M.A.

M.A. (Master of Arts) , M.A. Eligibility Criteria, M.A. Syllabus, M.A. scope, M.A. Admission Process, M.A. FAQs

M.A. or Master of Arts is a postgraduate course pursued by students after completing their bachelor’s degree. This degree is awarded for specialising in a particular field or subject within the social sciences, humanities, liberal arts, or fine arts. Here is an overview of the M.A. admission:

Course Overview: Course Name: Master of Arts (M.A.) Duration: 2 years Level: Postgraduate Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any field

M.A. programmes are offered in various fields like English, History, Geography, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Economics, and many more. The course curriculum consists of both theoretical and practical knowledge, which includes seminars, workshops, and research projects. The programme is designed to enhance critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.

M.A. graduates can pursue a career in various fields like teaching, research, journalism, advertising, public relations, content writing, social work, human resources, and many more. They can also opt for higher studies like a Ph.D. in their chosen field.

Admission to M.A. programmes is based on the candidate’s performance in the qualifying exam or entrance exam, followed by a personal interview. Some institutes may also conduct a group discussion round.

M.A. Eligibility

To be eligible for an M.A. program, candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university. The specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the university and the program of study. Some universities may also require candidates to have a certain minimum percentage of marks in their bachelor’s degree program. It is important to check the eligibility requirements of the specific university and program before applying for admission.

Why to do M.A. ?

Master of Arts (M.A.) is a postgraduate academic degree that is awarded upon the successful completion of a two-year course. It is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and research skills in a chosen field of study within the humanities, social sciences, or other liberal arts disciplines. Here are some reasons why one should consider pursuing an M.A. degree:

  1. Career Advancement: An M.A. degree can open up many career opportunities and increase one’s earning potential. It is particularly useful for those who want to advance their careers in fields such as education, journalism, publishing, or research.

  2. Personal Development: Pursuing an M.A. degree can help students develop their critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, which are valuable in many aspects of life.

  3. Networking: M.A. programs provide opportunities to connect with other professionals and academics in one’s field of study, which can lead to valuable contacts and career opportunities.

  4. Specialization: M.A. programs allow students to specialize in a particular area of study within their field, which can lead to more focused and fulfilling career opportunities.

  5. Doctoral Studies: An M.A. degree is often a prerequisite for pursuing a Ph.D. degree, which is required for many academic and research careers.

Overall, pursuing an M.A. degree can be a great investment in one’s future career and personal development.

Highlight in M.A.

Here are some of the highlights of the M.A. program :

Program NameM.A. (Master of Arts)
LevelPostgraduate
Duration2 years
EligibilityBachelor’s degree in the relevant field
AdmissionEntrance Exam
SpecializationsEnglish, History, Psychology, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Philosophy, etc.
Career prospectsTeacher, Writer, Researcher, Editor, Counselor, NGO Worker, Social Worker, Public Relations, etc.

Admission Process (2024) in M.A.

The admission process for M.A. courses may vary from institution to institution. However, the general admission process for M.A. courses in India is as follows:

  1. Online application: Candidates need to apply for admission to the M.A. course through the respective university/college’s official website. They need to fill in the required details, upload scanned copies of necessary documents and pay the application fee.

  2. Entrance exam: Some universities/colleges conduct entrance exams to shortlist candidates for admission to the M.A. course. The entrance exam is typically designed to test the candidate’s knowledge in the relevant subject and their general aptitude.

  3. Merit-based admission: Some universities/colleges offer admission to the M.A. course based on merit. The merit list is prepared based on the candidate’s performance in their undergraduate degree.

  4. Counselling: Shortlisted candidates are called for counselling, where they are required to select the course and college of their choice based on their rank and availability of seats.

  5. Document verification: Candidates need to submit their original documents for verification during the counselling process.

  6. Payment of fees: Candidates need to pay the admission fees to secure their seat in the M.A. course.

It is important to note that the admission process may vary slightly from institution to institution. Therefore, candidates are advised to check the official website of the respective college/university for detailed information regarding the admission process.

Syllabus of M.A.

The syllabus of M.A. varies depending on the specialization chosen by the student. Here is a general overview of the syllabus for M.A.:

Course Name: Master of Arts (M.A.) Duration: 2 years Mode of Study: Full-time/Part-time

Semester 1:

  • Indian Society and Culture
  • Political Science: Basic Concepts
  • Ancient Indian History
  • Western Political Thought
  • Economics: Basic Concepts
  • Modern Indian Language
  • International Relations

Semester 2:

  • Sociology of India
  • Political Science: Indian Political System
  • Medieval India: Society, Economy & Culture
  • Comparative Politics
  • Indian Economy
  • Language other than Modern Indian Language
  • International Political Economy

Semester 3:

  • Social Demography
  • Public Administration: Theory and Practice
  • History of Modern India
  • Public Policy Analysis
  • Indian Economic Problems and Policies
  • Elective Course
  • Elective Course

Semester 4:

  • Social Movements in India
  • Public Administration: Development Dynamics
  • History of Freedom Struggle in India
  • Human Resource Management
  • Economic Planning in India
  • Elective Course
  • Elective Course

Note: The above-mentioned syllabus is a general overview and may vary slightly depending on the university or college offering the M.A. program and the specialization chosen by the student.

Scope After M.A.

M.A. is a postgraduate degree that provides various opportunities to the graduates. Here are some career options and job profiles that one can pursue after completing an M.A. degree:

  1. Academics: M.A. graduates can pursue a career in academics as professors, lecturers, and research scholars in colleges, universities, and research institutions.

  2. Civil Services: Graduates can appear for the civil services examination and join the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), Indian Police Services (IPS), Indian Revenue Services (IRS), and other administrative services.

  3. Public Relations: M.A. graduates can work in public relations and communication agencies as public relations specialists, communication specialists, media planners, and event coordinators.

  4. Journalism and Mass Communication: Graduates can work in the media industry as journalists, reporters, news anchors, editors, and content writers.

  5. Advertising and Marketing: M.A. graduates can work in advertising agencies and marketing firms as advertising managers, marketing managers, sales executives, and brand managers.

  6. Social Work: Graduates can work in NGOs, international aid organizations, and social welfare departments as social workers, community organizers, and program coordinators.

  7. Research and Analysis: Graduates can work in research organizations and analytical firms as research analysts, data analysts, and market researchers.

  8. Foreign Languages: M.A. graduates can work as language translators, interpreters, and language teachers in government organizations, MNCs, and educational institutions.

  9. Public Policy: Graduates can work in government organizations, think tanks, and research institutions as public policy analysts, policy researchers, and policy advisors.

  10. Business: Graduates can work in various business sectors such as finance, human resources, operations, and administration as managers, executives, and consultants.

Overall, M.A. provides a broad range of career opportunities to the graduates depending on their interests and specializations.

Frequently Asked Questions M.A. Admissions

Question: What is M.A.?
Answer: M.A. stands for Master of Arts, which is a postgraduate academic degree awarded to students who have completed a program in the arts, humanities, social sciences, or related fields.

Question: What is the eligibility criteria for M.A.?
Answer: The eligibility criteria for M.A. varies depending on the university and program. Generally, students should have completed a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field with a minimum percentage of marks.

Question: What are the specializations available in M.A.?
Answer: M.A. offers a wide range of specializations, including English, History, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Philosophy, and many more.

Question: What is the duration of M.A.?
Answer: The duration of M.A. is typically two years, although some universities may offer one-year or three-year programs.

Question: What are the career options after completing M.A.?
Answer: M.A. graduates can pursue various career options, including teaching, research, journalism, publishing, public relations, social work, and many more. They can also go on to pursue a Ph.D. in their field of study.

Question: Can I pursue M.A. through distance education?
Answer: Yes, many universities offer M.A. programs through distance education mode. However, it is important to ensure that the university and program are recognized by the relevant authorities.

Question: What is the admission process for M.A.?
Answer: The admission process for M.A. typically involves filling out an application form, submitting academic transcripts, and appearing for an entrance exam or interview. The exact process may vary depending on the university and program.

Question: Is it necessary to have a bachelor’s degree in the same field to pursue M.A. in a particular subject?
Answer: No, it is not always necessary to have a bachelor’s degree in the same field to pursue M.A. in a particular subject. However, some universities may have specific eligibility criteria regarding the undergraduate degree, and it is important to check with the university before applying.

Question: What is the difference between M.A. and M.Sc.?
Answer: M.A. is a postgraduate degree in the arts, humanities, and social sciences, while M.Sc. is a postgraduate degree in the sciences. The course content, eligibility criteria, and career options for these degrees may differ.

Question: Can I pursue M.A. after completing a professional degree?
Answer: Yes, many students pursue M.A. after completing a professional degree, such as engineering, medicine, or law. However, it is important to ensure that the university and program accept students from different backgrounds.