IGNOU MPS Admission – Last Date, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus & Career Scope

IGNOU MPS Admission: 2026

The Master of Arts (Political Science) (MPS) is a well-established postgraduate
degree programme offered by the School of Social Sciences (SOSS) at the
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). The programme is designed to provide
advanced theoretical and analytical understanding of political systems, ideologies,
institutions, and processes at national and international levels. It enables learners
to critically examine political behaviour, governance structures, public policies,
and global political developments.

The curriculum of the Master of Arts (Political Science) covers core areas such as
Political Theory, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Indian Government
and Politics. Through a combination of compulsory and elective courses, the programme
develops research aptitude, critical reasoning, and interpretative skills that are
essential for academic research, civil services preparation, and policy-oriented careers.

Securing IGNOU MPS Admission is especially beneficial for learners preparing for
competitive examinations such as UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commissions,
and NET/JRF. Since the programme is offered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL)
mode, it allows working professionals, teachers, and aspirants to pursue higher education
without disrupting their professional commitments.

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IGNOU MPS (Master of Arts in Political Science) Highlights

The MPS programme is a 64-credit postgraduate degree that combines foundational
knowledge with subject specialization. The flexible academic structure allows students
to complete the programme at their own pace within the maximum duration permitted by IGNOU.

Who Should Choose IGNOU MPS?

The IGNOU MPS programme is ideal for students who have a strong interest in politics,
governance, public administration, international affairs, and political philosophy.
It is also well suited for civil services aspirants, teachers, journalists, policy
researchers, NGO professionals, and individuals seeking academic specialization
in political studies.

Learners who wish to pursue doctoral research (Ph.D.) or teaching careers in Political
Science will find this programme particularly useful, as it builds a solid conceptual
and methodological foundation required for advanced research.

IGNOU MPS Admission – Important Details

Admission to the IGNOU MPS programme is offered twice a year during the
January and July admission cycles. There is no entrance examination for
IGNOU MPS Admission. Selection is based solely on fulfillment of the minimum eligibility
criteria prescribed by the university.

Once admitted, students are required to complete assignments, term-end examinations,
and elective course selections in accordance with the academic calendar issued by IGNOU.

IGNOU MPS Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for IGNOU MPS Admission, candidates must meet the following condition:

• Possession of a Bachelor’s Degree or higher qualification in any discipline
  from a university recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

There is no age restriction and no requirement of prior study in Political Science
at the undergraduate level.

IGNOU MPS Fees Structure

The fee structure for IGNOU MPS Admission is affordable and student-friendly,
making it one of the most economical postgraduate degrees in Political Science in India.
The programme fee is payable on a yearly basis.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MPS Admission

The application process for IGNOU MPS Admission is completely online and
conducted through the IGNOU Samarth admission portal.

1. Visit the official portal: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
2. Register as a new applicant and create login credentials
3. Select Programme Code MPS from the list of available programmes
4. Fill in personal, academic, and contact details carefully
5. Upload required documents such as photograph, signature, and certificates
6. Pay the programme fee and registration fee using the online payment gateway
7. Submit the form and download the confirmation receipt

MPS Curriculum and Course Structure

The MPS curriculum consists of 64 credits divided across two years.
The first year includes four compulsory core courses, while the second year allows
students to choose electives based on their area of interest.

Career Opportunities After IGNOU MPS Admission

Graduates of the Master of Arts (Political Science) programme are equipped
for diverse career paths across academic, administrative, and research-oriented sectors.

• Civil Services & Competitive Exams: UPSC, State PSC, and other administrative examinations
• Academia & Research: Teaching careers and Ph.D. research after qualifying NET
• Policy Research & Think Tanks: Policy Analyst and Research Associate roles
• Journalism & Media: Political reporting, analysis, and editorial roles
• International Organizations & NGOs: Governance, development, and advocacy roles

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Political Science compulsory at graduation level for IGNOU MPS Admission?
No. A Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline is sufficient.

What is the maximum duration to complete the MPS programme?
The maximum duration allowed is 4 years.

Is the MPS programme available in Hindi?
Yes, both English and Hindi mediums are available.