Part 09: IGNOU — Every Program, Complete Guide
Series: Degrees While Working India | Previous: Part 08 — Free Degrees | Next: Part 10 — State Open Universities
Why IGNOU Is the Most Important Institution for Working Professionals
IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) is the world's largest university by enrollment, with over 3 million active students. It was established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament (Act 50 of 1985) and is a Central University funded directly by the Government of India.
For working professionals in India, IGNOU is unique because:
- Zero attendance required — Study anywhere, anytime.
- Widest program range — 200+ programs across all fields.
- Lowest fees in India — ₹18,000 for a 2-year MA degree.
- Government recognition — Valid for all government purposes.
- Flexible duration — Most programs allow 2–5 years.
- Free study material — eGyanKosh has everything free.
- Bhubaneswar Regional Centre — RC-21 for Odisha students.
IGNOU Regional Centre Bhubaneswar (RC-21)
Before diving into programs, here is everything you need to know about the IGNOU regional centre closest to you.
Complete Contact Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Centre Name | IGNOU Regional Centre Bhubaneswar |
| RC Code | 21 |
| Address | C-1, Institutional Area, RRL Post Office, Bhubaneswar – 751013, Odisha |
| General | 0674-2971071 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 5:30 PM) |
| Admission | 0674-2301348 |
| Examination | 0674-2301250 |
| Assignments/Projects | 0674-2300330 |
| Study Material | 0674-2300310 |
| Website | http://rcbhubaneswar.ignou.ac.in |
| Main Email | [email protected] |
| Admission Email | [email protected] |
| Examination Email | [email protected] |
Study Centres in Bhubaneswar Area
IGNOU study centres (Learner Support Centres / LSC) are where you submit assignments and appear for TEE (Term-End Examinations).
Known LSCs affiliated with RC-21 Bhubaneswar:
- KIIT University — Campus-2, Patia, Bhubaneswar
- Capital Hospital — Unit-VI, Bhubaneswar
- Chetna Institute — Institutional Area, Bhubaneswar
- Multiple colleges across Odisha (check RC-21 website)
How to find your programme's LSC:
- Visit: rcbhubaneswar.ignou.ac.in
- Click "Study Centres" → filter by your programme
Always verify: When selecting a study centre during admission, confirm with RC-21 that your specific programme (e.g., MBA) is offered at that study centre.
How IGNOU Works — The Basics
Learning System
IGNOU uses the ODL (Open and Distance Learning) system:
- Self-Learning Material (SLM): Physical books or PDFs sent/available for each course.
- Assignments (TMA): Written assignments submitted to your study centre. Evaluated by IGNOU tutors.
- Counselling: Optional face-to-face sessions at LSC. Not mandatory for most programs.
- Term-End Examination (TEE): Written exam at your LSC. Held in June and December.
Grading System
IGNOU uses a percentage-based grading:
| Grade | Percentage Range |
|---|---|
| O (Outstanding) | 85% and above |
| A (Excellent) | 75%–84% |
| B (Good) | 60%–74% |
| C (Average) | 50%–59% |
| D (Pass) | 40%–49% |
| F (Fail) | Below 40% |
Evaluation Formula
Final Grade = 30% (Assignments) + 70% (TEE)
Both must be passed separately (minimum 40% in each).
IGNOU Admission Schedule
| Session | Application Period | Programme Start |
|---|---|---|
| January Session | October 1 – December 31 | January |
| July Session | March 1 – June 30 | July |
Exact dates vary each year. Check ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
Application Portal: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in (This is the ONLY official portal)
IGNOU Program A: MBA (MBADS / MBAFSM / MBAOM / MBAHM)
(Detailed in Part 02; quick reference here)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MBADS (General) |
| Duration | 2–5 years |
| Total Fees | ₹62,000–66,000 |
| Semesters | 4 |
| Eligibility | Any bachelor's 50% (General) |
| No GMAT/CAT | Correct — no entrance exam |
| Recognition | UGC + AICTE + AIU |
IGNOU Program B: MCA (MCA_NEW)
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MCA_NEW |
| Full Name | Master of Computer Applications |
| Duration | 2 years minimum, 4 years maximum |
| Semesters | 4 (annual: 2) |
| Per Semester Fee | ~₹13,000 |
| Total Fees | ~₹50,000–52,000 |
| Eligibility | Any graduation with 50% marks |
| Bridge courses | Required for non-CS graduates |
| Recognition | UGC + AICTE |
Who Is Exempt from Bridge Courses?
If you have a B.Tech/B.E. in CSE, IT, or similar: You are EXEMPT from bridge courses. Proceed directly to the main MCA curriculum.
If you are a BA/BCom/BSc (non-CS) graduate: You must complete bridge courses:
- MCS-201: Programming in C and Python
- MCS-208: Data Structures and Algorithm
MCA Curriculum
Semester 1:
- MCS-101: Computer Systems (Theory + Lab)
- MCS-103: Internet Technologies and Web Design
- MCS-104: Statistical Techniques
- MCS-106: Object Oriented Technologies using Java
- BCSL-013 (Lab): Computer Basics Lab
Semester 2:
- MCS-201: Programming in C and Python
- MCS-202: Operating Systems
- MCS-203: Database Management Systems
- MCS-204: Networking and Web Technologies
- MCS-205: Software Engineering
Semester 3:
- MCS-301: Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- MCS-302: Artificial Intelligence
- MCS-303: Computer Graphics and Multimedia
- MCSP-060: Project (Elective)
Semester 4:
- Elective courses + Project Work (MCSM-002)
Note: Curriculum codes may change. Verify from current IGNOU prospectus.
MCA Study Material
All MCA blocks available free at: https://egyankosh.ac.in → School of Computer Science
MCA Assignment Pattern
- Each course: 1 assignment per semester
- Lab courses: Practical submission + viva
- Project: 10,000+ word project report + viva
IGNOU Program C: MA Economics (MEC)
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MEC |
| Duration | 2–5 years |
| Year 1 Fee | ~₹9,500 |
| Year 2 Fee | ~₹9,000 |
| Total | ~₹18,500 |
| Eligibility | Any bachelor's degree |
| Recognition | UGC |
| Useful for | PhD in Economics, UGC-NET, UPSC, teaching |
Curriculum
Year 1:
- MEC-001: Microeconomic Analysis
- MEC-002: Macroeconomic Analysis
- MEC-003: Quantitative Methods in Economics
- MEC-004: Economics of Growth and Development
Year 2:
- MEC-005: Indian Economic Policy
- MEC-006: Public Economics
- MEC-007: International Trade and Finance
- MEC-101: Elective (e.g., Agricultural Economics, Industrial Economics)
Career Outcomes
- UGC-NET Economics (teaching eligibility)
- UPSC/Civil Services (Economics optional)
- Research assistant at think tanks
- Economic analyst roles
- PhD in Economics
IGNOU Program D: MA English (MEG)
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MEG |
| Duration | 2–5 years |
| Total Fees | ~₹18,000–19,000 |
| Eligibility | Any bachelor's degree with English |
| Recognition | UGC |
| Useful for | Teaching, content, UGC-NET English, UPSC |
Curriculum
8 courses in English Literature and Language:
- MEG-01: British Poetry and Drama
- MEG-02: British Prose and Fiction
- MEG-03: British Drama
- MEG-04: Aspects of Language
- MEG-05: Literary Criticism and Theory
- MEG-06: American Literature
- MEG-07: Indian English Literature
- MEG-08 (or MEG-14): Creative Writing
IGNOU Program E: Other MA Degrees
| MA Subject | Code | Total Fees | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| History | MAH | ~₹18,500 | Any bachelor's |
| Political Science | MPS | ~₹18,500 | Any bachelor's |
| Sociology | MSO | ~₹18,500 | Any bachelor's |
| Public Administration | MPA | ~₹18,500 | Any bachelor's |
| Hindi | MHD | ~₹15,000 | Bachelor's with Hindi |
| Rural Development | MARD | ~₹16,000 | Any bachelor's |
| Psychology | MAPC | ~₹18,600–21,000 | Any bachelor's |
| Women's Studies | MAWGS | ~₹18,000 | Any bachelor's |
| Urdu | MADU | ~₹15,000 | Bachelor's with Urdu |
| Philosophy | MAPY | ~₹18,000 | Any bachelor's |
IGNOU Program F: MCom
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MCOM |
| Duration | 2–5 years |
| Total Fees | ~₹21,000–22,000 |
| Eligibility | BCom or equivalent (B.Tech may not qualify) |
| Recognition | UGC |
Note for B.Tech CSE graduates: IGNOU MCom typically requires a commerce or related background. A B.Tech in CSE may not be accepted. Verify before applying.
IGNOU Program G: MSc Degrees
MSc Mathematics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MSCMACS |
| Duration | 2–3 years |
| Total Fees | ~₹45,000–50,000 |
| Eligibility | BSc Math or equivalent |
MSc in Counselling and Family Therapy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MSCCFT |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Total Fees | ~₹55,000 |
| Eligibility | Graduate with 50% marks |
MSc Dietetics and Food Service Management
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Code | MSCDFSM |
| Duration | 2–3 years |
| Total Fees | ~₹35,000 |
IGNOU Program H: PG Diploma Programs
IGNOU offers 50+ PG Diploma programs. These are shorter (1 year) and cheaper than full master's degrees.
PG Diplomas Most Relevant for Working Professionals
| Program | Code | Fees (Approx.) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG Diploma in Computer Applications | PGDCA | ~₹21,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in HR Management | PGDHRM | ~₹10,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Marketing Management | PGDMM | ~₹10,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Financial Management | PGDFM | ~₹10,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Operations Management | PGDOM | ~₹10,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Rural Development | PGDRD | ~₹7,700 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Journalism | PGJMC | ~₹12,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Industrial Safety | PGDIS | ~₹10,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Environmental Management | PGDEM | ~₹10,000 | 1 year |
| PG Diploma in Disaster Management | PGDDM | ~₹9,800 | 1 year |
PGDCA — The Technical Option
PGDCA (Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications) is especially relevant for software engineers wanting a quick upgrade certificate.
- Fees: ~₹11,000/semester × 2 = ~₹22,000 total
- Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
- Eligibility: Any bachelor's degree with 10+2 Mathematics
- Recognition: AICTE + UGC
- Content: Programming, Database, Networking, Web Tech, Software Engineering
- Note: As a B.Tech CSE, this might not add much technically but gives a formal credential.
IGNOU Program I: Certificate Programs
For quick skill certifications (6 months – 1 year, fees ₹2,000–15,000):
| Certificate | Code | Fees | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate in Computing | CIT | ~₹5,000 | 6 months |
| Certificate in IT | CVAP | ~₹7,000 | 6 months |
| Certificate in Finance | CFN | ~₹3,800 | 6 months |
| Certificate in Business Skills | CBS | ~₹4,500 | 6 months |
| Certificate in Teaching | CTM | ~₹4,000 | 6 months |
| Certificate in Yoga | CYE | ~₹3,500 | 6 months |
| Certificate in Food and Nutrition | CFN | ~₹3,500 | 6 months |
| Certificate in Tourism | CT | ~₹3,500 | 6 months |
How to Access Free IGNOU Study Material
Method 1: eGyanKosh
- Visit the website (no login required for most content).
- Browse by subject school:
- School of Management Studies (MBA)
- School of Computer Science (MCA/PGDCA)
- School of Social Sciences (MA Economics, Sociology, etc.)
- School of Humanities (MA English, Hindi, History)
- Find your program and download PDF blocks.
Method 2: IGNOU eLearning App
Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Search "IGNOU eLearning" or "IGNOU eContent."
Method 3: IGNOU YouTube Channel
IGNOU has an official YouTube channel with audio-visual lectures for various courses.
Method 4: IGNOU SODS
The IGNOU SODS (Study on Demand System) at: https://sods.ignou.ac.in allows specific content searches.
How to Apply to IGNOU — Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Browse the program list at ignou.ac.in and select your program.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Verify you meet the eligibility criteria in the current prospectus (downloaded from ignou.ac.in).
Step 3: Visit the Portal
Go to: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
Only use this URL. Do not use any third-party portal.
Step 4: Register
Click "New Registration." Enter:
- Name (as on 10th certificate)
- Mobile number (for OTP)
- Email address
- Create a strong password
Step 5: Login and Apply
After registration:
- Login with your credentials.
- Click "New Admission."
- Select programme from the list.
- Select Regional Centre: Bhubaneswar (RC 21).
- Select Study Centre near you (filter by programme).
Step 6: Fill the Form
Enter personal details, address, education history, category (General/EWS/OBC/SC/ST).
Step 7: Upload Documents
Mandatory uploads:
- Passport-size photograph (JPG, max 100KB)
- Signature (JPG, max 100KB)
- Age proof (10th certificate or birth certificate)
- Educational qualification (degree + marksheets)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Experience certificate (if required by programme)
Step 8: Pay Fees
Pay first semester/year fee through:
- Net banking
- Credit card/Debit card
- UPI (PhonePe, GPay, Paytm)
Save payment receipt.
Step 9: Confirmation
After payment:
- Your application is submitted.
- You will receive an Enrollment Number within a few weeks.
- A confirmation SMS/email will be sent.
Step 10: Access Study Material
After getting enrollment number:
- Login to SAMARTH student portal: ignou.samarth.edu.in
- Access your course materials.
- Physical books will be dispatched to your address.
IGNOU TEE — Exam Pattern Explained
What Is TEE?
TEE = Term-End Examination. This is IGNOU's main examination system. Held twice per year:
- June TEE: For January session enrollees
- December TEE: For July session enrollees
How to Fill TEE Form
- Visit: https://ignou.samarth.edu.in (Student Portal)
- Login with enrollment number.
- Click "Exam Form."
- Select courses you want to appear for.
- Pay exam fee (typically ₹150–200 per course).
- Download Hall Ticket 2 weeks before exam.
Exam Hall Ticket
Download from: https://exam.ignou.ac.in Enter your enrollment number to get the admit card.
Where Is the Exam Held?
At your assigned Learner Support Centre (LSC) in Bhubaneswar. Physical attendance is mandatory for TEE.
TEE Paper Format (General)
Each theory paper:
- Duration: 3 hours
- Marks: 100 (for 70% TEE component)
- Format: Mix of objective + subjective questions
- No MCQ (written answers required)
Common Mistakes IGNOU Students Make
❌ Not submitting assignments on time. Deadline: April 30 (June TEE) / October 31 (December TEE). Missing this means you cannot appear for TEE.
❌ Not checking study centre availability. Some study centres don't offer all programs. Always confirm.
❌ Trusting third-party websites for admission. Only use ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
❌ Ignoring the study material. IGNOU exams are based on the provided study blocks. Read them.
❌ Not tracking assignment submission. Submit assignments at your LSC and get an acknowledgement slip.
FAQs
Q: Can I do two IGNOU programs simultaneously?
A: Per UGC 2023 guidelines, you can do one full-time and one ODL/online program simultaneously. So IGNOU + your job is fine. Two IGNOU programs simultaneously is generally allowed — check specific programme conditions.
Q: Does IGNOU provide placement?
A: No. IGNOU does not have an active placement cell for most programs. You are responsible for your own job search. Some programs (like MBA) have alumni networks, but no formal on-campus placement.
Q: Is IGNOU degree valid for government jobs in India?
A: Yes. IGNOU is a Central University established by Parliament. Its degrees are fully valid for government recruitment where the degree is a requirement (UPSC, PSC, government job notifications, PSU positions).
Q: What happens if I fail an IGNOU exam?
A: You can re-appear in the next TEE cycle. No limit on attempts within the maximum duration (5 years for most PG programs). You pay a small re-registration fee.
Q: Can I change my IGNOU program after admission?
A: You can request a program change within a specific period after admission (usually within 30 days). Contact your regional centre.
IGNOU Programs Summary Table
| Program | Code | Total Fees | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA | MBADS | ₹62–66k | 2–5 yrs | Management career |
| MCA | MCA_NEW | ₹50–52k | 2–4 yrs | CS credential |
| MA Economics | MEC | ₹18.5k | 2–5 yrs | Economics/UPSC |
| MA English | MEG | ₹18k | 2–5 yrs | Language/Teaching |
| MA History | MAH | ₹18.5k | 2–5 yrs | UPSC/Teaching |
| MA Pol. Science | MPS | ₹18.5k | 2–5 yrs | UPSC/Admin |
| MA Sociology | MSO | ₹18.5k | 2–5 yrs | Social sector |
| MA Psychology | MAPC | ₹18.6–21k | 2–5 yrs | Counselling |
| MA Public Admin | MPA | ₹18.5k | 2–5 yrs | Govt/UPSC |
| MA Hindi | MHD | ₹15k | 2–5 yrs | Hindi medium jobs |
| MCom | MCOM | ₹21–22k | 2–5 yrs | Finance/Commerce |
| MSc Maths | MSCMACS | ₹45–50k | 2–3 yrs | Math/Teaching |
| PGDCA | PGDCA | ₹22k | 1 yr | Quick CS upgrade |
| PGDHRM | PGDHRM | ₹10k | 1 yr | HR career |
| PGDMM | PGDMM | ₹10k | 1 yr | Marketing career |
| PGDRD | PGDRD | ₹7.7k | 1 yr | Development sector |
Important Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://ignou.ac.in |
| Admission Portal | https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in |
| Student Portal | https://ignou.samarth.edu.in |
| Free Study Material | https://egyankosh.ac.in |
| Exam Form | https://exam.ignou.ac.in |
| Result | https://ignou.ac.in (Grade Card section) |
| RC Bhubaneswar | http://rcbhubaneswar.ignou.ac.in |
| Study Material Status | https://admission.ignou.ac.in |
| Programme Prospectus | https://ignou.ac.in/userfiles/prospectus |
Continue Reading:
→ Part 10: State Open Universities — All India Guide
Comments
Comments are powered by giscus. Set
PUBLIC_GISCUS_REPO_IDandPUBLIC_GISCUS_CATEGORY_IDin your environment to enable them.