Nagaland University launches MA Rural Development and Management

Nagaland University (NU) has launched a new Master of Arts (MA) programme in rural development and management. Admissions will be done on the basis of a PG entrance exam at NU, which will be held on July 28, 2025. Common Universities Entrance Test (CUET) scores will also be accepted for NU admissions 2025.

A total of 20 seats are available for the rural development programme at Nagaland University. Applications will be open till July 20.

Interested students can apply on the university’s official website: nagalanduniversity.ac.in. Students who graduated from language subjects are not eligible for the Nagaland PG programme.

MA Rural Development: Eligibility

Students who have graduated Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with at least 50% marks are eligible to apply.

Relaxation in marks is given to reserved category students. Students from Nagaland University will be given a 10% bonus weightage.

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NU: MA Rural Development and Management

The new course at NU aims to provide an “in-depth understanding” of the rural economy, governance, social dynamics, natural resource management, and the planning and execution of development schemes, according to an official statement.

After completing this programme, students will be qualified for careers in the government, non-governmental organisations (NGO), academia and entrepreneurship. Since more than 70% of Nagaland’s population lives in rural areas, planned rural development becomes important.

The Nagaland University degree, launched under the department of rural development and planning, brings together the following key features:

• Interdisciplinary curriculum - blending theory with practical learning
• Focus on planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of rural development initiatives
• Direct contribution towards the development of tribal and rural communities in the Northeastern region

Speaking on the rural studies programme, Jagadish K Patnaik, the vice chancellor of the university said: “This programme is a significant step toward our commitment to fostering academic excellence and addressing the critical developmental needs of rural and tribal communities. By integrating theory with practical engagement, the course is designed to build a dedicated cadre of professionals and changemakers who can contribute meaningfully to rural development, governance, and sustainable livelihood initiatives in Nagaland and beyond.”