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Online MA Course: Fees, Admission 2025, Duration, Top Colleges

Looking to advance your knowledge in arts and humanities? An Online MA program empowers you to specialize in your chosen field while balancing work and personal commitments. This 2-year postgraduate degree enhances critical thinking, research abilities, and subject expertise across disciplines like English, History, Sociology, Psychology, and more. With interactive online classes, flexible study options, and affordable fees, the program is designed for graduates and professionals who wish to upskill or pursue academic, research, or leadership careers. An Online MA not only strengthens your career prospects but also opens the pathway to doctoral studies.

4.8 | 5.0 Last updated 23rd July 2025
Program:
Masters
Duration:
2 years

Online Master of Arts (Online MA Course) Degree Program Overview

The online Master of Arts (MA) is a postgraduate degree program that lasts for a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 4 years. The online MA course is designed to equip students with relevant skills and knowledge, aiming for vast career opportunities. Students can enhance their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and exceptional decision-making through research-based learning and practical exposure to the latest industry trends.

From linguistics courses to cultural & heritage, politics, human psychology, and sociology, an Online or distance MA course offers a range of specializations as per the interests of the students. Moreover, the remote courses are flexible, easily accessible, and affordable as compared to regular degree programs, which makes it a top priority for students and working professionals looking to enhance their academic degree while preferring virtual flexible classes. The distance MA degree holders are eligible for lucrative job opportunities and work profiles in various industries, including media houses, NGOs, libraries, educational institutions, corporate industries, and other government and private organizations.

Distance or Online MA Program - Degree Specializations and Key Highlights

Pursuing an MA through online distance education in India provides students with a flexible and affordable education. This form of learning is beneficial to working professionals, distance learners, and those looking for a high-quality education. Students at recognized universities can benefit from industry-relevant curricula, virtual classrooms, and a wide range of specializations. Here are the key highlights of an Online MA Course:

Aspect Details
Name of The Course Master of Arts (MA)
Course Type Online & Distance
Duration of the MA Course 2-4 Years
Course Pedagogy Online and Recorded Lectures, LMS, Discussion Forms, E-Learning Materials, Internships/Assignments
Eligibility Criteria Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject from a recognized university or equivalent
Course Specializations English Literature, Psychology, History, Sociology, Political Science, Public Administration, Economics, Hindi or Regional Languages, Journalism and Mass Communication, Philosophy
Future Outcome Pursue Ph.D, Civil Services, Politician, Entrepreneur, Psychologist
Salary Package INR 4 -8 LPA

Online Master of Arts - Eligibility Criteria & Duration of the Course

An online MA degree can be pursued by any graduate or equivalent, but the Master of Arts is one of the most common courses for students who have completed their graduation from the arts and humanities. They can enroll in the course to polish their skills and knowledge in their respective specialization. However, with the MA distance education degree, students may apply for research-based courses such as a Ph.D.

Course Duration

The online/distance MA course lasts at least 2 years and up to 4 years. The course is structured into 4 semesters, 2 each year, which may include project work and internships. Some institutions may offer this degree in a short amount of time, depending on the college's accreditation and degree authenticity.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Educational Qualification: To enroll in the Online MA course, the candidate must have a graduation degree in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent.
  • Minimum Marks: The minimum marks eligibility criteria may vary from university to university. Generally, students must score at least 40-45% aggregate marks.
  • Age Limit: MA online admission does not impose any age limit; it is advisable to check the details notification provided by the university.

Choose the best university and course that fit your career and personal objectives by getting in touch with Education Mitra. Get free expert guidance at your convenience.

Online MA Program - Fee Structure

Pursuing an online or distance MA degree is one of the most popular degree programs among students seeking to acquire communication skills and critical thinking abilities in a variety of fields such as history, psychology, sociology, and linguistics. The online classes are easily available from anywhere, at any time, and are also cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for working professionals seeking promotions, career changers, or remote students. If you are thinking about pursuing this multidisciplinary degree, make sure to look into the course fees first. At Education Mitra, we assist students in comparing and selecting the best university that suits their budget without compromising curriculum quality or authenticity.

Fee Structure for Indian Universities (in INR) INR 50,000 – 1,00,000 (varies by university)

Online MA Degree Admission Process

To enroll in an online MA course in India, students need to follow the admission process and rules introduced by their desired university. However, different universities may follow different processes for student onboarding. Gone are the days when students need to stand in a queue for long hours to get an admission form or to submit it. Thanks to the internet! Nowadays, online admission for MA is simple and time-saving. Students just need to follow a few simple steps and get access to their desired course.

Here are some of the most common steps, followed by universities nowadays.

  • Step 1:Go to the university website or visit the Education Mitra official site.
  • Step 2: Locate the “Apply Now” button and register yourself with common details.
  • Step 3: Fill in the academic and personal details as required by the application form.
  • Step 4: Attach the scanned copy of the documents needed by the university or institute.
  • Step 5: Pay the registration/course fee using online payment methods.
  • Step 6: Submit the form and wait for confirmation from the university’s side.

For a smooth and seamless admission process, it is advisable to get in touch with Education Mitra and get easy access to compare and choose among 100+ recognized universities – at your fingertips.

Programme Benefits – Why Choose an Online MA Program

An Online MA program offers the perfect blend of flexibility, affordability, and academic excellence to aspiring arts graduates and helps them to deepen their expertise in their desired field. The online and distance education courses allow learners to pursue their degree from anywhere while balancing personal and professional commitments. The online and distance courses are government-recognized, offering the same value as a regular degree at a lower cost.

The curriculum is designed to provide a strong knowledge of core arts and humanities subjects, such as language and linguistics, history, political science, psychology, sociology, and more. Plus, the course offers practical exposure, theoretical knowledge, and industry-relevant expertise. With interactive digital learning tools, expert faculty guidance, and global recognition, an online MA opens doors to diverse career opportunities in the government and private sector, or students can upgrade their level of degree by enrolling in an Online MBA, B.Ed, or pursue a Ph.D.

What are the Subjects of the Distance/Online MA Degree Program?

The course equips students with thorough knowledge related to their area of interest to perform well in a real-world setup. The subjects in an Online Master of Arts (MA) Degree Program vary depending on the specialization or major you choose. However, here’s a breakdown of popular MA specializations and their common subjects:

Core Subjects (Common Across Specializations)

These subjects are usually part of the curriculum regardless of the specialization:

  • English Communication / Language Proficiency
  • Human Psychology
  • Computer Applications or Digital Literacy
  • Sociology and Social Work
  • Indian Constitution and Civic Studies
  • Soft Skills / Personality Development

Why Pursue an Online MA Course - Important Features of the Programme

Pursuing an online or Distance MA degree will offer a fruitful learning journey and a promising career ahead. Gone are the days when students considered online and distance learning courses as the last option. The benefits and advantages of pursuing an online MA course attract students from different regions or countries to accomplish their academic goals.

Here are some main benefits of earning an online Master of Arts degree:

Key Features:

  • An online MA degree makes you eligible for further postgraduation studies like MPhil, PhD, MSW, or other specialized master’s programs, helping you build deep expertise in your field.
  • Whether it’s UPSC, SSC, State PSC, Banking, or other government job exams, an online MA from a recognized university meets the required qualifications — just like a regular degree.
  • From education, media, and public service to corporate jobs and creative fields, an online MA prepares you with core knowledge and practical understanding that employers’ value.
  • Subjects like Psychology, English, Journalism, Political Science, and more open doors to careers in teaching, content writing, PR, social work, research, and administration.
  • Online MA students often juggle studies with work or other responsibilities — which shows great time management, self-discipline, and adaptability. These are skills that today’s recruiters appreciate.

Job Roles & Salary Trends

An online MA degree provides a wide range of professional prospects in the private and public sectors. Graduates can work in education, media, public administration, and social services, among other fields. This section focuses on the plentiful work opportunities available after completing an online Master of Arts program in India. This training helps you achieve your goals and choose the right professional path.

Job Profile Average Salary (per annum in India, 2025)
Lecturer / Assistant Professor ₹4 – 12 LPA
Research Analyst ₹4 – 10 LPA
Psychologist / Counsellor ₹3.5 – 12 LPA
Sociologist / Social Researcher ₹4 – 9 LPA
Public Policy Analyst ₹5 – 14 LPA
Political Consultant ₹6 – 15 LPA
Historian / Archivist ₹4 – 8 LPA
Human Resource Specialist ₹5 – 12 LPA
Journalist / Editor ₹4 – 10 LPA
Civil Services ₹8 – 20 LPA (with perks & allowances)
NGO / Development Sector Professional ₹3 – 9 LPA
Corporate Communication Manager ₹6 – 14 LPA
Content Writer / Copywriter ₹3 – 8 LPA
International Relations Specialist / Diplomat ₹7 – 20 LPA
Language Expert / Translator ₹3 – 9 LPA

What will you get in the Online MA Degree Course?

An Online MA Degree Course with Education Mitra gives you the perfect combination of knowledge, flexibility, and career-oriented learning. The program is designed to help you develop in-depth knowledge in the arts and humanities while allowing you to balance studies with work or personal commitments. You get practical exposure, expert guidance, and opportunities to enhance your academic as well as professional growth.

You Will Get:

  • UGC-approved and industry-relevant curriculum
  • Flexible online learning with recorded & live classes
  • Affordable fee structure with easy payment options
  • Access to digital study materials and e-library
  • Regular assessments, assignments, and feedback
  • Career guidance and placement support

What does the Online MA Course Offer?

MA through online and distance education brings unmatched flexibility and affordability. Learners can study from home, at their own pace, without disrupting professional or personal commitments. Access to e-libraries, recorded lectures, discussion forums, and virtual classes makes the program interactive and convenient for students across India and abroad. For working professionals, this flexibility is especially valuable, allowing them to upgrade their qualifications without leaving their jobs.

is choosing an online ma journalism after graduation worth
  • No more worrying about commuting or strict schedules. With online MA classes, you can learn from home, your workplace, or even while on the go — all you need is a device and an internet connection.
  • Managing a job or family? No problem. Online learning lets you balance your education with your routine, so you can earn your degree without taking a break from work or life.
  • Online MA courses are not only affordable but also save you money on things like travel, hostel fees, or relocation. You get quality education without burning a hole in your pocket.
  • Today, many top universities offer UGC-approved online MA degrees that hold the same credibility as a regular on-campus program — trusted by employers and institutions across the country.
  • Whether you're passionate about English, History, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, or Mass Communication, there's an online MA program that fits your interests and career path.
  • Be it preparing for competitive exams, going for higher studies, or diving into creative fields, an online MA degree can take your career to new heights.

Top Affordable Universities and Colleges for Online MA Course

There are a number of government and private universities offering an online MA course in India. But students are often confused about choosing the one that suits their learning outcomes and budget. The right decision may provide a suitable learning journey, and a wrong decision may provide a struggle or dissatisfaction. While making any decision, do not forget to conduct thorough research to make an informed decision.

Here is the list of the top 10 UGC-DEB-approved universities that offer online/distance MA courses.

Best Online learning MA University/College in India Online MA course fees Per Annum (INR) About MA Course Eligibility
Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut 16,500 – 22,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
LPU Online 29,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
Suresh Gyan Vihar University 16,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
Chandigarh University Online 37,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
Manipal University Jaipur (Online) 37,500 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
KuruKshetra University (Online) 29,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
VGU Online 32, 400 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
Parul University online 60,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
Amity University Online 1,25,000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent
IGNOU, New Delhi 7000 Graduation in any stream from a recognized university or equivalent

Please note: The fees mentioned above are based on the latest available information and are subject to change as per the rules and regulations of the respective universities.

Top Companies Hiring Online MA Professionals

Graduates of online MA programs are in high demand in many fields that appreciate critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills. Online MA students might find a variety of work options across multiple industries. The specific work options vary depending on the topic of education and specialty. Below are some examples of prospective job possibilities for online MA students:

Top Hiring Forms for Online MA in India

  • Schools and Colleges
  • Axis Bank
  • Reliance Life Insurance
  • Genpact
  • Media Houses
  • Maruti
  • Infosys
  • Digital Beez
  • Compitally
  • Accenture
  • Amazon

Tips to Choose the Best Online MA Courses

To choose the best online MA degree after graduation, do not forget to consider factors like accreditation, curriculum quality, institution reputation, faculty expertise, flexibility, and internship opportunities. Compare universities offering online UG/PG courses, their structures, and evaluate career support services. Choose a reputable, accredited program that aligns with your career goals and budget.

If you find yourself confused choosing the best online and distance learning MA course, get in touch with Education Mitra and explore the best student support, such as UGC-DEB-approved courses and universities, personalized expert advice, no-cost EMI options, and more.

Conclusion

An online MA is not just an academic qualification but a career-enhancing opportunity that helps learners gain specialized knowledge, broaden perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to their chosen profession and society. An Online MA degree is more than just a flexible learning option — it’s a step toward a stronger, smarter future. Whether you're aiming for higher studies, government jobs, or career growth in your field, this program offers the right mix of convenience, credibility, and career-readiness. Choose the right specialization, learn at your own pace, and unlock new opportunities — all from the comfort of your home.

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FAQs Related to Online MA Course

An Online MA course is a postgraduate degree that can be completed in a minimum of 2 years.

Yes, an online MA degree is 100% valid if it’s offered by a UGC-DEB-approved university. It is equivalent to a regular degree.

Definitely. The degree opens the door for lucrative job opportunities in the private or government sector. Also, it enables aspirants for UPSC, SSC, and other civil services exams.

MA graduates can expect a starting salary of around ₹ 3–5 LPA, which may increase with experience, skill set, and the job role chosen.

Master of Arts Programme is the full form of the MA programme course.

Yes, Online MA programs are designed for remote learners. You can study comfortably from home without attending physical classes.

Placement support is offered by many online and distance universities, but it's not mandatory. Some provide career guidance, job portals, and virtual hiring drives.

No, your salary depends on your talent and dedication rather than the mode of your degree.