Master of Arts (MA)Rural Development: Courses, Admission, Syllabus, Colleges, Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Career Scope and Salary

What is M.A. in Rural Development?

M.A. in Rural Development is a two-year master's degree programme that gives students a genuine understanding of rural living and the numerous socioeconomic issues that influence the rural economy.  M.A. Rural Development combines geography, sociology, political science, economics, business administration, and psychology. 

Rural development is the process of enhancing the quality of life and economic well-being of individuals who live in rural areas that are generally remote and sparsely inhabited. This course also provides ideas for actions that may be performed to improve the rural economy and pull people out of poverty and hardship. The initiative addresses challenges that have long hampered growth and advancement in the communities.

The MA Rural Development programme focuses on rural development theories, strategies, and planning for rural development, agricultural concerns, rural industrialization challenges, fisheries development, horticulture development, and other elements enhancing rural family income. Because villages house over two-thirds of India's population, it is critical to improving the rural economy, which will, in turn, enhance the Indian economy. After completing their M.A. in Rural Development, students can pursue MBA courses, which will give them a deeper grasp of the global organizational structure.

The degree trains students to create and train qualified experts to support villagers in their development process, bringing progress and wealth to the nation. It focuses on the essential components of rural development concepts and studies and applies them in a variety of real-life settings to aid in rural development. This course informs students on the different development initiatives being undertaken to improve the rural economy and the socioeconomic conditions of the rural masses and the steps that may be implemented to solve issues surrounding rural development.

Eligibility Criteria for M.A. in Rural Development

Candidates can begin their careers in rural development and management by enrolling in relevant courses after the 12th grade, which is offered at the diploma, bachelor, and master levels. Some universities, such as JNUEE and TISS NET, need clearance for entrance level tests.

Benefits of M.A. in Rural Development

• By pursuing an M.A. in Rural Development, a student will learn about what ails the rural economy and how to solve these concerns.
• Working in rural development allows the student to play an essential role in bringing good changes to the rural environment.
• The MA Rural Development programme will expose students to the rural way of life, allowing them to build an affinity and sympathy for the people who live in the most remote areas.

Scope of M.A. in Rural Development

• After the completion of the program, students can work in various employment settings in both the commercial and governmental sectors. You might work in areas like education, the Ministry of Rural Development, non-governmental organizations, Panchayati Raj institutions, welfare groups, and so on.
• There are also various options for advanced study in the sector, such as MPhil and PhD programmes in rural development-related subjects. Taking this programme will improve job-research abilities and lead to better occupations and research possibilities with higher pay scales.
• M.A. Rural Development students may also apply for civil service posts through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), state PSCs, and the Staff Selection Commission (SSC).
• Students may also choose to take the NTA-UGC NET-JRF exam to acquire eligibility for work as an Assistant Professor at Indian colleges and universities. With such scholarships, individuals have access to a plethora of research opportunities.

Career and Job Opportunities after M.A. in Rural Development

The training opens doors to opportunities in a variety of fields. Graduates of the M.A. Rural Development programme might find employment with a variety of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that operate in the subject of rural development. SEWA, PRADAN, RATAN, and other NGOs are among them. The typical beginning salary after completing this degree is between INR 237,600 and 600,000.

Government agencies like the welfare ministry, NIRD, NABARD, and CSWB give considerable scope and career possibilities in this field. There are several rural banks with which to collaborate.

The rural industry and the business sector, both interested in assisting with rural industrialization initiatives, present ample opportunities for M.A. Rural Development graduates.

Fees Structure & Course Duration of M.A. in Rural Development

The tuition expenses for enrolling in an M.A. Rural Development programme vary per college. The average annual course price is between INR 2,850 and 30,200 & this is 2 years postgraduate course for regular studies