Master of Arts

2 year

MA

MA (Master of Arts) is a 2-year postgraduate course for graduates who want higher learning in humanities, arts, and social sciences. MA gives a solid platform to pursue teaching jobs, research, media, civil services, and public administration jobs. With courses like English, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Economics, MA offers various career and higher studies opportunities for students who want higher education or competitive examinations.

Program overview

Master of Arts (MA) is among the most sought-after postgraduate courses for arts, commerce, and even science students who wish to specialize in liberal arts disciplines. This 2-year course focuses on research, analytical writing, and subject knowledge, making it pertinent for students interested in academic and research careers or those wishing to pursue civil services and competitive examinations. Along with developing a deep understanding of the discipline of social sciences and humanities, an MA degree develops general skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, writing, and communications, which are required in today's workplace. It is flexible, and students who graduate from the course will be able to pursue careers in the learning sector, journalism, public relations, policymaking, the corporate sector, and NGOs. The students who wish to become professors, researchers, or government officials prefer MA since it offers NET/SET exam and Ph.D. course eligibility. Most MA graduates also pursue international opportunities in higher education, research studies, and international organizations.

Why Opt for an MA Degree?

  • Expertise & Specialization – MA provides higher-level learning in your specialized topic and enables you to become an expert in the domain.
  •  Career flexibility— Careers may be in teaching, media, public administration, civil services, and corporate.
  • Research & Higher Studies—Required for Ph.D., M.Phil., and research careers in academics.
  • Competitive Exam Preparation—The best degree for those who want to write UPSC, SSC, NET, Bank exams.
  • International Opportunity—Provides you with eligibility to get foreign universities.
  • Affordable Postgraduate Course—An MA is considerably cheaper than an MBA, law & medical studies, and provides great job opportunities.
Key Highlights

Course Duration: 2 years

Eligibility: Graduation from a recognized university (preferably with relevant subject)

Admission Mode: Merit-based or entrance exams such as CUET-PG, DUET, JNU Entrance, or university-level tests.

Annual Fee Range: ₹1,000 – ₹20,00,000 based on the type of college

Average Beginning Salary: ₹4 LPA – ₹9 LPA upon completion

Major Recruiters: Schools, Colleges, Universities, Media Organizations, NGOs, Govt. Departments, Publishing Companies, HR & Corporate Organizations

Career Counseling: Full admission guidance and counseling by Shiksha Planets

MA Syllabus

MA course is designed to impart in-depth theoretical education and practical experience through research and projects.

Year-Wise Syllabus:

1st Year (Foundation & Core Courses)

  • Advanced Literary Theory or Subject-Specific Papers
  • Modern Indian History and Cultural Studies
  • Political Ideologies and Governance
  • Social Change and Development Theories
  • Research Methodology and Academic Writing
  • Applied Psychology and Behavioral Science

2nd Year (Specialization & Research)

  • Specialized Papers in Chosen Subject
  • International Relations and Global Politics
  • Development Economics and Policy Studies
  • Sociological Theories and Social Research Methods
  • Psychology of Learning, Personality, and Counseling
  • Dissertation/Thesis and Viva Voce

Specialization-Wise Subjects in MA:

SpecializationCore Papers
MA in EnglishLiterary Criticism, Drama, Poetry, Prose, Linguistics
MA in HistoryAncient History, Medieval History, Modern Indian History, World History
MA in Political SciencePolitical Theory, Indian Constitution, International Relations, Public Administration
MA in EconomicsMicroeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Development Studies
MA in PsychologyCognitive Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Social Psychology, Research Methods
MA in SociologyRural & Urban Sociology, Gender Studies, Social Structure, Cultural Studies

Practical Training & Skill Development:

MA courses are framed to combine theoretical learning with hands-on exposure. Students develop skills that render them employable and competitive in research and teaching areas.

  • Research Projects & Dissertation—Developing independent research skills in an academic research environment.
  • Fieldwork & Surveys—Practical exposure to social sciences and the humanities.
  • Seminars & Workshops—All sorts of skills development in presentation, discourse, and debate.
  • Writing Skills Development—Developing skills to write academic papers and research reports professionally.
  • Internships & Training—Training sessions with universities, media houses, NGOs, and research institutions.
MA Program Fee

College TypeAnnual Fees
Government Colleges₹1,000 - ₹8 Lakhs
Private Colleges₹2,000 - ₹14 Lakhs
Deemed Universities₹25,000 - ₹20 Lakhs

Shiksha Planets has simplified the process of admission into MA by outlining 6 easy steps:

✔ Eligibility Check—Verify graduation marks and subject requirements.

✔ Entrance Exam—Guidance for CUET-PG, DUET, or other college or university-level exams

✔ Application Assistance—Help in filling out college and university applications.

✔ College Shortlist—Colleges will need to be identified based on location, budget, and specialization.

✔Seat Confirmation & Counseling—The process of confirming and gaining admission to your allocated college

✔ Post-Admission Support—Guidance on scholarships, hostel opportunities, and education loans.

Shiksha Planets helps in reducing your financial burden:
• Quick loan approvals from banks and NBFCs
• Flexible EMI repayment options
• Scholarship support from government and private organizations

  • Specialist Knowledge—Master your area of the subject.
  • Competitive exam training—Essential for UPSC, SSC, and other government employment.
  • Post-master's degree education—Eligible for specific Ph.D., M.Phil., MBA, and Law courses.
  • Economical Postgraduate Choice—Less expensive than MBA or technical programs.
  • International Prospects—Apply for foreign Ph.D. courses, research fellowships, and teaching opportunities abroad.
  • Creative & Research Careers—Openings in content writing, journalism, publishing, and media.
  • Teaching and Academics—Achieve a position as a lecturer or professor once you clear NET/SET.
  • Research Analyst – Employment in research institutes and colleges.
  • Journalist / Editor / Writer – Professional opportunity in media, publishing, and online content.
  • Civil Services Officer – MA is an excellent base for UPSC and state services examinations.
  • Public Relations & Corporate Careers – HR, policy analysis, and marketing roles.
  • Social Work & NGOs – Employment in welfare associations and development agencies.

 

Average Salary After MA:

  • Teaching & Education: ₹4–7 LPA
  • Research & Analysis: ₹5–8 LPA
  • Media & Journalism: ₹4–6 LPA
  • Corporate Sector: ₹5–9 LPA
  • Public Administration & Policy Roles: ₹6–10 LPA