IGNOU MBALS Admission: 2026
The Master of Business Administration (Logistics & Supply Chain Management) (MBALS) is a specialized two-year postgraduate management programme offered by the School of Management Studies (SOMS) at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). This programme is meticulously designed to develop professionals capable of managing complex global supply chains, optimizing logistics operations, and implementing efficient procurement and distribution strategies in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing IGNOU MBALS Admission is ideal for graduates and working professionals aiming to excel in the logistics sector, e-commerce, manufacturing, and international trade. The MBALS curriculum combines core management principles with deep vertical specialization in areas such as warehouse management, transportation, and supply chain analytics. The programme is delivered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.
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IGNOU MBALS (MBA in Logistics & Supply Chain Management) Highlights
The MBALS programme follows a modular structure, ensuring students gain a foundation in general management before moving into specialized logistics and SCM modules.
| Programme Name | Master of Business Administration (Logistics & Supply Chain Management) |
| Programme Code | MBALS |
| School | School of Management Studies (SOMS) |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Total Credits | 116 Credits |
| Specialization Focus | Logistics, SCM, Procurement, and Inventory Management |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Working professionals currently employed in transportation, warehousing, or manufacturing will find this curriculum directly applicable to their daily operations. It is also well-suited for graduates who possess a strong analytical mindset and want to master the complexities of global trade movements.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many students opt for this specialization because it bridges the gap between theoretical management and practical operational efficiency in a growing industry. The focus on integrated supply chain strategies provides a competitive edge that general MBA degrees might lack.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The course content assists in understanding the end-to-end flow of goods, from raw material procurement to final consumer delivery. It proves particularly useful for those navigating the digital transformation of logistics and modern inventory management systems.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates often transition into specialized roles such as supply chain analysts, fleet managers, or procurement specialists within domestic and international firms. Completing this degree allows students to pursue leadership positions in maritime, aviation, and e-commerce logistics sectors.
Programme Coordinator Details
For academic queries regarding the MBALS curriculum or course materials, students may contact the management faculty at SOMS:
| Coordinator Name | Prof. Nayantara Padhi / Dr. Subodh Kesharwani (Refer to official portal for current faculty) |
| Contact Email | nayantara@ignou.ac.in / skesharwani@ignou.ac.in |
| Contact Phone | 011-29573025 |
Programme Coordinator details mentioned above are based on information published in the official IGNOU Prospectus and are provided here only for general reference. IGNOUED is an independent educational information platform and does not represent Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students are encouraged to refer directly to the official IGNOU prospectus or website.
IGNOU MBALS Admission – Important Details
Admission to the IGNOU MBALS programme is generally offered in two cycles: January and July. Unlike the general MBA, admission to specialized MBA programmes like MBALS is often based on the qualifying degree merit and meeting the eligibility criteria directly, rather than a separate entrance exam like OPENMAT, though applicants must verify the current cycle’s specific requirements.
IGNOU MBALS Admission Last Date (Tentative)
The last date for IGNOU MBALS Admission typically coincides with the university’s general admission deadlines for postgraduate programmes, usually falling in late January and late July. Prospective students should check the official Samarth admission portal for live updates and extensions.
IGNOU MBALS Eligibility Criteria
To secure IGNOU MBALS Admission, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Possession of a Bachelor’s Degree (including Professional Degrees like Chartered Accountancy/Cost Accountancy/Company Secretaryship) with at least 50% marks for the General Category.
- A minimum of 45% marks is required for candidates belonging to Reserved Categories.
- No prior work experience is mandatory, though it is highly recommended for better conceptual grasp.
IGNOU MBALS Fees Structure
The fee for the MBA in Logistics & Supply Chain Management is typically paid per semester. The fee structure for IGNOU MBALS Admission is as follows:
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) | Notes |
| Programme Fee (Per Semester) | Rs. 15,500/- (Approx.) | Payable for 4 semesters |
| Total Programme Fee | Rs. 62,000/- (Approx.) | Excludes exam and registration fees |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | Rs. 300/- | Payable during initial admission |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MBALS Admission
Application for IGNOU MBALS Admission is a digital process. Follow these steps for a successful application:
- Go to the IGNOU Samarth Admission Portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.
- Register by clicking “Click for New Registration” and creating a unique username and password.
- Login and select the programme MBALS (MBA Logistics & Supply Chain Management).
- Fill in personal details, academic qualifications, and select the appropriate Regional Centre and Study Centre.
- Upload scanned documents: Photograph, Signature, Age Proof, Educational Certificates, and Category Certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the first-semester fee and registration fee via Credit/Debit Card or Net Banking.
- Submit the application and download the Admission Form for your records.
MBALS Curriculum and Course Structure
The MBALS curriculum is spread across four semesters, providing a balance between general management and specialized SCM topics.
| Semester | Core Focus Areas | Credits |
| 1 & 2 | Management Functions, Quantitative Analysis, Marketing, Finance, and HR | 56 |
| 3 | Logistics System, Warehouse Management, SCM Strategy, and Purchasing | 28 |
| 4 | Supply Chain Analytics, International Logistics, and Project Work | 32 |
| Total | 116 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MBALS Admission
Graduates of the Master of Business Administration (Logistics & Supply Chain Management) are highly sought after in sectors like E-commerce (Amazon, Flipkart), FMCG, and Global Shipping. Roles include:
- Supply Chain Manager: Overseeing the entire supply chain lifecycle.
- Logistics Coordinator: Managing transportation and distribution networks.
- Procurement Manager: Handling strategic sourcing and vendor relationships.
- Inventory Control Manager: Optimizing stock levels using data-driven techniques.
- Operations Consultant: Improving organizational efficiency for logistics firms.
🔗 Also Read
These related pages provide additional clarity on syllabus structure, study resources, and assignment guidelines associated with this programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there an entrance exam for IGNOU MBALS?
Currently, for specialized MBA programmes like MBALS, admission is typically based on fulfilling the eligibility criteria and merit in the qualifying degree, rather than the OPENMAT exam.
Q2: Can I complete MBALS in 1.5 years?
No, the minimum duration for the Master of Business Administration (Logistics & Supply Chain Management) is 2 years (4 semesters).
Q3: Is the MBALS degree recognized by the AICTE?
Yes, IGNOU management programmes, including MBALS, are recognized by the AICTE and the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Q4: Is the project work mandatory in the final semester?
Yes, the Project Work (MMPP-001) is a compulsory component to earn the MBALS degree.