TISS Mumbai MA Development Studies: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Govandi, MumbaiDeemed to be UniversityEstd 1936NAAC Grade A+ 3.3
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Collegedunia Team

Content Curator | Updated on - Mar 31, 2026

The Master of Arts in Development Studies is a 2-year full-time postgraduate programme offered by the School of Development Studies at TISS Mumbai. This programme is designed to prepare a strong pool of development practitioners, analysts, and researchers equipped with conceptual and empirical knowledge to comprehend complex global, regional, and local development challenges. The programme has an intake of 65 students per batch and offers flexible entry and exit options in both one-year and two-year formats. The total course fee is Rs. 1,34,100 for the entire 2-year duration. The programme trains students in historical and differentiated development experiences with a multi-disciplinary perspective, covering economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, and history. Students learn about emerging developmental dilemmas, contemporary policy innovations, research methodologies, and statistical software with a keen focus on constitutionality, social justice, and sustainability. This course is highly popular among students seeking careers in development practice, policy analysis, and research, with graduates working across government institutions, NGOs, international development organizations, and research institutions.

Admissions for the 2026 batch are currently ongoing through the CUET-PG 2026 entrance examination. The CUET-PG registration period was from December 14, 2025 to January 25, 2026. The examination is scheduled to be held from March 6 to March 27, 2026, with results expected by May 6, 2026. Following the CUET-PG results, TISS will conduct merit-based admissions with counselling sessions and document verification at the Mumbai campus. Classes are expected to commence in June 2026 with an orientation period on campus.

Key Points

  • Multi-Disciplinary Approach: Integrates perspectives from economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, and history to comprehend complex development issues
  • Flexible Programme Structure: Offers both one-year and two-year formats with flexible credit allocation for interdisciplinary learning and skill acquisition
  • Comprehensive Research Training: Extensive training in modern research methodologies, qualitative and quantitative data analytics, and statistical software
  • Field-Based Learning: Includes internship and fieldwork components providing practical experience in development practice
  • Social Justice Focus: Emphasizes constitutionality, social justice, and sustainability in all development practice and research

TISS Mumbai Latest Updates and News

15 Apr, 2026 CUET PG 2026 Results are expected to be released by First week of May @exams.nta.nic.in. To know more, click here.

TISS MA Development Studies Fees

The total course fee for the MA Development Studies programme is Rs. 1,34,100 for the complete 2-year duration. The fees are structured across four semesters with varying components including tuition fees, examination charges, IT charges, library charges, and various funds. The first semester carries the highest fees at Rs. 51,050 due to additional charges for ID cards, convocation, caution deposit, and students' competency fund. Subsequent semesters have lower fees, with the second semester at Rs. 23,650 and the fourth semester at Rs. 23,100. SC/ST students eligible for Government of India Post-Matric Scholarship (GoI-PMS) are required to pay only the marked fee components and a reduced caution deposit of Rs. 2,750, with the remaining fees covered by their scholarship amount.

Fee Structure

Fee ComponentsSemester ISemester IISemester IIISemester IV
Tuition Fee17,60017,60017,60017,600
Examination Fee1,1001,1001,1001,100
IT Charges2,2002,2002,2002,200
Library Charges1,6501,6501,6501,650
Other Charges (ID Card, Convocation, Misc.)2,750000
Students' Competency Fund1,000000
Development Fund11,000011,0000
Student Wellness & Welfare Fund550550550550
Alumni Fund055000
Health Care Fund2,20002,2000
Caution Deposit (Refundable)11,000000
Semester Total51,05023,65036,30023,100
Total Course Fees1,34,100
  • Caution Deposit of Rs. 11,000 is refundable at the time of exit from the programme upon submission of No Dues Certificate
  • SC/ST GoI-PMS eligible students pay only marked fee components and a reduced caution deposit of Rs. 2,750
  • Expenses related to practicum, study tours, rural field work, and other field activities are to be borne by students at the time of the activity
  • The Institute reserves the right to revise the fee structure if necessary

Explore Other Group Colleges of TISS Mumbai

TISS MA Development Studies Admission 2026

Admission to the MA Development Studies programme is based on CUET-PG 2026 scores with 100% weightage. The selection process is merit-based with no extempore reflection tests, group discussions, or personal interviews. All reservation rules for SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories and other priorities are applied during final seat allocation. The programme has an intake of 65 students per batch. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria and submit all required documents during the document verification phase at the Mumbai campus.

Admission Timeline for 2026 Batch

EventDate
CUET-PG Registration StartDecember 14, 2025
CUET-PG Registration EndJanuary 25, 2026
CUET-PG Admit Card ReleaseMarch 3, 2026
CUET-PG ExaminationMarch 6 - March 27, 2026
CUET-PG Result DeclarationMay 6, 2026
TISS Admission Counselling SessionsTo be announced
Document Verification at Mumbai CampusTo be announced
Orientation to New BatchTo be announced
Commencement of ClassesJune 2026 (tentative)

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Candidates must have successfully completed a Bachelor's or Master's degree of minimum 3 or 4 years duration or equivalent (under 10+2+3, 10+2+4, or 10+2+2+1 pattern) from a UGC-recognized university
  • For 3-year degree programmes, candidates must have passed all subjects for the 1st to 4th semesters at the time of application; for 4-year programmes, all subjects for the 1st to 6th semester must be passed
  • Degree certificate and final mark/grade sheet must be submitted as evidence of successfully completing eligibility criteria by the specified date; admission remains provisional until this documentation is received

Admission Process:

  • Register on the NTA website for CUET-PG 2026 and complete the application form
  • Pay the application fee (General: Rs. 1,750; OBC(NC)/EWS: Rs. 1,250; SC/ST: Rs. 750)
  • Appear for the CUET-PG examination on the allotted date and center
  • Check CUET-PG results on the NTA website
  • Register on the TISS admissions portal and complete the detailed application form
  • Participate in admission counselling sessions (if applicable)
  • Attend document verification at TISS Mumbai campus with original documents
  • Complete admission formalities and pay the semester fees

TISS MA Development Studies Scholarships 2026

TISS offers various scholarship opportunities for eligible students pursuing postgraduate programmes. The primary scholarships available are government-sponsored schemes including the Government of India Post-Matric Scholarship (GoI-PMS) for SC/ST/OBC(NC) students, and various state-sponsored scholarships. Additionally, TISS provides institutional support through fee concessions and financial assistance for students from economically weaker sections. Eligible students can apply for scholarships through the SC/ST Cell and OPEM Cell at TISS, which facilitate the application process and document verification.

Scholarships Available

ScholarshipEligibilityBenefitsApplication Deadline
Government of India Post-Matric Scholarship (GoI-PMS)SC/ST students with family income below prescribed limitsMaintenance allowance (Rs. 230-1,200/month), fee reimbursement, book allowance, study tour chargesAs per state government notification
Central Sector Scholarship for Top Class EducationSC studentsFull fee coverage and maintenance allowanceAs per government notification
National Fellowship for SC/ST StudentsSC/ST students pursuing M.Phil/Ph.DFellowship amount and research supportAs per government notification
State-Sponsored ScholarshipsSC/ST/OBC students from respective statesVaries by stateAs per state government portal
TISS Institutional SupportEconomically weaker studentsFee concessions and financial assistanceAs per TISS guidelines
  • SC/ST students eligible for GoI-PMS are required to submit duly filled application forms to their state government through the TISS SC/ST Cell at least 15 days before the state deadline
  • Students must provide valid caste/tribe/OBC(NC) certificates and income certificates issued by competent authorities
  • GoI-PMS components include maintenance allowance, fee reimbursement, book bank facility, study tour charges, and additional allowances for students with disabilities
  • Students should check their respective state government scholarship portals for state-specific schemes and deadlines
  • For more information, students should contact the SC/ST Cell and OPEM Cell at TISS Mumbai

TISS MA Development Studies Placement 2026

The MA Development Studies programme has a strong track record of graduate placements across diverse development sectors. Graduates are equipped to work as development practitioners, policy analysts, and researchers in various settings including government institutions, NGOs, international development organizations, research institutions, and multilateral agencies. The programme trains students in comprehensive development analysis, research methodologies, and policy evaluation, making them valuable professionals in the development sector. Alumni are employed with government institutions at state and central levels, development NGOs, international organizations like UNDP and World Bank, research institutions, and policy think tanks. Many graduates have also pursued higher studies and contributed to the field through research and academic pursuits. The programme's emphasis on social justice and sustainability ensures graduates are equipped to address contemporary development challenges.

Placement Statistics

MetricDetails
Average PackageRs. 15-17 LPA
Placement SectorsGovernment, NGOs, International Development Organizations, Research Institutions, Policy Think Tanks
Key EmployersGovernment Agencies, Development NGOs, UNDP, World Bank, Research Institutions, Policy Organizations
Career RolesDevelopment Practitioners, Policy Analysts, Researchers, Programme Managers, Development Consultants
Alumni SpreadAcross India and abroad in diverse development-related roles
  • Placement statistics reflect both employment and higher studies outcomes
  • Graduates have opportunities in both government and non-government sectors with competitive compensation packages
  • The programme emphasizes skill development in research methodology, data analysis, policy evaluation, and development practice, enhancing employability

TISS MA Development Studies FAQs

Ques. What is the difference between MA Development Studies and other social science master's programmes?

Ans. The MA Development Studies programme uniquely combines multiple disciplines including economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, and history to provide a comprehensive understanding of development issues. Unlike programmes focused on a single discipline, MADS offers a multi-disciplinary perspective on development challenges. The programme emphasizes constitutionality, social justice, and sustainability in all development practice. Additionally, the flexible programme structure allows students to choose between one-year and two-year formats, and the curriculum includes extensive training in modern research methodologies and data analytics.

Ques. What is the flexible entry and exit option, and how does it work?

Ans. The MA Development Studies programme offers flexible entry and exit options allowing students to pursue either a one-year or two-year format. Students can enter the programme and complete it in one year with appropriate credit accumulation, or continue for two years for a more comprehensive experience. This flexibility allows working professionals or students with specific time constraints to pursue the degree. The programme structure allocates credits flexibly for interdisciplinary learning, skill acquisition, research methodology, and practical experience through internship and fieldwork.

Ques. What research training and skills does the programme provide?

Ans. The programme provides comprehensive training in modern research methodologies including qualitative and quantitative data analytics. Students learn statistical software, GIS and spatial econometrics, database management, and advanced research techniques. The curriculum includes courses on Data Analytics (both qualitative and quantitative), Social Research Design and Application, Advanced Qualitative Research, and Advanced Quantitative Research. Additionally, students work on dissertation proposals and research projects, gaining practical experience in conducting development research. This extensive research training prepares graduates for careers in research institutions, policy think tanks, and development organizations.

Ques. What is the admission process, and what entrance exam is required?

Ans. Admission is based on CUET-PG 2026 scores with 100% weightage. Candidates must register on the NTA website, appear for the CUET-PG examination (scheduled March 6-27, 2026), and then register on the TISS admissions portal. After merit list announcement, candidates attend document verification at the Mumbai campus. There are no personal interviews or group discussions for this programme. The application fee is Rs. 1,750 for general candidates, Rs. 1,250 for OBC(NC)/EWS, and Rs. 750 for SC/ST students.

Ques. What is the total cost of the programme, and are there fee concessions available?

Ans. The total course fee is Rs. 1,34,100 for the 2-year programme. SC/ST students eligible for Government of India Post-Matric Scholarship (GoI-PMS) pay only the marked fee components and a reduced caution deposit of Rs. 2,750, with the remaining fees covered by their scholarship. Additionally, the caution deposit of Rs. 11,000 is refundable upon completion of the programme. Students should note that expenses for practicum, study tours, and field work are borne separately.

Ques. What internship and fieldwork opportunities are available?

Ans. The programme includes a six-credit internship component in Semester II where students gain practical experience in development organizations, government agencies, or research institutions. Additionally, students conduct fieldwork for research data collection in Semester IV. The programme emphasizes learning through practical experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world development challenges. Students work on dissertation proposals and research projects throughout the programme, gaining hands-on experience in development research and practice.

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