What is Distance MA: Full Form, Course Duration, Admission 2025, Colleges, Salary & Scope

Sarjana SinhaContent Writer
Distance MA course is a post-graduate level course which continues for a duration of 2 to 5 years in most colleges of India. Students can pursue Distance MA course after completing their graduation in any subject. Distance MA is a distance learning course for Master of Arts which includes the study of various specializations such as History, International Relations, Hindi, Psychology, English, Political Science, and others.
Distance MA course eligibility is that the students to have passed graduation in any subject from a recognized university of India. While many popular may require at least 50% marks in graduation for accepting admission, some colleges also ask for entrance exam scores. Most popular entrance exams for Distance MA course admission are CUET PG, JMI Entrance, etc.
The best Distance MA colleges in India are IGNOU, University of Madras, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, University of Delhi, Netaji Subhas Open University, Yashwantrao Chavan Maharastra Open University, Gujarat University, and various others. The average course fee for Distance MA range from INR 880 to INR 30,000, in most government and private colleges of India.
Distance MA career options has various opportunities such as Journalist, Historian, Content Writer, Civil Servant, Economist, Professor, Social Worker, Editor, Lawyer, etc. The median salary package after completing Distance MA course range from INR 4 LPA to INR 15.5 LPA, depending upon the your expertise.
Distance MA Course Details
Students can check the detailed course information for Distance MA in the table mentioned below -
|
Course Particulars |
Course Details |
|---|---|
|
Course Name |
Distance MA (Master of Arts) |
|
Distance MA Course Level |
Post-graduate level |
|
Distance MA Course Duration |
2 to 5 years |
|
Distance MA Admission Criteria |
Merit-based and entrance exam based |
|
Distance MA Eligibility Criteria |
At least 50% marks in graduation |
|
Distance MA Entrance Exams |
CUET PG, JMI Entrance, etc. |
|
Distance MA Best Colleges in India |
IGNOU, University of Madras, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, University of Delhi, Netaji Subhas Open University, Yashwantrao Chavan Maharastra Open University, Gujarat University, etc. |
|
Distance MA Average Course Fees (annually) |
INR 880 to INR 30,000 |
|
Distance MA Job Options |
Journalist, Historian, Content Writer, Civil Servant, Economist, Professor, Social Worker, Editor, Lawyer, etc. |
|
Distance MA Median Salary Package |
INR 4 LPA to INR 15.5 LPA |
|
Distance MA Top Recruiters |
ICICI Prudential, Tech Mahindra, Axis Bank, IBM, Dabur, Genpact, HDFC Bank, HDB Financial, Wipro, ONGC, etc. |
Note: This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.
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Both courses provide master's degree in selected course specializations such as History, Political Science, Psychology, Philosophy, English, Economics, and other subjects.
A general difference between both courses are clarified by the following table.
| Particulars | Distance MA | Regular MA |
|---|---|---|
| Course Level | Post-graduation Level | Post-graduation Level |
| Course Duration | 2 to 5 years | 2 years |
| Admission Process | merit-based and entrance exam based | merit-based and entrance exam based |
| Eligibility Criteria | at least 50% marks in graduation | at least 50% marks in graduation |
| Entrance Exams | CUET PG, JMI Entrance, etc. | CUET PG, CPGET, AP PGCET, URATPG, Vardhman CET, JMI Entrance, GATE, and others. |
| Best Colleges in India | IGNOU, University of Madras, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, University of Delhi, Netaji Subhas Open University, etc. | Banaras Hindu University, Hindu College, GATE,0 University Noida, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Hansraj College, St. Xavier's college, etc. |
| Average Course Fees (annually) | INR 880 - INR 30,000 | INR 1,000 - INR 40,000 |
Disclaimer: The information given in the above table is taken from external sources and may vary.
- Distance MA Eligibility Criteria
- Distance MA Admission 2025
- Distance MA Entrance Exams 2025
- Distance MA Syllabus and Subjects
- Distance MA: Best Colleges in India
- Popular Private Distance MA Colleges in India
- Distance MA Career Scope: Job Profile, salary, Top Recruiters
- FAQs about Distance MA Course
- Course Cutoffs
- Popular Distance MA Specializations
- Most Popular Courses
- Top Ranked Colleges by Location
Distance MA Eligibility Criteria
Students who wish to take admission to Distance MA courses must fulfill the basic eligibility criteria for the course before applying. The eligibility criteria for Distance MA course for various specializations differs from one college to another. The admissions to Distance MA course in colleges of India is based on both merit and entrance exams.
Students can check a basic eligiblity criteria accpeted in most colleges of India for Distance MA course below:
- Students must have at least passed graduation or appearing in the final year to be eligible for admission.
- For many top-ranking colleges in India, students must secure at least 50% marks in graduation in any field and may vary for different colleges in India.
- There is no age limit for Distance MA course admission.
Other relevant links:
Students who have completed their graduation in any field are eligible to apply for admission to Distance MA course. The eligibility criteria for Distance MA degree differs for different government and private colleges of India.
Many popular colleges ask for at least 50% marks in graduation for admission to Distance MA courses. The admissions to Distance MA degree are based on both merit and entrance exams.
Students are advised to check the complete admission details before applying for Distance MA courses in colleges of India.
Students of all age group can apply for admission to Distance MA courses. There is no age limit crietria for admission to Distance MA degree program.
Distance MA is post-graduation degree in Arts stream which can be taken by students after compelting their graduation with minimum percentage.
Students must fulfill the basic eligibility criteria for the Distance MA course before applying for admission.
Distance MA Admission 2025
For admissions to Distance MA courses, students must fulfill the admission requirements depending upon the college admission policy. The admission eligibility differs for different colleges in India. MA degree can be pursued as full-time, part-time, distance or correspondence education modes, at the convenience of students.
Candidates can check a general outline of the admission process in Distance MA course in most colleges of India below:
- Make sure that you fulfil the eligibility criteria of the colleges.
- Fill out the application form and pay the fee.
- Appear for the entrance exams if any.
- Wait for the results.
- Sit for the counselling rounds.
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Students who wish to pursue Distance MA course can take admission after completing their graduation. The admission process includes various admission requirements and policies followed by counseling session and fee payment which is described below in simple steps.
- 1st Step - Check the course eligibility criteria
- 2nd Step - Check if the college demands entrance exam scores
- 3rd Step - Apply for admission and submit required documents
- 4rth Step - Check the college merit list and attend counseling session
- 5th Step - Complete the fee payment and verify documents
This is a simplified process for Distance MA admission accepted in most colleges of India.
Yes, MA i.e. Master of Arts course can be pursued by students as a full-time, part-time, distance or correspondence course in many government and private colleges of India. Distance MA course can be taken in various specializations including History and other subjects such as Political Science, Geography, English, Sociology, etc.
Distance MA in History course varies for a duration of 2 to 5 years depeding upon the college course curriculum and admission policy. Students can achieve Distance MA degree after completing their course from a recognised university of India.
Different colleges in India have different eligibility criteria for taking admission to their Distance MA courses.
Distance MA Entrance Exams 2025
Most of the popular colleges in India accept admission to their Distance MA courses based on merit, but a few top-ranking colleges may ask for entrance exams scores for accepting admission. Most common entrance tests for Distance MA degree are CUET PG, JMI Entrance, etc. Students must keep in mind that entrance exam is not a mandatory criteria for admission to Distance MA course and varies for different colleges in India.
The entrance exams have their own eligibiltiy criteria, syllabus and course requirements. Students must keep familiar with the entrance exam syllabus and other details to secure their admission to Distance MA degree program.
The following table shows some of the popular entrance exams for Distance MA course in colleges of India.
|
Distance MA Entrance Exams 2025 |
Exam Date 2025 |
Exam Schedule 2025 |
|---|---|---|
|
CUET PG 2025 |
13 March – 1 April, 2025 |
|
|
JMI Entrance 2025 |
26 April 2025 |
Disclaimer: The information given in the above table is taken from external sources and may vary.
Other relevant links:
CUET Vs Board Exams: Key Differences, Syllabus and Preparation Tips
Important Exam Dates
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 15 Oct ' 26 - 25 Nov ' 26 | Christ University Entrance Test CUET 2027 Registration Begin ONGOING |
| Nov ' 26 | GITAM GAT 2027 registration for phase 1 TENTATIVE |
| 07 Nov ' 26 | SAT India Exam (November) Attempt |
| Dec ' 26 | GITAM GAT 2027 exam date phase 1 TENTATIVE |
| 05 Dec ' 26 | SAT India Exam (December) Attempt |
| Dec ' 26 - Jan ' 27 | CUET PG 2027 Application Process TENTATIVE |
| Jan ' 27 | CUET 2027 Application Process TENTATIVE |
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 07 Jun ' 26 | AAT 2026 Assessment (Round 4) |
| 03 May ' 26 | AAT 2026 Assessment (Round 3) |
| 01 Feb ' 26 | AAT 2026 Assessment (Round 2) |
Distance MA Syllabus and Subjects
Distance MA Subject-Wise Syllabus
Distance MA course continues for a duration of 2 to 5 years in most colleges of India. Distance MA course includes categorization in various subject specializations which is distributed in 4 to 8 semesters throughout the course journey. The course duration varies for different colleges in India.
Students can check a brief syllabus of Distance MA with subject-wise classification below. The following table shows a genearl outline of the specified course syllabus.
Distance MA English Syllabus
|
Distance MA English Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
|
Language and Linguistics |
Indian Writing |
|
British Literature |
Research Methodology |
|
European Classical Literature |
Literary Criticism |
Distance MA History Syllabus
|
Distance MA History Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
|
Ancient Indian History |
Contemporary World History |
|
Medieval Indian History |
History of Modern Europe |
|
Modern Indian History |
Indian National Movement |
Distance MA Political Science Syllabus
|
Distance MA Political Science Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
|
Indian Political Thought |
Comparative Politics |
|
Western Political Thought |
Indian Politics: Issues and Trends |
|
India’s Foreign Policy |
International Organization and Law |
Distance MA Economics Syllabus
|
Distance MA Economics Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
|
Microeconomics |
Financial Economics |
|
Macroeconomics |
Industrial Economics |
|
Indian Economic Development |
Urban Economics |
Distance MA Hindi Syllabus
|
Distance MA Hindi Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
|
History of Literature |
Modern Hindi Poetry |
|
Prose and Poetry |
Current Trends in Indian Literature |
|
Novel and Short Story |
General Linguistics |
Disclaimer: The information given in the above table is taken from external sources and may vary.
Distance MA Subjects
There are various course specialization of Distance MA course which students can choose based on their interest and seat availability. Some of the most popular Distance MA course subjects are:
|
Distance MA Subjects |
||
|---|---|---|
|
MA Economics |
MA Sociology |
MA English |
|
MA Political Science |
MA Psychology |
MA Hindi |
|
MA Social Work |
MA Philosophy |
MA Geography |
|
MA History |
MA Public Administration |
MA Journalism and Mass Communication |
Disclaimer: The information given in the above table is taken from external sources and may vary.
Other relevant links:
Distance MA: Best Colleges in India
There are more than 135 government and private colleges in India that provides a Distance MA Course. Check out this section to know more about M.A Distance Colleges.
Best Distance MA Government Colleges in India
Here is the list of popular Distance M.A Government Colleges in India for your reference -
|
Distance MA Government Colleges |
Total Tuition Fees (annually) |
|---|---|
|
INR 9,000 – INR 21,400 |
|
|
INR 11,050 – INR 16,800 |
|
|
INR 2,000 |
|
|
INR 7,600 |
|
|
INR 6,340 – INR 6,590 |
|
|
INR 14,000 |
|
|
INR 6,000 – INR 7,000 |
|
|
INR 3,350 – INR 9,000 |
|
|
INR 10,000 |
|
|
INR 17,230 – INR 29,730 |
Note - The info. has been taken from the official website and may vary.
Best Distance MA Private Colleges in India
Here is the list of popular Distance M.A Private Colleges in India for your reference -
|
Distance MA Private Colleges |
Total Tuition Fees (annually) |
|---|---|
|
INR 13,350 – INR 21,750 |
|
|
INR 26,000 – INR 30,000 |
|
|
INR 40,000 |
|
|
INR 2.4 Lakh |
|
|
INR 18,000 |
|
|
INR 8,400 |
|
|
INR 20,000 |
|
|
INR 28,150 |
|
|
INR 40,000 |
|
|
INR 6,000 |
Note - The info. has been taken from the official website and may vary.
Popular Private Distance MA Colleges in India
Distance MA Career Scope: Job Profile, salary, Top Recruiters
|
Distance MA Career Options |
Job Details |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
|
Journalist |
Responsible for collecting and verifying information to the public by means of various media channels |
INR 4.1 LPA |
|
Editor |
Responsible for refining a written or visual or other type of content ensuring accuracy and clarity |
INR 5.3 LPA |
|
Civil Servant |
Responsible for administration and implementing policies for public services for smooth functioning of government |
INR 10.4 LPA |
|
Social Worker |
Working as a helping hand to the public though social welfare schemes and policies, taking initiatives for the public welfare |
INR 2.9 LPA |
|
Content Writer |
Writes content for businesses or organizations for their benefit through various media channels or online sites or social channels |
INR 3.8 LPA |
|
Professor |
Responsible for teaching students on a particular subject or fields, guiding throughout their course journey |
INR 16 LPA |
Disclaimer: The information given in the above table is taken from external sources and may vary.
FAQs about Distance MA Course
Students can find most asked FAQs regarding Distance MA courses below:
Course Cutoffs
Popular Distance MA Specializations
Popular Specializations
- English
70 Colleges
- Hindi
43 Colleges
- Sanskrit
26 Colleges
- Public Administration
24 Colleges
- Urdu
10 Colleges
- French
3 Colleges
- Criminology
2 Colleges
- Personnel Management
2 Colleges
- Women Studies
2 Colleges
- Development Studies
2 Colleges
Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- M.A. in EnglishIGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University
- M.A. in Political ScienceIGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University
- M.A. in EconomicsIGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University
- M.A. in BengaliNSOU - Netaji Subhas Open University
- M.A. in BengaliVidyasagar University
- M.A. in EnglishVidyasagar University
- M.A. in HistoryVidyasagar University
- M.A. in Political ScienceVidyasagar University
- M.A. in GeographyVidyasagar University
Top Ranked Colleges by Location
News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered 5 days ago
The M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication at Lovely Professional University (LPU) covers diverse core subjects including digital journalism, broadcast media, advertising, public relations, media ethics, corporate communication, and advanced video production. The curriculum blends contemporary th
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Contributor-Level 7
Answered 5 days ago
The M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication at Lovely Professional University (LPU) offers expansive career scope across digital media, broadcasting, public relations, and content creation. Supported by world-class infrastructure and robust corporate placements, it equips postgraduates with practi
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 5 days ago
Completing an M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication from Lovely Professional University (LPU) unlocks extensive career pathways across digital media, broadcast journalism, corporate communications, and public relations.
LPU's dedicated Division of Career Services bridges academia and industry thr
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a week ago
The Northumbria University offers a total of 30 specializations for M.A Courses for the International students for a time span of 1-2 years. The tuition fee for M.A Courses is between INR 21 L – 47 L.
Popular specializations among international students are as follows:
Publishing
Social Work
Creative Wr
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
The Northumbria University offers 30 courses in M.A for a period of 1-2 years. The tuition fee for M.A Courses at the University is INR 21 L – 47 L. Northumbria University has been placed at #328 in the world and #50 in UK. There are no particular rankings for M.A Courses but the University as a who
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
The University of Chester offers 21 M.A Courses for 1-2 years to finish them within. The International students can apply via AIMS International Portal for postgraduate courses. There is no application charges applicable for any PG Courses for the University, it is only charges for UG Courses. The a
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
The University of Chester offers 21 M.A courses in many fields for international students to opt from. The duration of these courses is for 1 – 2 years with a tuition fee of INR 12 L – 20 L. The most popular M.A course among students are-
- Language, Cultures and Translation
- Social Work
- MSc Policing, Law
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
MA in History means Master of Arts in History. It is a postgraduate degree that focuses on the study of past events, societies, cultures, political developments and major changes across different periods. The course usually involves subjects such as ancient, medieval and modern history, historiograp
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 weeks ago
There is no single best country for an MA in English Literature because it depends on the area of literature and career plans. The UK, USA, Canada and Australia are popular choices for strong literature studies and wider academic exposure. In India, LPU is also worth considering because its MA Engli
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Beginner-Level 1
Answered 3 weeks ago
The University of St Andrews offers a 1-year MA programme where Creative & Professional Writing is one of the most popular specialisation courses for students from India. The tuition cost for the programme varies from INR 23.88 L to INR 39.94 L, based on the individual programme selected by student
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
Yes, DAV College, Chandigarh offers MA programme at PG level for a duration of 2 years. The mode of study is full time. Students who are Class 12 or equivalent pass from a recognised board can apply for admission.
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Contributor-Level 8
Answered 4 weeks ago
While evaluating international tuition structures, overseas currency exchange considerations, and overall educational investment for the MA in Business Management at Bath Spa University provides a helpful baseline for your financial planning, Lovely Professional University (LPU) serves as an excelle
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Contributor-Level 7
Answered 4 weeks ago
The total tuition fees for MA is INR 14,000-INR 27,000 at IGNOU. The fees is the highest for MA in Education. For most of language programmes, the fees is at lower end.
N
Guide-Level 15
Answered 4 weeks ago
Yes, candidates do not require passing any entrance exam for admission in MA at IGNOU. Aspirants are selected based on their scores in the qualifying exam. Selected candidates have to pay course fees to confirm their seat.
N
Guide-Level 15
Answered a month ago
MA Sociology courses are available in various modes of education. This creates an ease and accebility among students. The following table some of the most popular modes of education for MA Sociology:
Mode of MA Sociology Courses | Description |
|---|---|
Full-time/Regular Course | This is where students attend their classes regularly on campus. It's a good fit for those who prefer direct interactions with teachers and peers. |
Distance/Correspondence Degree | In this mode, students can study at their own pace using materials provided by the university. It's suitable for those who need flexibility, as they can manage their studies alongside other commitments, for example, IGNOU |
Online Course | Some universities offer fully online courses where they can attend virtual classes, access study material, and complete assignments; exams are taken online only. |
Part-time Course | This mode allows one to study according to one's convenience it is designed for working professionals; this mode offers classes according to their flexibility, allowing students to balance work and study. |
B
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
No, CUET is not required to get admission in MA from IIHS (Institution Deemed to be) University. Admission is offered based on university-level entrance exam. It is followed by essay evaluation and personal interview.
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The total tuition fee of MA from IIHS (Institution Deemed to be) University is INR 9 lakhs. Including other fee components, the total fee is INR 15.91 lakhs. Note: this number is taken from the official website of the university. It can change.
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
No, IIHS (Institution Deemed to be) University does not offer direct admission. Applicants have to undergo selection rounds that includes: entrance exam, essay evaluation and personal interview.
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
No, CUET is not required for admission in MA programme of IIHS (Institution Deemed to be) University. Applicants are given admission based on their performance in entrance exam, essay and personal interview.
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The MA in Computational Linguistics at the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) Hyderabad is a specialized 2-year program and it serves as a strong stepping stone for academic research or a PhD.
The median post-graduate salary package at EFLU is around INR 4.5 LPA to INR 5.16 LPA. So, acco
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Many colleges require a BA Hindi degree or Hindi as one of the core subjects in the UG degree or diploma.There are also colleges that accept admission without having a mandatory hindi requirement.
B
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
The main intake for Master of Arts courses are the Fall Intake (September). Majority of the courses are available in the Fall Semester. The deadlines for the courses are very course-specific and differ for every specification at McGill University.
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The University of Leeds provide a large variety of M.A Courses over 80 of them for the Indian students for a duration of 1 year. The eligibility requirements are as follows:
· UG Degree (55%-65%)
· English Language Requirements (IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 88)
· SOP
· LOR
· CV
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Winter Semester is the main intakes for most of the M.A Courses at University of Hamburg. The University offers a wide range of 76 M.A Courses for International students. Deadlines are given below:
Winter Sem – 31 Mar 2027
Summer Sem – 15 Jan 2027
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The University of California Berkeley Campus offers 12 M.A courses for international students for a period of 1 -3 years. The tuition fee of M.A Courses are between INR 25 L – 47 L. The students are required to have at least 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale to get into the University for M.A Courses. The othe
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Yes. LPU offers Mathematics programmes, and hostel accommodation is available on campus for students, including girls and boys. Admission and hostel availability depend on the specific Mathematics programme and current intake.
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
There are mainly 2 intakes for M.A Courses at La Trobe University – Semester 1 and Semester 2. Sem 1 is the primary intake, it starts in early March.
· Sem 1 (early March) – Jan 15
· Sem 2 (July start) – Mid May
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The University of Queensland offers 26 M.A courses for international students. It is most likely opted by Indian students. The UQ provides two intakes for M.A courses – Semester 1 and Semester 2
· Sem 1 (Feb Intake) – Nov 30, 2026
· Sem 2 (Jul Intake) – May 31, 2027
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The University of New South Wales offers 9 M.A Courses for a duration of 18 months to 2 years. The admissions for M.A Course are on the rolling and multiple round bases. The interested students can apply vis UNSW Application Portal.
· Term 3 (September Intake) – Late Aug, 2026.
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Coventry University has been ranked #41 for M.A Courses. University offers about 23 M.A Courses for duration of 12 months - 2 years. Tuition fee of M.A courses for Indian students are from INR 21 L - INR 25 L.
Admission requirements –
· UG Degree from well-known University or its equivalent
·
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Contributor-Level 10
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- B.A (Bachelor of Arts)
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Distance MA is Master of Arts course in distance learning mode which continues for a course duration of 2 to 5 years. Distance MA is a post-graduation course which allows students to pursue master's degree in various speacializations such as History, Sociology, Economics, Political Science, Geography, English, Philosophy, etc.
Students can pursue Distance MA course after completing their graduation in any field from a recognised university of India. Students must fulfill the admission criteria for the specified course before applying.