About IGNOU MAEVS – Master of Arts (Environmental Studies)
This postgraduate programme focuses on the complex relationship between human activities and the natural world, covering ecological science, policy making, and conservation. It prepares students for professional roles in environmental management, sustainability planning, and climate change mitigation across various sectors.
The curriculum is designed to provide a deep understanding of how our planet’s systems work and the impact of industrialization and urbanization on these systems. Students engage with subjects like pollution control, biodiversity, and environmental law, which are crucial for anyone looking to make a career in the green economy. By studying these diverse topics, learners gain the ability to analyze environmental data and propose practical solutions for a more sustainable future. This is particularly important for those working in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where local environmental management is becoming a key government priority.
After completing the Master of Arts (Environmental Studies), students will be equipped with the skills to conduct environmental impact assessments, manage waste systems, and draft sustainability reports. These skills are highly valued by government bodies, international NGOs, and private consultancy firms. Whether you are looking to work as a sustainability officer, an environmental educator, or a policy researcher, the training provided here offers the necessary theoretical foundation and practical insights to excel in the field of environmental protection.
IGNOU MAEVS Syllabus Highlights
The following table provides a clear overview of the administrative details and credit requirements for the Master of Arts (Environmental Studies) as per the latest university guidelines.
| Academic Attribute | Details |
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Environmental Studies) |
| Programme Code | MAEVS |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Total Credits | 80 |
| Offering School | School of Interdisciplinary & Trans-Disciplinary Studies |
IGNOU MAEVS Course Structure
The programme is divided into two distinct years, following a semester-based pattern to ensure a systematic learning experience. Students must complete a total of 80 credits, which are distributed across core environmental subjects in the first year and specialized electives and project work in the second year.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses | Credits |
| First Year | Core Courses | 40 Credits |
| Second Year | Electives and Project Work | 40 Credits |
IGNOU MAEVS Syllabus: 2026
Below is the detailed list of subjects included in the Master of Arts (Environmental Studies) curriculum. Please note that while the university uses a semester system, courses are often grouped by year for study material distribution.
First Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MEVE-19 | Environmental Issues | 4 |
| MEV-15 | Environmental Pollution, Control and Management | 4 |
| MEVE-17 | Environment and Society | 4 |
| MSD-19 | Global Strategies to Sustainable Development | 4 |
| MEV-16 | Environmental Impact Assessment | 4 |
| MEVE-11 | Global Climate Change | 4 |
| MEV-17 | Environmental Legislations | 4 |
| MEVE-16 | Urban Environment | 4 |
| MEV-14 | Sustainable Natural Resource Management | 4 |
| MEV-19 | Research Methodology for Environmental Science | 4 |
Second Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MEVE-14 | Biodiversity Conservation and Management | 4 |
| MEV-24 | Climate Change Assessment Tools | 4 |
| MEV-02 | Environmental and Occupational Hazards | 4 |
| MEV-25 | Climate Change and Society | 4 |
| MSD-23 | Social Ecology, Globalisation and Sustainability | 4 |
| MEV-18 | Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology | 4 |
| MED-03 | Energy and Environment | 4 |
| MEVE-12 | Environmental Management | 4 |
| MEVE-15 | Disaster Management | 4 |
| MEDS-42 | Issues and Challenges in Urban Planning and Development | 6 |
| MEVP-12 | Project Work | 6 |
Total Credits: 80
IGNOU MAEVS Credit System
The Master of Arts (Environmental Studies) operates on a credit-based system where each credit represents 30 hours of total study time. For this 80-credit programme, a student is expected to put in approximately 2,400 hours of effort across the two-year duration. These hours include reading the printed modules, watching video lessons on eGyanKosh, writing assignments, and attending weekend counseling sessions at the study center. If a student fails to pass a specific course, they do not need to re-enroll in the entire year; they can simply reappear for the term-end exam of that specific subject in the next cycle, provided their registration remains 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 MAEVS students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MAEVS 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
