IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus: 2026
The IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus for the 2026 academic session is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability science. As the global focus shifts towards sustainable development, this curriculum offers a multidisciplinary approach, blending environmental, social, and economic perspectives to prepare students for contemporary challenges.
Last Updated: January 2026
Students pursuing the Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science will find the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus structured to facilitate independent learning through well-defined course modules. This freshness signal ensures that the curriculum aligns with the latest academic guidelines provided by the university for the current enrollment cycle.
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IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus Highlights
The following table provides a quick overview of the essential academic components and the administrative framework of the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus for the current year.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science |
| Programme Code | PGDSS |
| Exam System | Annual |
| Total Credits | 36 |
| Category | IGNOU PGDSS |
IGNOU PGDSS Course Structure
The PGDSS programme follows an annual academic cycle where students must complete a specific set of core courses to earn their diploma. The progression is designed to move from foundational theories of sustainability to specialized modules covering ecological economics and global strategies, ensuring a logical flow of knowledge throughout the year.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses (Core / Elective / Project) | Credits Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Pattern | Core Courses | 36 Total Credits |
IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus: 2026
1st Year First Semester| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MSD 11 | Sustainability Science | 4 |
| MSD 12 | Ecosystem and Natural Resources | 4 |
| MSD 13 | Socio-Cultural System | 4 |
| MSD 14 | Ecological Economics | 4 |
| MSD 15 | Institutions, Governance and Policies | 4 |
| MSD 16 | Strategies and Models for Sustainability | 4 |
| MSD 17 | Challenges to Sustainable Development | 4 |
| MSD 19 | Global Strategies to Sustainable Development | 4 |
| MSD 20 | Population, Health and Sustainability | 4 |
Total Credits: 36
IGNOU PGDSS Credit System
The IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus operates on a credit-based system where each credit represents approximately 30 hours of learner study time. With a total of 36 credits, students are expected to put in around 1080 hours of study, which includes reading materials, watching audio-visual content, and completing assignments. This system allows for a flexible yet rigorous academic experience.
🔗 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: What is the official source for the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus?
The official source for the curriculum is the IGNOU Common Prospectus and the programme guide provided by the School of Interdisciplinary and Trans-disciplinary Studies.
Q2: How can I verify if I am using the latest IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus?
Students should cross-check their course codes with the latest eGyanKosh repository and the January 2026 prospectus to ensure the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus is current.
Q3: How should I use the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus for exam preparation?
The syllabus acts as a roadmap; students should focus on the block-wise and unit-wise breakdown in the study material to cover all topics mentioned in the curriculum.
Q4: Where can I find previous year question papers based on this syllabus?
Question papers for all courses listed in the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus can be downloaded from the official IGNOU Web Revision/Question Paper bank.
Q5: What is the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus revision policy?
IGNOU reserves the right to revise the curriculum periodically. Any changes are typically notified through official university circulars and updated in the annual prospectus.
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) reserves the right to modify, add, or delete any course or content within the IGNOU PGDSS Syllabus at any time. While every effort is made to provide accurate data, students are advised to verify the latest course details from the official IGNOU website or their respective Regional Centres before appearing for examinations.