IIT Mandi, located in Kamand Valley, Himachal Pradesh, is one of the newer IITs founded by the Indian government. Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi has recently launched a two-year Master's of Arts in Development Studies program under its School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
This newly introduced program offers students a deep understanding of the development issues faced by the Himalayan region, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on research and fieldwork. This course will cover topics like sustainability, development, and empowerment, and is worth 80 credits.
Students can also choose an M.A.+ Ph.D. Dual Degree to enhance their research skills. In addition to academic learning, the school actively works to help local communities by organising training programs that promote self-sufficiency in the Kamand area.
MA in Development Studies of IIT Mandi Key Highlights 2025
The School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) at the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi offers the newly introduced M.A. in Development Studies, which is a unique two-year program focused on the Himalayan region. This program allows students to research different aspects of the region while gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork.
This program addresses issues that are important locally, regionally, and globally. The goal of the program is to train students to become skilled development professionals or academicians who can contribute to informed decision-making in the field of development.
Online registration for applications began on March 13, 2025, and concluded on April 11, 2025. The list of shortlisted candidates was announced on April 15, 2025. The written exam was scheduled to take place between April 21 -25, 2025. The online interview was held from April 26 -29, 2025.
Aspirants had to pay an application fee to seek admission in the newly introduced MA in Development Studies program by the Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi. The candidates belonging to the General, EWS, OBC, Transgender and Foreign national categories had to pay a fee of INR 200. The candidates belonging to the Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste, Women and PwD categories had to pay a fee of INR 100.
The M.A. in Development Studies, with a specialisation in the Himalayan Region, is a two-year program. The course duration spans four semesters, and the average fee per semester is INR 30,000.
Eligibility Criteria for the MA in Development Studies of IIT Mandi
The Master of Arts in Development Studies programme follows a multidisciplinary approach focusing on the key issues and challenges of development in the Himalayan region. This program emphasises research through dissertations or guided internships. Graduates will also develop the ability to effectively communicate their findings to diverse stakeholders, including academics, policymakers, professionals, and local communities.
The Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, has also provided a set of eligibility criteria for the newly launched program of MA in Development Studies. Given below is the eligibility criterion provided by the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi:-
- A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
- A candidate belonging to the General, OBC, and EWS categories must have secured at least 55% marks in their respective graduation programs.
- A candidate belonging to the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and PwD categories should have secured at least 50% marks in their respective graduation programs.
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