IGNOU PGDDVS Admission: 2026
The IGNOU PGDDVS Admission process is designed for professionals and graduates aiming to deepen their understanding of development paradigms and practices. This Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies is a specialized programme offered by the School of Extension and Development Studies. Prospective students can access official information and apply via the IGNOU Official Website to secure their enrollment in this multidisciplinary course.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing an IGNOU PGDDVS Admission provides students with a comprehensive framework to analyze developmental issues from economic, social, and political perspectives. The programme is highly flexible, catering to working individuals who wish to enhance their credentials in the development sector. It emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical applications required for effective development planning and management.
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IGNOU PGDDVS (Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies) Highlights
The Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies (PGDDVS) is a bridge for those looking to transition into the development sector or progress within NGOs and government bodies. Below are the key highlights for students seeking IGNOU PGDDVS Admission.
| Programme Code | PGDDVS |
| School | School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS) |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Mode | Open and Distance Learning (ODL) |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Individuals who are passionate about addressing socio-economic disparities and want to understand the theoretical frameworks behind global development will find this course highly relevant. It is particularly suited for those looking to transition from general academic backgrounds into specialized roles within civil society or public policy sectors.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Students often enroll because the curriculum provides a comprehensive bridge between economic theory and practical social change initiatives. The flexibility allows working professionals to gain a formal qualification in developmental paradigms without pausing their current field-based contributions.
Where Does This Programme Help?
This qualification is instrumental when working on rural empowerment projects or urban sustainability initiatives that require a deep understanding of human development indices. It provides the analytical tools necessary to evaluate government schemes and non-governmental interventions from a critical, multi-dimensional perspective.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates frequently move into programme coordinator roles or research positions where they can design and monitor community-led development strategies. Completion of this diploma often serves as a stepping stone toward specialized consultancy work for international organizations focused on poverty alleviation and social justice.
Programme Coordinator Details
The following faculty members oversee the academic management and student support for the PGDDVS programme. Students may contact them for specific academic queries regarding the curriculum.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email |
| Prof. P.V.K. Sasidhar | pvksasidhar@ignou.ac.in |
| Dr. P.V. Suresh | pvsuresh@ignou.ac.in |
| Dr. Nisha Varghese | nishavarghese@ignou.ac.in |
Programme Coordinator details mentioned above are based on information published in the official IGNOU Prospectus and are provided here only for general reference. IGNOUED is an independent educational information platform and does not represent Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students are encouraged to refer directly to the official IGNOU prospectus or website.
IGNOU PGDDVS Admission – Important Details
The IGNOU PGDDVS Admission is open for both January and July academic cycles. Students are required to submit their applications through the Samarth portal. The programme utilizes a credit-based system, requiring the completion of 32 credits to earn the diploma. It serves as an excellent foundational course for the Master of Arts in Development Studies.
IGNOU PGDDVS Admission Last Date
The IGNOU PGDDVS Admission last date is typically updated twice a year. For the July cycle, the deadline usually falls in late August or September, while for the January cycle, it is generally in February. Candidates are advised to monitor the official portal frequently as extensions are common but not guaranteed.
IGNOU PGDDVS Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for IGNOU PGDDVS Admission, candidates must meet the basic academic requirement of a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university. There is no age limit for enrollment, making it accessible to fresh graduates and mid-career professionals alike. Admission is granted based on direct fulfillment of eligibility without an entrance test.
IGNOU PGDDVS Fees Structure
The total fee for the programme is payable at the time of admission. Please note that an additional registration fee and examination fees are applicable separately.
| Fee Component | Amount (Approximate) |
| Full Programme Fee | Rs. 5,400 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 |
| Examination Fee | As per university norms per course |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU PGDDVS Admission
- Visit the official admission portal at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/.
- Click on “New Registration” and provide a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Log in with your credentials and fill out the personal and academic details for IGNOU PGDDVS Admission.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and relevant educational certificates.
- Pay the programme fee using credit card, debit card, or net banking.
- Submit the form and download the control number for future reference.
PGDDVS Curriculum and Course Structure
The curriculum consists of core courses that cover the diverse facets of development. Each course is designed to provide 6 credits of learning through study material and assignments.
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| MDV-101 | Introduction to Development and Development Theories | 6 |
| MDV-102 | Dynamics of Development | 6 |
| MDV-103 | Issues and Challenges of Development | 6 |
| MDV-106 | Research Methodology in Development Studies | 6 |
| MDV-109 | Development in India – An Overview | 6 |
| MDV-004 | Gender and Development (Elective/Project) | 2 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU PGDDVS Admission
Completing the IGNOU PGDDVS Admission opens doors to various roles in the social sector. Graduates can work as Development Officers, Project Coordinators, or Research Assistants in international agencies, NGOs, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) departments. The diploma also provides a strong base for those intending to pursue a Ph.D. or Master’s in Development Studies.
🔗 Also Read
These related pages provide additional clarity on syllabus structure, study resources, and assignment guidelines associated with this programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date for IGNOU PGDDVS Admission?
The last date for IGNOU PGDDVS Admission varies by cycle. Generally, for the July cycle, it is the end of August, and for January, it is the end of February. Always check the Samarth portal for the latest updates.
Q2: Is there any entrance exam for IGNOU PGDDVS Admission?
No, there is no entrance examination. IGNOU PGDDVS Admission is granted based on the merit of your graduation degree and fulfillment of eligibility criteria.
Q3: Can I pursue a Master’s degree after completing this diploma?
Yes, students who complete their IGNOU PGDDVS Admission and successfully pass the courses can opt for lateral entry or credit transfer into the second year of the MA in Development Studies (MADVS) at IGNOU.
Q4: What is the medium of instruction for this programme?
Currently, the PGDDVS programme is offered primarily in the English medium. Study materials and assignments are provided in English.
Q5: Are there any age restrictions for this course?
There is no maximum age limit for applying to this programme. Anyone with a valid Bachelor’s degree can apply for admission.