Semester 3 | |
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Consumer Behavior | Management of Financial Services |
Web Design & Multimedia | Corporate Tax & Financial Planning |
Leveraging IT for Business | Business Model and Intellectual Property |
Analysing and Mitigating Risk | Integrated Marketing Communication |
Network & Security | Labour Laws and Industrial Relations |
Compensation Management | Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility |
Semester 4 | |
E-Governance | Information Security Risks & Audits |
Project Management | International Business Management |
Capstone Simulation | Core Management Control System |
Risk Management | Strategic Brand Management |
Mergers and Acquisitions | Supply Chain and Logistics Management |
Leadership Development | Strategic Human Resource Management |
Ethics and Indian Ethos | Entrepreneurship Development |
Also Read: MBA-ESG India - Admission 2025, Fees, Courses, Placement, Ranking
Distance MBA in India in 2025 is designed for those students who cannot pursue a full-time MBA program due to economic constraints, work schedules, etc. The semester-wise MBA syllabus and subjects for the distance MBA program have been provided below:
MBA First Year Syllabus For Distance Program
The MBA first-year syllabus for distance courses has been listed in the following pointers.
Semester 1 | |
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Business Communication | Human Resource Management |
Statistics for Management | Information System for Managers |
Managerial Economics | Financial Reporting and Management Accounting |
Management Principles, Process & Organisation | |
Semester 2 | |
Financial Management | Management Information System |
Operations Research | Production and Operations Management |
Project Management | Data Analysis & Business Decision Making |
Organisation Behaviour | Strategic Planning & Implementation |
Marketing Management |
MBA Second Year Syllabus For Distance Program
The MBA second-year syllabus for distance courses has been listed in the following pointers.
Semester 3 | |
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Research Management | Corporate Finance |
Legal aspects of business | Human Resource Management |
Economic Environment in India | Legal & Regulatory Environment of Business |
Business Research Methods | |
Semester 4 | |
Strategic Management and Business Policies | International Business Management |
The online MBA syllabus is often quite similar to that of a traditional on-campus MBA program, with the main difference being the delivery method. Check out the semester wish MBA course syllabus 2025 for online courses.
MBA First Year Syllabus For Online Courses
The MBA first-year syllabus for online courses has been listed in the following pointers.
Semester 1 | |
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Quantitative Methods | Financial Accounting |
Business Communication | Marketing Management |
Organisational Behaviour | Human Resource Management |
Information Technology Management | Managerial Economics |
Semester 2 | |
Management Science | Financial Management |
Operation Management | Management of Information System |
Organisation Effectiveness and Change | Economic Environment of Business |
Management Accounting | Marketing Research |
MBA Second Year Syllabus For Online Courses
The MBA second-year syllabus for online courses has been listed in the following pointers.
Semester 3 | |
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Legal Environment of Business | Business Ethics & Corporate Social Responsibility |
Strategic Analysis | Elective Course |
Semester 4 | |
Strategic Management | Project Study |
International Business Environment | Elective Course |
Today, numerous MBA specialisations are offered in different B-schools around the world. While traditional areas like Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, Sales, etc. ensure students a well-paid job with an impressive MBA salary in renowned companies, many new-age courses like Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, etc. have increased the earning potential. Check out the most popular MBA specialisations offered in India.
If you are interested in pursuing an MBA course, take a look at the syllabus for different specializations and you can also download the MBA syllabus PDF. This will help you understand the coursework and requirements for each specialization before making a decision. By doing so, you can choose a program that aligns with your career goals and interests. So, go ahead and explore specialization-wise MBA subjects to make an informed decision.
MBA in Finance Syllabus
Corporate investment management | Portfolio management | Hedge fund management |
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Small business and corporate finance | Investments | Securities analysis |
Borrowing | Fundraising | Collections |
Disbursements | International Finance | Coverage of global financial institutions |
MBA in Marketing Syllabus
Managerial Economics | Marketing Management | Information Technology for Managers |
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International Business | Advertising Management | Sales and Distribution Management |
Managerial Communication | Entrepreneurship Development | Logistics and Supply Chain Management |
Financial Management | Product and Brand Management | Statistical Analysis and Operations Research |
MBA Subjects for Human Resource Management Syllabus
Management Process and Organization Theory | Fundamentals of Industrial Relations | Individual Behaviour in Organization |
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Entrepreneurship Development | Performance Management and Competency Mapping | Compensation and Reward Management |
Corporate Social Responsibility and Business Ethics | Organizational Change and Development | Production and Operations Management |
Contemporary Employment Relations | Economics of Human Resources | Human Capital Management and HR Audit |
MBA in International Business Syllabus
Global Business Ethics | International Trade Law | Management Information Systems |
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International Finance | India’s Foreign Trade and Policy | Global Strategic Management |
Ledger Balancing | Introduction of HRM | Managerial Accounting |
Wage and Salary Administration | Sales and Distribution Management | Marketing Communications and Promotion |
MBA Subjects for Business Analytics
Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning | Multivariate Data Analysis | Optimization |
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Business Analytics and Intelligence | Business Forecasting | Social Entrepreneurship |
Supply Chain Analytics | Marketing Analytics | Infrastructure Development |
PPPs and Regulation | Corporate Valuation | Digital Marketing |
Research for Marketing Decisions | Brand Management | Supply Chain Management |
MBA in Entrepreneurship Syllabus
Operation strategy | Financial Accounting | Accounting Principles |
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Managerial Economics | Quality Management | Entrepreneurial promotion |
Web Marketing | Enterprise Resource Planning | Legal Environment of Business |
Labour Relations and Employee Security | Project Financing and Development Banks | Technology Transfer and Joint Ventures |
MBA Subjects for Logistics & Supply Chain Management
Costing Products and Services | Retail Logistics & SCM | Managerial Economics |
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Marketing Management | Accounting and Finance | Financial Management |
Quantitative Techniques | Human Resources Management | Port and Airport Management for Logistics |
Production and Operations Management | Public-Private Partnership And Port Development | Procurement, Storage, and Warehouse Management |
MBA in Healthcare Management Syllabus
Strategic Management in Health Care | Health Care & Hospital Administration | Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology |
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Hospital Accounting & Finance | Patient Care Planning and Management | Health Insurance |
Legal & Ethical Issues in Healthcare | Health Systems Research & Research Methodology | Managing Quality in Healthcare |
Health Communication Planning and Management | MIS & Application of IT in Healthcare | Human Resource Management |
The MBA syllabus in top B-Schools of India is structured to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to succeed in the dynamic and competitive world of business. Check out some of the important MBA subjects below:
MBA Subject | Topics Covered |
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Financial Accounting |
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Business Economics |
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Corporate Finance |
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Human Resource Management |
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Business Law |
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Operations Management |
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Entrepreneurship |
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Marketing Management |
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Sustainable Management |
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Strategic Management |
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The core MBA subjects in the MBA course syllabus 2025 typically cover various aspects of business management and administration. While the specific curriculum may vary between programs and institutions, here are some common core MBA subjects taught in B-schools.
MBA Core Subject | Description |
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Finance | Manages assets, liabilities, investments, and capital for businesses. |
Accounting | Records, analyses, and reports financial transactions and performance. |
Marketing | Identifies customer needs, promotes products, and builds brand value. |
Organisational Behaviour | Studies individual and group behavior within business organisations. |
Operations Management | Oversees production efficiency, quality, and supply chain activities. |
Economics | Analyses market forces, consumer behavior, and resource allocation decisions. |
Human Resource Management | Recruits, trains, and manages people for organisational success. |
Elective MBA subjects allow students to tailor their education to their specific interests, career goals, and industry preferences. These subjects vary between programs and institutions, but here are some common elective MBA subjects within each.
To get MBA admission to IIMs and other top MBA colleges, students have to qualify for different MBA entrance exams like CAT, CMAT, XAT, NMAT by GMAC, MAH MBA CET, etc. While the syllabus for these exams may vary, here's a general overview of the sections and topics covered:
CAT: The CAT entrance exam syllabus includes sections like Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude, focusing on comprehension, arithmetic, algebra, and data analysis.
XAT: The XAT entrance exam syllabus covers Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge, testing analytical thinking, reading comprehension, and business awareness.
CMAT: The CMAT entrance exam syllabus includes Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship, focusing on problem-solving, verbal skills, and business aptitude.
NMAT by GMAC: The NMAT entrance exam syllabus includes Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning, covering grammar, arithmetic, puzzles, and data sufficiency from Class 10 and 12 level topics.
MAH MBA CET: The MAH CET entrance exam syllabus includes Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, with topics such as percentages, puzzles, comprehension, and logical sequences.
MAT: The MAT entrance exam syllabus includes Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Indian & Global Environment.
ATMA: The ATMA entrance exam syllabus includes Analytical Reasoning, Quantitative Skills, and Verbal Skills, focusing on arithmetic, algebra, critical reasoning, vocabulary, and grammar.
SNAP: The SNAP entrance exam syllabus covers General English, Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, and Analytical & Logical Reasoning, testing speed, accuracy, and business-relevant aptitude.
MICAT: The MICAT entrance exam syllabus includes Psychometric Test, Verbal Ability, Quantitative Ability, General Awareness, Divergent and Convergent Thinking, and Descriptive Test, focusing on creativity, aptitude, and written communication.
The following reference books make it easy for the candidates to score maximum marks in the MBA course.
Name of the Book | Subject Covered | Author(s) |
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Financial & Managerial Accounting for MBAs | Accounting | Cambridge Business Publication |
Human Resource Management for MBA and Business Masters | Human Resource Management | Lain Henderson |
Fundamentals of Medical Practice Management | Health Care Management | Stephen Wagner |
Financial Management Theory & Practice | Finance | Eugene Brigham, Michael C. Ehrhardt |
International Marketing | International Business | Rakesh Mohan Joshi |
Logistics and Supply Chain Management | Logistics Management | Martin Christopher |
Principles of Marketing | Marketing Management | Philip Kotler |
The MBA course structure consists of core courses, elective courses, and practical components such as internships, case studies, or capstone projects. Here's an overview of the MBA course structure:
Course Content | Objectives | MBA Course Curriculum |
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Foundation | To acquaint the students with the nature, scope, and dimensions of Business Policy, Strategy Management Processes, etc. |
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Core | To develop an appreciation of what a business is and the role of management in planning, decision-making, organizing, directing, communicating, motivating, controlling, and coordinating. |
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Elective Subjects | To offer students a pool of specializations under the umbrella of Business Administration and help them specialize in their field of interest. |
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Skills | To develop practical managerial skills to prepare students for a successful career in any aspect of business. |
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Capstone Project | To acquaint the candidates with the objectives of Business – Profitability, Growth, Stability, Efficiency, and Survival. |
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Case Study | To think through the various solutions and the process used to arrive at the solutions to business issues. | In the case method, students analyze a real-world business issue with supporting data. They discuss and propose solutions individually or in groups, fostering active participation and engagement for success. |
Group-Based Projects and Activities | To understand different viewpoints, learn from the experience of your peers, and simulate a team environment. | Students form learning teams of 6-8 members to complete course activities together, mirroring real-world teamwork dynamics. Teamwork is essential in the business world, where organizational success relies on cooperation and participation. |
MBA projects are an integral part of the academic curriculum for students. These projects are designed to provide students with an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world business challenges or research topics. The purpose of MBA projects is to help students develop a deeper understanding of various business concepts and practices, as well as to enhance their problem-solving skills and analytical abilities. Here are some ideas for MBA projects across various areas of business:
There are a total of 11 core subjects and 35 elective subjects in the MBA syllabus. A majority of the core subjects are included in the first two semesters while electives are a part of the final two semesters of the MBA course. The last two semesters are more focused on internships and industry-relevant projects to offer practical experience.
The case studies included in the MBA syllabus are real-life situations or hypothetical business scenarios that are used to facilitate practical learning among students through the means of research. Candidates are required to research a certain topic and create a case study on the same with an inference. Case studies are typically included in the final semester of an MBA course.
Yes, MBA syllabus includes internships and projects that are focused on the MBA specialization that students choose. These internships and projects are part of the MBA course curriculum and are considered during the calculation of the student’s final results. Students must complete any internships and projects that are part of the MBA syllabus to earn their degree.
No, the MBA syllabus for MBA Marketing is not easier than MBA Finance since both these courses are quite different. Both the MBA in Finance and the MBA in Marketing are advanced management courses that call for a particular degree of proficiency. That being said, an MBA Finance student will find it easier to get through the course material if they have a background in mathematics or commerce.
The MBA syllabus and subjects are the same for all specializations but only for the first two semesters. The MBA syllabus and subjects change depending on the specialization that a student has picked in the last two semesters of an MBA course. During the final year of an MBA course, the syllabus and subjects become more focused on the specialization while the first year the syllabus is general and same for all.
The MBA syllabus for distance education covers topics like Business Communication, Statistics for Management, Managerial Economics, Financial Management, Operations Research, Project Management, Organization Behaviour, Marketing Management, Research Management, Legal Aspects of Business, Economic Environment in India, Strategic Management and Business Policies, and International Business Management.
Some of the important MBA subjects are Accounting and Financial Management, Business Economics, Corporate Finance, Human Resource Management, Change Management, Management Process & Organizational Behavior, Managerial Economics, Management Theory and Practice, Sustainable Management, Marketing Management, and Strategic Management.
The online MBA syllabus is not considered easier than a full-time course as the topics covered are the same. However, some students may find the online MBA syllabus easy as the course offers flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location.
Some of the best books for MBA subjects are Financial & Managerial Accounting for MBAs by Cambridge Business Publication, Human Resource Management for MBA and Business Masters by Lain Henderson, Fundamentals of Medical Practice Management by Stephen Wagner, Financial Management Theory & Practice by Eugene Brigham & Michael C. Ehrhardt, and International Marketing by Rakesh Mohan Joshi.
MBA syllabus may seem difficult to students who have no prior knowledge of the topics related to business administration. You may find the MBA syllabus easier to grasp if you have a strong foundation in business-related subjects or relevant work experience.
The MBA syllabus can be tough for non-math students in certain areas where a basic understanding of mathematics is essential. For instance, in subjects like Business Mathematics or even Economics, candidates have to understand different types of formulae and graphs which can be challenging. However, if candidates put in effort they can easily tackle these MBA subjects.
The electives in the MBA syllabus are Financial management, Information technology, Legal aspects of business, Human resource management, Research Methodology, Corporate social responsibility, International business management, Fundamental of logistics, Hospital environment and healthcare, Medical terminology, etc.
The newest MBA specializations include MBA in Digital Marketing, MBA in Luxury Brand Management, MBA in Supply Chain Management, MBA in Hospitality, MBA in Blockchain Management, Global MBA, MBA in Fintech, MBA in Data Analytics, MBA in Finance leadership, etc.
The core subjects in the MBA syllabus are the ones that have to be studied by all candidates. These include Accounting, Economics, Finance, Strategy, Marketing, Operations Management, and Organizational Behavior. These subjects are part of the MBA syllabus of every semester.
MBA in Human Resources and MBA in Marketing have the easiest syllabus due to their relatively straightforward curriculum. Also, since these specializations do not have a heavy dependence on Mathematics and statistics, they are considered to be easier than other specializations like Finance.
The syllabus for the MBA entrance exams includes Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, General Studies, General Awareness, GK, and Current Affairs. The MBA entrance exam syllabus is different for different exams, but the fundamental areas that are assessed in these tests remain the same.
No, a full-time MBA course has the same syllabus as a part-time or online MBA degree. These courses differ in their pedagogy and mode of instruction. Since the course objective remains the same across various types of MBA courses, the MBA syllabus and subjects are also the same for different types of courses.
The first year MBA syllabus and subjects include Financial Markets, Financial Reporting and Analysis, Human Resource Management, Individual Dynamics, Legal Aspects of Business, Managerial Computing, Marketing, Microeconomics, Operations Management, and Quantitative Methods. The syllabus may vary for different colleges.
It is not necessary to have Mathematics in Class 12 to understand the MBA syllabus. However, candidates need to qualify for national-level entrance exams for admission to MBA and the syllabus for these entrance exams has topics related to Mathematics. Bust it is good to have a basic understanding of certain mathematical concepts since the MBA syllabus has subjects like statistics.
The MBA syllabus includes subjects like marketing, human resource management, business planning, finance management, management principles, business laws, communication skills, entrepreneurship, and business communication. Other subjects include computer application, organizational behaviour, taxation, retail management, project work, economics, and business environment.