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MA in Rural Development at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Rural Development at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This MA Rural Development program at University of Mysore focuses on holistic understanding and sustainable development of rural communities. It integrates socio-economic, environmental, and governance aspects vital for India''''s largely agrarian and rural population. The program aims to equip professionals with skills to address complex challenges in rural settings, aligning with national priorities for inclusive growth and grassroots empowerment.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from social sciences, humanities, or agriculture seeking entry into the development sector. It also suits working professionals from NGOs, government agencies, or CSR initiatives aiming to upskill their rural development expertise. Career changers passionate about contributing to grassroots transformation and community welfare will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in government agencies (e.g., NIRDPR, various ministries), NGOs, international development organizations, and CSR departments. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Roles include Rural Development Officer, Project Coordinator, Livelihood Specialist, or Social Auditor, contributing to India''''s rural upliftment.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Concepts in Rural Development- (Semester 1)
Dedicate time to deeply understand core theories in rural sociology, economics, and local self-governance. Actively participate in classroom discussions, read prescribed texts thoroughly, and use online resources to clarify doubts, focusing on the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
University library, NIRDPR publications, MOOCs on basic social sciences, Academic journals
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is fundamental for understanding the complexities of rural India and for designing effective interventions, crucial for roles in government and NGOs.
Develop Basic Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1)
Focus on grasping research methodology and statistical concepts introduced in the first semester. Practice data interpretation using simple datasets and work on hypothetical research designs relevant to rural issues, preparing for field work.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software tutorials (e.g., Excel for basic stats), Research paper databases, University''''s research support
Career Connection
Essential for evidence-based decision making, program evaluation, and data-driven reporting in development organizations, enhancing your credibility.
Engage with Current Rural Issues through Media- (Semester 1)
Regularly read leading Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines like Yojana and Kurukshetra, and watch documentaries on rural India. This builds contextual understanding and keeps you updated on policy debates and ground realities.
Tools & Resources
News apps, Government publications (PIB), Rajya Sabha TV documentaries
Career Connection
Crucial for informed participation in interviews, policy discussions, and for developing a holistic view of the development landscape, making you a well-rounded professional.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Field-Based Mini Projects and Internships- (Semester 2-3 (during breaks or alongside studies))
Actively seek out opportunities for short-term field visits, volunteer work, or internships with local NGOs, CSR foundations, or government rural development departments. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges like rural technology adoption or natural resource management.
Tools & Resources
University''''s placement cell, NGO directories, Local community organizations
Career Connection
Builds practical experience, networking opportunities, and helps identify areas of specialization, making you more marketable for job roles and understanding implementation challenges.
Specialize in a Niche Area of Rural Development- (Semester 2-3)
Based on your interests (e.g., microfinance, gender development, sustainable agriculture), delve deeper into specific topics. Take online courses, read advanced literature, and attend workshops to build expertise, focusing on Indian specific challenges and solutions.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL for specialized courses, Publications from NABARD, IFPRI, UN agencies
Career Connection
Differentiating yourself with specialized skills can open doors to specific roles and organizations in areas like livelihood promotion or climate change adaptation, giving you a competitive edge.
Develop Communication and Advocacy Skills- (Semester 2-3)
Practice presenting your ideas clearly and concisely through seminars, group projects, and mock interviews. Learn to articulate rural issues effectively and to advocate for policy changes or community needs, refining your persuasive abilities.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking workshops, Toastmasters clubs (if available), Mock interview sessions, Presentation software
Career Connection
Essential for roles in project management, community mobilization, advocacy, and donor relations in the development sector, where effective communication is key.
Advanced Stage
Conduct a High-Quality Project Report/Thesis- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your final project report/thesis. Choose a research topic with real-world relevance, conduct thorough fieldwork, and present robust findings and recommendations applicable to rural India. Seek regular feedback from your faculty mentor.
Tools & Resources
Research ethics guidelines, Statistical software (SPSS, R), Academic writing guides, University research labs
Career Connection
A strong thesis demonstrates research capability, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, highly valued by employers and for further academic pursuits or policy formulation.
Network Strategically and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 4)
Actively attend seminars, conferences, and career fairs related to rural development. Connect with alumni and professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Prepare a tailored resume, cover letter, and practice interview questions specifically for development roles in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Career services department, Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for discovering hidden opportunities, gaining referrals, and securing placements in competitive development organizations, leveraging personal connections for career growth.
Build Project Management and Grant Writing Skills- (Semester 4)
Familiarize yourself with basic project cycle management (PCM) tools and frameworks. If possible, volunteer to assist an NGO with a grant proposal or project plan. This practical skill is highly sought after by development agencies and funders.
Tools & Resources
Online courses on project management (e.g., PM4NGOs), Sample grant proposals, Workshops on proposal writing, Internship opportunities
Career Connection
These skills are critical for leadership roles in NGOs, government programs, and international development projects, enabling you to manage resources and secure funding for impactful initiatives.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree examination of University of Mysore or equivalent with minimum 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/Cat-I candidates)
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RD 401 | Rural Society and Social Change | Core | 4 | Rural Sociology Concepts, Social Stratification and Mobility, Rural Social Problems, Theories of Social Change, Approaches to Rural Development |
| RD 402 | Rural Economy and Economic Development | Core | 4 | Features of Rural Economy, Agricultural Sector Dynamics, Rural Industries and Cottage Crafts, Rural Poverty and Unemployment, Economic Development Models |
| RD 403 | Rural Local Self-Government (Panchayat Raj) | Core | 4 | History of Local Governance, Panchayat Raj Institutions, Gram Sabha and its Functions, Rural Administration and Decentralization, 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act |
| RD 404 | Dimensions of Rural Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Development, Human Development Index, Sustainable Rural Development, Rural Infrastructure Development, Public Policies for Rural Growth |
| RD 405 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design Types, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RD 411 | Rural Technology | Core | 4 | Appropriate Technology Concepts, Renewable Energy for Rural Areas, Rural Housing Technologies, Water Management Techniques, Sanitation and Waste Management |
| RD 412 | Rural Industries and Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 4 | Small Scale Industries, Micro and Cottage Enterprises, Entrepreneurship Theories and Skills, Project Formulation and Appraisal, Marketing Strategies for Rural Products |
| RD 413 | Rural Health and Education | Core | 4 | Rural Health Issues and Challenges, Primary Healthcare Systems, National Health Policies, Rural Education Systems, Adult Literacy Programs |
| RD 414 | Social Work in Rural Development | Core | 4 | Principles of Social Work, Community Organization, Rural Group Work, Social Action and Advocacy, Role of NGOs in Rural Development |
| RD 415 | Statistics for Rural Development | Core | 4 | Basic Statistical Concepts, Measures of Central Tendency, Probability and Distribution, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RD 501 | Natural Resource Management | Core | 4 | Land Resources and Management, Water Resources and Conservation, Forest Resources and Biodiversity, Environmental Degradation Issues, Sustainable Resource Use Strategies |
| RD 502 | Rural Planning and Management | Core | 4 | Concepts of Rural Planning, Rural Planning Models, Project Planning and Formulation, Program Evaluation Techniques, Participatory Rural Appraisal |
| RD 503 | Rural Development Programmes in India | Core | 4 | Poverty Alleviation Schemes, Employment Generation Programs (MGNREGA), Rural Housing Schemes, Livelihood Missions (NRLM), Government Initiatives for Rural Welfare |
| RD 504 | Gender and Development | Core | 4 | Gender Concepts and Theories, Women Empowerment Strategies, Gender Inequality in Rural Contexts, Gender Mainstreaming in Development, Rural Women''''s Issues and Solutions |
| RD 505 | Human Resource Development for Rural Sector | Core | 4 | HRD Concepts and Frameworks, Training and Development Methodologies, Capacity Building in Rural Areas, Rural Leadership Development, Skills Development for Rural Youth |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RD 511 | Cooperatives and Rural Development | Core | 4 | Cooperative Movement in India, Types of Cooperatives (Credit, Marketing), Management of Cooperative Societies, Rural Credit Institutions, Cooperative Legislation and Policy |
| RD 512 | Rural Marketing and Financial Services | Core | 4 | Characteristics of Rural Markets, Rural Marketing Strategies, Microfinance Institutions, Rural Banking and Insurance Schemes, Financial Inclusion Initiatives |
| RD 513 | Disaster Management | Core | 4 | Types of Disasters (Natural, Man-made), Disaster Preparedness Measures, Mitigation Strategies, Relief and Rehabilitation, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction |
| RD 514 | Project Report and Viva-Voce | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Formatting, Presentation Skills Development, Viva Voce Examination |
| RD 515 | Field Work | Practical | 4 | Field Survey Techniques, Community Engagement Methods, Data Collection in Rural Settings, Observation and Interview Skills, Report Preparation from Field Data |
