The FPM Program at IIM Rohtak: Insight and Challenges

The Fellowship Program in Management (FPM) at Indian Institutes of Management Rohtak (IIM Rohtak) is designed for students pursuing a career in research and academia. This comprehensive program includes coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation phase. However, there have been reports and discussions surrounding the program's attrition rate and the quality of its academic environment.

Attrition in Doctoral Programs

Doctoral programs like the FPM can experience attrition due to various factors, including personal circumstances, academic challenges, and changing career aspirations. While specific data on student attrition at IIM Rohtak is not publicly available, it's not uncommon for such programs to experience some level of attrition. According to several credible sources, one student has left the program after the first year, and multiple students have expressed dissatisfaction with the program.

Insight from Professors and Alumni

A professor from one of India's top B-schools has shared their experience, warning prospective students to be cautious. They advise that if you have another FPM offer, avoid IIM Rohtak, citing issues with the previous and current directors, who are reportedly notorious for their poor professional and personal conduct. In addition, the professor mentions that the program's quality is below average due to high faculty attrition, constant changes in advisors, and a lack of substantive research opportunities. This environment makes it challenging to learn and engage in meaningful research.

Selection Process and Criteria

For those who are seriously considering the FPM program, it's essential to understand the selection process and criteria. The institute does not guarantee admission, and the call for interviews is primarily based on your CAT (Common Admission Test) score and academic profile. This means that even if you meet the eligibility criteria, there is no assurance of acceptance, and you must perform well in your interviews to secure a call.

Prospective Areas of Employment

Upon completion of the FPM program, graduates can pursue various career paths. You can work as a management consultant, enter the industry, or join faculty positions in one of the 4000 management schools across India. However, a significant challenge is that you will have to spend at least two additional years at the institute to complete the program. This extended duration may be a concern for students who are already facing attrition due to the program's challenges.

Conclusion

The FPM program at IIM Rohtak presents both opportunities and challenges. While it offers a rigorous curriculum and prepares students for academic careers, the current issues with the director, high faculty attrition, and the challenging academic environment may deter some students. Prospective students should thoroughly research and carefully consider these factors before making a decision to join the program.