About IGNOU MAER – Master of Arts (Entrepreneurship)
This programme teaches you how to start and manage your own small business or startup. It focuses on practical things like writing a business plan, managing money, and understanding how markets work so you can run a profitable company.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you have finished your bachelor’s degree and want to start a shop, a small factory, or an online service instead of looking for a regular 9-to-5 job, this course is for you. It is also a good fit for people who already run a family business and want to learn modern ways to grow it. Even if you are currently working in a private company but plan to quit and launch your own brand in a few years, this degree provides the right foundation.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students pick this course because it is much cheaper than doing an MBA at a private college but still gives you a Master’s degree recognized across India. Since it is a distance learning course, you don’t have to leave your home or current job to attend classes every day. It provides a structured way to learn about government schemes and bank loans that help new businesses, which is hard to learn on your own.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After finishing this degree, you can work as a Business Development Executive, a Startup Mentor, or a Project Manager in firms that support small businesses. You can also apply for jobs in government organizations like the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) or state-level industrial corporations. Many graduates use this knowledge to become independent consultants who help others register their companies and manage their taxes.
IGNOU MAER (Master of Arts (Entrepreneurship)) Highlights
The following table provides a quick overview of the essential details you need to know before applying for the Master of Arts (Entrepreneurship) programme for the 2026 session.
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Entrepreneurship) |
| Programme Code | MAER |
| 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 Vocational Education & Training |
IGNOU MAER Admission – Important Details
The admission for this Master’s degree happens in two cycles every year. You can join either in the January session or the July session depending on when you are ready. After you get admission, you will be assigned a Study Centre where you can submit your assignments and attend weekend counseling sessions. It is important to keep track of your 10-digit enrollment number which will be your main identity for all university work including exams and results. Make sure to check the Samarth portal regularly for updates on your admission status.
IGNOU MAER Admission Last Date 2026
For students planning to join the January session, the last date to apply is typically February 28, 2026. If you are looking at the July session, the deadline is usually July 31, 2026. However, IGNOU often extends these dates by a few weeks. You must complete your registration on the Samarth Portal before the closing link is removed. Late applications are generally not accepted, so try to finish the process at least 10 days before the deadline.
IGNOU MAER Eligibility Criteria
To secure a seat in this programme, candidates must meet the following basic requirements as set by the university:
- You must have a Bachelor’s degree in any stream (Arts, Science, Commerce, etc.).
- The degree must be from a university recognized by the UGC.
- There is no minimum percentage required in graduation to apply.
- There is no age bar; anyone from a fresh graduate to a retired professional can join.
IGNOU MAER Fees Structure 2026
The total cost of this Master’s degree is very affordable. You pay the fee every year rather than paying the whole amount at once during admission.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| First Year Fee | INR 7,500 |
| Second Year Fee | INR 7,500 |
| Total Programme Fee | INR 15,000 |
Note: You will also have to pay a small registration fee at the time of first-time admission and an examination fee of approximately 200 rupees per subject whenever you fill out the exam form.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MAER Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password using your email ID and mobile number.
- Log in and fill the application form—select MAER from the programme list in the ‘Programme’ section.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near your home or workplace for convenience.
- Upload required documents: your recent photo, signature, and scanned copies of your graduation certificates.
- Pay the fees online using a Debit card, Credit card, or UPI.
- Save and print your application form and payment receipt for your records.
IGNOU MAER Curriculum and Course Structure
The Master of Arts (Entrepreneurship) is a 66-credit programme. Each subject carries a specific number of credits, and you must pass both assignments and term-end exams to earn these credits. The subjects are designed to move from basic theories to practical management skills.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| First Year | MER-001: Business and Entrepreneurial Theories |
| First Year | MER-002: Business Environment and Policy |
| First Year | MER-003: Business Planning and Project Management |
| Second Year | MER-004: Entrepreneurial Finance |
| Second Year | MER-005: Marketing and Sales Management |
IGNOU MAER Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Vocational Education & Training.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Dr. R.S.P. Singh | rspsingh@ignou.ac.in | Check official IGNOU website for current details. |
| Dr. Geetika S. Johry | geetikajohry@ignou.ac.in | Check official IGNOU website for current details. |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MAER
Graduates with this degree can work in diverse roles such as Small Business Manager, Operations Manager, or Franchise Manager. Many people join NGOs that work on rural development or join government departments that help local artisans and farmers start their own small units. You can also find work in private banks as a Loan Officer focusing on MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) lending. Because this degree focuses on sales and marketing, you can also join the sales teams of startups in cities like Bangalore, Delhi, or Pune.
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 MAER students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MAER Admission
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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
