MA Development Studies at IIT Madras: Guide for Admission 2025-26
All content/ study material here is in
MA Development Studies at IIT Madras: Guide for Admission 2025-26
MA Development Studies at IIT Madras: Guide for Admission 2025-26
The MA Development Studies program at IIT Madras is a prestigious postgraduate course that provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding developmental issues from various social, political, economic, and cultural perspectives. As one of India's top IITs, IIT Madras offers this program through the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), preparing students for impactful careers in academia, research, public policy, NGOs, and international organizations.
Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program blends economics, sociology, political science, and public policy to provide a holistic understanding of development.
Research Opportunities: Students engage in rigorous research under the guidance of esteemed faculty members.
Career Prospects: Graduates find opportunities in policy research, NGOs, think tanks, government sectors, and international agencies.
Esteemed Faculty: The department boasts experienced faculty specializing in various aspects of development studies.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: IIT Madras provides an intellectually stimulating environment with access to excellent academic resources and research centers.
Eligibility Criteria:
A bachelor's degree in any discipline with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories).
Candidates from diverse academic backgrounds such as social sciences, humanities, engineering, and sciences can apply.
Admission Process:
Written Entrance Exam: IIT Madras conducts an entrance exam covering subjects like economics, political science, sociology, and general aptitude.
Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates appear for an interview to assess their knowledge, analytical abilities, and research interests.
Final Selection: Based on the combined performance in the entrance exam and interview.
The MA Development Studies syllabus at IIT Madras includes core courses, electives, and research components:
Core Subjects:
Development Theories and Concepts
Political Economy of Development
Research Methods in Social Sciences
Public Policy and Governance
Sociology of Development
Environmental and Sustainable Development
Electives:
Urban Development and Planning
Gender and Development
Social Movements and Human Rights
Health and Development
Digital Economy and Development
Research and Dissertation:
Students undertake independent research projects in their final semester.
The tuition fees for the MA Development Studies program at IIT Madras are relatively affordable compared to international universities.
Fee Component
Amount (Approx.)
Tuition Fees
₹20,000 per semester
Hostel & Mess Fees
₹30,000 per semester
Other Academic Charges
₹5,000 per semester
Total Approximate Fees
₹1,10,000 for 2 years
The placement opportunities for MA Development Studies graduates from IIT Madras are diverse, with alumni working in prestigious organizations such as:
United Nations (UN), World Bank, and International NGOs
Government Ministries and Public Policy Think Tanks
Research Institutes such as NITI Aayog, Centre for Policy Research, and CSIR
CSR divisions of Corporate Firms
Academia & Higher Studies (PhD, MPhil in top universities)
Average Salary: ₹6-10 LPA (varies based on role and organization).
Visit the official IIT Madras website and check the admission notification.
Fill out the online application form and upload required documents.
Pay the application fee and submit the form before the deadline.
Prepare for the entrance exam by referring to previous years' question papers.
Attend the personal interview if shortlisted.
Q1: What is the last date to apply for MA Development Studies at IIT Madras 2025? A: The tentative last date to apply is March 2025.
Q2: Does IIT Madras offer scholarships for MA Development Studies? A: Yes, various scholarships and financial aid options are available based on merit and financial need.
Q3: What are the career prospects after completing MA Development Studies from IIT Madras? A: Graduates find opportunities in government policy-making, international organizations, NGOs, academia, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) roles.
The MA Development Studies program at IIT Madras is a highly reputed course that provides an excellent foundation for a career in development research, policy-making, and social sector work. With an interdisciplinary approach, rigorous training, and excellent placement support, it remains one of the best choices for students passionate about addressing development challenges.
If you are preparing for the entrance exam, you can refer to Harshit Kumar Kushwaha's MA Development Studies Entrance Exam Guidebook, a comprehensive resource designed to help aspirants excel in the selection process.
For more information and latest updates on IIT Madras MA Development Studies admissions 2025-26, keep visiting the official IIT Madras website.
MA Development Studies (IIT) Entrance Exam Guide
(IIT Guwahati, IIT Mandi, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, NIT Rourkela, NIT Bhopal)
Rs. 299