IGNOU PGCGPS Admission: 2026
The Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies (PGCGPS) is a unique, short-term academic programme offered by the School of Social Sciences (SOSS) at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). This certificate provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing its relevance to contemporary issues of peace, conflict, human rights, and social justice. The programme aims to cultivate a deep understanding of non-violence as a tool for societal transformation.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing IGNOU PGCGPS Admission is ideal for students, professionals, and activists interested in conflict resolution, social work, journalism, and public administration, offering a strong theoretical foundation in Gandhian principles. The programme is delivered through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.
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IGNOU PGCGPS (Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies) Highlights
The PGCGPS is a concise, 16-credit certification designed for those seeking specialized knowledge in Peace Studies and Gandhian thought, and it is entirely theory-based.
| Programme Name | Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies |
| Programme Code | PGCGPS |
| School | School of Social Sciences (SOSS) |
| Medium of Instruction | English and Hindi |
| Minimum Duration | 6 Months (0.5 Year) |
| Maximum Duration | 2 Years |
| Total Credits | 16 Credits |
| Core Focus | Gandhian Thought, Peace, Conflict Resolution, and Non-violence |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Individuals who are deeply interested in exploring non-violent conflict resolution and the philosophical foundations of Mahatma Gandhi will find this curriculum highly engaging. It is particularly suited for social activists and educators who want to integrate ethical peace-building frameworks into their existing community work or teaching methods.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many learners opt for this certificate because it provides a specialized academic lens on global peace initiatives that are often missing from standard political science degrees. The flexibility of the coursework allows working professionals to study transformative leadership and communal harmony without disrupting their full-time commitments.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The insights gained from this study are invaluable when navigating complex social dynamics within non-governmental organizations or rural development projects. It helps students develop a unique perspective on mediation and grassroots organizing that is grounded in historical success and moral philosophy.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates often move into roles involving policy analysis, social welfare coordination, or further specialized research in international relations and human rights. Completing this certificate serves as a distinguishing credential for those aiming to work with international peace foundations or local justice advocacy groups.
Programme Coordinator Details
For academic or administrative questions regarding the PGCGPS programme, students should contact the Programme Coordinator at the School of Social Sciences:
| Coordinator Name | Dr. G. Uma |
| Contact Email | guma@ignou.ac.in (or check official IGNOU site for current) |
| Contact Phone | 011-29572714 |
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 PGCGPS Admission – Important Details
Admission to the IGNOU PGCGPS programme is open during the January and July admission cycles. There is no entrance examination for this certificate, and admission is granted based on the fulfillment of the basic eligibility criteria. The certificate consists of two courses, each weighted at 8 credits.
IGNOU PGCGPS Admission Last Date (Tentative)
The last date for IGNOU PGCGPS Admission typically follows the university’s common schedule, falling at the end of January and the end of July for the respective cycles. Applicants must confirm the final, extended deadline on the official IGNOU admission portal.
IGNOU PGCGPS Eligibility Criteria
To secure IGNOU PGCGPS Admission, candidates must satisfy the following requirement:
- Possession of a Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree in any discipline from a University recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
IGNOU PGCGPS Fees Structure
The total fee for the Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies is payable as a single installment at the time of initial registration due to the short duration of the programme. Recent fees are as follows:
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) | Notes |
| Programme Fee (Full Course) | Rs. 2,000/- (Approx.) | Payable at the time of admission |
| Registration Fee (One-time, non-refundable) | Rs. 300/- (Approx.) | Payable at the time of initial IGNOU PGCGPS Admission |
| Total Payable (Approx. at Admission) | Rs. 2,300/- | Excludes exam fees |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU PGCGPS Admission
The application process for IGNOU PGCGPS Admission is completed online via the Samarth portal. Follow these steps for successful registration:
- Visit the official admission portal at IGNOU Admission Samarth Portal.
- Register as a new user by clicking on “Click for New Registration” and creating your login credentials.
- Log in, select the Programme Code PGCGPS (Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies), and choose the preferred medium of instruction (English or Hindi).
- Fill out the detailed online application form with personal, academic, and contact information.
- Upload scanned copies of all necessary documents (photo, signature, degree certificates, etc.) as per the university’s specifications.
- Pay the total Programme Fee plus the Registration Fee through the secured online payment gateway.
- Submit the form and save the final acknowledgment slip, which contains your control number, for future reference.
PGCGPS Curriculum and Course Structure (16 Credits)
The PGCGPS curriculum consists of two compulsory courses focusing on Gandhi’s central philosophies and the study of peace:
| S. No. | Course Code | Title of the Course | Credits |
| 1 | MGP-001 | Gandhi: The Man and His Times | 8 |
| 2 | MGP-002 | Philosophy of Peace | 8 |
| Total Programme Credits | 16 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU PGCGPS Admission
While a certificate, the Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies enhances critical thinking and ethical understanding, benefiting individuals in careers such as:
- Social and Human Rights Activism: Applying non-violent methods to social issues.
- NGOs and International Organizations: Roles focused on conflict management, peacebuilding, and community development.
- Journalism and Media: Ethical reporting on social, political, and conflict issues.
- Education: Teaching subjects related to ethics, social studies, and political thought.
- Civil Services: Providing a strong ethical and philosophical base for administrative roles.
🔗 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: What is the minimum duration of the PGCGPS programme?
The minimum duration to complete the Post Graduate Certificate in Gandhi and Peace Studies is **6 months**.
Q2: Is there any project or dissertation component in PGCGPS?
No, the PGCGPS programme is entirely theory-based and consists of two 8-credit courses (MGP-001 and MGP-002).
Q3: Is the IGNOU PGCGPS Admission available in the Hindi medium?
Yes, the PGCGPS programme is offered with the option to select either the English or Hindi medium of instruction for study and examinations.
Q4: Can this certificate be counted towards a Diploma or Master’s degree later?
Students who successfully complete the PGCGPS can seek credit transfer if they later enroll in the **MA in Gandhi and Peace Studies (MAGPS)** programme at IGNOU, subject to credit transfer rules.