IGNOU PGDAW Admission: 2026
The IGNOU PGDAW Admission process is now open for students interested in the Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare. This specialized programme is designed to provide professional knowledge in animal welfare science, ethics, and law. Students can apply through the IGNOU Official Website to secure their seats for the upcoming academic cycle.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing an IGNOU PGDAW Admission allows learners to understand the complex relationship between humans and animals. The curriculum is developed by experts to meet the growing demand for animal welfare professionals in NGOs, government sectors, and research institutions across the country.
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IGNOU PGDAW (Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare) Highlights
The Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare is a unique multidisciplinary programme. It focuses on the welfare of various animal categories including farm animals, working animals, and pets.
| Programme Name | Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare (PGDAW) |
|---|---|
| Programme Code | PGDAW |
| Duration | Minimum 1 Year, Maximum 3 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Course Component | 32 Credits |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
This course is ideal for veterinary professionals or animal lovers who want to back their compassion with scientific principles. It suits individuals working in animal shelters or wildlife organizations who need a formal understanding of ethics and behavioral standards.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Students often enroll because it provides a multi-disciplinary perspective on how animals should be treated across various industries. The curriculum offers a unique deep dive into animal sentience and legal frameworks that are rarely covered in standard biology or agriculture degrees.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The knowledge gained here is vital for those navigating regulatory compliance or advocacy roles within the livestock and poultry sectors. It helps practitioners implement humane handling techniques that improve both animal productivity and overall welfare standards in the field.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates often move into welfare auditing or advisory roles for non-governmental organizations and government bodies. Many use the credentials to transition into policy-making or specialized education roles focused on protecting domestic and wild animal populations.
Programme Coordinator Details
Students seeking guidance regarding the academic curriculum or course structure can contact the following programme coordinators at the School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS).
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Prof. P.V.K. Sasidhar | pvksasidhar@ignou.ac.in | 011-29571665 |
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 PGDAW Admission – Important Details
The IGNOU PGDAW Admission cycle is conducted twice a year, typically in the January and July sessions. Applicants must ensure they meet the minimum eligibility criteria before filling out the online form. Registration requires a non-refundable fee as per the latest university norms.
IGNOU PGDAW Admission Last Date
The university announces specific deadlines for each session. For the current cycle, the IGNOU PGDAW Admission last date is generally updated on the Samarth portal. Students are advised to complete their applications well before the closing date to avoid technical delays or late fees.
IGNOU PGDAW Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Applicants must hold a Graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institute.
- There is no age bar for candidates applying for this diploma programme.
- Professionals working in animal-related sectors are encouraged to apply.
IGNOU PGDAW Fees Structure
The fee for the PGDAW programme is subject to change as per university decisions. Below is the standard fee structure for the current academic session.
| Particulars | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Total Programme Fee | 5,400 |
| Registration Fee | 300 |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU PGDAW Admission
Follow these steps to successfully complete your application through the IGNOU Official Website:
- Visit the official IGNOU Samarth admission portal.
- Click on “New Registration” and provide your basic details to create a username and password.
- Log in using your credentials and fill in your personal, academic, and professional details.
- Select the “Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare (PGDAW)” from the programme list.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and relevant educational certificates.
- Pay the application fee using a credit card, debit card, or net banking.
- Submit the form and download the digital confirmation copy for future reference.
PGDAW Curriculum and Course Structure
The PGDAW curriculum consists of four mandatory courses totaling 32 credits. Each course provides 8 credits of intensive learning.
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MAW-001 | Animal Welfare Science and Ethics | 8 |
| MAW-002 | Animal Welfare Issues | 8 |
| MAW-003 | Animal Welfare Laws, Policies and Organizations | 8 |
| MAW-004 | Animal Welfare Practices, Economics and Extension | 8 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU PGDAW Admission
Graduates who have completed their IGNOU PGDAW Admission and passed the exams can explore various roles in the livestock and wildlife sectors. Potential career paths include working as animal welfare officers, consultants for NGOs, policy researchers, and managers in dairy or poultry cooperatives. The diploma is also highly beneficial for veterinarians and animal science researchers.
🔗 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 eligibility for IGNOU PGDAW Admission?
A: Any graduate in any discipline from a recognized university is eligible to apply for this programme.
Q2: Is there an entrance exam for IGNOU PGDAW Admission?
A: No, admission to the PGDAW programme is based on direct merit and fulfillment of eligibility criteria; no entrance exam is required.
Q3: Can I pursue this course while working?
A: Yes, the IGNOU PGDAW Admission is ideal for working professionals as it is an ODL (Open and Distance Learning) programme with a flexible duration of up to 3 years.
Q4: What is the medium of instruction for PGDAW?
A: Currently, the study materials and examinations for the Post Graduate Diploma in Animal Welfare are available in English only.
Q5: Where can I submit my assignments after IGNOU PGDAW Admission?
A: Assignments must be submitted at your allotted Study Centre or online through the regional center link as per the university’s instructions.