About IGNOU MAWGSR – M.A. (Women’s and Gender Studies)
This master’s degree focuses on the complex relationship between gender, power, and society, helping students look at the world through a more inclusive lens. It prepares learners for careers in social work, policy-making, non-governmental organizations, and academic research where understanding human rights and social justice is key.
The curriculum is designed to be deeply interdisciplinary, pulling in ideas from sociology, history, and political science. Students will learn how gender roles are built by society and how these roles affect everything from family life to international politics. The study materials use real-world examples to explain how gender intersects with other social factors like class, race, and religion. By studying these subjects, you gain the tools to identify inequality and work toward creating more balanced social structures in your community or workplace.
Upon completing this programme, you will be able to conduct independent research and analyze social policies from a gendered perspective. These skills are highly valued in the development sector and by international bodies working on women’s empowerment. Whether you want to work on the ground in rural development or contribute to high-level policy papers, the knowledge gained here provides a solid foundation for professional growth. You will develop a critical mindset that is essential for any modern professional working in the human services or public sector.
IGNOU MAWGSR Syllabus Highlights
The table below summarizes the key administrative and academic details of the M.A. (Women’s and Gender Studies) programme. This overview helps you understand the timeframe and the institutional framework of the IGNOU MAWGSR Syllabus for the 2026 session.
| Academic Attribute | Details |
| Programme Name | M.A. (Women’s and Gender Studies) |
| Programme Code | MAWGSR |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Total Credits | 64 |
| Offering School | School of Gender and Development Studies |
IGNOU MAWGSR Course Structure
The programme is divided into two academic years, with each year consisting of two semesters. Students must complete a total of 64 credits to earn their degree, balanced equally between the first and second years of study. The structure is designed to move from foundational theories to more specialized topics like media and national identity.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses | Credits |
| 1st Year | Core Courses | 32 Credits |
| 2nd Year | Core + Elective / Project | 32 Credits |
IGNOU MAWGSR Syllabus: 2026
Below is the detailed breakdown of the subjects you will study in each semester. Each course has been assigned a specific credit value that determines the depth of the study material and the weightage in the final evaluation.
1st Year: First Semester
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MWG-001 | Theories of Women’s and Gender Studies | 8 |
| MWG-002 | Gender and Power | 8 |
1st Year: Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MWG-003 | Constructing Gender through Arts and Media | 8 |
| MWG-004 | Gendered Bodies and Sexualities | 8 |
2nd Year: Third Semester
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MWG-005 | Research Methods in Gender Studies | 8 |
| MWG-006 | Gendered Nation | 8 |
2nd Year: Fourth Semester
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MWG-007 | Postmodernism and Gender | 8 |
| MWG-008 | Gender and Life Narratives | 8 |
Total Credits: 64
IGNOU MAWGSR Credit System
The university follows a credit system where 1 credit equals 30 hours of total study time. Since this programme consists of 64 credits, you should plan for about 1,920 hours of academic work, including reading the blocks, writing assignments, and preparing for exams. These credits are mainly theory-based but require deep critical thinking and reflection. If you do not pass a particular course, you do not need to re-enroll in the whole programme; you can simply pay the examination fee and reappear for that specific subject in the next exam cycle within your maximum duration.
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
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Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MAWGSR 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
