About IGNOU MGPS – Master of Arts in Gandhi and Peace Studies
This programme teaches the practical side of Mahatma Gandhi’s ideas on non-violence and how to solve fights without using force. It prepares students for jobs where they need to handle community disputes, work in social welfare, or lead projects that help people live together peacefully.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are a social worker, a local school teacher, or someone working with a village NGO and you want to learn better ways to settle arguments in your community, this course is for you. It is also a great fit for students who have finished their BA and want to work in government offices or international groups that focus on human rights and social justice. You don’t need a specific background, just a desire to understand how peace can be built using Gandhian methods.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because the fees are very low at just Rs. 7,000 per year, which is much cheaper than similar courses at private universities. Since it is a distance learning course, you can keep doing your regular job or farming while you study from home. People also trust this degree because IGNOU is a world-famous government university, making the certificate valid for all government jobs and higher studies like a PhD.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After finishing MGPS, you can look for work as a Peace Consultant, Social Development Officer, or Research Assistant. You can find jobs at organizations like the Gandhi Smriti, National Gandhi Museum, or large NGOs like SEWA and Pratham. It also helps if you want to work for the United Nations or state-level human rights commissions. Many students use this degree to become better community leaders or to qualify for teaching positions in colleges.
IGNOU MGPS (Master of Arts in Gandhi and Peace Studies) Highlights
The table below provides a quick summary of the Master of Arts in Gandhi and Peace Studies. It covers the basic duration, language options, and the school that manages the course.
| Programme Name | Master of Arts in Gandhi and Peace Studies |
| Programme Code | MGPS |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree in any discipline |
| Medium of Instruction | English and Hindi |
| Offering School | School of Social Sciences |
IGNOU MGPS Admission – Important Details
The admission process for this Master’s degree is straightforward and does not require you to sit for any entrance exam. You are evaluated based on your marks in your graduation. Once you take admission, you will be assigned a Study Centre near your home where you can submit your assignments and attend weekend counseling sessions. The programme is spread across 64 credits, and you must complete all subjects, including a project, to get your degree. It is important to keep your enrollment number safe for all future talks with the university.
IGNOU MGPS Admission Last Date 2026
For the January 2026 session, the last date to apply is typically February 28, 2026. For the July 2026 session, the closing date is usually July 31, 2026. IGNOU often gives extra time by extending these dates, but you should try to finish your application early on the Samarth Portal to avoid last-minute server problems.
IGNOU MGPS Eligibility Criteria
To join this programme, you must meet the following simple requirements set by the university:
- You must have a Bachelor’s Degree in any subject (like BA, BSc, or BCom).
- The degree must be from a university recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
- Candidates with a higher degree (like a Master’s in another subject) can also apply.
- There is no age limit; anyone from a fresh graduate to a retired person can join.
IGNOU MGPS Fees Structure 2026
The fee for the Master of Arts in Gandhi and Peace Studies is very affordable. You pay the fee once every year during the registration or re-registration process.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Programme Fee (Per Year) | Rs. 7,000/- |
| Total Programme Fee (2 Years) | Rs. 14,000/- |
| Registration Fee (One-time, non-refundable) | Rs. 300/- |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MGPS Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and a strong password using your email and mobile number.
- Log in and fill the application form—select MGPS from the programme list and choose your medium (English or Hindi).
- Select the Regional Centre and Study Centre that is closest to your house for easy access.
- Upload required documents: a clear passport photo, your signature, and your 10th, 12th, and Graduation marksheets.
- Pay fees online via Credit/Debit card, Net Banking, or UPI. The total for the first year will be Rs. 7,300.
- Save and print your application form and payment receipt for your own records and future use.
IGNOU MGPS Curriculum and Course Structure
The curriculum is designed to give you both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills. You need to complete 64 credits in total, usually split as 32 credits per year. This includes core subjects and a major project at the end.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| First Year | Gandhi: The Man and His Times, Philosophy of Gandhi, Gandhi’s Political Thought (Total 32 Credits) |
| Second Year | Introduction to Peace and Conflict Resolution, Human Security, Project Work (MGPE-017) (Total 32 Credits) |
IGNOU MGPS Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Social Sciences.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Prof. D. Gopal | dgopal@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572704 / 29535515 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MGPS
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Gandhi and Peace Studies can find work in many sectors. You can work as a researcher in think-tanks, a community mediator in legal aid cells, or a programme officer in international NGOs like Amnesty International or Greenpeace. Many students join the teaching profession in schools or colleges after clearing the NET exam. Government departments focused on rural development and social justice also value this degree for policy research roles.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ Admission details for the 2026 session will be updated after IGNOU
releases the official notification. Always verify fees, dates, and eligibility at
ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in before applying.
Also Read
More resources for MGPS students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MGPS Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU
(Indira Gandhi National Open University). All information is provided for educational
and informational purposes only. Fee amounts, eligibility criteria, and admission
dates are subject to change. Always verify current details at
ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026

