A Global MBA or PGDM journey opens doors to exciting possibilities, and a curriculum integrated with programs like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) play a crucial role in shaping your international career. We will help you understand the importance of CPT and OPT within PIBM’s Global Joint Degree Program, providing a pathway to a world of opportunities.
The Global Joint Degree Program is a two-year learning journey - one year at PIBM Pune Campus and the second year at Lawrence Technological University in the USA. Specializations offered along with the program are:
The students enrolled in PIBM’s Global Joint Degree Program will get many benefits from getting dual degrees (MBA & PGDM) to hands-on industry training through OPT and CPT programs along with the in-demand credentials of MS under a STEM program.
Both CPT and OPT are practical training programs, equivalent to internships, that are a part of your Global MBA curriculum. These training programs are similar to global internship opportunities that provide you with hands-on practical learning experience to make you corporate-ready, globally.
With PIBM’s Global Joint Degree Program, you will be a part of 1-year CPT and 3-year OPT programs.
Curricular Practical Training, or CPT, is essential for MBA students as part of their learning process in the USA and other foreign countries. Its main purpose is to open doors to real-world work experience while you're still studying. Imagine learning in your MBA classes and then getting the chance to apply that knowledge in a hands-on job, like an internship, outside your campus.
CPT turns your textbook knowledge into practical skills, helping you connect the dots between what you study and how things work in the professional corporate world. It's not just about getting a taste of the job you want; it's about becoming better prepared for the exciting journey that awaits after graduation.
Optional Practical Training or OPT program allows international students to work in the United States for a specified period, usually 1 year to 3 years (for STEM subjects) gaining practical experience in their respective fields of study in business management. The OPT visa is an extension of the F-1 student visa. It provides an opportunity for students to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in their academic studies to real-world corporate scenarios.
One notable feature of the OPT visa is that it allows students to work for up to 12 months in a company of their choice or based on placement, directly related to their major specialization. For those pursuing business management degrees or MS in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM subjects), there is an additional 24-month extension, bringing the total potential work experience to 36 months or 3 years.
The differences between OPT and CPT are given below (CPT vs. OPT).
| Factors | OPT | CPT |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Authorization Document | Required | Not Required |
| Duration | 1-3 years | 6-12 months |
| Application Fee | May be required | Not required |
| Kind of employment | Full-time | Generally part-time |
| Requirement | Optional | Mandatory |
| Purpose of Training | Getting industry knowledge after or during the completion of your study period | Getting practical experience during your course program |
For OPT, the standard duration is one year, but if you're pursuing a specialized program such as MS in Data Analytics, MS in Fintech, or any other tech-related programs under STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or a STEM MBA, you can get a STEM OPT extension of three years. During your MBA abroad, CPT can be for 6 months to 1 year.
There's no separate visa for CPT or OPT. Both fall under the F-1 student visa category. It's the visa that allows you to study in the U.S., and with CPT and OPT, you get to add valuable work experience to your resume.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are not just a step toward academic growth but a key to unlocking a spectrum of thrilling job profiles. Whether your passion lies in Global Taxation, Brand Management, Finance Analytics, or Operations Management, CPT and OPT provide a gateway to hands-on experience in your chosen field. These opportunities serve as a launchpad for your career, offering a dynamic platform where theoretical knowledge meets real-world application.
Global Taxation
Equity Research
Investment Banking
Finance Analytics
Corporate Finance
Risk Management
Portfolio Management
Commercial Credit
Wealth Management
Finance Quality Management
Brand Management
Marketing Intelligence and Data Analytics
Digital Marketing
Content Marketing
E-commerce Marketing
B2B Marketing
Channel Management
Digital PR Management
Supply Chain Management
Project Management
Quality Management
Inventory Management
Data Analysis
Market Research
Business Intelligence (BI) Analysis
Quantitative Analysis
Customer Insights Analysis
Talent Acquisition/Recruitment
Employee Relations
Training and Development
Compensation and Benefit
HR Information Systems (HRIS)
HR Business Partner
HR Analytics
PIBM’s Joint Degree Program is your gateway to international success. Here's why:
Immerse yourself in global business scenarios.
Learn from the best in the business.
Secure internships and placements with the best MNCs worldwide.
Align your education with global industry standards.
Enhance your skills according to the demands of the global market.
Boost your profile with certifications recognized globally.
Learn through access to Education Databases, Software, and Technology Tools.
Connect with industry leaders for mentorship and guidance.
The program doesn't just end with your degree; it paves the way for your global career.
With PIBM's Global Joint Degree Program get CPT and OPT along with a STEM OPT extension for VISA, which is your passport to a world of opportunities in international business education.
