IGNOU MA History Syllabus, Study Material, Fees and Admission Process 2025

If you are passionate about understanding the past and building a career in teaching, research, civil services, or historical analysis, then the IGNOU MA History program is an ideal choice. Offered by the School of Social Sciences at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), this course provides a deep understanding of Indian and global history through a flexible open distance learning mode.

This blog will guide you through all the important details regarding IGNOU MA in History, including its syllabus, study material, fee structure, and the admission process for the 2025 session.

About IGNOU MA History

The IGNOU MA in History is a postgraduate degree program designed to offer comprehensive knowledge in historical concepts, developments, and methodologies. Students can specialize in Indian history as well as world history, covering topics like ancient, medieval, and modern periods.

Program Highlights:

Program Type: Degree
Mode: Open Distance Learning
School: School of Social Sciences
Duration: 2 Years
Medium: English and Hindi
Specialization: History
Degree Awarded: M.A. in History

IGNOU MA History Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the IGNOU MA in History program, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

A Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from any recognized university.

Important note:- There is no age restriction or entrance exam required, which makes it accessible for learners from various backgrounds, including working professionals.

IGNOU MA History Fees 2025

The IGNOU MA History fees are quite affordable compared to many other universities. Here is the fee structure for the 2025 session:

Total Fee: Rs. 16,000/- for 2 years
Year-wise Fee: Rs. 8,000/- per year
Additional Charges: Registration Fee and Development Fee as applicable

Note:- Payment can be made online through IGNOU official admission portal.

IGNOU MA History Syllabus 2025

The IGNOU MA History program offers a comprehensive syllabus that explores key historical themes, events, and interpretations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the IGNOU MA History Syllabus for 2025:

First Year

Ancient and Medieval Societies
Modern World Compulsory
Political Structures in India
History of the Indian Economy

Second Year

Historiography
Evolution of Social Structures in India
Through the Ages
History of Ecology and Environment: India
Indian National Movement
Urbanisation in India
Western Political Thought (From Plato to Marx)
Social and Political Thought in Modern India

IGNOU MA History Study Material

IGNOU provides study materials in both printed and digital formats. After successful admission, printed materials are sent to the student’s address. Additionally, all course materials are available for free download via eGyankosh, IGNOU’s digital content library.

Key Features:

Well-structured, easy-to-understand content
Prepared by academic experts and historians
Supports self-paced learning
Available in both English and Hindi

Note: Students are advised to refer to the official eGyankosh portal for updates and PDF downloads.

Also read our blog on IGNOU Study Material 2025.

IGNOU MA History Admission Process 2025

Admission for the July 2025 session is open for students who want to study MA History through distance learning. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the admission process:

Step-by-Step Admission Process:

Visit the official IGNOU admission website.
Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.
Fill out the online application form.
Upload required documents: photograph, signature, and educational certificates.
Pay the admission fee online.
Submit and download the confirmation slip.

Note: Keep track of admission dates through the website to avoid missing deadlines.

Career Opportunities After IGNOU MA in History Course

After finishing an MA in History from IGNOU, students can choose from many job options in teaching, research, and government work. This course helps students build strong thinking, reading, and writing skills that are useful in many fields. Below are some good career paths you can go for after completing this course.

1. Historian

Historians study past events, societies, and cultures by analyzing historical records, documents, and sources. Their work helps preserve history and educate others.

Where You Can Work: Museums, research institutes, universities, government bodies
Skills Needed: Research, analysis, writing
Average Salary: ₹3 – ₹8 LPA

2. Teacher or Professor

Teaching is one of the most common career choices for History graduates. You can teach in schools, colleges, or universities depending on your qualifications.

Required Qualification: B.Ed after BA for school teaching; UGC-NET or Ph.D. after MA for college-level teaching
Where You Can Work: Schools, colleges, universities
Average Salary: ₹3 – ₹7 LPA (Schools), ₹5 – ₹12 LPA (Colleges)

3. Archaeologist

Archaeologists study ancient human life by digging up and analyzing artifacts, tools, structures, and fossils. It’s a great career for those who love fieldwork and history combined.

Where You Can Work: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), private organizations, museums
Courses to Consider: PG Diploma in Archaeology
Average Salary: ₹4 – ₹9 LPA

4. Civil Services (IAS/IPS/IFS)

Many History students aim for civil services because the subject overlaps with the UPSC syllabus. History helps in General Studies and the optional paper.

Where You Can Work: Government of India, State Governments
Exams to Clear: UPSC, State PSCs
Average Salary: ₹7 – ₹20 LPA (with perks)

5. Archivist or Museum Curator

If you enjoy working with old documents, manuscripts, or artifacts, this is a great career option. Archivists and curators maintain and organize historical collections.

Where You Can Work: Museums, archives, libraries, government heritage departments
Skills Needed: Organization, research, cataloging
Average Salary: ₹3 – ₹7 LPA

6. Journalist or Content Writer

A History degree builds strong writing and analytical skills, making it suitable for journalism or content writing roles.

Where You Can Work: Newspapers, media houses, online platforms, ed-tech companies
Skills Needed: Writing, research, storytelling
Average Salary: ₹3 – ₹6 LPA

7. Lawyer (After LLB)

Many students choose to pursue LLB after a History degree. History helps build a strong foundation in understanding law, society, and governance.

Where You Can Work: Law firms, corporate legal teams, government legal services
Courses Required: 3-year LLB after graduation
Average Salary: ₹4 – ₹15 LPA

8. Researcher or Author

If you enjoy academic research or creative writing, you can become a researcher or a published author. You can write books, research papers, or historical novels.

Where You Can Work: Publishing houses, think tanks, universities
Income: Varies depending on projects, grants, or book royalties

9. Heritage Manager

Heritage Managers take care of historical sites and monuments. They ensure preservation, manage visitors, and promote cultural heritage.

Where You Can Work: Tourism departments, heritage trusts, NGOs
Average Salary: ₹3 – ₹6 LPA

10. International Relations and Public Policy

With further study in public policy or international relations, History graduates can work with embassies, think tanks, or international organizations like the UN.

Courses to Pursue: MA in International Relations, Public Policy, or Diplomacy
Where You Can Work: NGOs, embassies, global institutions
Average Salary: ₹6 – ₹20 LPA

Higher Studies After History

You can also choose to deepen your knowledge through:

MA in History
M.Phil or Ph.D. in History
PG Diplomas in Archaeology, Museology, Archival Science, Heritage Management

Why Choose IGNOU MA History?

The IGNOU MA History program is a popular choice among students who seek flexible and quality education in historical studies. It offers several benefits that make it ideal for learners interested in pursuing careers in academics, research, or civil services. Check out the options given below:-

UGC-Approved Degree – Recognized across India for further studies and job applications. This ensures the degree holds academic and professional value in both public and private sectors.

Comprehensive Curriculum – Covers ancient, medieval, modern Indian history, and world history. Students gain a strong foundation in Indian and global historical developments across eras.

Flexible Learning – Ideal for learners who prefer studying at their own pace through distance mode. You can balance your education with personal or professional commitments easily.

Affordable Fees – Budget-friendly compared to many other universities offering similar courses. This makes quality higher education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Useful for Competitive Exams – Helps in preparation for UPSC, NET, and other government exams. The syllabus overlaps with many topics covered in the civil services and teaching exams.

Research-Oriented Approach – Includes training in historical methods, sources, and interpretation. It develops critical thinking and analytical skills essential for academic and field research.

Online Support – eGyanKosh, online classes, and digital study material available for easy access. Students can access quality resources anytime from the comfort of their home.

Conclusion

The IGNOU MA History program is a perfect blend of academic depth, affordability, and flexibility. Whether you’re aiming to build a career in education, research, or public services, this program equips you with the necessary knowledge and tools. With its broad reach, expert-designed syllabus, and self-paced structure, IGNOU makes quality education accessible to every corner of India. If you’re looking to pursue a postgraduate degree in History in 2025, IGNOU is a dependable and value-driven choice. Apply now.