IGNOU PGDDS: Admission 2026, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Last Date & How to Apply

Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a flexible and affordable 1 Year postgraduate diploma degree—extendable up to 3 Years. Conducted fully through Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode, it’s ideal for working professionals, homemakers, and learners across India. With a UGC-recognized degree, flexible timelines, and an extensive alumni base, IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across development policy, NGOs, and social research.

IGNOU PGDDS 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU PGDDS Eligibility Criteria 2026

To be eligible for admission to the IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies program, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum Marks Required: No minimum percentage specified.
• Age Limit: No age limit.
• Entrance Exam (if any): No entrance test required.
• Other Requirements: None, though interest in development studies or social work is beneficial but not mandatory.

How To Apply for IGNOU PGDDS Online 2026

Admission to Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is done entirely online through the IGNOU Online Admission System. Follow the step-by-step process below to successfully submit your application.

Step 1: Review Course Details

• Go to the “Available Programmes” section on the IGNOU admission portal.
• Select Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies and check:
  • Eligibility criteria
  • Programme fees
  • Duration
  • Study mode (distance)
• Download the IGNOU Common Prospectus and read the university rules carefully.

Step 2: Register on the IGNOU Admission Portal

• Click “New Registration” in the applicant login area.
• Fill in the required personal details:
  • Username: 8–16 characters
  • Password: Alphanumeric, 8–16 characters
  • Use your own active email address and mobile number.
• Click “Submit” — your username and password will be sent via SMS and email.
• Already registered? Click “Login” to continue.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

Keep scanned copies of the following documents ready (from originals only):

Step 4: Fill and Submit the Online Application Form

• Log in with your registered credentials.
• Fill in your personal, educational, and communication details accurately.
• Upload the scanned documents in the prescribed format and size.
• Review all details carefully before final submission.
• Download/print the application form for future reference.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The registration/programme fee can be paid online through:

• Credit Card (Master/Visa)
• Debit Card (Master/Visa/RuPay)
• Net Banking

Important Fee & Refund Rules

• Registration fee is non-refundable.
• Before admission confirmation: full programme fee refundable.
• After confirmation: 15% of the programme fee (max ₹2,000) will be deducted.
• No refund after 60 days from the closing date of admissions.
• Students with fee exemption will have refund rules applied as per IGNOU policy.

Check : IGNOU Admission 2026

IGNOU PGDDS Fee Structure  2026

The annual fees to study Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies from IGNOU is INR 7,000, and the total fees range between INR 7,000 for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than the traditional Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies program offered by institutions like TISS, Azim Premji University, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU PGDDS Syllabus

The IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies syllabus is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge of development theories, policies, and practices, focusing on socio-economic and sustainable development. The program totals 36 credits, comprising six core courses that cover development challenges, policies, and research methods, preparing students for roles in development and policy-making.

• Key Features:
  • Covers development theories, policies, and sustainable development practices.
  • Focuses on socio-economic issues, globalization, and research methodologies.
  • Equips students for practical application in development projects and NGOs.

The syllabus for Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies covers core and elective subjects to provide comprehensive knowledge.

IGNOU PGDDS Career Opportunities

Completing the Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies from IGNOU equips graduates with skills to work in development policy, social research, and community development. The program prepares professionals for careers in NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations, addressing socio-economic and sustainable development challenges.

• Career options: Development Consultant, Policy Analyst, NGO Program Coordinator, Social Researcher, Community Development Officer.
• Top recruiters: Oxfam, ActionAid, UNDP, Government of India (NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development), Azim Premji Foundation.
• Average salary: INR 3-6 LPA for entry-level roles; experienced professionals can earn INR 6-10 LPA.
• Highest salary packages: Up to INR 12-15 LPA in senior roles or international organizations.

FAQs about PGDDS From IGNOU

1. Is PGDDS from IGNOU recognized by UGC?
   Yes, the Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies (PGDDS) from IGNOU is recognized by UGC and equivalent to conventional diplomas, valid for jobs and further studies.

2. What is the fee for the IGNOU PGDDS course?
   The total fee for IGNOU PGDDS is Rs. 7,000 for the full program, plus a one-time registration fee of Rs. 300. Exam fees are Rs. 200 per course.

3. Does IGNOU PGDDS require an entrance exam?
   No, admission to IGNOU PGDDS is merit-based; no entrance exam is required. Eligibility is based on a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

4. What is the duration of PGDDS at IGNOU?
   The minimum duration for IGNOU PGDDS is 1 year, extendable up to 3 years, offering flexibility for working professionals.

5. What jobs can I get after completing PGDDS from IGNOU?
   After PGDDS, you can pursue roles like Development Consultant, Policy Analyst, or NGO Program Coordinator in NGOs, government, or international organizations.

6. How can I download the IGNOU PGDDS syllabus PDF?
   Download the detailed PGDDS syllabus from the IGNOU website under the School of Extension and Development Studies or in the Common Prospectus 2026 at ignou.ac.in.