Nestled in the vibrant city of Chennai, Great Lakes Institute of Management stands tall as one of India’s premier business schools. Known for its innovative curriculum, cutting-edge research, and commitment to creating global business leaders, Great Lakes offers an environment where ambition meets opportunity. The location itself – Chennai, a thriving metropolis and a hub of industries such as IT, automotive, manufacturing, and fintech – complements the academic rigour with real-world business exposure and cultural richness, making learning here truly holistic.
Historical Overview
Founded in 2004 by Dr. Bala V. Balachandran, a renowned academician and Padma Shri awardee, Great Lakes Institute of Management was established with a vision to provide world-class management education in India. Since its inception, the institute has rapidly risen to become one of the top-ranked business schools in the country. It has gained accreditation from AMBA (Association of MBAs), SAQS, and AICTE, and is also a member of the Global Network for Advanced Management (GNAM) – a prestigious consortium of 32 leading global business schools. The institute’s milestone-driven journey includes collaborations with Yale University, Babson College, and SKEMA Business School, further enhancing its international outlook.
The Campus and Its Features
Spread across a sprawling 27-acre campus in Manamai, along the scenic East Coast Road near Chennai, Great Lakes offers a perfect blend of nature and modern infrastructure. The eco-friendly campus is designed to facilitate sustainability and innovation. Key features include:
- Academic Block: State-of-the-art classrooms equipped with smart technology, simulation labs, and breakout rooms that promote interactive learning.
- Library (Learning Resource Center): A vast repository of books, journals, databases, and digital resources, supporting both research and learning.
- Residential Facilities: Comfortable hostels with single and twin-sharing options that foster a vibrant residential community.
- Sports & Recreation Center: Facilities for basketball, badminton, cricket, football, and a gymnasium to promote physical well-being.
- Auditorium & Amphitheatre: A venue for guest lectures, cultural events, and seminars, bringing in industry stalwarts and global thought leaders.
- Administrative Offices: The nerve center for managing academic, admissions, and student affairs smoothly and efficiently.
Academic Excellence
Great Lakes offers a portfolio of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of aspiring professionals and executives:
- Post Graduate Program in Management (PGPM) – One-year fast-track MBA for professionals with work experience.
- Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) – Two-year MBA equivalent program for fresh graduates and early professionals.
- Executive Programs – Designed for working executives seeking to upskill while continuing their careers.
- Doctoral (PhD) and Certificate Programs – Promoting research-driven learning and specialized skill development.
The curriculum at Great Lakes is renowned for its focus on leadership, analytics, innovation, and global business strategies. Students are encouraged to pursue cutting-edge research, industry-driven projects, and skill-building workshops, preparing them to tackle modern business challenges.
Clubs and Committees
Great Lakes thrives on a culture of student ownership and leadership through its diverse student-driven clubs and committees:
- Marketing Club (MarkTrix)
- Finance Club (FinC)
- Operations & Supply Chain Club (SCOPE)
- Cultural Club (CulCom)
- Sports Club (Spartan Warriors)
- Consulting Club (CONSULT Club)
These clubs host workshops, case competitions, guest lectures, and networking events, fostering experiential learning and peer-to-peer development. The collaborative and competitive spirit within these groups prepares students for leadership roles and enhances their networking capabilities.
Student Demographics
With an annual intake of approximately 500+ students across its PGPM and PGDM programs, Great Lakes boasts a diverse student body. The institute attracts talent from across India, with students hailing from varied backgrounds such as engineering, commerce, arts, and sciences, as well as a mix of fresh graduates and professionals with up to 5+ years of experience. This diversity enriches classroom discussions, group projects, and cultural exchange, reflecting the globalized world that students will step into post-graduation.
A Day in the Life at Great Lakes Institute of Management Chennai
A typical day at Great Lakes begins early, with students attending interactive sessions and case-based lectures by distinguished faculty and visiting industry leaders. Afternoons often involve group discussions, project work, or participating in club-led activities. Evenings are lively with sports, networking events, or guest talks at the amphitheater. Students also unwind through cultural fests and informal gatherings, creating memories and lifelong friendships. The balance of rigorous academics and a thriving campus life ensures holistic development.
Placement Highlights (2024)
Great Lakes continues to shine with strong placement outcomes, driven by its industry-aligned curriculum and robust corporate relations:
- Highest Package (Domestic): ₹37 LPA
- Average Salary: ₹15.1 LPA
- Industries Hiring: Consulting, BFSI, IT/ITES, Analytics, FMCG, Manufacturing, and E-commerce.
The Career Services team ensures a seamless recruitment process, matching students with roles that align with their aspirations and skillsets.
Unique Features of Great Lakes Institute of Management Chennai
What truly sets Great Lakes apart is its “Karma Yoga” Leadership Experiential Project, a transformational rural development initiative where students engage with villages to apply management concepts to real-world social challenges. Additionally, its LEED Platinum-rated green campus demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.
The institute also benefits from its strategic location near Chennai’s industrial and IT hubs, offering students exposure to a diverse corporate ecosystem. The global immersion programs and partnerships with foreign universities further enrich the student experience, making them globally competent professionals.
Great Lakes Institute of Management Chennai is more than just a business school – it is a launchpad for ambitious individuals aiming to shape the future of global business. With its world-class infrastructure, dynamic learning environment, and exceptional placement record, Great Lakes continues to empower the next generation of leaders. For management aspirants seeking a transformative educational experience backed by industry relevance and global exposure, Great Lakes stands as a top choice.
