IGNOU MADJ Syllabus: 2026
The IGNOU MADJ Syllabus for the Master of Arts (Development Journalism) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of development communication and journalism practices. As of 2026, the curriculum remains aligned with the latest industry standards and academic requirements set by the Indira Gandhi National Open University to ensure students are well-prepared for the evolving media landscape.
Last Updated: January 2026
Prospective and current students can utilize this detailed overview of the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus to plan their academic journey effectively. The program focuses on bridging the gap between social change and media, offering a specialized track for those looking to make a significant impact through development-oriented reporting and communication strategies.
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IGNOU MADJ Syllabus Highlights
The following table provides a quick overview of the essential administrative and academic components of the Master of Arts (Development Journalism) program as per the official IGNOU MADJ Syllabus guidelines.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Full Name | Master of Arts (Development Journalism) |
| Exam System | Annual |
| Total Credits | 72 |
| Category | IGNOU MADJ |
| Latest Revision | 2026 |
IGNOU MADJ Course Structure
The IGNOU MADJ Syllabus is structured to be completed over a minimum duration of two years, following an annual academic cycle. Students progress through a series of core courses and specialized electives, culminating in practical portfolios or dissertations that validate their learning and field application throughout the program.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses (Core / Elective / Project) | Credits Overview |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | Core Courses | 36 Credits |
| 2nd Year | Specialized Electives & Project | 36 Credits |
IGNOU MADJ Syllabus: 2026
1st Year| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MDC-01 | Fundamentals of Development and Communication | 6 |
| MJM-30 | Media and Communication Theories | 6 |
| MDC-02 | Human Development and Communication | 6 |
| MDC-03 | Media in Development Communication | 6 |
| MDC-04 | Development Journalism for Social Change | 6 |
| MDC-05 | Development: Information Communication Technologies | 6 |
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MDJ-01 | I Health Journalism | 6 |
| MDJ-02 | Environmental Journalism | 6 |
| MDJ-03 | Development Through Digital Media | 6 |
| MDCE-06 | Research Methods in Development Communication | 6 |
| MRDE-203 | Communication and Extension in Rural Development | 6 |
| MRD-203 | Rural Development Planning and Management | 6 |
| MDJP-04 | Dissertation | 6 |
| MDJP-05 | Production Portfolio | 6 |
Total Credits: 84
IGNOU MADJ Credit System
The IGNOU MADJ Syllabus operates on a credit-based system where each credit represents approximately 30 hours of learner study time. This includes reading study materials, attending counseling sessions, and completing assignments. To successfully complete the Master of Arts (Development Journalism), students must accumulate the total credits specified in the program guidelines.
🔗 Also Read
The following resources help students explore additional academic references related to the syllabus, including study materials, assignments, and previous year question papers for exam preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where can I find the official source for the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus?
The official source for the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus is the IGNOU Common Prospectus and the eGyanKosh digital repository. Students should always refer to the latest prospectus for the most accurate and updated course information.
Q2: Is the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus provided here the latest version for 2026?
Yes, the syllabus details provided reflect the current academic structure for 2026. However, students are encouraged to verify details with the official IGNOU website as minor administrative changes can occur.
Q3: How should I use the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus for exam preparation?
Students should use the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus to identify core themes and course objectives. Breaking down the syllabus into individual units helps in organizing study schedules and ensuring all topics are covered before the Term-End Examinations.
Q4: Can I access previous year question papers based on the current IGNOU MADJ Syllabus?
Yes, IGNOU maintains an archive of previous year question papers that align with the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus. Reviewing these papers is essential for understanding the exam pattern and the weightage of different syllabus sections.
Q5: What is the syllabus revision policy for the MADJ program?
IGNOU periodically reviews the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus to incorporate emerging trends in digital media and development. Any major revisions are typically announced at the start of the academic cycle in the official prospectus.
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the IGNOU MADJ Syllabus details, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) reserves the right to revise or modify the curriculum, course codes, or credit values at any time. Students must verify all syllabus data with the official IGNOU Prospectus or university department before making academic decisions.