About IGNOU MAAN – Master of Arts (Anthropology)
This post-graduate programme explores the complex study of human beings across different cultures, time periods, and biological variations. It prepares students for specialized work in research organizations, NGOs, museums, and government departments focused on tribal or social development.
The Master of Arts (Anthropology) curriculum is carefully designed to provide a holistic understanding of humanity. By studying the IGNOU MAAN Syllabus, students dive into four major sub-fields: social-cultural anthropology, biological/physical anthropology, archaeological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. This broad range ensures that learners understand not just how humans lived in the past, but how contemporary societies function and how biological evolution continues to shape our species. For a student living in any part of India, this degree offers a way to look at local traditions and global trends through a scientific and analytical lens.
Upon completing this programme, students will have developed strong ethnographic research skills and the ability to conduct fieldwork in diverse environments. The IGNOU MAAN Syllabus emphasizes the “insider’s view,” teaching students how to observe and document human behavior without bias. These skills are highly valued in roles like social researchers, community health workers, conservationists, and policy analysts. Whether you are interested in the genetic makeup of populations or the social structures of indigenous tribes, this course provides the necessary academic grounding to excel in the field of anthropology.
IGNOU MAAN Syllabus Highlights
The table below provides a quick summary of the Master of Arts (Anthropology) programme details. These highlights are essential for understanding the administrative requirements of the current 2026 session.
| Academic Attribute | Details |
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Anthropology) |
| Programme Code | MAAN |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Total Credits | 64 |
| Offering School | School of Social Sciences |
IGNOU MAAN Course Structure
The Master of Arts (Anthropology) is an annual programme spanning two academic years. In the first year, students cover foundational core courses that establish the basics of research and the various branches of anthropology. The second year focuses on practical application through fieldwork, a dissertation, and a choice of specialized elective subjects to deepen knowledge in specific areas.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses | Credits |
| 1st Year | Core Courses | 32 Credits |
| 2nd Year | Elective Courses, Fieldwork, and Dissertation | 32 Credits |
IGNOU MAAN Syllabus: 2026
The following tables list the specific course codes and titles you will study during your two-year journey in the Master of Arts (Anthropology) programme. Please note that each course carries a weightage of 8 credits.
1st Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MANI-001 | Anthropology and Methods of Research | 8 |
| MANI-002 | Physical Anthropology | 8 |
| MAN-001 | Social Anthropology | 8 |
| MAN-002 | Archaeological Anthropology | 8 |
2nd Year
In the second year, students must complete the mandatory fieldwork and dissertation along with the “Practicing Anthropology” course. The remaining credits are earned through specialized elective subjects as per the current framework.
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MANP-001 | Fieldwork and Dissertation | 8 |
| MANI-003 | Practicing Anthropology | 8 |
| MANE-001 | Human Genetics | 8 |
| MANE-002 | Human Growth and Development | 8 |
| MANE-003 | Comparative Ethnography | 8 |
| MANE-004 | Gender and Society | 8 |
| MANE-005 | Environmental Anthropology | 8 |
| MANE-006 | Social Stratification | 8 |
| MANE-007 | Tribes in India | 8 |
Total Credits: 64
IGNOU MAAN Credit System
The IGNOU MAAN Syllabus follows a standard credit system where 1 credit is equal to approximately 30 hours of study time. Since the Master of Arts (Anthropology) requires a total of 64 credits, a student will spend roughly 1,920 hours completing the entire programme. This time includes reading the printed study blocks, writing assignments, and participating in field research. Credits are split between theory papers and the heavy practical component involved in the MANP-001 dissertation. If a student fails to clear a particular course in the term-end exam, they can simply reappear in the next cycle without having to re-enroll in the whole programme, provided their registration is still valid.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ The syllabus reflects the 2026 academic framework. IGNOU may revise course contents at its discretion. Always verify the latest syllabus at ignou.ac.in before starting your studies.
Also Read
More resources for MAAN students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MAAN Syllabus
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University). The syllabus information provided here is for academic reference only and may be subject to revision by IGNOU. Always verify the latest course structure at ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
