IGNOU MA in Rural Development: Admission 2026, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Last Date & How to Apply

The Master of Arts in Rural Development (MARD) from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a 2-year postgraduate degree, extendable up to 4 years.

This program is ideal for students and professionals interested in rural development, social welfare, policy-making, NGOs, and research. It provides an interdisciplinary understanding of rural society, economy, planning, and development programs.

IGNOU MA in Rural Development 2026: Key Highlights

IGNOU MA in Rural Development Eligibility Criteria 2026

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in any stream

• Minimum Marks Required: No minimum percentage required

• Age Limit: No age limit

• Entrance Exam: Not applicable (Direct admission)

IGNOU MA in Rural Development Admission 2026

Admission is offered directly (merit-based, no entrance test). The course is available in both January and July sessions.

Applicants can register online, upload required documents, and pay the fee via the IGNOU Samarth Portal.

How To Apply for IGNOU MA in Rural Development Online

1. Visit ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.

2. Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.

3. Fill in your academic, personal, and communication details.

4. Upload documents (passport photo, signature, certificates).

5. Pay the programme fee online (Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI).

6. Save and print your application for future use.

IGNOU MA in Rural Development Fee Structure 2026

IGNOU MA Rural Development Syllabus

The syllabus of MARD provides both theoretical and practical exposure in rural planning, development strategies, and policies.

Syllabus Highlights:

• Rural Society and Economy

• Rural Development Planning and Management

• Research Methods in Rural Development

• Development Policies and Programs

• Rural Communication and Extension

• Dissertation/Project Work

Year-wise Subjects

Career Opportunities after MA Rural Development from IGNOU

Q: What are the career opportunities after completing MA Rural Development from IGNOU?

This program opens up roles in government departments, NGOs, CSR divisions, policy think-tanks, rural development projects, and academic research.

• Career Options: Rural Development Officer, NGO Manager, CSR Specialist, Policy Analyst, Research Scholar

• Average Salary: ₹3.5 – 6 LPA

• Highest Salary: ₹10 LPA+ (with experience & senior positions)

• Top Recruiters: Ministry of Rural Development, NABARD, NGOs (Pradan, CARE, ActionAid), UNDP, Research Institutes

FAQs about IGNOU MA in Rural Development

1. What is the eligibility for IGNOU MA in Rural Development?
A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

2. What is the fee for IGNOU MARD?
₹15,000 for the full 2-year course (₹7,500 per year).

3. Is there an entrance exam for MARD at IGNOU?
No, admission is direct and merit-based.

4. Can I do this course while working?
Yes, the ODL mode is designed for working professionals.

5. What is the exam mode?
Offline, at IGNOU exam centres across India.

6. What are the job opportunities after completing MARD?
You can work with NGOs, government rural development agencies, CSR divisions, or pursue a PhD in Rural Development.