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Master of Arts (M.A.)

The Department of Humanities and Social Sciences offers a two-year M.A. degree program in three streams. Each program is crafted to offer both a strong theoretical foundation and practical skills for careers in academia, publishing, policy, governance, and corporate consultancy. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in the specified disciplines/subjects are eligible to apply for the three programs.

Application Portal

Programs Offered

MA Development Studies

Department of Humanities & Social SciencesIIT Madras

The program provides training in theoretical foundations while addressing contemporary development challenges. With interdisciplinary faculty and diverse research projects, it caters to both policy-oriented and academic career aspirants. The two-year MA program develops social science fundamentals in year one, followed by specialized electives across sociology, anthropology, history, and technology studies in year two, preparing students for careers in academia or policy-making.

Program Details

MA Economics

Department of Humanities & Social SciencesIIT Madras

The Economics Program at IIT Madras delivers comprehensive education through eleven core courses and specialized electives across four semesters. Students gain strong theoretical foundations while exploring contemporary developments in economics, with options to study related disciplines. The program includes research methodology training and projects, preparing graduates for diverse careers in both public sector institutions (central banks, IMF, World Bank) and private sector organizations (commercial banks, investment firms).

Program Details

MA English Studies

Department of Humanities & Social SciencesIIT Madras

The program offers comprehensive study of literature, culture, and language through interdisciplinary perspectives, covering British, Indian, American, and World literatures. It integrates traditional literary studies with modern domains like film studies, cultural studies, and environmental humanities. The four-semester curriculum progresses from foundational literary theory to specialized electives, combining academic research preparation with practical skills. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, publishing, journalism, media, and marketing, with strong capabilities in critical thinking and academic writing.

Program Details

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the M.A. program at IIT Madras:

1

Verify Eligibility

Ensure you have a Bachelor's degree in the specified disciplines/subjects relevant to the M.A. program you're applying for (Development Studies, Economics, or English Studies).

2

Apply to IITM Portal

Submit your application through the IITM International Admission Portal. Complete all required fields and upload necessary documents including academic transcripts, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.

3

Apply to ICCR Portal

Register and apply for the ICCR Scholarship through the ICCR Scholarship Portal.

Important: Applications without an ICCR Application Number will not be processed.

4

Await Selection Process

Once you clear the Institute eligibility norms, the department selection process will be communicated to you via email. This may include interviews, tests, or additional document requirements based on the department's criteria.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Avail attractive scholarships offered by IIT Madras to support your studies here! For more information, please visit the Scholarships page.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Master of Arts (M.A.) programme at IIT Madras is a two-year postgraduate degree offered by the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences. The programme provides a strong theoretical foundation along with practical skills relevant to research, policy, academia, and industry.
The M.A. programme is typically completed in two years (four semesters), combining coursework, interdisciplinary learning, and research-oriented training.

The M.A. programme at IIT Madras offers three streams:

  • M.A. Development Studies
  • M.A. Economics
  • M.A. English Studies

Each programme is designed to provide interdisciplinary training and career-oriented skills in the respective fields.

International applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in relevant disciplines or subjects from a recognized university or institution.
Applicants must submit their application through the IIT Madras International Admissions Portal managed by the Office of Global Engagement. Applicants must upload all required documents such as academic transcripts, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
Yes. International students may apply through the ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) Scholarship offered by the Government of India. Applicants must complete the ICCR application through the ICCR A2A Scholarship Portal and provide the ICCR application number while applying to IIT Madras. Applications without an ICCR application number will not be processed.

Applicants are typically required to submit:

  • - Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • - Passport copy
  • - Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • - Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • - Letters of recommendation
  • - ICCR application details (if applying under the scholarship scheme)
Yes. The M.A. programme includes research methodology training, academic writing, and project work, enabling students to develop analytical and research skills.

Graduates of the M.A. programme may pursue careers in:

  • - Academia and research
  • - Public policy and governance
  • - International organizations and development agencies
  • - Publishing, media, and journalism
  • - Corporate consulting and analytics
Yes. International students admitted to IIT Madras are generally provided on-campus hostel accommodation, subject to institute policies and availability.
The M.A. programme usually commences in July each academic year, after completion of the admission process and visa formalities.
For more information regarding admissions and programme details, applicants may contact:
Photo of Admissions Team

Contact Person

Admissions Team

Email: intl.admissions@ge.iitm.ac.in

Telephone: +91 44 22574928, +91 44 22578865