The IGNOU MSO Syllabus for 2026 serves as a comprehensive academic roadmap for students pursuing the Master of Arts in Sociology. This curriculum is meticulously designed to provide deep theoretical insights and methodological skills necessary for understanding social structures and dynamics in a globalized world.
Aspiring sociologists will find that the IGNOU MSO Syllabus maintains a balanced approach between classical sociological thought and contemporary social issues. Staying updated with the 2026 academic cycle ensures that learners are following the latest credit requirements and course selections approved by the university academic council.
Last Updated: January 2026
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IGNOU MSO Syllabus Highlights
The following table provides a high-level overview of the key administrative and academic components of the IGNOU MSO Syllabus for students enrolled in the Master of Arts (Sociology) programme.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam System | Annual |
| Total Credits | 64 |
| Category | IGNOU MSO |
| Official Focus | IGNOU MSO Syllabus |
IGNOU MSO Course Structure
The Master of Arts in Sociology is a two-year postgraduate programme structured on an annual system. Students typically complete 32 credits in the first year and an additional 32 credits in the second year, progressing from foundational core courses to specialized elective subjects that align with their research interests.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses (Core / Elective / Project) | Credits Overview |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | Core Courses | 32 Credits |
| 2nd Year | Elective Courses | 32 Credits |
IGNOU MSO Syllabus: 2026
1st Year| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MSO-01 | Sociological Theories and Concepts | 8 |
| MSO-02 | Research Methodologies and Methods | 8 |
| MSO-03 | Sociology of Development | 8 |
| MSO-04 | Sociology in India | 8 |
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MSOE-01 | Sociology of Education | 8 |
| MSOE-02 | Diaspora and Transnational Communities | 8 |
| MSOE-03 | Sociology of Religion | 8 |
| MSOE-04 | Urban Sociology | 8 |
| MPS-03 | India: Democracy and Development | 8 |
| MPA-016 | Decentralisation and Local Governance | 8 |
Total Credits: 80
IGNOU MSO Credit System
The IGNOU MSO Syllabus operates on a credit-based system where each credit represents approximately 30 hours of learner study time. For a full 8-credit course, students are expected to dedicate roughly 240 hours of study, which includes reading study material, completing assignments, and preparing for the term-end examinations.
🔗 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 download the official IGNOU MSO Syllabus for 2026?
The official syllabus can be accessed through the IGNOU Common Prospectus or the eGyanKosh repository. Students should ensure they are using the latest version updated for the current academic session.
Q2: How can I verify the authenticity of the IGNOU MSO Syllabus I am following?
Authenticity is guaranteed when downloading documents directly from the official IGNOU website (ignou.ac.in). Cross-checking course codes against your registration details in the Student Zone is also recommended.
Q3: How should I use the IGNOU MSO Syllabus for exam preparation?
Students should break down the syllabus into individual units and blocks. Prioritize the core themes mentioned in the syllabus and align your study schedule with the topics highlighted in the credit descriptions.
Q4: Are previous year question papers aligned with the current IGNOU MSO Syllabus?
Yes, previous year question papers are a vital tool as they follow the structure outlined in the official syllabus. They help students understand the weightage given to different syllabus topics in actual exams.
Q5: What is the IGNOU MSO Syllabus revision policy?
The university periodically reviews the curriculum to incorporate contemporary sociological research. Students are notified of major changes through official university circulars and the updated prospectus.
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page provides information based on the available reference data for the Master of Arts (Sociology) programme. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) reserves the right to revise or update the syllabus, course codes, or credit values at any time. Students must verify all details from the official IGNOU website or the regional centre before appearing for examinations.