About IGNOU MAGD – M.A. (Gender and Development Studies)
This programme focuses on teaching how social rules and power differences between men and women affect the way a country grows. It prepares students for jobs where they help create fair laws and run projects that support equal rights for everyone in the community.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are working in a local NGO or a village-level social group and want to move into higher roles in planning and management, this course is for you. It is also a great fit for graduates who want to work for the government in departments like Women and Child Development. If you want to understand why certain groups stay poor while others progress and how to fix that through better policy, you should join this programme.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many students choose this because the total cost is very low, around 11,000 rupees, which is much cheaper than similar courses at private universities. Since it is a distance learning course, you can continue working your regular job or preparing for civil service exams while you study. The degree is widely accepted across India, making it a safe and affordable choice for career growth in the social sector.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing MAGD, you can apply for jobs like Social Welfare Officer, Gender Consultant, or Project Manager at local and international levels. Many graduates work with organisations like Kudumbashree, SEWA, or state-run rural livelihood missions. It also helps if you want to work as a researcher or a policy analyst at a think tank that focuses on human rights and social justice.
IGNOU MAGD (M.A. (Gender and Development Studies)) Highlights
The table below provides a quick look at the essential details of the M.A. (Gender and Development Studies) programme. It covers the time you need to complete the course and the basic requirements for entry.
| Programme Name | M.A. (Gender and Development Studies) |
| Programme Code | MAGD |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Offering School | School of Gender and Development Studies |
IGNOU MAGD Admission – Important Details
The IGNOU MAGD Admission takes place twice every year, usually starting in the months of January and July. You will need to select a Study Centre near your home where you will submit your handwritten assignments and attend weekend counseling sessions. Your progress is measured through these assignments, which carry 30% weight, and a final written exam at the end of each year which carries 70% weight. In the second year, you will also have to complete a project or an internship to gain real-world experience.
IGNOU MAGD Admission Last Date 2026
For the January session, the last date for IGNOU MAGD Admission is typically February 28. For the July session, the deadline is usually August 31. You should always check the Samarth Portal for any date extensions, as the university often gives extra time to students to complete their applications.
IGNOU MAGD Eligibility Criteria
To join this Master’s programme, you must meet the following requirements set by the university:
- You must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- You can be a graduate from any field, such as Arts, Science, Commerce, or Engineering.
- There is no minimum percentage or marks required in your graduation to apply.
- There is no age limit; anyone from a fresh graduate to a retired professional can apply.
IGNOU MAGD Fees Structure 2026
The fees for this programme are very affordable and are paid year-by-year during the registration and re-registration process.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| First Year Fee | Rs. 5,400 |
| Second Year Fee | Rs. 5,400 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (One-time) |
| Total Programme Fee | Rs. 11,100 (Approx.) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MAGD Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password using your email and mobile number.
- Log in and fill the application form—select MAGD from the programme list under the Master’s degree section.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near you for submitting assignments.
- Upload required documents: a clear passport-size photo, your signature, and your graduation certificates.
- Pay fees online via Credit/Debit card or UPI through the secure payment gateway.
- Save and print your application form and payment receipt for your records.
IGNOU MAGD Curriculum and Course Structure
The programme is made up of 64 total credits. In the first year, you study four main subjects, and in the second year, you complete more subjects along with a project. This helps you learn both the theory and how to use it in real jobs.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| First Year | MGS-001: Gender and Development: Concepts and Theories |
| First Year | MGS-002: Gender, Agriculture and Sustainable Livelihood |
| First Year | MGS-003: Gender and Development Planning in India |
| First Year | MGS-004: Gender-Sensitive Planning and Policy Making |
| Second Year | MGSP-001: Project Work / Internship |
IGNOU MAGD Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Gender and Development Studies.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Department |
| Prof. Annu J. Thomas | athomas@ignou.ac.in | SOGDS, IGNOU |
| Prof. Nilima Srivastava | nilimasrivastav@ignou.ac.in | SOGDS, IGNOU |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MAGD
Graduates of the M.A. (Gender and Development Studies) can find employment in many different areas. You can work as a Gender Specialist in international agencies like UN Women or UNESCO. Many students find roles as Program Officers in NGOs that work on women’s health and education. You can also work in government departments as a Social Audit Officer or a Child Development Project Officer (CDPO). If you enjoy writing and research, you can work for newspapers or digital media outlets as a Social Issues Reporter.
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 MAGD students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MAGD 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
