IGNOU PGDSS Admission 2026: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers the Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science (PGDSS) for learners who want to develop a strong understanding of sustainability and environmental issues. The admission window of IGNOU for the PGDSS program for the 2026 session has started from December 16, 2025. This PG Diploma program takes 1 year to complete in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The distance learning system makes it ideal for students and working professionals who want to continue their education without compromising their other responsibilities. Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a UGC recognized university are eligible to apply. The program focuses on key sustainability themes such as ecological balance, sustainable development strategies, environmental governance, and climate-related challenges. Candidates interested in this diploma program should complete the application process within the announced date. At the time of the application form, students are required to pay a non- refundable registration fee of INR 300, and after confirmation of admission, pay the program fee of INR 8,000 for the entire duration. The admission last date will be 15th February 2026.
IGNOU PGDSS Admission Latest Update
- Feb Update: IGNOU has been extended for the re-registration date. Students can submit applications before the end date, 15th February 2026. Source
- Feb Update: IGNOU offers the Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science (PGDSS) course, and the admission window is live till 15th February 2026. Those who fulfill the eligibility criteria can apply before the end date. Source
IGNOU PGDSS Admission 2026 Main Points
- Program Overview: PGDSS focuses on sustainable development principles, implementation strategies, and assessment tools.
- Duration: Minimum 1 year, maximum 3 years, allowing flexible completion times for working professionals.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for IGNOU PGDSS admission, a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required, with no specific percentage requirement.
- Application Process: Apply online through the IGNOU admission portal. Fill out the form, upload documents, and pay the fee.
- Curriculum: Covers sustainability science, ecosystem management, ecological economics, and global sustainability strategies.
- Learning Flexibility: Distance learning mode with self-study materials and optional counseling sessions.
- Fees: Approximately ₹7,000 for the entire program, payable in one or two installments.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates can work in government agencies, NGOs, and corporate sectors dealing with sustainable development projects.
- Career Opportunities: You can make a career in the fields of Sustainability consultant, sustainable development officer, environmental policy analyst, and corporate sustainability.
IGNOU PG Diploma Courses
IGNOU PGDSS Admission 2026 Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science |
| Course Code | PGDSS |
| Department | School of Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Studies (SOITS) |
| Duration | Min: 1 year, Max: 3 years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Course Fees | Rs 7,000 + Rs 300 Registration fee |
| Age Requirements | No age limit |
| Eligibility Criteria | Any bachelor’s degree from a recognized university |
| Admission Sessions | January and July (2026-27) |
| Program Structure | Annual system with 9 courses |
Why Choose IGNOU PGDSS Admission?
- Flexible Learning: Study at your own pace while balancing work or other commitments.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain in-depth knowledge of sustainability science and its applications.
- Affordable Education: High-quality education at a fraction of the cost of regular programs.
- Career Advancement: Enhance your skills for roles in the environmental and development sectors.
- Recognized Qualification: IGNOU degrees are recognized nationwide, opening doors to various opportunities.
IGNOU is the first university in the country to launch an academic programme in the field of sustainability science, an emerging and need-based discipline. The PGDSS programme mainly focuses on the origins and principles of sustainable development, its tools, implementation, and evaluation strategies in a holistic manner.
If you are preparing for the term-end exam of the IGNOU PGDSS course and facing difficulty in exam preparation, then you can prepare well for your exam with the help of the previous year’s question paper of the PGDSS course.
IGNOU PGDSS Admission 2026 Eligibility
- Educational Qualification: Any bachelor’s degree with 50% marks from a recognized university (UGC, AICTE, or AIU approved).
- Percentage Requirement: There is no minimum percentage criterion specified.
- Age Limit: No upper age limit for IGNOU admission 2026 July session.
- Category 1 Applicants: Fresh graduates looking to specialize in sustainability science.
- Category 2 Applicants: Working professionals in related fields seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills.
Entrance Examination
There is no entrance exam for the IGNOU PGDSS Program. Admission is based on eligibility criteria and completion of the application process.
- No separate entrance exam for PGDSS admission.
- Admission is based on fulfilling the eligibility criteria and submitting the application on time.
- The program follows an open admission policy, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants.
Selection Criteria for IGNOU PGDSS Admission
- Merit-Based Selection: Admission is granted on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible candidates.
- Document Verification: All submitted documents are verified for authenticity.
- No Interview Process: There is no interview or entrance test for PGDSS admission.
Fee Structure
The complete fee structure for IGNOU PGDSS is given below
- Total Program Fee: Approximately ₹ 7,000 for the entire duration.
- Payment Options: Full payment or two installments (one per year).
- Registration Fee: ₹ 200 (non-refundable) at the time of application.
- Study Material Fee: Included in the total program fee.
- Exam Fee: Included in the program fee for the first attempt; re-appear exams are charged separately.
- SC/ST Fee Support: Fee exemption available for eligible SC/ST students as per government norms.
IGNOU PGDSS Application Process
If you want to take admission in the IGNOU PGDSS course, then you should follow the admission process. All the information about your process is given in it.
- Visit the official IGNOU admission portal ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.
- Click on “New Registration” and create an account.
- Log in and select “PGDSS” from the list of programs.
- Fill in personal and educational details accurately.
- Upload required documents (mark sheets, degree certificate, ID proof).
- Pay the application fee online.
- Review all details and apply.
- Note down the application number for future reference.
Documents Required for IGNOU PGDSS
Upload scanned copies of the required documents, signature, photograph, age proof (10th mark sheet or birth certificate), educational qualification, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Scanned passport-size photograph
- Scanned signature
- Age proof (10th mark sheet or birth certificate)
- Educational qualification certificates and mark sheets
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC) if applicable
- ID proof (Aadhaar card preferred)
Admission Status: After successful submission of the IGNOU PGDSS admission form and paying the programme fee, it is now time to check your PGDSS admission status, which can be viewed online. Programme aspirants must keep checking the status online to know whether their online application has been approved or not.
IGNOU PGDSS Login
To log in, students have to visit the official website of IGNOU and click on the Fill Login button. You have to fill in your credentials and click on the submit button. After this, you will be shown all your details.
Examination Pattern
- Continuous Assessment: Assignments contribute 30% to the final grade. Students must submit assignments for each course as per the academic calendar.
- Term-End Examination: A three-hour written exam for each course, contributing 70% to the final grade. Exams are held twice a year, in June and December.
Students must score a minimum of 40% in both components separately and 50% aggregate to complete each course. The program encourages critical thinking and the application of sustainability concepts through its evaluation methods.
Evaluation System
- Continuous Evaluation: Through assignments (30% weightage).
- Term-End Examination: Written exams for each course (70% weightage).
- Grading System: Uses a 10-point grading scale.
- Minimum Pass Criteria: 40% in assignments and term-end exams separately, 50% aggregate.
- Re-appear Option: Available for students who fail to clear courses in the first attempt.
- Result Declaration: Usually within 45 days of the examination.
IGNOU PGDSS Admission Program Syllabus
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MSD 11 | Sustainability Science | 4 |
| MSD 12 | Ecosystem and Natural Resources | 4 |
| MSD 13 | Socio-Cultural System | 4 |
| MSD 14 | Ecological Economics | 4 |
| MSD 15 | Institutions, Governance and Policies | 4 |
| MSD 16 | Strategies and Models for Sustainability | 4 |
| MSD 17 | Challenges to Sustainable Development | 4 |
| MSD 19 | Global Strategies to Sustainable Development | 4 |
| MSD 20 | Population, Health and Sustainability | 4 |
IGNOU PGDSS Assignments
- Purpose: Assignments are crucial for continuous assessment and learning reinforcement.
- Submission: Students must submit assignments as per the academic calendar.
- Format: Typically includes short and long answer questions based on course material.
- Importance: Helps in understanding concepts and prepares students for term-end exams.
- Feedback: Evaluators provide feedback to help improve academic performance.
Career Opportunities
- Sustainability Consultant: Advise organizations on implementing sustainable practices, using knowledge of ecological economics and governance policies.
- Environmental Policy Analyst: Develop and analyze environmental policies, applying understanding of institutions and global sustainability strategies.
- Sustainable Development Officer: Manage sustainability projects in government or NGOs, utilizing expertise in ecosystem management and socio-cultural systems.
- Corporate Sustainability Manager: Lead sustainability initiatives in businesses, leveraging knowledge of ecological economics and sustainability challenges.
- Environmental Education Specialist: Develop and conduct educational programs on sustainability, using a comprehensive understanding of sustainability science.
Placement Information
IGNOU provides placements through its Campus Placement Service (CPS), industry partnerships, and career development activities like job fairs, skill workshops, and certificate courses.
- Environmental Consultant: Average salary ₹4-8 lakhs per annum.
- Sustainability Manager: Average salary ₹6-12 lakhs per annum.
- CSR Executive: Average salary ₹3-7 lakhs per annum.
- Environmental Policy Researcher: Average salary ₹5-9 lakhs per annum.
- Sustainable Development Project Coordinator: Average salary ₹4-8 lakhs per annum.
IGNOU PGDSS Programme Coordinator
If Students have any queries or confusion about the PGDSS programme fee, admission process, and other you can contact the PGDSS programme coordinator, Dr.Y.S.C.Khuman, Email id: pgdss@ignou.ac.in, contact: .011-29571121.
Conclusion
IGNOU’s Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science (PGDSS) provides comprehensive education on the principles and practices of sustainable development. With its flexible learning approach, affordable fees, and industry-relevant curriculum, this program is ideal for both fresh graduates and working professionals. The course provides a strong foundation for careers in environmental management, policy-making, and sustainable development sectors. By choosing PGDSS, students gain valuable knowledge and skills to contribute to global sustainability efforts. The program’s multiple exit options and potential for further studies make it a versatile choice for those passionate about creating a sustainable future.
FAQs
Q: Is IGNOU PGDSS recognized by UGC?
Ans: Yes, the IGNOU PGDSS program is fully recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Q: What is the eligibility for IGNOU PGDSS Admission in 2026?
Ans: Eligibility for the PGDSS course admission, the student must have passed a bachelor’s degree from any recognized university at IGNOU.
Q: What are the career options available after PGDSS?
Ans: After completing Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science (PGDSS), career options are candidate can work as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist, Environmental educator, or Renewable energy project manager.
Q: Can international students apply for IGNOU PGDSS admission?
Ans: Yes, International students can apply, but they must check the specific eligibility criteria and admission process for international applicants on the IGNOU website.
Q: List of documents required for Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainability Science admission?
Ans: Few documents are required for Admission in IGNOU PGDSS Admission-
- Scanned passport-size photograph
- Scanned signature
- Age proof
- Aadhar
- Education certificate
And for more information, check the official website.
