MA Rural Development Distance Education Admission 2024-25: A Master of Arts (MA) in Rural Development is a 2-year specialized program offered to candidates who want a deep understanding of rural development concepts, policies, and practices, focusing on the socio-economic aspects of rural areas. Several universities follow a semester-based examination system for their MA in Rural Development distance education program. Admissions for 2024-25 academic sessions are now open, with applications being accepted until an expected deadline of 16 October 2024. Admission is granted based on academic qualifications. Candidates are required to hold a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited university. An annual course fee for this program ranges between INR 14200 to INR 25500.Â
MA Rural Development Distance Education: Quick Facts
- Approval: MA in Rural Development course offered through distance mode is approved by the University Grants Commission’s Distance Education Bureau (UGC-DEB), a statutory body in India.
- Eligibility: Candidates are required to have a bachelor’s degree in any field, achieving at least 55% marks from an accredited university.
- Course Duration: MA Rural Development course can be completed in 2 years along with 4 semesters.
- Application Deadline: The deadline for online registration for MA in Rural Development program is set for 16 October 2024. Â
- Career Opportunities: After completing the MA in Rural Development program, graduates can pursue various career paths, including Development Consultant, Rural Project Manager, Policy Analyst, Community Development Officer, NGO Manager, and Agricultural Extension Officer.Â
MA Rural Development Distance Education: Highlights
| Full-Form | Master of Arts in Rural Development |
| Course Level | Postgraduate |
| Duration | 2 year |
| Examination Type | Semester-based |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. |
| Age Limit | No specific age limit |
| Admission Process | Merit based |
| Course Fees | INR 14200 to INR 25500 |
| Job Position | Rural Livelihoods Coordinator, Microfinance Specialist, Sustainability Consultant |
| Average salary offered | INR 2.5 LPA to INR 4 LPA |
MA Rural Development Course SyllabusÂ
Candidates can enroll in the MA in Rural Development program, which is offered through a semester-based format. The academic syllabus covers a diverse range of subjects, including Rural Development Strategies, Community Engagement, Agricultural Policies, Gender Issues in Development, Sustainable Livelihoods, and Rural Entrepreneurship. Below is an overview of the syllabus for the MA in Rural Development:
| SEMESTER I | SEMESTER II |
| Rural Development Concepts | Rural Governance and Administration in India |
| Rural Development Experiences | Dimensions of Rural Development |
| Basic Economic Theories for Rural Development | Methodology of Social Research |
| Rural Social Framework in India | Quantitative Techniques for Rural Development – II |
| Demographic Dynamics | Rural Industries |
| Quantitative Techniques for Rural Development – I | Public Choice Theories for rural development |
| Rural Development Policies | Application of computer and information tech |
| Rural Development Programmes | Village Survey/Studies and Report Writing |
| SEMESTER III | SEMESTER IV |
| Rural Economy of India | Internship for one month |
| Physical Features, Resources and Environment in Rural Areas | Project Preparation and Project Evaluation(field based
 Practical work) |
| Tools of Project Management and Appraisal | Theories of Rural Planning |
| Project Planning and Management | Decentralised Planning in India and Regional Experiences |
| – | Rural Development Communication and extension |
| – | Voluntarism and Rural Development |
