Professor Dr. R. Vaithiyanathan, Dean, School of Management, outlines how CMR University’s curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry through experiential learning, practitioner-led courses, global exposure and cutting-edge initiatives that prepare students to thrive in a fast-evolving world of work.
By Professor Dr. R. Vaithiyanathan, Dean, School of Management, CMR University
At CMR University’s School of Management, our curriculum is industry-relevant and meticulously designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and the dynamic demands of the modern workplace. We regularly update the syllabus to reflect current industry trends and practices, ensuring that students are not only well-versed in theoretical concepts but also equipped with practical skills that employers value in today’s competitive job market.
We have an industry-engaged curriculum. Around 30–40% of the courses are taught by professors who are leading practitioners in their respective industries, and we are working to bring this up to 50%. Currently, at least 15 out of our 50 faculty members are active industry professionals. Courses such as digital marketing, AI, production and operations cannot be taught by regular faculty members alone. These require the perspective and expertise of professionals who are currently working in those fields.
A key element of our approach is experiential learning. Students engage in hands-on projects, internships and assignments that replicate real-world business scenarios. This project-based model helps them apply classroom knowledge to practical challenges, strengthening their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
We also offer an Accelerated Credit Course Programme (ACCP) that includes specialised training and certifications in cutting-edge developments, further enhancing our students’ industry readiness.
Our focus is on OJT: On the Job Training. To give a real example, we are launching a branded samosa. This is a wheat-based, baked (not fried) samosa that is recommended by doctors. We will distribute it free of cost to 100 truck drivers, auto drivers and bus drivers, and take video testimonials to support marketing. We also plan to place this product in hospital canteens. This gives students a first-hand opportunity to experience what it takes to create a product, place it in the market, promote it and close the feedback loop.
The curriculum is also strengthened by innovative teaching methods, including flipped classrooms, gamification and technology-enabled learning. Our Design Thinking Lab and Innovation Centre encourage creativity, entrepreneurship and the ability to ideate and incubate viable business ideas, fostering an innovative mindset among students.
We have tied up with the Bangalore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, FICCI, CII and NASSCOM. We consult them while preparing our academic curriculum, as they are closely connected with industry needs. We have now initiated this engaged syllabus approach.
We also want these industry bodies to sponsor certificate programmes that can help improve placement outcomes. Very soon, they will have fully functional offices within CMRU. Once this happens, we plan to launch a semi-residential course because industry experts are typically available only after 5 pm.
Global exposure is a strong focus area. Through the Global Immersion Programme (GIP), students participate in study tours and cultural exchanges in countries such as South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore. These programmes broaden their understanding of global business environments and provide valuable international perspectives.
We also host guest lectures by international business leaders, collaborate with global partners, and encourage students to participate in national and international competitions to further build their global orientation.
Our curriculum offers a wide range of specialisations, including Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Digital Marketing, Supply Chain Management, Business Analytics and Technology Management. Students maintain e-portfolios to document their skill development and showcase their achievements to prospective employers. Research-oriented field projects are also integrated to help them understand the practicalities of solving real-world problems.
We have conducted an awareness campaign among the Bengaluru police. Policemen lose out on many of the comforts we take for granted. They miss time with their families and face significant stress. We are working with IPS officers to design team-building activities, conflict resolution training and stress management modules.
We are also planning to train government workers to prepare them for the next ten years of their careers. This includes guidance on how to operate in an AI-driven future, how to adapt and equip themselves, and how to use AI effectively in their professional contexts. We aim to help them envision what the next decade will look like.
To support career readiness, CMRU offers a structured Career Preparedness Programme (CPP) from the first semester. This includes industry-specific training and strong student support mechanisms. The Placement Office coordinates internships and pre-placement training in areas such as soft skills, quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning, maximising students’ employability.
In summary, our curriculum is practical, future-focused and embedded in industry realities. Through innovative pedagogy, global exposure and strong partnerships, we are preparing our students to thrive in a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world.