About IGNOU MPS – Master of Arts (Political Science)
This postgraduate course teaches students how power works in society, how governments make decisions, and how different countries interact with each other. It prepares students for roles in teaching, research, and public administration by building a deep understanding of political theories and modern governance.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are a graduate from any stream who wants to understand the Indian political system or pursue a career in government services, this course is designed for you. It is particularly helpful for people working in NGOs or social welfare sectors who need to understand policy-making. Many students who plan to appear for civil services exams choose this because it covers a large portion of the general studies and optional syllabus.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Students often choose this Master of Arts (Political Science) because it allows them to study at home while managing a full-time job or preparing for competitive exams. The total cost is much lower than private universities, and the degree is widely accepted for government jobs and higher studies. IGNOU provides the flexibility to complete the degree in up to four years, which is perfect for working professionals or parents.
Where Does This Programme Help?
Graduates from this programme can apply for jobs in various sectors. You can target roles such as Political Analyst, Research Assistant, or Social Media Manager for political parties. It also helps if you want to work as a teacher in schools or colleges after clearing the NET exam. Many graduates find work in organisations like the Centre for Policy Research, Observer Research Foundation, or various state-level think tanks and media houses.
IGNOU MPS (Master of Arts (Political Science)) Highlights
The following table provides a quick look at the core structure and requirements of the Master of Arts (Political Science) course for the 2026 academic session.
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Political Science) |
| Programme Code | MPS |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognised University |
| Medium of Instruction | English and Hindi |
| Offering School | School of Social Sciences |
IGNOU MPS Admission – Important Details
Admission to this course happens in two cycles: January and July. You must register on the Samarth portal and choose your preferred study centre, where you will submit your assignments and attend weekend counselling sessions. It is important to note that while this is a distance learning course, students are expected to submit handwritten assignments for every subject before appearing for the term-end exams. The university provides study material in both digital and printed formats to help you prepare effectively from your home.
IGNOU MPS Admission Last Date 2026
For the January session, the last date is typically February 28, 2026. For the July session, the application deadline is usually July 31, 2026. However, IGNOU often extends these dates by a few weeks. You should always check the official Samarth portal for the most recent updates on deadlines.
IGNOU MPS Eligibility Criteria
To secure a seat in the Master of Arts (Political Science) programme, you must meet these simple requirements:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in any subject (Science, Commerce, or Arts) from a UGC-recognised university.
- No minimum percentage is required at the graduation level.
- There is no upper age limit for applying.
- Candidates who have already completed a Master’s degree in another subject are also eligible to apply.
IGNOU MPS Fees Structure 2026
The fee for the Master of Arts (Political Science) is designed to be affordable for students from all backgrounds. The fee is paid annually.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Programme Fee (Per Year) | Rs. 6,300/- |
| Total Programme Fee | Rs. 12,600/- (2 Years) |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300/- (One-time, non-refundable) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MPS Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password by providing your email and mobile number.
- Fill the application form carefully and select MPS from the programme list.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near your home or workplace for easier access.
- Upload required documents: a clear passport-size photo, your signature, and scanned copies of your degree certificates.
- Pay the admission and registration fees online via Credit/Debit card, Net Banking, or UPI.
- Save and print your final application form and payment receipt for future reference.
IGNOU MPS Curriculum and Course Structure
The course is spread over two years and carries a total of 64 credits. In the first year, you study foundational subjects, and in the second year, you can choose specific areas of interest as electives. Each course is worth 8 credits.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| First Year | MPS-001: Political Theory |
| First Year | MPS-002: International Relations: Theory and Problems |
| First Year | MPS-003: India: Democracy and Development |
| First Year | MPS-004: Comparative Politics: Issues and Trends |
| Second Year | Elective Courses (Choose any 4 from the available list) |
IGNOU MPS Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Social Sciences.
For academic guidance, contact your nearest IGNOU Regional Centre or visit
ignou.ac.in.
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MPS
Completing this Master of Arts (Political Science) degree opens doors to many professional paths. You can work as a High School Teacher or a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) after qualifying for the National Eligibility Test. Many graduates find employment in media houses as political reporters or content writers. You can also work as a Legislative Assistant (LAMP Fellow) or join international organisations like Amnesty International or various United Nations agencies in project management roles.
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 MPS students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MPS Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
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
