Planning to pursue a Master of Arts in Public Administration (MPA) from IGNOU? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a working professional aiming to enhance your administrative skills or a student keen to dive deep into governance and policy, IGNOU’s MPA program is one of the most flexible and affordable options available in India. In this comprehensive guide, we cover the entire syllabus for IGNOU MPA for the 2025 session, along with detailed credit distribution, elective choices, and helpful tips for new students.
What is IGNOU MPA?
The Master of Arts in Public Administration (MPA) from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a two-year postgraduate degree designed for learners interested in governance, public policy, administrative theories, development dynamics, and financial management in the public sector. The course is structured to provide a strong theoretical foundation along with practical administrative skills.
IGNOU MPA is offered under the open and distance learning (ODL) mode, making it a perfect fit for learners who want flexibility in managing their studies alongside professional or personal commitments.
Key Features of IGNOU MPA Program
- Program Duration: Minimum 2 years | Maximum 5 years
- Medium of Instruction: English & Hindi
- Total Credits Required: 64 credits
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree or higher in any discipline from a recognized university
IGNOU MPA Syllabus Structure 2025
The IGNOU MPA course is divided into two years. Each year comprises a specific set of core and elective subjects. Here’s a breakdown of the syllabus with course codes and credit weightage.
MPA First Year Subjects (All are compulsory)
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MPA-011 | State, Society and Public Administration | 8 |
| MPA-012 | Administrative Theory | 8 |
| MPA-013 | Public Systems Management | 8 |
| MPA-014 | Human Resource Management | 8 |
| Total | 32 |
MPA Second Year Subjects (Choose electives)
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| MPA-015 | Public Policy | 4 |
| MPA-016 | Decentralization and Local Governance | 4 |
| MPA-017 | Electronic Governance | 4 |
| MPA-018 | Disaster Management | 4 |
| MPA-019 | Administrative Law | 4 |
| MPA-020 | Personnel Administration | 4 |
| MPA-021 | Social Science Research Methods | 4 |
| MPA-022 | Project Work | 8 |
| Total | Students must complete 32 credits from electives | 32 |
Note: Students can select from a list of electives based on their area of interest or career goals. It is advisable to consult academic counselors before finalizing subject combinations.
Credit System in IGNOU MPA
IGNOU follows a credit-based system where one credit equals 30 hours of study. The entire MPA program consists of 64 credits. This includes both theoretical and practical components. Students must complete all the required credits to be eligible for award of degree.
Project Work (MPA-022)
In the second year, MPA-022 (Project Work) is a crucial component carrying 8 credits. It allows students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting through a research project. This is particularly valuable for students planning a career in public service, NGOs, or policy research.
Tips for Project Work:
- Choose a topic relevant to current administrative or governance challenges
- Use proper research methodology
- Seek guidance from faculty or counselors
Who Should Opt for IGNOU MPA?
- Government job aspirants (UPSC, State PSC, etc.)
- Working professionals in the public or NGO sector
- Students interested in governance, policy, and public administration
- Candidates aiming for higher studies or research in public policy
Why Choose IGNOU MPA?
- Flexible study schedule for working professionals
- Affordable fees
- Widely recognized degree across India
- Comprehensive curriculum covering both theoretical and practical aspects
- Access to regional and study centers for academic support
Important Points to Remember
- Submit assignments on time (weightage in final evaluation)
- Attend practical and counseling sessions if possible
- Stay updated through IGNOU’s official website and regional center announcements
FAQs about IGNOU MPA Syllabus 2025
Q1. Is there any practical or fieldwork in the IGNOU MPA course? Yes, MPA-022 (Project Work) includes field research or data analysis under supervision.
Q2. Can I complete IGNOU MPA in one year? No. The minimum duration for the MPA program is 2 years.
Q3. How many electives do I need to choose in the second year? You must complete 32 credits from the available elective courses.
Q4. Is IGNOU MPA degree valid for government jobs? Yes. IGNOU is a UGC-recognized university and its degrees are valid for all central and state government exams.
Q5. Can I change my electives after registration? Changes may be possible within a limited time. Contact your regional center for specific procedures.
For more information and updates, always refer to the official IGNOU website. Make sure to read the latest prospectus for session-specific guidelines.
Final Words: IGNOU MPA is an excellent opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge in public administration without disrupting your professional life. With the 2025 syllabus, students can benefit from an updated curriculum aligned with current governance trends and administrative needs.
