IIT Mandi has opened applications for its innovative two-year M.A. in Development Studies, offered through the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced in the Himalayan region, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical research and field experiences.
The curriculum consists of 80 credits and addresses local, regional, and global issues related to development, sustainability, and empowerment within the Himalayan context. Additionally, students have the option to pursue a dual degree, M.A.+ Ph.D., which enhances their research capabilities in this field.
Beyond academic instruction, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at IIT Mandi actively engages in empowering local communities in the Kamand area, adjacent to the campus, by organizing various training initiatives aimed at fostering self-sufficiency.
Dr. Surya Prakash Upadhyay, Chairperson of the School of Humanities & Social Science at IIT Mandi, remarked, “The M.A. in Development Studies is a distinctive program that emphasizes the Himalayan region. This two-year course allows students to explore diverse research topics related to the Himalayas while engaging in developmental and practical work that holds significance at local, regional, and global levels. Furthermore, the program provides candidates with the opportunity to apply for the M.A.+ Ph.D. Dual Degree at IIT Mandi, facilitating a smooth transition into advanced research.”
He added, “The M.A. in Development Studies at IIT Mandi is designed to cultivate a cadre of development practitioners and academics who are well-prepared to engage in informed decision-making processes.”
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants for the course must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, achieving a minimum of 55% marks or a CGPA of 6.0 on a 10-point scale. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (NCL) or PwD categories are eligible for a relaxation of 50% in marks and a CGPA requirement of 5.5 out of 10.
Admission Procedure:
The admission process includes an online application, followed by a written examination and/or an interview. The list of candidates selected for admission will be published on the IIT Mandi website.
Important Details:
- Duration of the course: 2 years
- Course fee: Rs 30,000 per semester (approximately)
- Deadline for online application submission: April 11, 2025, by 5:30 PM
- Publication date for shortlisted candidates: April 15, 2025
- Tentative dates for the online written test: April 21 to April 25, 2025
- Tentative dates for the online interview: April 26 to April 29, 2025
For further inquiries, please contact via email at shssoffice@iitmandi.ac.in or by phone at 01905-267719. Tuition fees for SC/ST/PwD students are waived entirely.
