IGNOU PGDNOV Admission: 2026
The Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel (PGDNOV) is a specialized one-year diploma programme offered by the School of Humanities (SOH) at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). This academic programme provides a comprehensive and critical study of the novel as a literary genre, its historical evolution, and various theoretical frameworks. Students must secure IGNOU PGDNOV Admission to gain specialized knowledge in British, American, and Australian novel traditions.
Last Updated: January 2026
The courses included in the PGDNOV are strategically aligned with the core curriculum of the first year of the MA English (MEG) programme. This unique structure ensures high academic value and enables graduates to seek lateral entry into the second year of the MEG programme, subject to university rules. Further details regarding the IGNOU PGDNOV Admission process, eligibility, and fees can be found below. You can also visit the IGNOU Official Website for the common prospectus.
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IGNOU PGDNOV (Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel) Highlights
The PGDNOV programme is highly sought after by students planning for advanced studies in English literature. The diploma focuses exclusively on the novel, which is the most prominent literary form globally. Key details regarding the programme structure are as follows:
| Programme Name | Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel |
| Programme Code | PGDNOV |
| School | School of Humanities (SOH) |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Total Credits | 32 Credits |
| Recognition | UGC and DEC approved |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
This course is ideal for individuals who possess a deep-seated passion for literary analysis and wish to explore the evolution of the novel as a primary genre. It suits those who enjoy dissecting narrative structures and are ready to engage with long-form fiction from various global and historical contexts.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many students opt for this diploma because it offers a specialized focus that broader literature degrees often lack, allowing for a concentrated study of novelistic techniques. The flexibility of the curriculum attracts those who want to build a strong theoretical foundation in storytelling while managing other professional or personal commitments.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The academic rigor of the coursework helps in developing a critical eye for detail, which is essential for identifying subtle themes and character motivations within complex texts. Students find that their ability to articulate sophisticated arguments about prose significantly improves throughout the various modules.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Completing this diploma often serves as a stepping stone for those looking to transition into literary criticism, book reviewing, or professional manuscript editing. It also provides the necessary research background for students planning to pursue advanced academic degrees specifically centered on narrative studies or comparative literature.
Programme Coordinator Details
Students seeking specific academic guidance regarding the PGDNOV programme structure or course material may contact the designated Programme Coordinator:
| Coordinator Name | Dr. Prema Eden Samdup |
| Contact Email | psamdup@ignou.ac.in |
| Contact Phone | 011-29572770 |
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 PGDNOV Admission – Important Details
Admission to the PGDNOV programme is conducted in two cycles annually, the January session and the July session. The eligibility is open to all graduates. Prospective students should review the minimum marks required and ensure all documentation is ready before applying for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission. The programme is available through the Online (ODL) mode.
IGNOU PGDNOV Admission Last Date
The last date for **IGNOU PGDNOV Admission** is announced separately for the January and July cycles. Historically, the deadlines fall at the end of January and the end of July, respectively. Applicants must check the official IGNOU admission portal for the exact final date before submitting the application. Early application is always recommended to avoid technical delays.
IGNOU PGDNOV Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission, applicants must fulfill the following mandatory 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 PGDNOV Fees Structure
The total fee for the Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel is payable at the time of initial registration for the academic session. The fee breakdown for the IGNOU PGDNOV Admission is as follows:
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
| Programme Fee (Full Course) | Rs. 7,000/- |
| Registration Fee (One-time, non-refundable) | Rs. 300/- (As per common prospectus) |
| Development Fee | Rs. 200/- (As per common prospectus) |
| Total Payable (Approx. at Admission) | Rs. 7,500/- |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission
The application for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission is completed online via the IGNOU Samarth portal. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official admission portal at IGNOU Admission Samarth Portal.
- Click on the NEW REGISTRATION tab and create a new user profile.
- Log in using your registered credentials and select the Programme Code PGDNOV (Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel).
- Fill in all required academic and personal information accurately in the application form.
- Upload scanned copies of all necessary documents (photo, signature, degree certificate, etc.).
- Pay the total fees (Programme Fee + Registration Fee + Development Fee) using the online payment gateway.
- Submit the form and download the final application summary for your records.
PGDNOV Curriculum and Course Structure
The PGDNOV curriculum is worth 32 credits and comprises four compulsory courses, each carrying 8 credits. The structure is comprehensive, covering core literary theories and major novel traditions. This academic rigor is central to the Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel.
| Course Code | Title of the Course | Credits |
| MEG 05 | Literary Theory & Criticism | 8 |
| MEG 03 | British Novel | 8 |
| MEG 11 | American Novel | 8 |
| MEG 19 | Australian Novel | 8 |
| Total Credits | 32 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU PGDNOV Admission
The specialization gained through the PGDNOV program equips graduates with advanced critical and analytical skills highly valued across various industries. The completion of the Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel leads to potential career opportunities in:
- Academics and Teaching: Preparation for M.Phil./Ph.D. or teaching positions in literature and communication.
- Publishing and Editing: Roles as literary editors, acquisitions editors, or proofreaders in the book and magazine industry.
- Media and Content Creation: Work as content writers, literary journalists, reviewers, or script analysts.
- Further Education: Eligibility for lateral entry into the second year of the IGNOU MA English (MEG) programme, streamlining the path to a Master’s degree.
🔗 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: Who is the PGDNOV program suitable for?
The PGDNOV program is ideally suited for graduates who wish to build a strong theoretical foundation in the novel genre and those aiming for a career in publishing, academia, or advanced literary research.
Q2: What is the minimum educational requirement for PGDNOV Admission?
The minimum eligibility for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission is a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a university recognized by UGC. A background in English Literature is not a mandatory prerequisite.
Q3: Does the PGDNOV degree lead to a Master’s degree?
Yes, the credits earned in the Post Graduate Diploma in the Novel allow graduates to take lateral entry directly into the second year of the IGNOU MA English (MEG) program, significantly shortening the completion time for the Master’s degree.
Q4: What is the medium of instruction for the PGDNOV programme?
The entire curriculum and study material for the PGDNOV are provided exclusively in the English medium.
Q5: Can I apply for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission if I am in my final year of graduation?
Yes, candidates in their final year of graduation can provisionally apply for IGNOU PGDNOV Admission, but they must submit their final passing certificate within the stipulated timeframe set by the University.