IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender: Admission 2026, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Last Date & How to Apply

The Master of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies (MAWGS) at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a 2-year postgraduate degree extendable up to 4 years.

This program is designed for students, professionals, and researchers interested in exploring issues related to gender, women’s rights, social justice, public policy, and feminist perspectives. It equips learners for roles in academia, NGOs, development organizations, advocacy groups, and policy-making institutions.

IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies 2026: Key Highlights

IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies Eligibility Criteria 2026

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any stream

• Minimum Marks Required: No minimum percentage required

• Age Limit: No age restrictions

• Entrance Exam: No entrance exam (Direct Admission)

IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies Admission 2026

Admission is direct and merit-based.
It is available in both January and July sessions.

The admission process is fully online through IGNOU’s Samarth Portal. Candidates need to fill out the form, upload documents, and pay the fee digitally.

IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies Fee Structure 2026

IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies Syllabus

The syllabus blends theoretical frameworks with applied gender studies, covering research, feminist theories, and women’s issues in social, political, and cultural contexts.

Syllabus Highlights:

• Feminist Thought & Theory

• Gender, Society & Development

• Women and Law

• Women’s Movements in India and Global South

• Research Methods in Gender Studies

• Dissertation / Project Work

Career Opportunities after MA Women’s and Gender Studies from IGNOU

Q: What are the career opportunities after completing MA in Women’s and Gender Studies from IGNOU?

Graduates can work in universities, NGOs, policy think tanks, research institutions, advocacy organizations, and international development agencies.

• Career Options: Gender Specialist, NGO Project Manager, Researcher, Policy Analyst, Advocacy Officer, Lecturer

• Average Salary: ₹4 – 7 LPA

• Top Recruiters: UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, National Commissions, NGOs, Research Institutes

FAQs about IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies

1. What is the eligibility for IGNOU MA Women’s and Gender Studies?
A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

2. What is the total fee for the program?
₹16,000 for the entire course (₹8,000 per year).

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

4. What is the medium of instruction?
The course is offered in English.

5. Can working professionals apply?
Yes, the flexible ODL mode makes it ideal for professionals.

6. What are the job prospects after completion?
You can work in NGOs, research, academia, media, and policy-making sectors.