IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
Delhi3.2/5 (Total 5 Reviews)
Approvals :




Stuck on Approvals? Get clarity instantly!


Written ByPriya Pandey
Last Updated : June 22, 2026
Latest Updates
IGNOU Extends July 2026 Admission Date for Fresh Applications by July 15th and for Re-registration by June 30th.
About IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
The Indira Gandhi National Open University's 2-year postgraduate program, MA in economics, provides postgraduate studies in economic policy in a flexible way. This modern and flexible learning option enables students to balance their studies with other life responsibilities.
Students who desire to study or settle abroad after completing a master's degree can pursue this higher education and go anywhere in the world. The syllabus of the program is organised to provide in-depth knowledge. The hands-on projects, assignments, exams, and conceptual theories are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Follow the credits system to track progress and complete 80 credits over 2 - 5 years. The university offers placement assistance to students and ensures the right candidate is placed at the right organisation.
Students get access to skill enhancement sessions, networking events, a pan-India library, and alumni connections. Apart from this, they have access to download course ebooks, attend live classes, recorded lectures, and the online library directly from the university website.
Why Choose IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
- Most Affordable MA Programs: Gain a professional MA degree with the lowest structure in India.
- Dedicated DTH & Radio Channels: Seamless learning and continuous support with dedicated Gyanvani and Gyandarshan channels.
- PAN India Study Centres: Access guidance, exams, and real-time assistance through a wide network of over 2457 regional and study centres.
Trusted by 3 million Students
India’s most trusted open university with a massive learner base and proven academic excellence.
Most Affordable Programs
Quality education at the lowest cost, making higher-education programs accessible to all.
Attractive Scholarships
Multiple scholarships, a stipend, and a fee exemption to reduce the program fee.
Approvals of IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
UGC-DEB
NIRF
NAAC A++
AICTE
Course Highlight & Benefits
| Section | Details |
| University Name | Indira Gandhi National Open University |
| Program Name | Master’s of Arts in Economics |
| Mode | Distance (ODL) |
| Fee | INR 9,500 Annual |
| Degree Level | Master 's-Level Degree Program |
| Eligibility | Graduation Degree |
| Credit System | 80 Credits |
| Approvals/Ranking | WES | UGC-DEB | AICTE | NAAC A++ | NIRF 2026: Open University Ranking |
| Entrance Exam | Not Mandatory to Appear |
| Study Materials | Physical Books | E-Books | Live Classes | Offline Classes | Recorded Lectures |
| Medium | English & Hindi |
| Placement Assistance | Job Fair | Workshops | Employer Networking | Skill Sessions |
| Job Roles | Financial Analyst | Data Analyst | Market Analyst | Content Writer |
IGNOU Distance MA in Economics Fee Structure
This post-graduation study in economic theory is one of the cheapest UGC-DEB-accredited programs. This is suitable for you if you aim to prepare for competitive exams (UPSC, PCS, SSC), data, and banking jobs. The total fee for this program is only INR 19,000. Annually payable amount is INR 9,500.
This amount does not count for the exam fee, registration fee, and the development fees, which are charged by the university additionally.
Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
The eligibility standard for this master's degree in financial modelling is maintained simply to ensure that any interested learners can enroll anywhere across India without any stress.
- The applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree; it is not necessary to have studied eco as part of a bachelor's program.
- The applicants must be comfortable in both Hindi and English.
- No entrance exam required, no age bar, and no percentage requirement.
- The undergraduate degree must be earned from a UGG-approved institution.
IGNOU MA in Economics Course Duration
This Master’s degree program in Eco requires a 2-year continuous commitment, and the academic requirements must be met, including assignments and exams. Extendable for the learners who discontinue for any reason. The maximum duration can be extended to 4 years.
Other Specializations by IGNOU Distance MA
English
Semester Fees : 8,200
Duration : 2 Years

EMI Facility : AvailableGet Info
Admission Process of IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
IGNOU follows a simple admission process with two admission cycles: January & July for its distance courses. Applicants looking to pursue the respective MA course need to follow these steps
Step 1: Registration:
- Visit the official admission or SAMARTH portal
- Register using basic details
- Create/link APAAR & ABC ID
- Verify email and mobile number
- Create a user ID
Step 2: Admission Form:
- Log in using your user ID
- Choose your preferred program
- Fill in personal, academic, and other required details
Step 3: Upload Documents:
You need to upload the following documents:
- Aadhar, PAN
- 10th & 12th Marksheet
- Scanned photos & signature
Step 4: Payment:
- Pay your Annual Program Fee
- You can choose UPI, Credit/Debit Card, and Bank Transfer for IGNOU fee payment.
Step 5: Download ID Card:
Upon admission confirmation, you can download your student ID card using your login credentials in the Samarth portal.
Note: Students need to re-register annually to continue their respective courses.

Not Sure About This Degree?
We'll Help You Choose the Right One With Personalized Guidance!
EMI & Financial Support of IGNOU Distance MA
Don't Let EMI Confusion Delay Your Goals
Seats are filling fast, don't lose yours over fees. Apply for EMI now and lock your admission today.
Syllabus & Curriculum of IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
The eco specialisation master’s program is designed to deliver a detailed breakdown, thorough theoretical concepts & practical projects. You will be following the credit system throughout the program. You are required to earn 80 credits, 20 credits in each semester. You are not bound by daily classes in this program; you focus on self-study, printed books, assignments, and exams.
Semester-wise Syllabus of IGNOU MA Economics | |
| Semester I | Credits |
| Microeconomic Theory and Analysis | 6 |
| Macroeconomic Theory and Analysis | 6 |
| Quantitative Methods | 8 |
| Semester II | Credits |
| Economics of Growth and Development | 8 |
| Research Methods in Economics | 6 |
| Indian Economic Policy | 6 |
| Semester III | Credits |
| Public Economics | 6 |
| International Trade and Development | 6 |
| Money, Financial Institutions, and Markets | 8 |
| Semester IV | Credits |
| Choose any one group or courses worth | 20 |
| Group A Specialisation in Data Analytics | 24 |
| Group B Specialisation in Energy and Environmental Economics | 20 |
| Group-C Specialisation in Insurance and Finance | 20 |
| Group-D Specialisation in Social Policy | 28 |
| Including Project Work | |
Scholarships of IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
Indira Gandhi National Open University facilitates numerous scholarships and fee waivers for distance learning MA students. The university provides meritorious students, specially-abled, OBC, ST/SC, and women.
These scholarships can be grabbed by registering on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), following rigorous eligibility criteria. Students can also save upto 15% on their degree courses by choosing soft copies instead of physical copies.
LMS & Study Materials of IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
Indira Gandhi National Open University offers round-the-clock access to study materials, including e-books, webinars, recorded lectures, and literary notes to help them study at their own pace. The university uses a unified LMS portal with multiple channels for lectures, podcasts, and ebooks.
Students can also have an option to choose a physical or soft copy of books as per their learning preference. Some of the key channels of IGNOU are the unified LMS:
- e-Gyankosh: An extensive library to download e-books, assignments, and question papers for over 300+ programs.
- E-content App: Manage & download e-books, video lectures, and assessments.
- Gyandarshan: Dedicate DTH channels for live and recorded lectures.
- Gyanvani: Exclusive radio station for podcasts & audio lessons.
Examination Pattern of IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
The reputed Indira Gandhi National Open University, like other ODL and online courses, uses a series of evaluation tests, such as assessments and Term-end examinations.
These patterns are as follows:
| Patterns | Weightage | Question Types | Mode of Exams |
| Assesment | 30% |
| Handwritten Assignment to be submitted to the Study Center |
| Term-end Exams | 70% |
| Offline at the Assigned Exam Center |
Sample Certificate of IGNOU
- India’s most trusted open university
- NIRF 2025 #1
- Mentored by expert scholars
Know Your Faculty Before Enrolling
Career & Job Options After IGNOU Distance MA in Economics
The degree offers a strong career path for freshers; the skills you learn in this program will help you stand out in the competitive job market. This globally recognised degree allows you to explore a range of opportunities across the industry. You are allowed to prepare for government or competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, PCS, RBI Grade B, IBPS, and SBI.
The table below is designed to demonstrate job roles and average salaries.
| Job roles | Average salary |
| Credit Officer | INR 3.8 - 5.1 LPA |
| Specialist in Loans/Investments | INR 13 - 24 LPA |
| Economist | INR 14.8 - 17.5 LPA |
| Business Analyst | INR 10.1 - 15 LPA |
| Lecturer | INR 4.5 - 6.6 LPA |
| Market Researcher | INR 4.7 LPA |
| Financial Advisor | INR 4.9 - 5.8 LPA |
| Risk Manager | INR 13.8 - 27.4 LPA |
FAQs
Category
About Course
Yes, this national open university offers a range of specialisations in master’s at the lowest cost, you can pursue any of them without any stress.
Yes, it provides world-class education at the lowest possible cost with flexible, self-paced learning options.
Indira Gandhi National Open University is highly recommended for master’s programs due to its affordable, flexible, self-paced learning. If you have a different academic goal, you may consider other universities.
Other Popular Online Universities

Priya Pandey
EdTech Content Lead (8+ Years Experience)
In my 8 years of writing experience, I have seen so many updates getting implemented in the writing field. From basic SEO to AEO and GEO, I am well-equipped with this changing trend and have been able to manage the rankings of my articles even when AI-generated articles were taking over the websites. This has only been possible with my abilities and interests in transforming complex narratives into useful and simple information.
I am personally a big fan of E-E-A-T, and I know that the way facts and figures will grab your attention, no other generic statements would be able to do that. This side of me has made me a writer who brings insights to every piece of my work.
Whether it's academic writing, technical writing, or content writing, I am pretty confident in providing you with a good source of information that not only enriches your knowledge but also helps you make important decisions in your life.
Recently, I have started to review content produced by different writers, and that has made me realize that the writing industry is surely about to change, but for GOOD! The personal touch that a human can add to address a query cannot be brought in by any AI. It is something that is triggered by Emotional Intelligence and not by the Artificial One!
I usually review 8-10 articles in a day, and the ones that somehow manage to get published on the website are the ones that CONNECT to the audience. If you cannot feel what your audience wants, you can never produce authentic content, and that is what matters today!
In short, from my experience, I can tell you that you can get plenty of articles generated from AI for your website, but only the authentic ones with a personal connection will bring you business!
























































