You can achieve your dream of making India's rural villages stronger, more economically vibrant, and self-sufficient by completing the IGNOU MA in Rural Development.
This program is designed to train professionals who can tackle real rural problems, from governance to policy to education to livelihood management. It is more than a degree. It is a commitment.
Unnati Education believes every learner who wishes to serve rural India should receive the best support, guidance, and clarity. This is why we will guide you throughout the entire process, from enrollment to exam success.
The MA Rural Development Program (MARD), a postgraduate program of two years, is designed to prepare students for leadership and strategic roles within rural development sectors. It integrates interdisciplinary education with real-world experience to develop socially conscious professionals.
The program curriculum develops knowledge in five key areas.
* Rural Governance Policy Formulation
* Economic Development and Planning
* Social Change Participation
* Environmental and Sustainable Development
* Project Management Methodologies and Research Methods
IGNOU’s Open and Distance Learning System includes printed self learning materials, digital content, online lectures, and periodic academic counselling sessions. The course may be completed within two years or extended to five years, depending on the learners' convenience.
To be eligible to apply for the MARD Program, students must possess a bachelor's degree in a recognized discipline.
There is no maximum age for the program, which is open both to recent graduates and professionals who have an interest in rural governance, policy, or development.
The language of instruction is either English or Hindi.
Unnati Education will handle your application, selection of subjects, and purchase of study materials seamlessly. You can concentrate on learning, while we manage the paperwork.
The IGNOU MARD course is spread over two academic years with a system of credits totaling 66.
| TYPE | SUBJECTS | CODE | CREDITS |
|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | Rural Development: Indian Context | MRD-101 | 6 |
| CORE | Rural Development Programmes | MRD-102 | 6 |
| CORE | Rural Development: Planning and Management | MRD-103 | 6 |
| CORE | Project Work | MRDP-001 | 6 |
| TYPE | SUBJECTS | CODE | CREDITS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTIVE (Electives – Any 4) | 1. Rural Social Development 2. Research Methods 3. Communication and Extension 4. Land Reforms and Rural Development 5. Management of Rural Development Projects 6. Voluntary Action in Rural Development |
1. RDD-6 2. RDD-7 3. MRDE-101 4. MRDE-002 5. MRDE-003 6. MRDE-004 |
6 each |
Each course focuses on applied learning via case studies and field research. Students gain a holistic understanding of India's rural ecosystem by the end of the course and acquire skills in policy development, implementation, and impact evaluation.
IGNOU offers a degree in Rural Development that opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the public as well as private sectors. Graduates will be able to contribute to India’s development goals through designing, executing, monitoring, and evaluating programs that improve rural lifestyles.
Top Career Roles & Opportunities
Average Salary range
| Role | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Rural Development Officer | Rs3 L. - Rs6 l |
| Policy Analyst | Rs4 L. - Rs8 l |
| NGO Manager | Rs3 L. - Rs6 l |
| Social Researcher | Rs3.5 L – Rs7 L |
| CSR Executive | Rs4 L. - Rs9 l |
| Agricultural Extension Officer | Rs3 L. - Rs6 l |
Career growth depends on your experience, skills, and organization scale. But many graduates see this as a rewarding and high-impact career.
Students who complete the MA in Rural Development can go on to pursue advanced research or specialized programs, such as:
* PhD in Rural Development or Development Studies
* M.Phil. The M.Phil.
* MBA in Rural Management, Social Enterprise or Social Enterprise
These programs provide opportunities for career advancement in academic, research, and policy roles at universities and international organisations.
India's growth is dependent on inclusive development, which means strengthening India's villages. Rural India is faced with complex challenges ranging from agriculture, education and sustainability. It requires visionary leaders. The IGNOU MARD creates professionals with the ability to analyze, innovate, and implement solutions, which have a direct impact on millions of people.
The program is useful to:
* Civil service aspirants seeking a stronger understanding of development administration.
* NGO professionals who wish to scale up their impact.
* Teachers and social workers are looking to formalize your expertise.
* Corporate CSR Teams focus on sustainable rural projects.
Unnati Education guides you through the entire learning process -- from registration to assignments to exam preparation. This ensures that your learning is well-organized and focused on your goals.
IGNOU MA Rural Development is not just an academic qualification. It is a journey to transform your life and connect you with India's grassroots. Combining academic rigor with practical relevance, the MARD will empower you to make a lasting impact in the communities and villages that are the heart of India.
The program provides you with the tools and knowledge to succeed in any career you choose, be it governance, research, or policy institutions.
Unnati Education will make your IGNOU experience simple, focused, and successful. We'll guide you through each step, from 0 to 100.
