IGNOU Introduces Its First Master’s in Home Science – 2025

M.Sc. in Home Science (Community Development and Extension Management), this course is offered from July 2025 session under the School of Continuing E

🎓 IGNOU Introduces Its First Master’s in Home Science – 2025

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has taken a historic step by launching its first-ever postgraduate programme in Home Science. Titled M.Sc. in Home Science (Community Development and Extension Management), this course is offered from July 2025 session under the School of Continuing Education (SOCE). This launch aligns with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes interdisciplinary, flexible, and skill-based education accessible to all learners.

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🔍 About the Programme

• Programme Name: M.Sc. Home Science – Community Development and Extension Management

• Offered by: School of Continuing Education (SOCE), IGNOU

• Mode: Distance/Open Learning

• Minimum Duration: 2 Years

• Maximum Duration: 4 Years

• Medium of Instruction: English

• Eligibility: Bachelor's Degree in Home Science or allied disciplines

• Total Credits: 80

• Fee: ₹7,000 per year (Total ₹14,000 for 2 years)

• Official Website: IGNOU M. Sc. Home Science

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🎯 Objective of the Programme

This master’s programme is designed to:

• Develop a deeper understanding of community development practices

• Enhance learner capabilities in extension education and communication

• Train students to handle grassroots-level development projects

• Build leadership skills for working in the fields of maternal and child health, gender equity, social behavior change, and livelihood empowerment

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👩‍🎓 Who Should Enroll?

This programme is ideal for:

• Home Science graduates looking to specialize in community development and extension

• Professionals already working in NGOs, CSR, government schemes, or rural development projects

• Aspirants preparing for roles in public health, communication for development, or women and child welfare sectors

• Those who want to build research, media, and outreach skills in social development contexts

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📘 Course Structure

The programme is divided into two years, each consisting of core subjects, electives, and project work.

🔹 First Year Courses:

1. MHSC-001: Fundamentals of Development and Extension

2. MHSC-002: Community Organisation and Development

3. MHSC-003: Participatory Community Development

4. MHSC-004: Media in Development Communication

5. MHSC-005: Programme Planning and Evaluation

6. MHSC-006: ICTs for Development Communication

🔹 Second Year Courses:

1. MHSC-007: Gender and Development

2. MHSC-008: Maternal and Child Health Management

3. MHSC-009: Social and Behaviour Change

4. MHSC-010: Corporate Social Responsibility

5. MHSP-001: Field Project in Home Science

6. MHSP-002: Research Project in Home Science

Each theory course carries 4 credits, while project work carries 8 credits.

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🧪 Assignments & Evaluation

• Assignment Weightage: 30%

• Term-End Examination (TEE): 70%

• Minimum Pass Marks: 40% in both assignments and exams

• Projects: Both project reports must be submitted in final year and are essential for degree completion

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💼 Career Opportunities

Graduates can find meaningful roles such as:

• Project Coordinator or Field Officer in NGOs

• Development Communication Specialist

• Gender and Health Consultant

• CSR and Community Development Executive

• Programme Manager in rural and urban welfare schemes

• Trainer or Research Assistant in universities or development organizations

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📥 How to Apply

The admission process for this programme follows IGNOU’s standard online procedure:

1. Visit the IGNOU Admission Portal (or nearest regional centre).

2. Register using your email and mobile number.

3. Fill in your academic and personal details.

4. Upload scanned copies of the required documents (photo, signature, degree certificates, ID proof).

5. Pay the programme fee via net banking or card.

6. Submit the form and keep the confirmation receipt for future reference.

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📌 Final Thoughts

The IGNOU M.Sc. in Home Science is a timely and innovative addition to IGNOU’s postgraduate offerings. It empowers learners to become impactful professionals in development sectors, helping them shape sustainable communities across India. The flexible learning format and affordable fee structure make it ideal for women, working professionals, and rural learners who wish to contribute meaningfully to society.

If you have a background in Home Science or social sciences and dream of becoming a changemaker, this course is your perfect next step.

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Need help with the admission process or understanding the curriculum? Feel free to ask.