Master of Arts in Public Administration (MPA) is offered through ODL (Open and Distance Learning) mode at IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) under the SOSS (School of Social Science). The main objective of the program is to offer comprehensive and in-depth knowledge to the students with a perspective of the classification and relationship of society, state, management, and administration. The curriculum of the program is updated and revised according to the latest education policy to offer world-class education to students, and with the assistance of distance education, students from remote areas can pursue their higher studies. Students Also Ask - IGNOU MA Distance!

What’s new at IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University)?

IGNOU has extended the January 2026 ODL Admission and re-registration deadline till March 15th, 2026 Click here

The program includes major aspects of public administration such as public systems management, decentralization and local governance, public systems management, human resource management, research methodologies and methods, and so on. The duration of the program is 2 years, but IGNOU offers a leverage of an additional 3 years, i.e., students can complete their degree in a maximum of 5 years.

The eligibility criteria of the program require only a bachelor’s or higher degree in any stream from a valid and recognized university. IGNOU offers a flexible and open learning environment to the students and highly accessible study material, which can be accessed at any point in time according to the comfort and preference of the students. 

IGNOU is the largest open university in the world and the first open university in India that is accredited with an NAAC “A++” grade simultaneously. The university has also received recognition from UGC-DEB (University Grants Commission-Distance Education Bureau).

IGNOU has been known for its amazing facilities and world-class education, and the fee structure of every program offered at the university is specially designed in such a way that it becomes affordable and pocket-friendly for students and working professionals. After completing an MA in Public Administration from IGNOU, there are various career opportunities students can opt for, such as administrative officer, consultant, teacher, civil services, management analyst, and so on.